Founded when many of the area’s residents were anglophones, Bishop’s University offers an English-language, liberal education in the bilingual Eastern Townships. Today, about a quarter of students are native French speakers and, while classes are taught in English, students can write exams and assignments in French. Bishop’s offers a close-knit student community and it’s not uncommon to see faculty and students sharing a drink at the local pub.

“We are committed to providing a sound and liberal education in an environment that embraces diversity and respect and instills confidence, courage and a sense of responsibility, as well as personal and intellectual autonomy,” says principal Sébastien Lebel-Grenier.

In a suburb of Sherbrooke, Que., the university sits at the confluence of the Saint-François and Massawippi rivers and the campus’s Victorian-era red-brick buildings are surrounded by groves of pine trees. The region, flanked by heavily wooded mountains, features boundless outdoor activities, including excellent cross-country ski trails.

Recent developments include renovations to the Library Learning Commons and a revamp of the Johnson Science Building, which includes a rooftop greenhouse. Construction is underway to transform historic Divinity House into Kwigw8mna, an Indigenous student centre. It will feature space for classrooms and offices, apartments for visiting Elders and a dedicated space for the Indigenous Cultural Alliance student club.

Campus Buzz

Bishop’s newest residence, which opened in 2023, features a zen lounge, yoga/meditation room, study spaces, game room, pool room and more.