phd law ottawa

Graduate Studies in Health Law

The Faculty of Law at the University of Ottawa offers both Master of Laws and Ph.D. in Law programs. In health law, we offer graduate students a wide range of cutting-edge research projects led by the largest concentration of health law scholars and complemented by the broadest selection of health law courses in Canada. The interdisciplinary nature of CHLPE—drawing its members not only from Law but also Medicine, Health Sciences, Management, Social Sciences, and Arts—further enriches the graduate experience by exposing students to a variety of methodological and theoretical perspectives. Students have the option of developing interdisciplinary research collaborations and having their projects supervised by interdisciplinary committees.

Our graduates pursue a wide range of careers—in universities, provincial and federal governments and their agencies, NGOs and international organizations, private sector companies, private practice, regulatory Colleges, associations, liability insurers, and more. Many such health organizations are headquartered in Ottawa. Being located in Canada's capital provides unparalleled opportunities to engage with provincial, national, and international policy makers and other stakeholders.

We welcome applications from across Canada and the world and offer financial support .

A Distinctive Experience

Graduate students are encouraged to be actively involved in CHLPE's lively roster of events , including our lunchtime speaker series, Café Scientifiques in the community, and an annual national/international conference drilling into a specific health policy issue (past examples includes AI in Healthcare; Medical Assistance in Dying; and Two-Tier Care). CHLPE also runs regular small-group workshops on grant writing and focus areas in health law such as aging, technology, multidisciplinary bioethics, organ donation/transplantation, and public health policy.

For graduate students in particular, CHLPE in conjunction with the McGill Research Group on Health and Law runs the Graduate Student Colloquium in Health Law, Policy and Ethics . This flagship event gives our students opportunities to showcase their work and receive input for an interdisciplinary audience of researchers and policy makers, while between sessions and in the evenings exchanging ideas and networking with attendees. The Colloquium is held on an annual alternating basis in Ottawa and Montreal.

Application / Admission

For all information and inquiries regarding application and admission to graduate studies in law, please see the Graduate Studies page at the Faculty of Law.

The University of Ottawa's Centre for Health Law, Ethics and Policy is a hub for some of the leading health, law and social science scholars in Canada. The Centre is engaged in important interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary research, policy leadership and community outreach to address pressing issues in health policy. As a Ph.D. student I've been privileged to collaborate with many of the Centre's excellent scholars and have benefited from exposure to a network of policymakers and academics from around the world engaged in shaping health law and policy. The Centre provides a unique and dynamic learning environment for students, like myself, who are interested in the growing field of health law and policy in Canada.

Robin Whitehead Ph.D. Candidate

Only certain courses are offered in each year.

For course availability and more information please go to: Faculty of Law, Common Law Section course search engine Faculty of Law, Civil Law Section courses page

Courses – Common Law English

Medical-legal problems.

This course will explore a wide range of legal issues arising in health care settings. Traditionally, the physician-patient relationship has been the focus of health law. This course will cover legal issues arising from that relationship such as consent, professional negligence, and the regulation of health professionals. However, relationships and issues at the broader systems level are the subject of increasing legal regulation and health law scholarship. We will address such systems level issues as constitutional claims relating to access to and funding of health care, medical research ethics, and the regulation of pharmaceuticals. We will also discuss a number of selected topics including reproductive health care, mental health law and end-of-life decision-making.

Access to Health Care

Sexuality, gender and the law.

Angela Cameron

This seminar will explore issues at the intersection of law, sexuality and gender in Canada. Although the legal production and regulation of sexuality and gender impacts everyone, the class will focus primarily, but not entirely, on its particular impacts on gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, two-spirited and queer (GLBTTQ) people. The class will introduce various theoretical perspectives and will consider the legal construction of gender and sexuality in the judicial decisions, legislation and administrative rules that define and regulate gender and sexuality in Canada.

Law and Psychiatry: Mental Health Law & Neuroethics

Jennifer Chandler

This seminar addresses the legal issues related to mental health, mental disability, and neuroethics in four parts.

(1) Mental health law in Ontario The laws and procedures of involuntary committal and treatment under provincial mental health legislation, capacity and substitute decision-making. We also consider the intersection of tort law with mental illness.

(2) Mental disorder and criminal law Mental disorder in the criminal justice context, including findings of fitness to stand trial, findings that a person is not criminally responsible by reason of mental disorder, sentencing options, mental health courts and therapeutic jurisprudence.

(3) Human rights and mental disability Questions of human rights and social justice relating to mental health and mental disability, particularly with respect to discrimination and access to care.

(4) Emerging neuroscience, ethics and the law This part of the course we consider the future, and look at how advances in the behavioural sciences are even now raising challenging questions for neuroethics and for the law.

Public Health Law

Roojin Habibi

At the heart of public health law and policy lies this basic question: to what extent can the state legitimately impinge on individual rights, in its efforts to promote or protect the health of the population? Controversies rage over public health policies such as proposals for a fat tax, banning super-sized portions of sugary or high-fat foods, reducing salt in our diets, elimination of tobacco advertising, GMO labeling, mandatory vaccinations (and alleged links with autism), fluoridation of the water supply, criminalization of HIV non-disclosure, scrutiny of individuals donating blood and ban on the sale thereof, gun control, safe-injection sites, the legalization of recreational marijuana etc. Areas of law engaged include statutory interpretation, criminal law, constitutional law, tort law, privacy law, and administrative law.

Those favouring a restricted role for public health speak of the importance of individual self-reliance, the problem of paternalism and the slippery slope of government intervention(s) that further erode individual liberties. Those in favor focus on improving the population’s health, the cost-effectiveness of deterrence over disease treatment, and the importance of promoting social justice and protecting the vulnerable both within nations and at the global level. In this course we will explore these conflicting views and their grounding in philosophical frameworks (libertarianism, libertarian paternalism, contractarian rights theory, egalitarian liberalism, utilitarianism, and communitarianism) and public health frameworks (police powers, human rights, civic models, harm reduction, precautionary principle, etc) and, in addition, consider the extent to which public health decision-making inculcates evidence about what works and doesn’t work. We will also explore the role of both domestic and international law in the formulation, execution, administration and frustration (through judicial challenge) of public health policy at national and global levels. These issues will be animated through case studies of, for example, different pandemics and communicable diseases, tobacco control and vaping, obesity control, decriminalization and subsequent regulation of recreational marijuana, blood safety, vaccinations, firearms control, and the opioid crisis. Students will develop a robust analytic lens for assessing public health law and policy, and hone their skills at forcefully advocating for or against particular initiatives.

