| 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 | |
Established: 1981
Main Campus: Gatineau, Quebec (Outaouais region)
Additional Campus: Saint-Jérôme (Laurentides region)
Language of Instruction: French (some graduate programs may allow English)
Student Population: ~7,000–8,000 students
University Type: Public, research-based
UQO offers programs across multiple fields, with strong emphasis on:
Social Sciences and Psychology
Education and Teaching
Health Sciences (Nursing, Psychoeducation, Social Work)
Computer Science and Engineering
Administration and Project Management
Art and Design (including comic art & graphic design)
Regional Development and Public Administration
UQO is especially known for its professional training, applied research, and community engagement.
UQO is welcoming to international students and provides:
Support services via the Bureau des relations internationales
French language assistance
Student integration programs
Opportunities for research assistantships and internships
Though most programs are in French, international students with a strong academic profile and willingness to learn French are encouraged to apply.
Located just across the river from Ottawa (Canada’s capital)
Urban setting with access to federal institutions, cultural life, and job markets
Houses most faculties including arts, education, health, and IT
Located about 45 minutes from Montreal
Offers programs in education, health, and administration
Designed to serve the growing population of the Laurentides region
Undergraduate: ~$11,000 – $14,000 USD per year
Master’s & PhD: ~$13,000 – $16,000 USD per year
Fees vary by program and course load.
Excellence scholarships for international students
Research assistantships for graduate students
Access to government programs like PBEEE (for PhD/postdoc)
French-speaking international students may benefit from tuition exemptions under special agreements
UQO offers student residences at the Gatineau campus
Off-campus housing options are widely available and more affordable than in larger cities like Montreal or Toronto
Monthly living costs: ~$700–$1,100 USD
The campus offers:
Libraries, labs, study lounges
Student clubs and cultural events
Sports facilities and wellness services
Easy access to Ottawa’s museums, festivals, and government institutions
International students need:
CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec)
Canadian Study Permit
UQO supports students through the process with guides and personalized assistance.
Popular Bachelor’s Degrees at UQO:
Bachelor of Psychology
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Psychoeducation
Bachelor of Preschool and Primary Education
Bachelor of Secondary Education
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Bachelor of Accounting
Bachelor of Computer Science
Bachelor of Software Engineering
Bachelor of Multimedia and Design
Bachelor of Graphic and Comic Art
Bachelor of Public Administration
Popular Master’s Programs:
Master of Education
Master of Nursing Science
Master of Psychology
Master of Social Work
Master of Project Management
Master of Public Administration
Master of Regional Development
Master of Computer Science
Master of Information Technology
Master of Art and Design
Master of Psychoeducation
Master of Applied Science in Engineering
Some programs offer course-based, research-based, or professional internship options.
Doctorate Programs Available:
PhD in Psychology
PhD in Education
PhD in Social Work
PhD in Regional Development
PhD in Public Administration
PhD in Engineering (interdisciplinary or applied science fields)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Psychology |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Social Work |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Psychoeducation |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Nursing |
3 years |
~$12,500 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor of Preschool and Primary Education |
4 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Secondary Education |
4 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Accounting |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Public Administration |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Computer Science |
3 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Software Engineering |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor of Multimedia and Design |
3 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Graphic and Comic Art |
3 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Psychology |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Master of Education |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Project Management |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Master of Social Work |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Nursing Science |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Master of Computer Science |
2 years |
~$13,500 – $14,500 |
|
Master of Public Administration |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Regional Development |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Psychoeducation |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Applied Science in Engineering |
2 years |
~$13,500 – $15,000 |
|
Master of Art and Design |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Psychology |
4 years |
~$13,500 – $15,000 |
|
PhD in Education |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
PhD in Social Work |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
PhD in Regional Development |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
PhD in Public Administration |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
PhD in Applied Science / Engineering |
4 years |
~$13,500 – $15,500 |
UQO places great importance on internationalization. It hosts a growing community of students from around the world and provides personalized support throughout the student journey — from application and arrival to academic success and integration into Quebec life.
