| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
The Royal Military College of Canada is Canada’s only federal military university, training officers for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) while providing them with a fully accredited academic education.
It’s a unique institution where students graduate with a degree and a commission as an officer in the military.
Established: 1876
Location: Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Type: Public, military university (federally funded)
Motto: "Truth, Duty, Valour"
Affiliation: Department of National Defence (DND)
Campus: Historic and secure, situated on the shores of Lake Ontario
RMC offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, mainly in:
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
Bachelor of Military Arts and Science (BMASc)
Popular majors include:
Military & Strategic Studies
Psychology
Computer Science
Mechanical, Civil, or Electrical Engineering
History
Political Science
War Studies (MA & PhD)
Defence Studies
Engineering & Applied Science
Public Administration
Business Administration (MBA – through Canadian Forces College)
RMC students (called Officer Cadets) are part of the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP), which combines:
University-level academics
Military leadership training
Physical fitness development
Bilingualism (English & French)
Upon graduation, students are commissioned as officers and must serve in the Canadian Armed Forces for a number of years (usually 5+ years depending on program).
For students under the ROTP program:
Full tuition is covered by the Canadian Armed Forces
Includes books, uniforms, accommodation, and a monthly salary/stipend
In return, graduates commit to military service
For civilian students or graduate programs (not in ROTP):
Tuition fees range from $7,000 – $10,000 CAD/year, depending on the program
Must be a Canadian citizen (for ROTP/military training)
Strong high school grades (especially in Math and Sciences for engineering)
Must meet medical, physical, and aptitude standards
Application through Canadian Forces Recruiting (for ROTP) or directly through RMC for academic-only programs
Campus is highly structured and disciplined, with strict codes of conduct
Emphasis on leadership, time management, fitness, and teamwork
Offers sports, intramurals, student clubs, and bilingual campus life
Smaller student body (~1,000 full-time undergraduates), meaning tight-knit community
Fully funded education + salary
Guaranteed career as an officer in the Canadian Armed Forces
Top-tier education with focus on leadership, discipline, and service
National and international respect as a military academic institution
Combines theory and real-world leadership application
RMC offers the following Bachelor’s degrees:
Majors include:
Military and Strategic Studies
History
Economics
Political Science
Business Administration
Psychology
French Studies
English Literature
Majors include:
Physics
Chemistry
Computer Science
Mathematics
Space Science
(Accredited by Engineers Canada) Majors include:
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Aeronautical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Computer Engineering
Designed for serving military members (distance education option available)
Focus on leadership, defence management, and strategic studies
RMC offers Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) programs in:
War Studies (MA)
Defence Studies (MA)
Public Administration (MPA)
Engineering (MEng – various disciplines)
Science (MSc)
Business Administration (MBA – in partnership with Canadian Forces College)
War Studies (PhD)
Engineering (PhD)
Defence Studies (PhD)
Graduate studies are open to both military and civilian students, including international applicants, particularly in research-based programs.
All programs are taught with a leadership and military focus
Students develop both academic knowledge and practical skills (e.g., discipline, communication, strategy)
Bilingual instruction (English and French) is available
Core curriculum includes military ethics, leadership, and fitness training (for officer cadets)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
BA in Military & Strategic Studies |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BA in History |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BA in Political Science |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BA in Psychology |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BA in Economics |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BA in English or French Studies |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BA in Business Administration |
4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
BSc in Computer Science |
4 years |
~$6,500 – $7,500 |
|
BSc in Physics / Chemistry / Mathematics |
4 years |
~$6,500 – $7,500 |
|
BSc in Space Science |
4 years |
~$6,500 – $7,500 |
|
BEng in Mechanical Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
BEng in Civil Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
BEng in Electrical / Computer Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
BEng in Aeronautical or Chemical Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Bachelor of Military Arts and Science (BMASc) |
3–4 years |
~$6,000 – $7,000 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MA in War Studies |
2 years |
~$5,500 – $6,000 |
|
MA in Defence Studies |
2 years |
~$5,500 – $6,000 |
|
MA in Public Administration (MPA) |
2 years |
~$5,500 – $6,000 |
|
MA in Security and Defence Management & Policy |
2 years |
~$5,500 – $6,000 |
|
MBA – Executive Format |
1–2 years |
~$12,000 – $15,000 |
|
MEng – Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, etc. |
2 years |
~$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
MSc – Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry |
2 years |
~$6,500 – $7,500 |
|
MSc (Applied) – Engineering & Science Fields |
2 years |
~$6,500 – $7,500 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in War Studies |
4–6 years |
~$6,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Defence Studies |
4–6 years |
~$6,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Engineering (various fields) |
4–5 years |
~$6,500 – $7,000 |
|
PhD in Science (e.g., Physics, Chem) |
4–5 years |
~$6,500 – $7,000 |
|
PhD in Security and Defence Policy |
4–6 years |
~$6,000 – $6,500 |
The Royal Military College of Canada is the only federal military university in Canada. It primarily trains Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) officer cadets through the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP). However, RMC also accepts civilian and international students, especially for graduate-level programs and some online or distance education offerings.
