University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine 2025-26

University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine The “University of Ottawa’s” Department of Family Medicine stands as a leader in Family Medicine education and research, offering diverse and enriching learning experiences in both of Canada’s official languages.

About University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine With a strong presence in both urban and rural communities across the National Capital Region, the department provides a dynamic environment for medical students, residents, and faculty members to develop their expertise in primary care. Being a family physician in Canada is a position of great responsibility and privilege, and the department takes immense pride in fostering a community of dedicated healthcare professionals. 

University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine – Table of Contents

• About
• Advantages
• Ranking
• Departments And Course Duration
• Facilities And Infrastructure
• Required Documents
• Eligibility Criteria
• Admission Process
• Benefits
• Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
• FAQ’s

As the largest clinical department within the Faculty of Medicine, it is committed to shaping skilled and confident family physicians who are equipped to meet the evolving needs of patients and society. The fully accredited residency program, designed with a learner-centered approach, ensures that students receive comprehensive training that prepares them for the challenges and rewards of a career in Family Medicine. Moreover, the department actively advocates for the significance of primary care by engaging undergraduate learners and inspiring medical students to pursue careers in this critical field. 

In addition to its educational mission, the department is deeply invested in advancing Family Medicine research through its dedicated team of clinician-scientists and investigators at the CT Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre. By fostering innovation and a research-driven approach to medical education, the department continuously enhances patient care outcomes and the overall quality of primary healthcare services. 

University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

A key priority is addressing health disparities among marginalized populations, including Indigenous communities, Francophone groups, rural and remote regions, inner-city residents, and underserved international communities. By emphasizing the social determinants of health, the department aims to improve healthcare accessibility and equity. 

At its core, the Department of Family Medicine is dedicated not only to professional excellence but also to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every member feels valued. Recognizing the challenges inherent in the field, the department strives to cultivate a culture of engagement, wellness, and professional fulfillment, ensuring that its faculty, students, and administrators find both purpose and joy in their contributions to the future of Family Medicine.

Advantages of Studying in University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine 

• Top-Ranked Medical School: Consistently ranked among the top 10 medical schools in Canada.
• Research Excellence: Receives over 50% of the total research funding at the University of Ottawa and is a leader in medical sciences research.
• Diverse Programs: Offers accredited undergraduate and postgraduate medical education, graduate and postdoctoral studies, and a specialized undergraduate degree in translational and molecular medicine.
• Innovation & Leadership: Recognized as a national and international leader in medical sciences with strong research intensity and impact.
• Bilingual Education: The MD program is available in both English and French, providing a dynamic bilingual learning environment.

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University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine – Ranking

The University of Ottawa, initially the College of Bytown when it was established in 1848, became a university in 1866 and was invested with the authority to grant the degree of Bachelor of Medicine. The Faculty of Medicine was founded in 1945 by Father Lorenzo Danis in a bid to offer educational programs in the pursuit of medicine to English- and French-speaking post-war Catholics. 

Medical education commenced with converted World War II army barracks on the corner of Somerset Street East and King Edward Avenue. An executive council headed by Father Danis temporarily governed the Faculty until 1950, when the first dean, Dr. Arthur Richard, was installed. Conferment of medical degrees commenced in 1951, the first milestone in the history of the Faculty. 

The Faculty moved in 1954 from its temporary quarters to a new, built facility on the university’s main campus, where it stayed for nearly 25 years. In 1965, on its 20th anniversary, the Faculty asked for and was granted its own armorial bearings by the College of Arms of London, with the motto “Sanando docemus. 

The official coat of arms, created by the second dean, Dr. Jean-Jacques Lussier, were granted in 1971, and the faculty was only one of three medical schools in Canada to be so honored. Dr. Lussier stressed the significance of symbolism in maintaining tradition and culture. In the 1960s and 1970s, the faculty had a collaborative effort with the Hospital Planning Council to develop the Ottawa Health Sciences Centre on the Alta Vista campus, thereby merging the medical school and nursing schools with their individual teaching hospitals. 