The Bureau des relations internationales (International Relations Office) helps international students with:
Admission guidance
Immigration and CAQ/study permit procedures
Housing support
Integration activities and workshops
French language support
UQO offers a wide range of programs for international students at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Areas of strength include:
Psychology and social work
Education and teaching
Public administration and project management
Health sciences and nursing
Computer science, software engineering, and applied science
Graphic design, art, and comic art
Regional development and social innovation
Most programs are taught in French, so French language proficiency is required. However, some graduate research programs may allow international students to complete their thesis in English with supervisor approval.
Since UQO is a French-language institution, most courses are offered in French. International students must provide proof of French proficiency (e.g., DELF B2, TCF, or TEF).
UQO supports students who want to improve their French through:
Language support services
French-as-a-second-language resources
Integration workshops
Tuition for international students ranges from approximately:
$12,000 – $14,000 USD per year for undergraduate programs
$13,000 – $15,500 USD per year for graduate programs
UQO offers several scholarships and funding opportunities, such as:
Entrance and excellence scholarships
Research assistantships
Quebec government scholarships (PBEEE)
Tuition exemptions for students from certain French-speaking countries
UQO’s main campus is in Gatineau, a safe, student-friendly city with a low cost of living compared to cities like Toronto or Montreal. UQO also has a campus in Saint-Jérôme, closer to Montreal.
The university offers:
On-campus housing options
Help finding off-campus rentals
Affordable living: approx. $700–$1,100 USD/month for total living costs
Students enjoy access to:
Libraries and computer labs
Student clubs and cultural events
Sports and fitness facilities
Outdoor activities, festivals, and museums in nearby Ottawa
To study at UQO, international students must apply for:
CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec)
Canadian Study Permit
UQO provides detailed guidance on both processes, helping students through the paperwork and timelines.
French-language education with international outreach
Small class sizes and personalized academic attention
Strong research culture, especially at the graduate level
A calm, professional, and student-focused atmosphere
Proximity to government institutions, NGOs, and job markets in Ottawa
Visit the official UQO website and explore the list of undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs.
Check the admission requirements, language requirements, and whether your chosen program is course-based or research-based.
UQO is a French-language university, so you must demonstrate French proficiency.
Accepted language tests include:
DELF B2
TEF/TCF (B2 level minimum)
Some research-based graduate programs may allow thesis work in English, depending on the supervisor.
Typical documents include:
Academic transcripts and diplomas (translated into French or English)
Proof of French proficiency
Valid passport
CV/resumé
Letter of motivation or statement of purpose
Two letters of recommendation (for Master’s or PhD)
Research proposal (for PhD or thesis-based Master’s)
Supervisor agreement (if required by program)
Go to the UQO admissions portal:
https://www.uquebec.ca/admission (used by all Université du Québec campuses)
Create an account and complete the application form.
Upload the necessary documents.
Pay the non-refundable application fee (~$100 CAD).
Once submitted, UQO will review your file.
If accepted, you will receive a Letter of Admission, which is essential for your immigration process.
As an international student in Quebec, you must apply for:
CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec)
Apply online via the Quebec Immigration portal
Processing time: 3–6 weeks
Canadian Study Permit
Apply via IRCC
Processing time varies by country
Apply for these documents immediately after receiving your admission letter.
Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus)
Confirm your enrollment
Attend UQO’s orientation for international students
Activate health insurance and student accounts
UQO offers two main intakes per year for most programs:
Primary intake for almost all programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD)
Recommended for international students due to scholarship and visa timelines
Available for select programs, mostly at the graduate level or professional programs
Application Deadlines for International Students:
Fall semester: Apply by March 1
Winter semester: Apply by November 1
Some research-based graduate programs may accept applications year-round with supervisor approval
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent to Quebec’s secondary and pre-university education (typically 12–13 years of schooling)
Strong academic performance in related subjects (varies by program)
Language Requirements:
French is the primary language of instruction
Proof of French proficiency required:
DELF B2
TEF, TCF (minimum B2 level)
UQO may offer French language support, but you must meet the minimum proficiency level at admission
Academic Requirements:
Completed Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) in a relevant field
GPA typically around 2.7–3.0/4.0 or equivalent
Some programs may require relevant work or research experience
Language Requirements:
Most programs require French proficiency (B2 or higher)
Some thesis-based programs may allow students to write their research in English, depending on the supervisor
Academic Requirements:
Completed Master’s degree in a relevant discipline
Strong academic record and research background
A research proposal and often pre-approval from a supervisor
Language Requirements:
Generally French required
In some cases, PhD research and thesis can be completed in English, if the supervisor agrees
Academic transcripts and diplomas (with translations if needed)
Proof of French proficiency
Passport copy
Resume/CV
Letters of recommendation (typically 2 for Master’s/PhD)
Statement of purpose / Letter of motivation
Research proposal (for PhD or research-based Master’s)
UQO provides French language courses and workshops to help international students adapt.