Reproductive Rights, Law and Policy

Vanessa Gruben

Whether and when to reproduce is an intensely personal decision that significantly impacts one’s health and well-being. This course will explore how Canadian law and policy regulates and responds to human reproduction. It will address a range of topics related to reproductive autonomy, reproductive justice and access to reproductive health services. Topics may include abortion, contraception, sterilization, assisted reproduction, genetics and pregnancy.

Global Health Law

The course provides a critical overview of the governance and regulation of global health under international law, as well as the structures and features of global governance processes and frameworks for health more generally. The course is organized into three parts. Students are first introduced to the definition, scope and functions of global health law as a growing field of international law, and of other relevant regimes of international law, including international human rights law and international trade law. Having acquired this foundational understanding, the class will then examine how these frameworks and institutions apply to paramount health concerns including infectious and non-communicable diseases. In the final part of the course, the class will undertake a forward-looking analysis of the international community's ability to keep step with rapidly evolving issues in global health, including pandemics and antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and sexual and reproductive health and rights. By the end of the semester, students will be able to critically assess the adequacy of international law for the protection and promotion of global health, and prospects for developing the field of global health law.

Pharmaceutical IP & Regulation

This course examines the Minister of Health’s drug approval process for pharmaceutical and biological drugs (including vaccines) and the role intellectual property rights have on this approval process. By reviewing legislative texts and the relevant (and extensive) jurisprudence that exists in this area, students will gain an understanding of how these two aspects of drug regulation impact on the competition between “brand-name” manufacturers (who typically obtain patents and other intellectual property in being the first to bring a drug to market) and generic or bio-similar manufacturers (who seek to enter the market by making a copy of a brand-name product).

Mental Health Issues and Criminal Law

Individuals suffering from mental disorders have contact with and are impacted by the legal system on a a daily basis. This course examines our perceptions of those suffering from mental disorders and critically assesses how these perceptions influence how the legal system responds to their needs and issues. There will be a review of the historical development of legal procedures and substantive law to address mental health issues. There will be a comprehensive review of the evolution leading to the passage of Part XX.I of the Criminal Code, beginning with the seminal case of Daniel McNaghten. The creation of a civil mental health system in Canada will also be examined. The efficacy of the current Review Board system will be critically examined. The course will focus both on having students acquire substantive knowledge of historical and mental health law, as well as to assess how the mental health and legal systems can most effectively work together.

This course provides a basic overview of food law and policy in Canada. In addition to reviewing the primary acts and actors relevant to this area, this course surveys major topics covering all aspects of the food chain, from production to consumption. This will include topics such as agricultural law and policy, food safety, food and health labelling, marketing and advertising, public health, and the practice of food law in Canada.

In particular, we will tackle emerging areas such as food systems and sustainability, the new Food Policy for Canada , food security, food sovereignty and food justice; the social economy of food; the regulation of GMOs and other food innovations; food law and gender, animal welfare and animal rights and Indigenous approaches to food law, as well as the impacts of global pandemics on food systems. Students who have a keen interest in food law and practice will benefit greatly from this course. However, it is also designed for those more interested in the legal system generally who will learn about its workings through the case study of food and can then apply these insights to other areas of law and policy.

The course objectives are to be able to locate, explain and critique:

• the past, present, and future of food law and policy in Canada
• the federal, provincial, and municipal laws and regulations governing food
• major and current areas of debate in the field
• the relationship between academic, legal, industry, and government perspectives on food law and policy-related issues

They also include developing critical thinking skills and becoming familiar with alternative perspectives.

Cannabis and the Law

There have been few changes in Canadian legislation that have had an impact on as many areas of the law as the legalization of cannabis for recreational use. This course, sponsored by Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l., will survey the many areas of the law impacted by this unprecedented change and will examine the regulatory framework of cannabis in Canada in respect of both medical and recreational use, and production. In addition, the course will explore some of the potential legal implications of legalization, including with respect to employment/labour law, property law, immigration law and business law. The course features a variety of guest lecturers and instructors from Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall LLP/s.r.l. in addition to a visit to Canopy Growth in Smiths Falls.

Courses – Common Law French

Introduction au droit de la santé.

Ce cours vise à expliquer aux étudiants et étudiantes la structure du système de soins de santé au Canada selon une perspective critique. L’objectif est de fournir un cadre d’analyse solide et des outils utiles pour faire de la recherche et exercer dans le domaine tout en examinant les iniquités inhérentes au système et les questions d’accès. Dans cet optique, le cours traite de plusieurs thèmes : le cadre constitutionnel canadien, la santé des populations, l’assurance santé, l'organisation et la réglementation des professions de la santé, la responsabilité professionnelle et des hôpitaux, la santé publique, la santé mentale, les médicaments, les autochtones et la santé, l’accès pour les groupes défavorisés, et les litiges en matière de santé en vertu de la Charte canadienne.

Les étudiants et étudiantes choisissent et analysent un arrêt ou un thème d’actualité portant sur un sujet qui les intéressent particulièrement et présentent le fruit de leur recherche à la classe. Au cours des années précédentes, les sujets suivants ont été explorés : le contrôle des produits du tabac, le système de sang, la procréation médicalement assistée, le consentement aux soins, l’accès à l’avortement, le régime de santé des réfugiés, l’autonomie décisionnelle en fin de la vie, etc.

University of Ottawa Faculty of Law

The information on this page was provided by the law school.

Official Guide to Canadian JD Programs

Important Information for Applicants to Ontario Law Schools

Introduction

The Faculty of Law offers both Common Law and Civil Law degrees, preparing graduates for careers in the country’s two legal systems. The Common Law Section offers a three-year program in both English and French. The Civil Law Section offers a three-year program in French.

The Common Law Section provides a broad academic and professional education for persons interested in the practice of law, government, international service, legal scholarship, conflict resolution, or any other career where the knowledge of legal principles is an advantage. The curriculum develops analytical, research, and practical skills, as well as a disciplined approach to the social and legal problems facing modern society.

The Common Law Section has certain distinctive characteristics. There is a proactive commitment to equity in the hiring practice of staff, in the admission process, and in the curriculum review. There is an emphasis on using a critical approach to legal studies. There is also a commitment to offering the JD degree in both official languages; to developing common law vocabulary, teaching materials, and legal scholarship in French; and to promoting legal services in French in Ontario. In January 2004, the school introduced a new, three-week, intensive January Term. During that period, regularly scheduled classes stop and students are immersed in a full-time, three-week course. Students can choose a course from a complete range of subject matter, methods of instruction, and evaluation. Several of these courses are taught by visiting professors from all over the world.

