If you're looking for smaller, community-oriented residences or supportive learning environments at Waterloo, our 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 Waterloo campus. Each one has its own character and distinctive programs where you can get involved and feel supported while you live and learn.
University Colleges add to your Waterloo experience with exclusive services, scholarships, and exciting facilities – all in addition to those at the University of Waterloo.
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!
- Welcoming residences located on Waterloo's main campus.
- You can apply to live at a University College, regardless of which program you're studying.
- Enjoy an all-inclusive (all-you-care-to-eat) meal plan!
- Courses at University Colleges are often small (average class size of 50 or fewer) and encourage interaction with your professors and classmates.
Study, live, or both!
University Colleges offer flexible options to personalize your academic journey and living experience.
Live
Join students from all faculties at Waterloo in residences which are welcoming, inclusive, and active. Benefit from smaller communities while being fully immersed in the overall Waterloo experience.
Study
Take courses or pursue a minor through one or more of the University Colleges and the main Waterloo campus. Enjoy smaller class sizes, unique course offerings, and closer interaction with professors. You can even complete your Arts degree through St. Jerome's University.
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 active campus.
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.