If you're looking for a smaller, community-oriented residence or a supportive learning environment, one of Waterloo's four on-campus University Colleges may be for you!
What is a University College?
A University College is a smaller community that offers residence and academic programs within the larger University of Waterloo.
The University Colleges each have their own character and distinctive programs where you can get involved and feel supported while you live and learn. You'll study or live in a close-knit community while having access to all services and facilities at Waterloo, in addition to those at the University Colleges.
Why choose a University College?
You'll enjoy all the advantages of a close-knit academic and residence experience while earning a prestigious Waterloo degree. There’s no compromise, just the best of both worlds!
- Friendly residence communities to call home.
- Located right on Waterloo's main campus.
- You can live at a University College, regardless of which program you're studying.
- Enjoy all-you-care-to-eat meal plans!
- If you take courses at one or more University Colleges, you'll benefit from smaller classes which encourage interaction with your professors and classmates.
Study, live, or both!
University Colleges offer flexible options to personalize your academic journey and living experience. Whether you’re looking for a close-knit residence, unique academic programs, or both, you can create a Waterloo experience that fits your goals.
- Live: enjoy a welcoming, supportive residential community, no matter what program you’re in. You’ll have the benefit of smaller, community-oriented living while being fully connected to the larger University of Waterloo campus.
- Study: take one or more courses, pursue a minor, or even complete your Arts degree (through St. Jerome's University).
- Benefit from smaller class sizes, unique course offerings, and closer interaction with professors.
- You'll normally take courses at both your University College and the main Waterloo campus.
- Do both: live and study at a University College, enjoying the full benefit of an integrated, community-focused experience while still being a part of Waterloo’s vibrant campus life.
What makes each unique?
Conrad Grebel University College
Residence
- Space for 140 students.
- Residence for first-year and upper-year students in any academic program at Waterloo.
- A separate residence application is required to live at Grebel.
Academics
- Home to Waterloo's Music and Peace and Conflict Studies programs and the Restorative Justice Diploma.
- Offers music ensembles, such as orchestra, jazz, and choirs, for course credit.
Renison University College
Residence
- Space for 214 students.
- Living Learning Communities for Social Development Studies and Bridge to Academic Success in English.
Academics
- Home to Waterloo's Social Development Studies major, Social Work, Bridge to Academic Success in English, as well as programs in Culture and Language Studies and Studies in Islam and Arab Culture.
St. Jerome's University (SJU)
Residence
- Space for 398 students.
- An on-site gym, wellness studio, and laundry are included in residence fees.
Academics
- Co-register at SJU. Graduate with a Waterloo degree while being part of a smaller academic home base.
- Programs: Honours Arts, Honours Arts and Business.
- Home of SJU Acts and Service Learning.
United College
Residence
- Space for 316 students.
- Living Learning Communities for Faculty of Environment, French language, Human Rights, and Women in Engineering.
Academics
- Offers minors in Canadian Studies, Human Rights, Indigenous Studies, and Social Innovation.
- Home to GreenHouse social entrepreneurship incubator.
How do you apply to live at a University College?
Renison, St. Jerome's, and United are part of Waterloo's residence guarantee for first-year and transfer students.
If you're interested in living at Conrad Grebel University College, you'll need to apply directly to residence at Grebel.
Want to learn more?
Check out the University College websites listed above or visit during a campus tour or open house.