International students are eligible to apply for civilian undergraduate and graduate programs.
International military personnel may be admitted for special training or education through military-to-military agreements or sponsorship from their home country.
ROTP (military-funded undergraduate) programs are not open to international applicants (only for Canadian citizens).
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
Bachelor of Military Arts and Science (BMASc – Online/Distant)
Note: Undergraduate civilian spots are limited, and international applicants must meet high academic and language standards.
MA in War Studies or Defence Studies
MEng or MSc (Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, etc.)
PhD in War Studies, Engineering, or Science
MBA and MPA programs (some online formats available)
Programs are offered in English and/or French
International students must demonstrate English (or French) proficiency:
IELTS: 6.5+
TOEFL iBT: 86+
Duolingo: 115+
Undergraduate programs: $6,000 – $9,000 USD/year
Master’s programs: $5,500 – $7,500 USD/year
PhD programs: $6,000 – $7,000 USD/year
Living costs (on or off campus): $10,000 – $12,000 USD/year
International students are not eligible for ROTP-funded education but may apply for internal scholarships or research assistantships at the graduate level.
RMC has a beautiful, secure campus on the waterfront in Kingston, Ontario.
Civilian students have access to:
Academic resources (labs, library, professors)
Some extracurriculars and sports
Bilingual and multicultural community
Campus life is structured and formal due to the military environment but remains supportive and inclusive for civilians.
Military applicants (Canadian citizens only – through the Regular Officer Training Plan or ROTP)
Civilian applicants (Canadian and international students – mostly for graduate and distance education programs)
Apply through the Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre
Visit and create an account.
Choose ROTP as your education plan and RMC as your preferred institution.
Complete the Canadian Armed Forces aptitude testing (CFAT), medical exam, and interview.
Academic Evaluation: Submit high school transcripts and meet minimum admission requirements for your chosen program (BA, BSc, or BEng).
Officer Selection Board Review: Evaluates leadership potential, academics, fitness, and motivation.
If accepted, you’ll receive a Letter of Offer from CAF + admission confirmation from RMC.
Tuition, books, accommodation, meals, and a salary are fully covered under ROTP. In return, you commit to several years of military service after graduation.
Civilian entry is rare and limited to specific programs (e.g., BMASc online).
Apply directly to RMC using their civilian admissions portal or via OUAC (Ontario Universities’ Application Centre) if open.
Choose a Graduate Program
Examples: War Studies, Defence Studies, Engineering, Science, Public Admin.
Apply Online via RMC Graduate Studies Portal
https://www.rmc-cmr.ca/en/registrars-office/graduate-studies
Submit Required Documents:
Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree depending on level)
Resume/CV
Statement of intent or research proposal (for thesis-based programs)
Letters of recommendation
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable – IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
Copy of passport (for international students)
Application Review
RMC's academic committee reviews your file, sometimes followed by an interview.
Receive Admission Decision
If admitted, you will receive an Offer of Admission with next steps for tuition payment, visa processing (if needed), and registration.
International students are mostly accepted into graduate programs.
Must apply for a Canadian study permit after receiving an Offer of Admission.
Tuition and living expenses must be self-funded unless awarded a scholarship or assistantship.
Must meet academic and language requirements equal to Canadian standards.
Main Intake: September (Fall Term)
All ROTP officer cadets and most undergraduate programs begin in September.
Winter Intake (January): Limited availability (mainly for part-time or transfer students).
Fall Intake (September): Primary intake for all programs.
Winter Intake (January): Available for select programs.
Summer Intake (May): Rare, mainly for distance learning or military training timelines.
Application Deadline Tip: Apply 3–6 months before the intake, especially as an international student (to allow visa processing time).