Enrollment/Student Body

• English Program—2,637 applications in 2017, 320 first-year places
• French Program—185 applications in 2017, 80 first-year places
• School totals—1,180 full time, 38 half time
• 1 percent Indigenous
• 60 percent women
• 10 provinces represented
• 76 full time
• 38 women tenure or tenure track

Persons seeking both a Common Law and Civil Law degree can apply to complete a fourth year conveying a double degree (LLL/JD). There is also a combined JD/MBA program offered with the Telfer School of Management, a combined JD/MA in international affairs with the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University, and the Canadian and American combined JD program with Michigan State University College of Law and American University Washington College of Law in Washington, DC.

The Programme de droit canadien allows students to earn both degrees (JD and LLL) in three years, thereby opening doors to practice law everywhere in Canada and abroad. This program invites students to take advantage of this innovative and rigorous program to develop critical thinking abilities, creativity, and sensitivity to Canada’s legal, linguistic, and cultural diversity. The Programme de droit canadien is primarily offered in French, but knowledge of English is required.

Our graduate studies programs operate in a Faculty of Law that shares the traditions of both civil law and common law, and in which courses are offered in both official languages. This provides the opportunity for constant intellectual exchange and for comparative studies. The latter have become especially important in this era of globalization.

In addition, the programs are offered in a unique legal environment: Canada’s capital, the centre of a country open to the world and known for its contribution in the area of human rights.

Finally, Ottawa is a major player in the field of information technology. The head offices of many corporations, which are acknowledged leaders in this field, are located in Ottawa.

For these reasons, the Faculty specializes in advanced studies and research in the following areas: international law, human rights, law and technology, environmental law, and comparative law. Legal training in these areas opens the door to a variety of career opportunities in numerous fields (national and international law firms, civil and foreign service, nongovernmental organizations, teaching, etc.).

However, advanced study and research is not confined to these main categories. Where faculty supervision can be arranged, research can also be undertaken in other areas of expertise.

Education Equity

The Education Equity Office focuses on increasing the participation of persons from traditionally underrepresented groups such as visible, linguistic, and ethnic minorities; Indigenous peoples; persons with disabilities; economically disadvantaged persons; and individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

The program involves recruiting and outreach; examining the curriculum to ensure that it does not perpetuate racism, sexism, or other discriminatory attitudes or approaches; and ensuring that all students can participate in both academic and social activities. This can be done through the Access Category.

Human Rights Centre

The centre promotes human rights through research and education. A chair in human rights brings leading international scholars, experts, and activists to the centre. The resource library contains the country’s largest bilingual collection of human rights documents.

Library and Physical Facilities

• More than 215,000 volumes
• Library hours: 100 hours/week during the academic year; extended hours during exams
• Access to major Canadian, American, and international electronic resources including LexisNexis/Quicklaw, LN Academic, HeinOnline, Westlaw Canada, and others
• 4 full-time librarians
• 400 seats and offers several group-study rooms to law students
• 83 computers including a new 40-seat computer lab
• Campus-wide free wireless access

The Brian Dickson Law Library is an integral part of the Faculty of Law (formed by two autonomous sections, Common Law and Civil Law), occupying the fourth and fifth floors of Fauteux Hall, and is, as well, one of the main components of the network of University of Ottawa libraries. The Law Library reflects the bijural and bilingual character of the two sections it serves.

The Law Library’s website provides access to a wide range of resources (databases, journals, e-books, reference tools, etc.). Our subject guides offer insight into criminal and civil law, Canadian legislation, and human rights.

Student Activities

A student editorial board, under faculty supervision, publishes the Ottawa Law Review . A moot court component is part of the second year of the program and students may participate in several competitive moots with the support of faculty members. The University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic offers services to the public. The Common Law Student Society (CLSS) is the umbrella student association. Several other associations such as the Black Law Students Association, Business Law Students Association, Canadian Lawyers Association for International Human Rights, Criminal Law Students Association, Indigenous Law Students Association, Information Technology Law Society, and International Law Students Association also flourish.

• LSAT required (except for the French program)—no set minimum score; only highest score considered
• Oldest LSAT accepted—June 2014
• A minimum of 3 years of university studies are required
• Rolling admission
• Application deadline—November 1 (March 1 for the French program)

The Common Law Section is interested in creating a vital and diverse academic environment and in preparing competent and compassionate professionals. To ensure that the student body represents the fullest possible range of social, economic, ethnic, and cultural perspectives in our society, we consider many factors. Though academic performance, the personal statement, and LSAT scores are significant factors, consideration can be given to an applicant’s achievements in extracurricular activities and community work, as well as his or her outstanding achievements in previous careers. Unique linguistic or cultural factors in an applicant’s background that add to his or her overall academic achievements, as well as personal challenges such as a physical or learning disability or adverse economic circumstances, are considered.

In addition to the General Category, applicants may apply in one of these categories: Access, Mature, or Indigenous. Additional information is available on our website.

Expenses and Financial Aid

• Full-time tuition and fees (2017)—$18,592.24 (tuition) + $762.73 (incidental fees) = $19,354.97
• Estimated text and casebook fees—$1,200
• Estimated additional expenses—$11,000 to $14,000 (room and board, etc.)
• Scholarships, need-based bursaries, and prizes available

For more information, please visit our website .

Contact Information

• Skip to main content
• North America
• Legal Studies

University of Ottawa

You've reached your limit of 10 Favourites

PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Law University of Ottawa

Study options.

• International

What will I learn?

Reflecting Canada’s bilingual and trijuridical legal system (civil law, common law, aboriginal law), as well as its location in Canada’s Capital, the Faculty of Law offers graduate programs leading to a master’s degree and a doctoral degree in Law.

The graduate studies in law are a joint endeavour of the Common Law and Civil Law Sections. We welcome law graduates from both legal systems and from countries around the world. Courses are offered in English or in French, and occasionally in both languages. Students may readily complete their graduate studies while learning something of Canada's other legal and linguistic traditions.

The programs are offered in English and in French, and sometimes in a combination of both. In accordance with University of Ottawa Policy, examinations, assignments and the research paper or thesis may be written in either English or French.

