Program Overview

The Programme de droit canadien (PDC) is a unique program offered by the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Law, allowing students to earn both a JD and an LL.L. in three years. This innovative program reflects the needs of future lawyers in Canada, providing a comprehensive education in both common law and civil law.

Program Details

• Duration: 3 years
• Location: In-person
• Language: French (with a requirement for knowledge of English)
• Notes: Most of the program is offered in French, though some courses may be available in English.

Admission Criteria

• At least three years of university study (with exceptions for adult candidates)
• Outstanding academic record
• Form of community and social engagement
• Ability to follow a rigorous study program in French
• Some knowledge of English
• Favorable letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts for all post-secondary education
• Cumulative grade point average: usually 80% or more (with occasional exceptions based on other factors)

Program Requirements

• Total credits to complete the program: 108 units
• Total mandatory credits: 75 units
• Total elective credits: 33 units
• Minimum of 15 optional course units in common law (CML) and 18 optional course units in civil law (DRC)
• Completion of a minimum of 3 credits in Aboriginal Law
• Certain courses are designed specifically for PDC students
• Most of the program is offered in French, with a requirement for knowledge of English

Course Sequences

The program is divided into three years, with specific course sequences for each year. Students spend their first and third years in the common law section and their second year in the civil law section.

Year 1

• 36 credits (10 courses)
• Courses include:
  • CML1701: Délits civils et responsabilité extracontractuelle I
  • CML1704: Législation
  • CML1705: Droit, histoire et société
  • CML1707: Vérité, réconciliation et peuples autochtones
  • CML1506: Introduction ŕ la résolution des différends
  • CML1508: Droits des biens
  • CML1611: Compétences et habiletés juridiques
  • CML1602: Les contrats
  • CML1613: Droit constitutionnel I
  • CML1702: Délits civils et responsabilité extracontractuelle II

Year 2

• 39 credits (13 courses)
• Courses include:
  • CML2741: Philosophie du droit
  • DRC4790/4390: Droit des obligations I
  • DRC4791/4391: Droit des biens
  • DRC4792/4392: Droit des personnes et de la famille
  • DRC4797: Procédure civile I
  • DRC4798: Procédure civile II
  • CML2713: Droit constitutionnel II
  • Optional courses in DRC or CML

Year 3

• 33 credits (11 courses)
• Courses include:
  • CML2702: Droit des sociétés
  • CML2712: Droit administratif
  • CML3776: Responsabilité professionnelle
  • Optional courses in DRC or CML

Student Testimonials

The PDC has received positive testimonials from its graduates, who appreciate the unique opportunity to study both common law and civil law in a bilingual and bijural environment. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in law, with some working as lawyers, law clerks, or legal counsel.

Additional Information

• The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Canadian legal system and to prepare them for practice in both common law and civil law jurisdictions.
• The program is offered in French, with a requirement for knowledge of English.
• Students must complete a minimum of 3 credits in Aboriginal Law.
• The program includes a range of courses in common law and civil law, as well as optional courses in areas such as international law, human rights, and environmental law.

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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.