Mission, Vision and Values
Our mission
Since 1848, the University of Ottawa has been Canada's university: a reflection, an observatory and a catalyst of the Canadian experience in all its complexity and diversity. Our university is characterized by its unique history, its commitment to bilingualism, its location both in the heart of the national capital and at the juncture of French and English Canada, its special commitment to the promotion of French culture in Ontario and to multiculturalism. As a result and through the groundbreaking work of our community members, we are uniquely positioned among Canada's research-intensive institutions to give students a remarkable education, to enrich the intellectual and cultural life of Canada and to help the country achieve greater international prominence.
Our vision
We aspire to be, among universities, the essential reference on what Canada represents: a university that is an integral part of its community, open to the world, and distinguished by its search for excellence in research, its high-quality learning environment, its passion for knowledge and innovation, its leadership on language issues, and its openness to diversity. Every member of our institution will take part in our educational mission.
Our values
A university that places its students at the core of its educational mission
We do our utmost to help our students expand their knowledge, enrich their culture, boost their creativity, enhance their ability to question and analyze, and take full advantage of university life to become well-rounded, responsible citizens and leaders of our society.
A university whose programs are research driven
We conduct first-class research, most notably in each of our strategic areas of development; this in turn enriches what and how we teach. We deliver a wide range of nationally and internationally recognized undergraduate, graduate and professional programs known for their quality and for their focus on interdisciplinarity.
A bilingual university that values cultural diversity
We promote bilingualism, recognize the contributions of the many communities that have helped build our country and, through our programs and research, work to bring Canada's challenges as a country into sharper focus.
A university committed to promoting Francophone communities
We design outstanding programs and services for Ontario's French-speaking population and we provide leadership for Francophone communities across Canada and around the world.
A university that builds strong partnerships to fulfill its social responsibilities
We strengthen our programs and perform our social, political and community-outreach roles thanks to productive ties with other institutions of higher learning, government agencies, social and community associations, research councils, the private sector, embassies, and national and international organizations.
A university that offers equal opportunities to its staff
We adhere to the principles of diversity and equitable representation. We are also committed to women playing a leading role in the life of the university community.
A university that values its community
We encourage freedom of expression in an atmosphere of open dialogue, enabling critical thought, supported by intellectual integrity and ethical judgment. Collegiality, transparency and accountability are the principles that guide our university governance.