While you must meet the minimum level before starting a program, support is available to help you improve during your studies.
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Amount (USD approx.) |
Eligibility / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance and Excellence Scholarship (UQO) |
Bachelor, Master’s |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Awarded based on academic excellence and full-time enrollment. |
|
PBEEE – Quebec Merit Scholarship |
PhD, Postdoc |
$25,000/year + benefits |
Highly competitive; offered by the Quebec government for top international students. |
|
Research Assistantships |
Master’s, PhD |
$10,000 – $20,000/year |
Offered by research supervisors as part of funded research projects. |
|
International Mobility Scholarship |
Master’s, PhD |
$1,000 – $3,000 (one-time) |
For students doing part of their research or internship abroad. |
|
Tuition Fee Exemption Program |
Bachelor, Master’s, PhD |
Covers partial/full tuition |
Available for students from some francophone countries under bilateral agreements. |
|
Mitacs Globalink Research Award |
Master’s, PhD |
~$6,000 (research projects) |
Supports research internships in Canada or abroad; requires a host supervisor. |
|
Foundation of UQO Scholarships |
All levels |
$500 – $2,500 |
Multiple awards based on merit, financial need, or field of study. |
Campus |
Location |
Accommodation Type |
Availability |
Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Gatineau Campus |
Gatineau, Quebec (near Ottawa) |
On-campus student residences |
Available (limited) |
~$350 – $550 |
Fully furnished rooms, shared kitchens, utilities included. |
|
|
|
Off-campus housing |
Widely available |
~$500 – $750 |
Apartments and shared rentals near campus and downtown Gatineau. |
|
Saint-Jérôme Campus |
Saint-Jérôme, Quebec |
No on-campus housing |
Off-campus only |
~$500 – $800 |
Housing assistance provided; close to transit and local amenities. |
UQO offers a personalized academic experience with small class sizes, which means you get to build strong relationships with professors and classmates. Courses often have a practical, applied approach, especially in areas like education, social work, psychology, nursing, computer science, and public administration. Graduate students (Master’s and PhD) benefit from research-focused environments with close supervision and access to faculty-led projects.
UQO has a Bureau des relations internationales (International Office) that provides:
Orientation sessions
Help with visas, CAQ, and health insurance
Cultural integration activities
French language support for non-native speakers
The university goes out of its way to make sure international students feel at home and are connected to services, peers, and support networks.
The Gatineau campus has on-campus residences, while students at both campuses can access affordable off-campus housing. Most student apartments are within walking or biking distance of the university and public transport.
The city of Gatineau offers the best of both worlds — a peaceful and affordable lifestyle just minutes from downtown Ottawa, Canada's capital. Students enjoy an urban lifestyle with access to nature, government institutions, museums, and job opportunities.
UQO has a lively student scene. The student union (AGE-UQO) and other student associations organize a wide range of activities such as:
Social and cultural events
Sports tournaments and wellness sessions
Guest speaker panels and career fairs
Clubs for everything from arts and politics to gaming and sustainability
There are plenty of opportunities to make friends, explore hobbies, and develop leadership skills.
UQO provides access to sports facilities, including:
Fitness center and gym
Intramural sports (soccer, basketball, volleyball, etc.)
Yoga and wellness programs
Outdoor trails for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing nearby
Gatineau is close to Gatineau Park, a huge natural space where students can enjoy hiking, camping, and winter sports all year round.
