General Certificate in Law

The General Certificate in Law is a program offered by the Faculty of Law, designed to provide a basic legal education to students not intending to practise law. The teaching objectives for this program are focused on the study of law as a social phenomenon and on understanding the impact of law on various aspects of society.

Program Description

The certificate program is offered on a part-time basis only. However, students can register in additional courses in other disciplines on a full-time basis if they have all the course prerequisites. This general certificate in law comprises 30 credits (10 courses) and can be taken in English, in French, or in both languages.

Admission Requirements

To apply to the Certificate in Law program, students must:

• Have completed two years of college studies or two years at an Ontario College of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT);
• Have completed the equivalent of one year of university studies (minimum of 30 credits);
• Meet the definition of a mature applicant;
• Have a minimum average of 65% to apply for admission.

Courses

The courses in the general certificate in law program include:

• DCC2117: Introduction to the Study of Law
• DCC2118: General Public Law
• DCC2119: Protection of Rights and Freedoms
• DCC2120 or DCC2121: Law and Social Justice or Legal Theory & Social Sciences - Aspects of Human Rights
• DCC3101, DCC3102, or DCC3103: Law of Obligations, Criminal Law, or Law of Persons and Family Law
• 15 optional DCC credits

Advanced Standing

If students have successfully completed law courses at another university as part of a program leading to a law certificate or degree, they can request advanced standing. The University will base its decision on the objectives, content, and level of the courses completed and on the student's overall academic record. A maximum of 15 credits advanced standing will be granted. To receive the general certificate in law, students must have completed at least 50% of their credits (i.e., at least 15 credits) at the University of Ottawa.

Equivalencies for Civil Law Degree Program

If students have completed a general certificate in law or a minor in law, they can apply for admission to the civil law degree program (LL.L.). If admitted and meeting the minimum admission criteria, they will be granted advanced standing for no more than 15 credits of optional courses. However, they cannot be granted advanced standing for certain courses (DCC2117, DCC2118, DCC2119, DCC3101, DCC3102, DCC3103, DCC3117, or DCC4102, or equivalent courses offered in French) because the content of these courses is explored in great detail in the mandatory first- and second-year courses of the LL.L. program.

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Overview:

The University of Ottawa is a public research university located in Ottawa, Canada. It is one of Canada's top 10 research universities, known for its commitment to excellence, relevance, and impact in research. The university is also recognized for its bilingual nature, offering programs in both English and French.

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Services Offered:

The University of Ottawa provides a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Academic writing help, tutoring, and support from faculty members.

Bilingual Studies and Language Learning:

French and English immersion streams, as well as intensive language programs.

Campus Life:

Housing options, dining services, recreation facilities, student clubs and organizations, and health and wellness services.

Career Development:

Career counselling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Financial Support:

Scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs.

International Students:

Support for international students, including visa assistance, language programs, and cultural adjustment services.

Mentoring and Peer Support:

Mentoring programs and peer support networks.

Research and Innovation:

Research centers and institutes, core facilities, and resources for researchers.

Safety and Security:

Security services, harassment and discrimination prevention programs, and self-defense courses.

Sustainability:

Sustainability initiatives, programs, and activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Ottawa can expect a vibrant and diverse campus experience. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs and organizations, sports teams, and cultural events. The campus is located in the heart of Ottawa, providing easy access to the city's many attractions and amenities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Bilingual Environment:

The university is a leading bilingual institution, offering programs in both English and French.

Research Excellence:

The University of Ottawa is a top research university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

The university is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from all backgrounds.

Strong Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields.

Location in the Capital City:

The university's location in Ottawa provides students with access to government institutions, cultural attractions, and employment opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Ottawa has 10 faculties, offering a wide range of academic programs, including:

Faculty of Arts:

Humanities, social sciences, and fine arts.

Faculty of Education:

Teacher education and educational research.

Faculty of Engineering:

Engineering disciplines, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Health sciences, including medicine, nursing, and pharmacy.

Faculty of Law:

Civil law and common law.

Faculty of Medicine:

Medical education and research.

Faculty of Science:

Science disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and physics.

Faculty of Social Sciences:

Social sciences, including economics, psychology, and sociology.

Telfer School of Management:

Business administration and management.