The Health Sciences building, whose construction began in 1982, was subsequently renamed Roger Guindon Hall in 1984 in recognition of the former University rector who oversaw its development.

The Faculty went through tremendous structural reforms during this time. In 1978, the University created the Faculty of Health Sciences, encompassing the departments of Medicine, Nursing, and Human Kinetics within the administrative organization of the Faculty of Medicine. In 1986, occupational therapy and physiotherapy programs were instituted. By 1989, the Faculty of Medicine regained its status as an independent academic department under the deanship of Dean Dr. Gilles Hurteau.

In 1995, the creation of the Office of Francophone Affairs was instituted to support and complement French medical education across Canada, thus solidifying the Faculty’s position as the only bilingual medical school in Canada. Later, in 2005, the Indigenous Program was established with the goals of increasing Indigenous student enrollment and promoting Indigenous cultures, healthcare, and social issues in Canada. All these reflect the Faculty’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and excellence in medical education and research.

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Departments And Course Duration in University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

The University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine does not offer an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) degree, as this is a qualification more commonly awarded in countries like the UK, India, and others. Instead, the Faculty offers an MD (Doctor of Medicine) program, which is the standard medical degree in Canada and the United States.

MD Program Overview

Course Duration

1. Pre-Clerkship:
   • The first two years focus on foundational medical sciences, clinical skills, and early patient exposure.
   • Students learn through lectures, small-group sessions, simulations, and hands-on clinical experiences.
   • Topics include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and clinical skills training.
   • Emphasis is placed on understanding the social determinants of health and addressing health inequities.
2. Clerkship:
   • The final two years are dedicated to clinical rotations in various medical specialties.
   • Students gain hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
   • Rotations include internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine.
   • Students also have opportunities for elective rotations to explore areas of interest.

Departments

The Faculty of Medicine is organized into several departments, each contributing to the education, research, and clinical training of medical students.

1.     Department of Family Medicine:

• Focuses on primary care, community health, and comprehensive patient care.
• Offers residency programs and promotes research in primary care.

1. Department of Surgery:
   • Covers various surgical specialties, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, and more.
   • Provides hands-on training in surgical techniques and patient management.
2. Department of Medicine:
   • Includes subspecialties such as cardiology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and infectious diseases.
   • Emphasizes diagnosis, treatment, and management of complex medical conditions.
3. Department of Pediatrics:
   • Focuses on child health and development.
   • Trains students in pediatric care through clinical rotations and research.
4. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology:
   • Provides training in women’s health, prenatal care, and reproductive medicine.
   • Includes both clinical and surgical components.
5. Department of Psychiatry:
   • Addresses mental health and psychiatric disorders.
   • Emphasizes evidence-based treatment and patient-centered care.
6. Department of Emergency Medicine:
   • Prepares students for acute care and emergency situations.
   • Focuses on rapid diagnosis, treatment, and decision-making.
7. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine:
   • Covers pain management, perioperative care, and critical care medicine.
   • Provides training in anesthesia techniques and patient safety.
8. Department of Radiology:
   • Focuses on medical imaging and diagnostic techniques.
   • Includes training in interpreting imaging studies and using advanced technologies.
9. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine:
   • Emphasizes the study of disease processes and laboratory diagnostics.
   • Includes training in histopathology, microbiology, and molecular diagnostics.
10. Department of Innovation in Medical Education:
    • Dedicated to advancing medical education through research, technology, and innovative teaching methods.

• Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in research projects through the Faculty’s research centers, such as the CT Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre.
• Community Engagement: The program emphasizes serving underserved populations, including Indigenous, rural, and Francophone communities.
• Global Health: Opportunities for international electives and global health initiatives are available.

