Royal Roads University
Royal Roads University, with a main campus situated within the Hatley Park National Historic Site and surrounded by gardens and forest, is only a 20-minute drive to Victoria. The school caters primarily to mature students by offering applied and professional programs and by delivering teaching models suited to working people. The school accepts transfer credits from colleges and universities across the country and around the world, and a flexible admission policy recognizes formal and informal learning. With a focus on small classes and group projects, students build a network of contacts and work closely with others to achieve common goals. “Royal Roads is Canada’s university for changemakers. We inspire people with the courage to transform the world,” says president Philip Steenkamp. Students can choose from nine undergraduate degree-completion programs (i.e. third- and fourth-year programs; RRU offers first- and second-year undergrad courses only to international students), 21 master’s programs, more than 40 graduate certificates and diplomas and two applied doctoral programs in social sciences and business administration. RRU also offers a master of arts in executive and organizational coaching. Starting this fall at the new Langford campus, RRU is offering the most flexible undergraduate option yet: in first year, students earn an undergraduate certificate. In second year, they earn a diploma. In third and fourth year, students earn a bachelor’s degree in business, environmental practice or sciences, hospitality and tourism, justice, communications or interdisciplinary studies. If a student takes a break, they will still be equipped with credentials, and RRU will welcome students back to complete a degree whenever they’re ready.
Campus buzz: The school’s campus farm, launched in 2022, expanded last year to include food culturally significant to newcomers, who may have difficulty getting it elsewhere.
Quick facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$11,001
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts, Science, Commerce: B average in first two years of post-secondary school for entry to third-year programs; no direct admittance for Canadian students to first-year undergraduate programs
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 685
Graduates: Full-time: 3,179
Students: Undergraduate: 100% | Graduate: 23%
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 92 (short-term residences)
Cost of single room without meals: $50-$95 per night, plus taxes
Standout programs
Professional Communication: Students develop skills in professional writing, public relations, public speaking, journalism and digital communications.
Leadership: Through a blended model of online courses and on-campus residencies, or a fully online option, students can continue to work as they develop leadership skills. There are optional specializations in health and executive leadership.
Justice Studies: Students examine rights, advocacy, gender and alternative dispute resolution, and gain practical knowledge of Canadian public policy.