Doctoral Program

The aim of the doctoral program is to develop autonomous academics and lawyers who are highly qualified to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their particular discipline through theoretical, practical and empirical research in various fields of law. The program focuses on the development and mastery of a research approach, of social and critical legal reasoning for the purpose of making original contributions in the field of law.

The doctoral program comprises the following elements: a legal research methodology and theory course, an elective course, a comprehensive examination, a thesis proposal examination, the writing of a thesis and its defence before an examining board.

Which department am I in?

Full time (4 years).

Expected September 2024

75 Laurier Avenue East,

Ontario (ON),

K1N 6N5, Canada

Entry requirements

For international students.

The applicant must:

Have a master of laws degree (LLM) awarded by an accredited Canadian university, obtained with a minimum average of 75% (B+), calculated as per the standards established for graduate studies or an equivalent degree in law from a foreign university meeting the same standards, as well as demonstrated legal research and writing abilities; Have sufficient knowledge of French or English. Foreign applicants whose first language is neither English nor French will be required to provide proof of proficiency in one or other language as specified in section A of the General Regulations in effect for graduate studies.

English language requirements:

TOEFL Internet-based (IBT) - 79; Paper-Based - 550

IELTS - 6.5

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

By Concentration

• General LL.M. Programs
• Alternative Dispute Resolution / Arbitration / Mediation
• American Law / U.S. Law
• Banking Law / Finance Law / Securities Law
• Business Law / Commercial Law
• Corporate Law / Company Law
• Human Rights

All Resources

University of Ottawa - Faculty of Law

• News & Articles
• Followers (151)

Graduate Studies Fauteux Hall 57 Louis Pasteur St Ottawa , ON K1N 6N5 Canada

llmphd.uottawa.ca

PCStuff / CC BY-SA 2.5 / (cropped)

LL.M. facts

Tuition 17,468 CAD

Duration 12 months

Intakes September

Minimum TOEFL 100

Minimum IELTS 7.0

• Listed in Top Law Schools for Environmental Law Top 10 LL.M. Programs in Canada Top LL.M.s in Social Justice

Quick links

• General LL.M.
• Ph.D. in Law

Programs at Ottawa Law

• Legislative Studies
• International Humanitarian and Securities Law
• Global Sustainability and Environmental Law
• Law and Social Justice
• Law and Technology
• Notarial Law (French only)
• International Trade and Investment Law
• Women's Studies
• Health Law, Policy and Ethics
• Program includes courses and option of thesis or research paper.
• Thesis based LL.M. only available full-time.

News About Ottawa Law

University of Ottawa Launches New LL.M. in Health Law, Policy and Ethics

Apr 28, 2017

Show More LLM News About Ottawa Law

Featured Schools

Master of Law programs in Sports Law, International Law+

Offering nine LL.M. specializations in Manhattan and two online

Int'l Business Law LLM With 16 Professional LLM Specializations

Related Articles

Post-LL.M. Careers in Canada

Law firms plan to ramp up recruitment, and there are a wide range of opportunities across the stable Canadian economy

LL.M.s in Health Law: Keeping Up With An Industry In Flux

The study of health and medical law is very industry-specific, so getting to know that industry inside and out is vital if you are to have a successful career in the field.

Five Ways to Use the Summer to Prepare for Your LL.M.

You’ve gotten into the LL.M. program of your dreams. What now? Here’s how to best use the summer before law school.

Show More Articles Related to Ottawa Law

Application Tracker - Ottawa Law

• 2024/25 (2)
• 2023/24 (8)
• 2022/23 (10)
• 2021/22 (10)
• 2020/21 (11)
• 2019/20 (9)
• 2018/19 (9)
• 2017/18 (7)
• 2016/17 (22)
• 2015/16 (7)
• 2014/15 (4)
• 2013/14 (15)
• 2012/13 (13)
• 2011/12 (12)
• 2010/11 (12)

The Application Tracker tool lets you track and display the status of your LLM applications online, and helps you connect with others interested in the same programs. Add a program to your personal Application Tracker watch list by clicking on the "Follow" button displayed on every law school listing. See the activities of all the schools you have followed by going to Application Tracker . You can view and edit your Application Tracker status anytime in your account . The Application Tracker tool lets you track and display the status of your LLM applications online.

Scholarships at Ottawa Law

All LLM Scholarships

Photos of Ottawa Law

There are no photos of University of Ottawa - Faculty of Law.

Please register if you'd like to upload a photo.

Followers (150)

Select Year 2024/25 2023/24 2022/23 2021/22 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 2011/12 2010/11 Select Country Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua & Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Ascension Island Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia & Herzegovina Botswana Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory British Virgin Islands Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Canary Islands Cape Verde Caribbean Netherlands Cayman Islands Central African Republic Ceuta & Melilla Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo - Brazzaville Congo - Kinshasa Cook Islands Costa Rica Côte d’Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Denmark Diego Garcia Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong SAR China Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao SAR China Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar (Burma) Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Islands Poland Portugal Pseudo-Accents Pseudo-Bidi Puerto Rico Qatar Réunion Romania Russia Rwanda Samoa San Marino São Tomé & Príncipe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka St. Barthélemy St. Helena St. Kitts & Nevis St. Lucia St. Martin St. Pierre & Miquelon St. Vincent & Grenadines Sudan Suriname Svalbard & Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad & Tobago Tristan da Cunha Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks & Caicos Islands Tuvalu U.S. Outlying Islands U.S. Virgin Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Wallis & Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Sort by default Sort by user activity

Application Tracker Mar 15, 2024

urabhatt added University of Ottawa - Faculty of Law to watchlist

Follow Mar 15, 2024

urabhatt followed University of Ottawa - Faculty of Law

Follow Jul 27, 2023

Mehrzad Sohbati followed University of Ottawa - Faculty of Law

Follow Jun 20, 2023

ChristinaK followed University of Ottawa - Faculty of Law

Board Post Mar 28, 2023

Mukenomo posted on a discussion uOttawa LLM Applications 2022-2023

More Top Lists

• Terms of Use
• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy

Information

• Featured LLM Programs
• MBA Programs
• Online MBA Programs
• Executive Courses

Search LLM Programs

Go to Advanced Search

Subscribe to the LLM GUIDE Newsletter

Receive the latest news and tips

© 2001–2024 Pritzwalks – LLM GUIDE – Master of Laws (LL.M.) Programs Worldwide

The UK Supreme Court Ruled Scotland Cannot Hold an Independence Referendum Without the UK Government’s Consent

L’internement psychiatrique pénal au Québec : entre gestion des risques et contrôle « thérapeutique »

L’internement en Belgique : du (para-)pénal à la santé mentale

Red Zones: Response from the authors

Red Zones: A Must Read for Legal Actors by Ayobami Laniyone

Upcoming events.