Official site For University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine: Click Here 

Facilities And Infrastructure in University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

The University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, which support medical education, research, and student life

Academic and Clinical Facilities

• Roger Guindon Hall:

1. 1. • The primary building for the Faculty of Medicine, located on the Alta Vista Campus.
      • Houses lecture halls, simulation labs, research centers, and administrative offices.
      • Features advanced medical simulation labs equipped with high-fidelity mannequins and virtual reality tools for hands-on training.
      • Includes the Clinical Skills and Simulation Center, where students practice clinical procedures in a safe, controlled environment.

• Affiliated Teaching Hospitals:

1. 1. • The Faculty is closely integrated with several teaching hospitals, including:
        • The Ottawa Hospital (Civic and General campuses)
        • CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario)
        • The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre
        • Bruyère Continuing Care
      • These hospitals provide students with real-world clinical training and exposure to diverse patient populations.

• Research Centers:

1. • CT Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre: Focuses on primary care research and innovation.
   • Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI): One of Canada’s largest hospital-based research institutes.
   • Brain and Mind Research Institute: Specializes in neuroscience and mental health research.
   • Students have access to cutting-edge laboratories and resources for conducting research.

Library and Learning Resources

• Health Sciences Library:

1. 1. • Located in Roger Guindon Hall, the library provides access to a vast collection of medical textbooks, journals, and online resources.
      • Offers quiet study spaces, group study rooms, and computer labs.
      • Provides support for research, including access to databases like PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library.

• Digital Learning Tools:

1. • The Faculty uses advanced e-learning platforms, such as Brightspace, for course materials, assignments, and assessments.
   • Students have access to online anatomy tools, virtual dissection software, and medical databases.

Student Accommodation and Housing

• On-Campus Housing:

1. 1. • The University of Ottawa offers on-campus residence options for students, including traditional dormitories and apartment-style living.
      • Residences are equipped with modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and common areas.

• Off-Campus Housing:

1. • Many medical students choose to live off-campus in apartments or shared housing near the university or teaching hospitals.
   • The University’s Off-Campus Housing Office assists students in finding safe and affordable accommodations.

Cafeteria and Dining Options

• Roger Guindon Hall Cafeteria:

1. 1. • Offers a variety of meal options, including healthy and vegetarian choices.
      • Open during weekdays for breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

• Other On-Campus Dining:

1. 1. • The main University of Ottawa campus features numerous dining options, including cafes, food courts, and restaurants.
      • Popular spots include Pivik, Café Alt, and Tim Hortons.

• Nearby Restaurants:

1. • The Alta Vista area has several restaurants and cafes within walking distance of Roger Guindon Hall.

Sports and Recreation

• Sports Facilities:

1. 1. • The University of Ottawa’s Sports Complex on the main campus offers a gym, swimming pool, squash courts, and fitness classes.
      • Students can participate in intramural sports, such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball.

• Outdoor Activities:

1. • The university is located near the Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park, offering opportunities for running, cycling, and hiking.

Extracurricular Activities

• Medical Student Societies:

1. 1. • The Aesculapian Society is the student government for medical students, organizing social events, academic support, and advocacy initiatives.
      • Specialty interest groups, such as the Family Medicine Interest Group and Global Health Initiative, provide opportunities for networking and skill development.

• Community Outreach:

1. 1. • Students can participate in volunteer programs, such as Community Health Outreach (CHO), which provides free health services to underserved populations.

• Arts and Culture:

1. 1. • The University of Ottawa has a vibrant arts scene, with student-run theater groups, music ensembles, and art exhibitions.

• Conferences and Workshops:

1. • The Faculty hosts annual conferences, such as the Medical Education Research Day and Global Health Day, where students can present their research and learn from experts.

Technology and Innovation

• Simulation Labs:

1. 1. • Equipped with high-tech mannequins and virtual reality systems for practicing clinical skills.
      • Includes a Virtual Patient Simulation Lab for case-based learning.

• Anatomy Lab:

1. 1. • Features cadaveric dissection facilities and 3D anatomy software for detailed study of human anatomy.

• Telemedicine and E-Health:

1. • Students are exposed to telemedicine technologies used in rural and remote healthcare delivery.

Student Support Services

• Academic Advising:

1. 1. • Dedicated advisors help students with course selection, career planning, and academic challenges.

