II. The University

History

The University of Guelph is a leading comprehensive university. Research-intensive and learner-centred, we are known for excellence in the arts and sciences and for our commitment to developing exceptional thinkers and engaged citizens.

Nearly 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled at campuses in Guelph, Ridgetown and Toronto, including 1,400 international students from more than 130 countries. We have more than 173,000 alumni living in 160 countries.

The University of Guelph was established in 1964 when its founding colleges - the Ontario Agricultural College, the Ontario Veterinary College and Macdonald Institute - joined with a new college of arts and science. But our reputation for innovation, creativity and discovery dates back more than 150 years.

Our rich history distinguishes us in atmosphere, approach and attitude. Today, the University of Guelph comprises seven colleges - College of Arts, College of Biological Science, Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, the Ontario Agricultural College and the Ontario Veterinary College. In addition, the University has a regional campus in Ridgetown and is a partner in the University of Guelph-Humber.

We’re equipping our students, faculty, and staff with the knowledge and skills to make a difference in tomorrow’s complex world.

With close to $150 million in annual research funding, the University of Guelph is one of the country's top research institutions. Our faculty scholars and researchers provide students with groundbreaking research opportunities, in laboratories, art studios, libraries and in the field.

Students may pursue more than 80 undergraduate and 45 graduate degree programs spanning a range of disciplines -- physical and life sciences, arts and humanities, social sciences, business, agricultural and veterinary sciences. The University offers more than 200 distance degree credit courses to more than 16,000 course enrolments.

Our living and learning environments encourage exploration and the interdisciplinary sharing of new ideas. Known for its beautiful, safe campuses and welcoming, supportive culture, U of G blends historical and modern architecture with cutting-edge technology. We are a highly residential community, with approximately 5,260 students living in campus residences.