The Institute of Canadian Studies is expanding, thanks primarily to two new programs: a major and a minor, approved by the Senate last spring.
“This is the first time in its seven years of existence that the institute will offer such a comprehensive program,” explains director Pierre Anctil. The two programs include five new courses never before offered on campus. Cross-appointed professors will help set up 33 compulsory core credits for the major.
“If there is any place in Canada where one should offer a program in Canadian studies, it is definitely here.” Its director believes the institute has a “strategic advantage.” The University’s geographical location and bilingual image puts it in an ideal position to enlighten the student population about Canada’s two linguistic realities.
But it is also meant to be “inter-cultural,” explains Anctil. “We don’t want to put the accent only on the two so-called founding peoples, but also on Aboriginals, immigrants, visible minorities and women.”
The program also has a strong interdisciplinary orientation, which furthers the convergence of such disciplines as sociology, political science, literature, history, public health and governance, among others.
The short-term objective is to increase registration considerably for September 2006.
And to reach these potential students, the institute will open its doors on University of Ottawa Day on October 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 52 University Street. “The primary group we want to reach are students already on campus, to inform them of the existence of the institute’s programs,” explains Anctil. “Then, we are targeting students and admission applicants on site. And of course, staff are also cordially invited.”
This will also be the opportunity to meet professors affiliated to the institute, such as George Sioui, Claude Denis and Seymour Mayne.
