Western University
Built along the banks of the Thames River in the “forest city” of London, Ont., Western is one of the largest universities in the province. With more than 400 majors, minors and specializations at the undergrad level—approximately 170 courses to choose from in first year alone—and about 200 student clubs, Western is more than just a regional powerhouse. It is building international recognition with research collaborations on every continent.
“Universities have always helped students prepare for careers, but what we mean by that is shifting,” says president Alan Shepard. “It’s about providing more learning opportunities that take place outside the classroom. Students are hungry for experiential learning. Western has a lot of these opportunities today and will offer even more in the future.” The campus’s traditional charm is mashed up with modern elements, such as the stone-and-glass home of the renowned Ivey Business School. The John M. Thompson Centre for Engineering Leadership and Innovation helps engineering students to devise early-stage ideas, build prototypes and found startups.
Wampum Learning Lodge opened in 2022, providing support and services to Indigenous students as well as engaging with the wider university and local Indigenous communities. Renovated in 2022, Thames Hall is the home for student health and wellness services. Downtown London, just a quick bus ride away, provides plenty of entertainment on the weekends. Drawing on its nearly 343,000 alumni worldwide, Western boasts one of the largest homecoming weekends in Canada.
Quick Facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$7,655 ($8,274 out-of-province students)
Minimum Entering Grade
Arts: 82.5% | Science: 83.5% | Commerce: 83.5% | Engineering: 89%
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 34,022 | Part-time: 1,868
Graduates: Full-time: 6,716 | Part-time: 474
First-year: 10.6% | Graduate: 28.8%
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 7,479 (6,489 reserved for first-year students)
Residence Costs:
Double room with meals: $15,700 to $17,100
Single room with meals: $16,100 to $18,400
Apartment-style: $9,550 to $10,350
Campus Buzz
In response to demand from students and a commitment to sustainability, beginning this year 40 per cent of the menu at residence dining halls on campus will be plant-based.
Standout Programs
Integrated Science
This interdisciplinary and collaborative program provides broad scientific knowledge with a focus on teamwork, leadership skills and problem-solving.
Creative Arts and Production
Students choose courses from three faculties—music, arts and humanities, and information and media studies—balancing theory and practice to explore creativity.
Dual Degree with Ivey Business School
Students can boost their career prospects by combining a business degree with their studies in one of several other faculties, including engineering, medical sciences, and arts and humanities.
Cool Courses
Communication Through Meme: Explore the history of internet memes and their impact on modern society.
Zombie Apocalypse: Panic and Paranoia in Human History: Review the history of mass panic and examine why anxiety can transform into panic and how it spreads.
The Many Faces of Harry Potter: This English course examines the influences and impact of the beloved book series.
