| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
The Université de Hearst is a French-language university located in Hearst, Ontario, Canada. It is known for serving the francophone population of Northern Ontario and operates as a small, community-focused institution.
Founded: 1953 (originally as a seminary; became a university institution later)
Language of instruction: French
Campuses: Hearst (main campus), with additional campuses in Kapuskasing and Timmins
Programs: Offers undergraduate programs, primarily in social sciences, psychology, business, and humanities
Special Approach: Known for its block system (students take one course at a time for three weeks), which is different from traditional semester models
Independence: Formerly affiliated with Laurentian University, but became an independent university in 2021
Strong emphasis on francophone culture and education
Focus on community development and regional identity
Small class sizes and personalized student support
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (B.A.)
Focuses on understanding human behavior, mental processes, and community well-being.
Prepares students for careers in social services, counseling, or further graduate studies.
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (B.A.)
Offers a flexible program with courses from various disciplines (sociology, psychology, history, etc.).
Ideal for students looking for a broad academic foundation.
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (B.A.A.)
Focuses on entrepreneurship, management, economics, and leadership.
Designed for students aiming to start businesses or work in the public/private sectors.
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (B.A.)
Emphasizes the study of social behavior, institutions, and societal development.
Useful for careers in public policy, social work, or education.
Bachelor of Arts in History (B.A.)
Offers a deep dive into historical events with a focus on French-Canadian and global perspectives.
Prepares students for education, research, or public service careers.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology |
3 years |
$9,500 – $10,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies |
3 years |
$9,500 – $10,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration |
3 years |
$9,500 – $10,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology |
3 years |
$9,500 – $10,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in History |
3 years |
$9,500 – $10,500 |
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Language of Instruction |
French only |
|
Programs Offered |
Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Business, Sociology, History, Interdisciplinary Studies |
|
Tuition Fees (USD) |
Approx. $9,500 – $10,500 per year |
|
Application Fee |
Around $100 CAD |
|
Student Population |
Small, diverse, supportive environment with personalized attention |
|
Campuses |
Hearst (main), Kapuskasing, Timmins |
|
Intake Sessions |
Typically September (Fall); limited other intakes |
|
Block System |
Unique format: 1 course at a time over 3 weeks, more focused learning |
|
Housing |
On-campus and off-campus options; affordable cost of living |
|
Visa Requirement |
Study permit required for stays over 6 months |
|
French Proficiency |
Required; must demonstrate fluency in French |
|
Scholarships |
Limited for international students, but possible depending on merit |
Choose Your Program
First, decide which bachelor's program you want to apply for. All programs are taught in French, so make sure your interests align with what's offered (e.g., Psychology, Business, Sociology).
Meet Language Requirements
Since instruction is in French, you must demonstrate proficiency in the French language. This can be done through a recognized French language test (like TEF, DELF, or TCF) or proof of prior studies in French.
Prepare Academic Documents
You will need:
High school diploma or equivalent (translated into French or English if necessary)
Transcripts
Proof of French language proficiency
Passport copy
Curriculum vitae (CV) and possibly a motivation letter
Apply Online
Applications are submitted through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) at www.ouac.on.ca. Select Université de Hearst and your chosen program. An application fee (about $100 CAD) is required.
Wait for Admission Decision
If you meet the academic and language requirements, you will receive an offer of admission via email or through your OUAC account.
Accept the Offer and Pay Deposit
Once admitted, accept the offer and follow instructions to reserve your place, including paying any required deposits.
Apply for a Study Permit
With your offer letter, apply for a Canadian study permit via the IRCC website. This is essential for studying in Canada if your program lasts longer than six months.
Arrange Housing and Travel
Université de Hearst offers student housing and can assist with accommodations. Plan your arrival and orientation in advance.
Arrive and Begin Studies
Attend the university's orientation, complete enrollment, and begin classes (typically in September).
Primary Intake: September (Fall Term)
Most programs begin in the fall. This is the main intake and offers the widest course availability.
Other Intakes:
The university follows a block system (1 course every 3 weeks), which allows for flexibility in course scheduling. Some students may be able to start at other points in the academic year (e.g., January or May), but this depends on the program and course availability. It's best to confirm directly with the admissions office.
Must have completed high school (secondary school) with a diploma equivalent to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
Strong academic performance in relevant subjects, especially for programs like Business or Psychology.
Since all instruction is in French, international students must demonstrate fluency.