For the upcoming year we have a robust online speakers’ series and all our events are open to the public.

2024 Public Law Conference

• July 3 - July 5
• University of Ottawa
• Français, English

Recent Tweets

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Osgoode’s PhD in law is a full-time advanced degree requiring research-intensive study and in principally aimed at students pursuing an academic career. It is designed to be completed in three to four years.

Prerequisites

An LLM is generally a precondition of admission to the PhD. Students without an LLM should apply initially to the Research LLM; after their first year of study they can apply to advance to the PhD.

Degree Requirements

Graduate seminar i: legal research (gs law 6610), graduate seminar ii: advanced legal research methodologies (gs law 6611).

• Study groups
• One elective course
• Extended dissertation proposal

Dissertation

• Final oral examination

The Graduate Seminar is the core course for the Graduate Program in Law. Designed to complement other courses, the seminar provides a venue for developing critical assessments of the law and facilitating students’ progress on their own research, papers and dissertation proposals. The seminar also creates an intellectual community and introduces students to Osgoode research resources.

This seminar offers a review of quantitative and qualitative methods employed in legal research. Specific sessions focus on interviewing, ethnographic methods, surveys and other quantitative methods, data collection and analysis, archival and document collection and analysis. The seminar is designed for PhD students and is completed in the winter term.

Study Groups

Students participating in study groups read and discuss a number of articles with their groups each week. The groups are not structured as courses but as venues for reflection and discourse. For doctoral students, study groups are equivalent to the comprehensive examinations required by other graduate programs.

Participation in a study group is required (for credit) in the first or second year of PhD studies, and then one year thereafter (non-credit) provided PhD students are registered full-time. Students can choose among five options, depending on their research interests and course availability:

• Regulation and Governance
• Law and Economic Relations
• Theoretical Perspectives in Legal Research
• Law and Social Justice
• Law in a Global Context

Elective Courses

PhD students can fulfil their elective course requirement through:

• a variety of graduate courses in law
• integrated courses with the JD program
• independent study
• courses in other programs

Research Outline, Ethical Review and University Guidelines

In the second term of their first year, each student must submit to the Program office a brief outline of their proposed research that has been reviewed and approved by the members of their supervisory committee. The work must be original, containing a new argument supported by research carried out by the student.

A declaration of the ethical issues around the underlying research must be made early in the student’s first year. Projects involving interactions of any kind (for example, through interviews, questionnaires, consultations or observations) require an ethics review.

Dissertations must be prepared in accordance with the Faculty of Graduate Studies thesis and dissertation guidelines .

Extended Dissertation Proposal

PhD students must submit an extended dissertation proposal (50 –70 pages) by the end of their sixth term. Students must defend their proposal in an oral exam before an examining committee (which must be done by the end seventh term).

The dissertation is a piece of original research that reflects a substantial contribution to existing legal literature. Expected to be between 300-350 pages, it should have the usual scholarly apparatus, footnotes and a bibliography prepared in accordance with the McGill Guide to Legal Citations. The dissertation should be of sufficiently high quality to warrant publication by an academic publisher or through a comparable venue.

With the permission of their supervisor and in consultation with the Graduate Program Director, PhD candidates may submit a Portfolio Dissertation in lieu of a conventional thesis. The Portfolio Dissertation must be composed of three to five articles (depending on the length and ambition of the articles) developed during the candidate’s graduate studies, published or accepted for publication, and combined with an introduction and conclusion.

Final Oral Examination

Students must succeed in an oral defence of their dissertation before an examination committee.

Time to Completion

PhD students are expected to complete all requirements within 18 terms (six years).

Residency Requirement

Students must be located such that they are able to progress on all program requirements requiring geographical availability on campus.

More Detail:

Faculty research advisors, related topics:, funding and fees, intellectual life, meet our current doctoral students, meet our phds.

Jake Okechukwu Effoduh

“This school propelled me to unearth the power of legal research in ways that have helped me uncover new insights, challenge existing paradigms and contribute to this ever-evolving landscape of scholarship.”

Deanne Sowter

“Attending Osgoode Hall Law School for my JD and PhD were two of the best decisions of my life, giving me the opportunities and skills to engage in important research supported by a thriving academic community.”

Main navigation

• BCL/JD Program
• Graduate Programs
• Faculty Members
• About Graduate Studies
• Individual Development Plan
• Mentorship, Teaching, and Supervisory Programs
• Residency and Duration
• Master's Programs
• Certificate Programs
• Admissions Guide
• Newly Admitted Students
• Tuition and Financial Support
• Current Students
• Graduate Law Students Association
• Graduate Programs Office

Doctoral Program

Intensive, selective and challenging, our doctoral program is ideal for scholars intent on deepening and broadening their critical understanding of the law, as well as their original engagement with it.

Our Doctor of Civil Law (DCL) program serves as a starting point for those planning to pursue careers in academia, think-tanks, government and international organizations, among others. Our students build the teaching supervision, leadership and knowledge that they need to take on any challenge. Whatever their ambitions, our students have great success in achieving them. The DCL program allows for the development of a substantial thesis, which makes an original contribution to legal scholarship.

McGill's Faculty of Law currently hosts approximately 70 doctoral students, who come from all around the world. Each year, we admit roughly 15 new students to this vibrant community.

Our doctoral programs

The Faculty of Law offers three options for students in its doctoral program:

• Doctor of Civil Law - Law
• Doctor of Civil Law - Comparative Law
• Doctor of Civil Law - Air and Space Law

Research affiliations

If their area of research is suitable, DCL candidates may wish to be associated with:

• the Centre for Human Rights and Legal Pluralism
• the Paul-André Crépeau Centre for Private and Comparative Law
• the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy
• or one of the Research Chairs at the Faculty of Law.

Doctoral students at McGill’s Faculty of Law are invited to participate in Faculty Seminars and other workshops as a way to underscore their membership in a community of academic scholars.

Related Content

Read our leaflet [.pdf]

Read our Graduate Programs Admissions Guide

Submit your application for admission to our graduate programs by December 1st.

Series of Webinars on Graduate Studies Watch all our webinars!

