The University
Carleton University is unique within the Ontario university
system for several reasons. It was founded in 1942 through a
community movement, initiated by the YMCA, to provide
non-sectarian education for the thousands of men and women who
came to Ottawa in support of the war effort. Because of these
roots, Carleton has, throughout its history, attempted to meet
the needs of the community by making its programs and resources
widely available through innovative technologies and life-long
learning opportunities.
Carleton' location in Canada's capital is also an important
factor in its development and mission. The University's
philosophy and character have been shaped by the public life of
Canada and by the resources of the national capital area. The
first courses ever offered were in public administration and
journalism, linking Carleton's program of instruction to the
federal civil service and the national press gallery. Later,
the development of programs in such areas as political science
and economics, social work and sociology, Canadian studies and
international affairs, mathematics and statistics, reinforced
the reciprocity between the University and national
institutions located in Ottawa.
Carleton's location and national focus also have had a
significant impact on the development of programs in the arts
and humanities. The proximity to national libraries, archives,
galleries, museums, and embassies ensures excellent research
facilities and access to important resources for the study of
Canada, especially in such areas as history, art history, film
studies, music, English, and French.
The availability of government scientists and research
laboratories and the high concentration of high technology
firms offer educational opportunities in social sciences,
science and engineering unequalled in Canada. By joining forces
with the University of Ottawa in offering joint graduate
programs in the engineering and science disciplines, Carleton
has created centres and institutes of national and
international significance that link to the national facilities
located in the area.
Although Carleton originated as a University with special
ties to national institutions, it quickly developed strong
international links and today enjoys academic partnerships and
joint research projects with more than 80 institutions in 28
countries.
The dynamic, pioneering spirit that gave birth to Carleton
more than 60 years ago is still very much alive at the
University. Today, Carleton University is a major research and
teaching institution that offers outstanding programs at the
undergraduate and graduate levels in the major disciplines of
the arts and social sciences, business, engineering and design,
public affairs, and science.
As Canada's Capital University, Carleton's aim is to prepare
students to prosper in a global society and to contribute and
to lead as citizens of Canada and the world.
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