Acceptable proof includes:
French-language diploma (e.g., DELF B2 or higher)
Test scores from recognized French exams (TEF, TCF)
Completion of prior education in French
Transcripts (translated if necessary)
Copy of passport
Proof of language proficiency
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation letter (optional but recommended)
Required for international students staying longer than 6 months.
Issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) upon receiving an offer of admission.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (USD Approx.) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarship |
High academic achievement upon admission |
$750 – $2,000 |
Automatically considered; based on GPA |
|
Continuing Excellence Scholarship |
High academic performance during studies at Hearst |
$500 – $1,500 per year |
Awarded annually based on grades |
|
Bursaries for Financial Need |
Demonstrated financial need |
N/A |
Application required; includes personal/financial info |
|
Community Engagement Scholarship |
Involvement in volunteer or leadership activities |
$500 – $1,000 |
For students with community service or leadership experience |
|
Francophone Mobility Scholarship |
Francophone students from outside Canada |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Limited; supports cultural and academic exchange |
Campus Location |
Facilities Available |
Accommodation Type |
Approx. Cost/Month (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hearst (Main Campus) |
Classrooms, computer labs, library, gym, cafeteria, student services |
On-campus student residence |
$350 – $500 |
Fully furnished rooms; includes utilities and internet |
|
Kapuskasing Campus |
Classrooms, study areas, administrative support |
Off-campus housing recommended |
$400 – $600 |
Students must find accommodation locally |
|
Timmins Campus |
Classrooms, study lounges, access to community services and academic support |
Off-campus housing recommended |
$450 – $650 |
Support provided for local housing search |
Small Class Sizes:
Students enjoy personalized attention from professors and build close relationships with classmates.
Francophone Environment:
The university operates entirely in French, promoting Francophone culture and identity. It’s a hub for French-speaking students in Northern Ontario and abroad.
Block System Learning:
A unique academic structure where students take one course at a time for 3 weeks, allowing for deep focus and reduced stress.
Community Engagement:
Hearst emphasizes practical learning and involvement in local community projects, encouraging social responsibility and real-world experience.
Student Housing & Services:
Comfortable, affordable on-campus housing (especially at the Hearst campus), with access to student support services like counseling, academic help, and orientation programs.
Cultural & Social Activities:
Includes French-language movie nights, cultural celebrations, guest speakers, student clubs, and outings in the local area (e.g., nature hikes, volunteering).
Sports & Wellness:
Access to recreational facilities like gyms, sports activities, and wellness programs. Smaller size means more participation opportunities.
Safe and Peaceful Environment:
Located in northern Ontario, Hearst offers a quiet, safe setting, ideal for focused studies and personal growth.
Student life is ideal for those who value community, language, culture, and academic support in a more intimate university setting.
Career Services Support
Personalized guidance on resume writing, job searching, and interview preparation
Workshops and one-on-one advising to help students prepare for local and national job markets
Community-Based Learning
Many programs include practical experiences, internships, and community projects
Students gain real-world skills and networking opportunities during their studies
Local Employment Partnerships
Strong connections with regional employers, especially in Northern Ontario
Graduates often find jobs in government, education, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors
Graduate Outcomes
High employability in sectors like:
Mental health and social work
Local business administration
Francophone public services
Many graduates also pursue graduate studies at larger institutions in Canada or abroad
Language Advantage
French-speaking graduates are in demand in bilingual or Francophone regions of Canada, especially in Ontario and Quebec
No centralized on-campus corporate recruitment
Best suited for students who prefer small-scale, regionally focused career paths or further study
The Université de Hearst has a high acceptance rate, generally estimated to be between 70% and 85%. This reflects its inclusive admissions philosophy, small class sizes, and its mission to make French-language education accessible, especially in Northern Ontario and to Francophone international students.
The university is not highly selective, especially for students who meet:
Basic academic requirements (high school diploma or equivalent)
French language proficiency
Being a small institution, it emphasizes student support and success over competition.
International students with strong academic records and B2-level French proficiency (or higher) have a very good chance of admission.
Hearst (Main Campus)
Address: 60 9e Rue, Hearst, Ontario, P0L 1N0, Canada
This is the central and largest campus, offering student residences, full academic services, and most program options.
Kapuskasing Campus
Address: 7 Aurora Avenue, Kapuskasing, Ontario, P5N 4C6, Canada
A smaller satellite campus focused on local access to courses and services.
Timmins Campus
Address: 395 Thériault Boulevard, Timmins, Ontario, P4N 0A7, Canada
Offers select courses and academic support services, often used by students living in the Timmins area.