Department and University Information

Faculty of law.

• Law Admissions - BCL/JD
• Law Admissions - graduate programs
• Law Student Affairs Office
• Graduate studies in law
• Law Career Development Office
• Nahum Gelber Law Library
• Focus online
• Business Law Platform
• Canada Research Chair in Transsystemic Property and Sustainable Communities
• Centre for Human Rights & Legal Pluralism
• Centre for Intellectual Property Policy
• Fortier Chair in Int'l Arbitration & Commercial Law
• Institute of Air & Space Law
• Labour Law and Development Research Laboratory
• Oppenheimer Chair in Public International Law
• Paul-André Crépeau Centre for Private & Comparative Law
• Peter MacKell Chair in Federalism
• Private Justice and the Rule of Law
• Research Group on Health & Law
• Rule of Law and Economic Development
• Stikeman Chair in Tax Law
• Wainwright Fund

• Dean's Welcome
• Administration
• Advisory Council
• Young Alumni Advisory Council
• Strategic Plan
• Sessional Dates
• Positions Available
• Law Library
• Western Campus Links
• Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Decolonization 
• JD Admissions
• JD Academic Programs
• Curricular Streams
• Business Law at Western
• Mining Law at Western
• Indigenous Initiatives
• International Exchanges & Internships
• Graduate Admissions
• Graduate Programs
• Career and Professional Development Office
• Academic Policies and Procedures
• Actus Student Directory
• Student Services
• Student Legal Society
• Graduate Student Finances and Regulations
• Summer After 1L Program (SA1L)
• Research Groups
• Faculty Profiles
• Awards, Grants & Accolades 
• Chairs and Fellows
• Faculty Books
• Faculty Publications & Presentations
• The Canadian Journal of Law and Jurisprudence
• Western Journal of Legal Studies
• The Coxford Lecture
• Community Legal Services
• Dispute Resolution Centre
• Pro Bono Students Canada
• Sport Solution Clinic
• Western Business Law Clinic
• Western Intellectual Property & Innovation Legal Clinic
• Legal Information for Sexual Assault (LISA)
• External Legal Resources
• Western Law Alumni Magazine
• Western Law Alumni Association
• Giving to Western Law
• Submit a Class Note
• Alumni Volunteer Opportunities

Future Students

• Current Students
• Legal Clinics
• PhD Program
• Master of Laws (LLM)
• Master of Studies in Law (MSL)
• Collaborative Specialization in Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Reconstruction
• Graduate Student Life
• Graduate Diploma in Mining Law, Finance, and Sustainability
• Completed Theses

Western Law is committed to fostering our doctoral candidates’ development as leading legal scholars through the production of high caliber legal research. To that end, our Faculty offers an intellectually stimulating environment for the pursuit of doctoral studies.

One of the primary aims of the program is to prepare promising scholars for careers as legal academics. Graduates of the PhD program will also be well positioned for the workplace in the private practice of law, business, the government or various Canadian and international non-governmental organizations that focus on law and legal policy.

The normal duration of the PhD program for full-time students is four years of continuous enrolment. PhD students are permitted to study part-time only in exceptional individual circumstances.

Please see our Graduate Admissions page for details of admission requirements and how to apply.

Program Requirements

To complete the PhD program, the following is required:

• Law 9001 : Approaches to Legal Scholarship;
• Law 9002 : Guided Study and Research Methodology;
• Three additional elective courses, one of which may be from outside the Faculty of Law, with the permission of the student’s supervisor and with the approval of the Graduate Director and the other program;
• Law 9003 : Graduate Colloquium; and
• Writing and defence of a substantial dissertation of publishable quality.

In addition , the student will be required to be in residence for a minimum of two years and to meet the following program milestones:

• to produce, after three terms and before the end of six terms, at least one draft dissertation chapter (approximately 10,000 words), and to defend it orally before his or her thesis advisory committee. The committee shall consist of the student’s supervisor and one or two additional members of the university faculty, as agreed by the student and the supervisor;
• to present and defend his or her thesis proposal before the advisory committee, after three terms and before the end of six terms, to ensure that his or her studies are making progress. The committee shall consist of the student’s supervisor and one or two additional members of the university faculty, as agreed by the student and the supervisor. The order in which this and the chapter presentation are delivered shall be determined by the student in consultation with his or her supervisor;
• to prepare by the end of four terms an early draft of a Table of Contents and Bibliography;
• to research and write the dissertation in years three and four; and
• to present at least one research talk inside the Faculty of Law in each year after the first year.

For further details about Western Law's PhD milestones, please see our Guidelines for Students and Supervisors .

For general information about the PhD dissertation and defence process, please see the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Thesis page .

Faculty of Law 1151 Richmond Street London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7 Tel: 519-661-3346 (Western Law Reception); 519-661-3352 (Legal Clinic) Privacy | Web Standards | Terms of Use | Accessibility

Western Email

Faculty of Law at the University of Ottawa: How to Get in

If you’re wondering how to get into Ottawa Law, we’re got you covered! Ottawa Law welcomes students from all backgrounds in a commitment to creating strong leaders in the field of law. Ottawa Law offers some of the best law school extracurriculars in legal research and community service to cultivate the attributes necessary for professional work. This institution offers a wide range of law programs and areas of focus, making it one of the best law schools in Canada . In this article, we will go over program highlights, mission statement, tuition and costs, and admissions statistics to help you apply to this competitive program.

Disclaimer: Please note: although we have made every effort to provide the most accurate information, admissions information changes frequently. Therefore, we encourage you to verify these details with the official university admissions office. You are responsible for your own results. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any official universities, colleges, or test administrators and vice versa.

Article Contents 10 min read

Mission statement, vision statement, and strategic plan.

