University of Ottawa (reviews)

Overall, I had a great experience at the University of Ottawa, especially in the Master’s of Engineering program.

One of the biggest strengths of the program is the part-time professors and industry consultants who teach many of the courses. Since they actively work in their respective fields, they bring practical knowledge, and current industry practices into the classroom.

On the other hand, some of the senior professors still rely on teaching methods and course materials that have changed very little since the 1980s or 1990s. In Civil Engineering, in particular, a few courses use the same slides year after year, and some of the content does not fully reflect current industry practices.

That said, the networking opportunities, and the practical experience gained through industry-connected instructors made the program worthwhile.

The campus is situated in downtown Ottawa close to many amenities. Due to the size it is sometimes difficult to get from one side to another, if your classes are on opposite ends of the campus. The university COOP program is very good and they have high match rate for students and potential careers. Campus life is good – there are three residences. However getting into the residences for parties you need to know someone staying there.

The professors, buildings, resources, and classes/labs are excellent. I got to participate in a challenge where a handful of engineering students designed and built something that highlighted their skills in engineering!

The building is so beautiful and easy to navigate, it has the largest indoor plant wall you’ve ever seen, big lecture halls, seminar rooms, and lots of places to study. It is located centrally on campus so it is super easy to access through other buildings that connect to it!