As a French-language university, UQO is a great place to immerse yourself in Quebecois culture. You’ll hear French in everyday interactions, but many people in Gatineau and Ottawa are bilingual. If you’re new to French, UQO offers resources to help you improve, and the community is friendly and supportive.
The bilingual environment also helps students become more employable in Quebec and the rest of Canada.
UQO’s Career Services Office (Service de développement professionnel) assists students and graduates with:
Career counseling and planning
Resume and cover letter workshops
Job search strategies and mock interviews
Internship coordination and employer connections
Job fairs and networking events (in partnership with local businesses and government agencies)
These services are available to both domestic and international students, including help with understanding Canadian work culture and navigating post-graduation work permits (PGWP).
Graduates from UQO are employed in a wide range of sectors:
Hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations
Social services, child protection, mental health support
Non-profits and community development agencies
Primary and secondary schools (for education graduates)
Educational and clinical psychology roles
Government and private sector organizations in counseling and support roles
Municipal, provincial, and federal government (especially in Ottawa-Gatineau)
Private companies and consulting firms
NGOs and non-profit sectors
IT companies, government tech departments, startups
Software development, data management, cybersecurity
Environmental and civil engineering firms (for applied science graduates)
Many UQO programs — especially in social work, education, psychology, administration, and computer science — include mandatory internships or practicum components, giving students real-world experience before graduation.
These placements often lead directly to job offers, especially in fields like:
Social services
Teaching and education
Public sector project management
IT support and software engineering
UQO international graduates are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to:
Work in Canada for up to 3 years after completing their program
Gain Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residency (e.g., through Quebec Experience Program – PEQ)
UQO provides guidance on:
Work permits during and after studies
Résumé and interview preparation for the Canadian job market
French language support for improved job prospects in Quebec
While UQO doesn’t publicly share an overall placement percentage each year, employment surveys and reports show:
Strong graduate employability, especially in fields related to health, education, IT, and public administration
Most students who complete internships receive job offers shortly after graduation
High local demand in the Ottawa-Gatineau region, especially for bilingual candidates
Open and Accessible Education Philosophy
As part of the Université du Québec system, UQO is committed to making higher education accessible to a wide range of students, both in Quebec and internationally.
Moderate Admission Competition
UQO is not a highly selective or elite university like McGill or the University of Toronto. Instead, it focuses on practical, applied learning and professional programs, which leads to a higher acceptance rate.
Program Availability and Diversity
UQO offers a variety of programs in fields like psychology, education, business, social work, IT, and public administration — many of which have room to accommodate international students.
French Language Requirement Filters Applicants
Since most programs are taught in French, international applicants must demonstrate French proficiency, which naturally filters out a portion of applicants and keeps application numbers manageable.
Meeting academic requirements (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with sufficient GPA)
Providing proof of French language proficiency (B2 level or higher on DELF, TCF, or TEF)
Strong motivation letter and relevant background in the field of study
For research-based Master’s or PhD: having a confirmed supervisor boosts your chances
Professional programs (e.g., nursing, psychology) may be more competitive due to limited internship placements.
Other programs like public administration, education, and IT tend to be more flexible with intake.
Location: Gatineau, Quebec
Address: 283 Alexandre-Taché Blvd, Gatineau, QC J9A 1L8, Canada
Setting: Urban, located just across the river from Ottawa, Canada’s capital
Programs Offered: Most undergraduate and graduate programs in:
Psychology
Social work
Education
Nursing and health sciences
Business and administration
Computer science
Public administration
Graphic and comic art
Key Benefits:
Close to federal government offices and employment opportunities
Direct access to public transportation (STO and OC Transpo)
Bilingual city with English and French widely spoken
Student residences available near the main campus
Location: Saint-Jérôme, Quebec (about 45 minutes north of Montreal)
Address: 5, Rue St-Joseph, Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 0B7, Canada
Setting: Suburban, growing student hub in the Laurentides region
Programs Offered: Primarily focuses on:
Education
Health sciences
Administration and management
Professional development programs
Key Benefits:
Easy access to Montreal via commuter train or highway
Quiet and student-friendly atmosphere
Affordable living and strong regional employment connections