Eligibility:
Must be a Canadian citizen
Minimum age: 16 years
Completed Grade 12 / High School with strong grades (especially in Math, Science, English)
Meet medical, physical, and fitness standards of the Canadian Armed Forces
Pass CFAT (aptitude test) and an interview
Must apply through the Canadian Armed Forces Recruiting system
Academic Requirements by Program:
Arts (BA): 75% average, no math required
Science (BSc): 75–80%, strong background in Math & Sciences
Engineering (BEng): 80%+, must have senior-level Physics, Chemistry & Math
Eligibility:
Canadian citizens or permanent residents (a few exceptions for international students in specific programs)
High school diploma or equivalent
Required course prerequisites depending on program
English or French language proficiency if applicable (e.g., IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 86+)
Note: RMC limits undergraduate civilian admissions, focusing primarily on military officer training.
General Eligibility:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA: usually a B average or higher (3.0 on 4.0 scale)
English or French proficiency required if first language is not English or French
Letters of recommendation, Statement of intent, and sometimes a research proposal
Additional Requirements for PhD:
Master’s degree in a relevant field
Strong research background
Proposed research topic aligned with RMC faculty expertise
Scholarship / Funding Name |
Amount (USD Approx.) |
Eligibility |
Available To |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ROTP Full Sponsorship |
Full tuition + salary + benefits |
Must be a Canadian citizen enrolled in ROTP program through CAF |
Military (ROTP) students |
|
Internal Undergraduate Scholarships |
$1,000 – $4,000/year |
Academic excellence; enrolled in RMC as a civilian or military student |
Military & some civilian |
|
Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) |
$5,000 – $10,000+/year |
Enrolled in MSc, MEng, or MA/PhD program with research component |
Civilian & international |
|
Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA) |
(hourly pay) |
Available to selected graduate students assisting in labs or classes |
Civilian & international |
|
Departmental Awards |
$1,000 – $3,000/year |
Based on academic performance in specific departments (e.g., War Studies) |
Graduate & undergraduate |
|
Entrance Awards (Graduate) |
$1,000 – $3,000 (one-time) |
Awarded to high-achieving students upon admission to a graduate program |
Civilian & international |
|
External Scholarships (e.g., NSERC, SSHRC) |
$17,000 – $35,000/year |
National-level research funding; requires application through federal agencies |
Canadian & PR students |
|
CAF Continuing Education Reimbursement |
Up to 100% tuition covered |
For serving Canadian Armed Forces members pursuing part-time studies |
CAF personnel only |
Facility / Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Kingston, Ontario, Canada (historic waterfront campus on Point Frederick) |
|
Campus Type |
Military, urban, secure, and bilingual (English & French) |
|
Academic Facilities |
Modern labs, classrooms, engineering workshops, bilingual library, gym |
|
Student Services |
Dining hall, fitness & sports facilities, chapel, medical & counseling |
|
Security |
24/7 military security and student oversight |
Residence Name |
Room Type |
Features |
Approx. Cost/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Massey Hall |
Single/shared rooms |
Traditional dorm-style, common washrooms, military-style |
Included (for ROTP) / ~$4,000–$5,000 (civilian) |
|
Fort Champlain |
Single rooms |
Modern-style rooms, private study space, access to amenities |
Included (for ROTP) / ~$4,500–$5,500 (civilian) |
|
Fort Brant / La Salle |
Junior officer quarters |
For upper-year cadets or graduate students |
Included (ROTP) / ~$5,000–$6,000 (if available) |
For students enrolled under the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP), life at RMC follows a regimented daily schedule. Days begin early with physical training, followed by classes, leadership development activities, and military training components. Weekends are more flexible but may still include training duties or obligations.
Cadets are expected to maintain high standards of discipline, dress, time management, and teamwork — all of which are part of their preparation for leadership roles in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Despite the military setting, RMC is a fully accredited university, and academic success is taken very seriously. Classes are small, professors are accessible, and students study a wide range of subjects — from engineering and science to political science, history, and war studies.
Cadets balance academic responsibilities with military duties, and must also meet bilingualism goals, working toward fluency in both English and French.
Physical fitness is a core pillar of student life. Cadets take part in:
Daily physical training (PT)
Team and individual sports (e.g., soccer, hockey, rowing, fencing)
Mandatory physical performance testing
Access to excellent on-campus athletic facilities, including a full gym, pool, and sports fields
Competitive sports are encouraged, and RMC has varsity teams that compete in Ontario university leagues.
While structured, life at RMC also includes time for friendships, clubs, and social events:
Cadet mess (common space for socializing)
Formal military balls, mess dinners, and parades
Clubs such as debate, drama, model UN, and academic societies
Community service and charity events
Cultural and bilingual celebrations
The tight-knit campus environment helps cadets form lifelong bonds and strong peer support systems.