\u201cWe seek to create an enduring community among students, staff, alumni, and faculty, a place of prized social involvement and permanent learning. Together, we shall be at the forefront of the pursuit of justice and the resolution of difficult public policy dilemmas in a complex world.\u201d ","label":"Vision Statement","title":"Vision Statement"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

Available Programs

Ottawa Law has a variety of common law programs that they offer to students in French or English. The advantage of the French JD program is that students can market themselves as formally educated bilingual speakers, which can expand career prospects considerably, given that Canada has two official languages, and Ottawa is located just across the border from Québec, where the legal system is French. Note that this article focuses on the English and French Juris Doctor programs, as they both have the same admissions and course requirements. Students studying in one language can take courses in the other language as part of the same program. Let’s take a closer look at each program:

One of the newest program additions at Ottawa Law is the Programme de droit canadien (PDC). This program can be completed in three years and allows students to earn both a JD and an LL.L. Only about 20 students are expected to enroll each year. Other combined programs include the JD\/MA in International Affairs, JD\/MBA, JD\/BSocSC Specialization in Political Science, JD\/BCom in Commercial Sciences, and the Canadian\/American Dual JD program. ","label":"Combined Programs","title":"Combined Programs"}]" code="tab2" template="BlogArticle">

The Academic Curriculum

Ottawa Law builds on the foundations of the first- and second-year courses mentioned in the previous section by providing a more stimulating environment in the third year. During this year, students have the opportunity to finish course requirements that weren’t fulfilled in their second year. The only required courses in the upper years are civil procedure, administrative law, business organizations, and the second constitutional law course. Because there are only a few mandatory courses, students can choose the direction of their studies based on interests and career objectives.

According to law school admissions statistics from the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), the Ottawa Law JD program received 2,637 applications in a recent year, with 320 enrollments. In the French JD program, 185 applications were received, with 80 enrollments. According to the admissions data, Ottawa Law is not one of the easiest law schools to get into in Canada and will require a strong application that stands out. If you think you will need help preparing your materials, you might consider Canadian law school admissions help .

Enrollment Rate:

In this class profile, 1% of students were Indigenous, 60% were women, and 10 provinces were represented.

Ottawa Law offers scholarships to students in the JD program in both French and English. If you want to apply to one of the programs, the deadline is May 1 st of each year. Most of the scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, but they also consider factors such as financial need. If you are awarded a scholarship, you will receive a notification from the program, so make sure you check your student profile frequently after you apply.

There are, however, some scholarships that do not require an application. For these, all eligible common law students will be considered based on the application they submit for their program. Some of these include the Chad Bayne Entrance Scholarship in Engineering and Law, the Christine-Thomlinson Admission Scholarship, and the Common Law Professional Training Scholarship.

Some scholarships are awarded based on reviewed evidence of social justice efforts and community service. These criteria will be measured in a separate application that you must submit for each scholarship in this category. Some of these include the Audrey P. Ramsay Entrance Scholarship, the Bertha Wilson Scholarship, and the Common Law Class of 2003 Bursary.

Ottawa Law also offers scholarships based on financial need only. To be considered for any of these programs, students must submit a single application separate from their admissions application. Some of the scholarships in this category include the Arnon Corporation Entrance Scholarship, the Bruce Feldthusen Scholarship, and the Catherine Helen MacLean Memorial Entrance Bursary.

Ottawa Law has one of the more costly JD programs, according to LSAC. The average tuition costs in a recent class profile were $18,592 CAD with an additional average of $762.73 for incidental fees. The current estimated textbook and casebook fees are $1,200. Estimated additional costs such as room and board are between $11,000 and $14,000.

The University of Alberta Faculty of Law, Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia, and University of Calgary Faculty of Law all offer programs with lower estimated tuition costs. As such, students who are interested in the Ottawa Law JD program are encouraged to apply for one of the scholarship programs or aim for one of the merit-based options. For scholarships based on participation in social justice or community service initiatives, your best option is to find a law school extracurricular that can equip you with the experience to qualify for a scholarship. Ideal options include pre-law internships, debate team, student government, or sports.

To apply to Ottawa Law, you must submit an application through the Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS), a division of the Ontario University Application Centre (OUAC). You will have to make an account and fill in information for your personal background. Ottawa Law receives thousands of applications each cycle but only admits roughly 360 of the strongest candidates. This means that when you’re applying to the JD program, you will have to be precise with your submission inclusions. If you’re wondering how to study for the LSAT , you can start by taking an LSAT diagnostic test once you’re familiar with the format to see how you perform. Note that applicants who are applying to the French JD program will not have to submit an LSAT score, as the LSAT is not currently offered in French.

Follow these steps to ensure you have fulfilled all the requirements before you submit an application:

On its website, Ottawa Law states that they evaluate applicants based on all the mandatory admissions documents and information in their OLSAS application. These will include your academic performance (transcripts), LSAT report and writing sample, two reference letters, personal statement, and autobiographical sketch. If you want help organizing your application materials, consider law school admissions consulting .

Transcripts: Your transcripts are used to evaluate your academic performance, particularly your GPA. Ottawa Law will calculate your cumulative GPA by combining all the grades you earned during every university undergraduate semester and dividing the total number of grade points by the number of credits. Because every year will count, you will want to make sure you maintain a solid GPA throughout your entire undergraduate studies. If you’re wondering how to get into law school with a low GPA and you’re still completing your undergraduate degree, you should know that Ottawa Law will not automatically disqualify an applicant based on a minimum GPA, but most successful applicants will have a cumulative GPA of 3.7. To maintain a desirable GPA, ask your instructors for feedback on your assignments and join a study group to keep you accountable for your grades.

LSAT: Programs use your LSAT score primarily to test your legal reasoning ability, which is a trait you must possess to improve your chances of getting accepted. You must take the LSAT by January at the latest; note that this is considered late, and your application will be at a disadvantage. To prevent this, it is recommended that you take the test by November; this will allow you to prepare during the summer when you have more time. Ottawa Law will use your highest LSAT score if you’ve taken the test more than once. It’s worth repeating that students applying to the French JD program will not have to submit an LSAT report and writing sample, as the LSAT is not currently offered in French.

Letters of recommendation: You will be required to submit two law school letters of recommendation . One of your letters must come from an academic source unless you’re a mature applicant. If you’re an Indigenous applicant, one of your references should speak to the connection you share with your Indigenous community. Regardless of the applicant category you choose, everyone should choose their referees carefully. You will need to find individuals who can speak to your skills and personality as they relate to your future studies and law career. Your academic referee should be someone who taught you in a class and who can discuss your performance relative to the other students in that particular class. You can submit two reference letters from an academic source if you wish to. If you choose to submit a letter from someone who isn’t in academia, then you should avoid using friends or family. Your best options for a non-academic referee include an employer, manager, supervisors for internships or placements, coaches, tutors, or volunteering coordinators.

Personal statement: Your law school personal statement is your chance to make your case to admissions that you’re someone who can succeed in their program and in your career. Ottawa Law doesn’t ask for a law school optional essay or use a law school interview to get to know applicants better; your personal statement is your only chance to make an impression.