RMC offers:
Academic support through tutoring and writing help
Mental health counseling and peer support programs
Chaplaincy services and wellness workshops
Career counseling (both military and civilian options)
All officer cadets live in residence halls on campus, which are clean, safe, and military-run. The environment is structured, and students are responsible for maintaining their rooms, uniforms, and appearance according to military standards.
Student life at RMC isn’t just about getting a degree — it’s about becoming a well-rounded leader. Cadets graduate with academic knowledge, practical leadership experience, and the discipline to excel in high-pressure environments. For those who thrive in structure, challenge, and service, RMC offers one of the most meaningful student journeys in the country.
All ROTP cadets are guaranteed a full-time position as a commissioned officer in the CAF upon graduation.
Cadets serve in the Army, Navy, or Air Force depending on their chosen military occupation (e.g., engineering officer, logistics officer, infantry, pilot, etc.).
Graduates are contractually obligated to serve for a set number of years (usually 5–7 years) post-graduation, depending on their degree and trade.
Combat Arms Officer (Infantry, Artillery, etc.)
Aerospace Engineer or Pilot (RCAF)
Naval Officer or Marine Systems Engineer
Intelligence Officer
Cyber Operations Officer
Logistics or Administration Officer
Military Police
Medical, Legal, and Technical fields (with further training)
RMC students receive:
Ongoing career guidance through their military chain of command
Mentorship from senior officers and military faculty
Training in leadership, ethics, and operational planning
Summer military job placements ("on-the-job training") with CAF units
For civilian graduate students or international students in Master’s or PhD programs:
RMC offers access to research assistantships, teaching roles, and collaboration with defense-related organizations.
Many graduates pursue careers in:
Public service (e.g., Global Affairs Canada, CSIS, DND)
Research and policy analysis
Academia or think tanks
Engineering, cybersecurity, or technical consulting
While RMC does not have a formal civilian "placement office" like larger universities, the reputation of its programs, particularly in War Studies, Engineering, and Security Studies, opens doors nationally and internationally.
RMC alumni hold top roles in the Canadian Armed Forces, NATO, UN peacekeeping missions, government agencies, and national defense organizations.
Engineering and science grads are also highly regarded in the private sector, especially in aerospace, defense contracting, and cybersecurity.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 10% to 25%
Highly competitive, as applicants must:
Be Canadian citizens
Meet academic standards (usually 75–80%+ average)
Pass Canadian Forces Aptitude Test (CFAT)
Clear medical, physical fitness, and security screening
Succeed in interviews and military selection boards
Only a limited number of officer cadet positions are offered each year across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Note: RMC is not just an academic institution — it trains leaders for the Canadian Armed Forces, so character, leadership potential, and commitment matter as much as grades.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: Low / Program-specific
Civilian entry to RMC’s undergrad programs is rare and typically available only for:
Bachelor of Military Arts & Science (BMASc – online)
Transfer students or special agreements
Very few civilian seats are available compared to military ROTP students.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 50% to 70%
Admission is less competitive than undergraduate ROTP, especially for civilians and international students.
Requires a solid academic background (Bachelor's or Master’s degree), English/French proficiency, and often a research proposal for thesis-based programs.
Strong candidates with relevant academic backgrounds and clear goals typically have a good chance of admission to MA, MSc, MBA, MEng, or PhD programs.
Only eligible for graduate (not undergraduate ROTP) programs
Must meet academic and language requirements
Acceptance depends on:
Academic fit
Research alignment (for thesis-based degrees)
Availability of supervision
Royal Military College of Canada
Address:
13 General Crerar Crescent
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Postal Code: K7K 7B4
City: Kingston, Ontario
Province: Ontario
Region: Eastern Ontario, where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River
Campus Setting: Waterfront, historic military site on Point Frederick Peninsula
Environment: Secure, bilingual, and military-regulated campus surrounded by natural beauty and 19th-century architecture
Distance from Toronto: ~2.5–3 hours by car or train
Distance from Ottawa: ~2 hours by car
Nearest Airport: Kingston Airport (local) or Toronto Pearson International Airport for international travel
Public Transit: Well-connected via bus and train (VIA Rail)
Nearby Attractions: Kingston’s downtown waterfront, Fort Henry, Thousand Islands
Historic stone buildings dating back to the 1800s
Waterfront parade square and training grounds
Modern academic facilities, bilingual library, engineering labs
Student residences, sports complex, and mess hall all within walking distance
24/7 military security and a tight-knit campus environment