Ottawa Law evaluates personal statements based on your ability to demonstrate the following: capacity for creative or original thinking, strong communication skills, and potential to manage. Because Ottawa Law wants to know if you can contribute meaningfully to their program and community, an admissions committee is looking for involvement in the following capacities: extracurriculars, community involvement, career experience (especially for mature applicants), diverse experiences or perspectives, interest in Ottawa Law, and career aspirations. For French applicants, you should provide evidence of French-language academic history and your reasons for wanting to pursue Ottawa’s French-language common law program.

To make your personal statement stand out, use terminology found in the program curriculum. This means you should research the program to find the values they espouse and use this information to connect your ambitions with Ottawa Law. For example, Ottawa Law mentions that they value strong engagement with the community in their strategic plan. In your personal statement, talk about a community service project you worked on or mention a club in which you contributed something positive.

Autobiographical sketch: Your autobiographical sketch gives you an opportunity to discuss your personal background in more depth. You will want to address formative experiences that led to personal growth or inspiration to pursue a career in law. Do not provide any information that is mentioned in your personal statement or in the blurb you provide in your OLSAS account.

In the document which you will receive via email if you’re accepted into Ottawa Law, you will find the conditions of your acceptance, including the average you need to maintain to keep your spot in the program starting next fall. You will also receive instructions for how to accept the offer, which you can do on your Ottawa Law student profile. Make sure you read over the conditions and deadlines thoroughly before you accept the offer.

Students can accept an offer from Ottawa Law at any time once it’s received. When students receive an offer, they must review their letter, which will be sent electronically with the steps they need to take to officially accept the offer. This document will also contain a deadline for accepting the offer and submitting a tuition deposit. If students do not accept the offer before the deadline underscored in the letter, this will result in the offer being rescinded. For applicants who received an offer of acceptance before May 15, the tuition deposit must be paid by June 1. For offers made after May 15, the deadline for tuition deposit and acceptance can change, so make sure you accept offers as soon as possible and pay the deposit immediately after you receive an offer.

On July 1, provisional acceptances to the first-year JD program will automatically become firm acceptances. On August 1, provisional acceptances to the upper-year JD program will automatically become firm acceptances.

Note that Ottawa Law no longer publishes their waitlist, which will persist throughout the summer; applicants who are waitlisted will not be informed of their position in the waitlist.

Are you preparing your law school application and wondering how to stand out from the crowd of applicants? Watch this video:

Contact Information

For admissions

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 613-562-5800 ext. 3270

Faculty of Law, Common Law Section

Address: Fauteux Hall

57 Louis Pasteur St

Ottawa, Ontario

Phone: 613-562-5794

Official website: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-law/

Ottawa Law receives roughly 3,000 applications each application cycle, but there are only about 360 seats available. With an enrollment rate of 12.2%, Ottawa Law is considered competitive.

You need to apply through OLSAS. This will require that you create an OLSAS account and fill in the information in the form.

You need to submit two reference letters, a personal statement, transcripts, and an autobiographical sketch.

You will receive an email with a letter of acceptance enclosed. This letter will contain instructions for accepting the offer with a deadline for both accepting and submitting the tuition deposit.

You should have at least one from either a professor or an instructor. Avoid using friends, family, or a partner. The best options include a manager, supervisor, tutor, or volunteering coordinators.

No, you do not need to submit an LSAT report and writing sample if you’re applying to the French JD program, as the LSAT is not currently offered in French.

Ottawa Law is looking for applicants who demonstrate original thinking, community involvement, career experience, interest in Ottawa Law, diverse perspectives, and career aspirations.

You should write about your personal background using significant anecdotes that connect your formative experiences with your career aspirations. Avoid writing about anything that you include in your personal statement.

Want more free tips? Subscribe to our channels for more free and useful content!

Apple Podcasts

Like our blog? Write for us ! >>

Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions, get started now.

Talk to one of our admissions experts

Our site uses cookies. By using our website, you agree with our cookie policy .

FREE Training Webinar:

How to make your law school application stand out, (and avoid the top 5 mistakes that get most rejected).

Time Sensitive. Limited Spots Available:

We guarantee you'll get into law school or you don't pay.

Swipe up to see a great offer!

Important dates and deadlines 2024 (archive)

Convocation , student proposed internships .

• JANUARY 2024
• WINTER 2024

Statutory holidays, breaks and special events arrow_drop_down

Changes to regular course schedule arrow_drop_down, enrolment, courses, withdrawals and reimbursements arrow_drop_down, grades and exams arrow_drop_down, tuition fee payment arrow_drop_down, student services arrow_drop_down, past important dates arrow_drop_down, goals arrow_drop_down.

The goals and objectives of the Education Equity program are set out below. While it is meant to encompass and reflect the aspirations of the entire law school community, the Education Equity Program is directed at enhancing the well-being of students, faculty and staff from equality-seeking communities. Equality-seeking communities are persons from communities who are identified under human rights legislation and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. These communities have been identified but are not limited to: Aboriginal peoples, women, persons with disabilities, two-spirited, inter-sexed, LGBTQ and others who are vulnerable to discrimination because of their gender identity/expression, racialized communities, recent immigrants and refugees and persons who are socio-economically vulnerable.

To create the most diverse law school community possible

• promote the unique characteristics and well-being of diverse communities within the law school
• actively recruit, admit and hire future law students and faculty through innovative outreach strategies
• ensure respect for the diverse experiential expertise and contributions of all faculty, students and staff

To remove all systemic barriers and support the academic success of all law students from historically disadvantaged and under-represented communities in the legal profession

• develop policies that ensure a discrimination-free environment for students, faculty and staff from equality-seeking communities
• continually evaluate and renew the law school curriculum and pedagogy to ensure a supportive and fulfilling educational experience for all students
• implement effective mechanisms to monitor and eliminate any adverse impact of law school policies and practices that limit the full participation of equality-seeking communities in the classroom and broader law school student organization, faculty administration or staff initiatives
• develop diversity-positive mechanisms such as peer support, mentorship and career development programs that enhance student experience and support successful transition into their legal careers

To promote high levels of professionalism respectful of social justice principles amongst all professors, students and staff of the law school

• foster respectful communications and treatment between all students, faculty and staff consistent with the spirit of the Rules of Professional Conduct of the Law Society of Upper Canada
• maintain a discrimination and harassment-free environment for all students, faculty and staff
• draw upon the expertise of our alumni and local legal community to sustain our commitment to educating professionals to serve the public interest in all of its diversity