• Mental Health and Wellness:

1. 1. • The Faculty provides access to counseling services, wellness workshops, and peer support programs.
      • The University of Ottawa Health Services (UOHS) offers medical and mental health care to students.

• Financial Aid:

1. • Scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs are available to support medical students.

The University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine offers a world-class learning environment with modern facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a strong focus on student well-being. From advanced simulation labs and research centers to vibrant extracurricular activities and comprehensive support services, the Faculty ensures that students have everything they need to succeed academically, professionally, and personally. Whether on campus or in the community, students are well-prepared to become skilled and compassionate physicians.

Required Documents For Admission in University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

1. Bachelor’s Degree – A degree in science or a related field.
2. Transcripts – Official transcripts from high school and undergraduate studies.
3. MCAT Scores – Required for admission.
4. English Proficiency Test – IELTS or TOEFL scores.
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) – A personal essay explaining your motivation.
6. Letters of Recommendation – At least two from professors or supervisors.

Eligibility Criteria For University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

1. Bachelor’s Degree Requirement – Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Biology or Science with a minimum GPA.
2. English Proficiency – Candidates must take IELTS or TOEFL:
   • Undergraduate programs: IELTS 7 / TOEFL 80
3. Entrance Exams –
   • Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required.
   • Indian students are not required to pass NEET to study medical courses in Canada.
4. Student Visa & Medical Exam – Indian students should check visa requirements and the medical exam process for studying in Canada.

Admission Process For University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

Academic Background – A bachelor’s degree in science or a related field.

English Proficiency – IELTS or TOEFL scores required.

MCAT – Mandatory for admission.

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) – If needed.

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Benefits of Studying at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

The University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine is one of Canada’s top-ranked medical schools, offering numerous advantages for students pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

1. Top-Ranked Medical School

• Consistently ranked among the top 10 medical schools in Canada.
• Recognized for its high research output, innovative curriculum, and clinical training.
• Affiliated with world-class hospitals and medical research centers.

2.  Strong Clinical Training & Early Patient Exposure

• Hands-on clinical exposure starts in the first year of the MD program.
• Training at renowned hospitals such as The Ottawa Hospital, CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario), and the Montfort Hospital.
• A wide network of urban and rural teaching hospitals providing diverse clinical experiences.

4. Research Excellence & Innovation

• One of Canada’s top medical research institutions, attracting over 50% of the University’s total research funding.
• Home to leading medical research centers, including:
  • CT Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre
  • Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI)
  • Institute the recherche de l’Hôpital Montfort
• Offers research opportunities for medical students in areas such as biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, and global health.

5. Focus on Health Equity & Community Engagement

• Strong emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities in Indigenous, rural, and underserved communities.
• Specialized programs for Francophone, Indigenous, and international health.
• Global health initiatives with international clinical rotations in underserved regions.

6. Advanced Medical Facilities & Technologies

• Modern medical simulation labs with high-tech patient simulators for hands-on training.
• Cutting-edge imaging and diagnostic facilities integrated into medical education.
• Access to state-of-the-art research centers and medical libraries.

7. Diverse & Inclusive Learning Environment

• A welcoming and diverse student community with students from different cultural backgrounds.
• Support for international students, including mentorship programs, scholarships, and language support.
• Active student organizations, clubs, and leadership opportunities in healthcare initiatives.

8. Excellent Career Prospects & Residency Placement

• High residency match rates in Canada and internationally.
• Graduates work in top hospitals across North America and globally.
• Strong alumni network providing mentorship and career opportunities.

9. Special Programs & Unique Learning Pathways

• Indigenous Program (since 2005) to support Indigenous students and incorporate Indigenous health perspectives.
• Dual degree options (e.g., MD/PhD) for students interested in medical research.
• Interdisciplinary medical training in collaboration with other health faculties (e.g., Nursing, Physiotherapy, Biomedical Sciences).

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine

Indian students pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine can take advantage of several benefits, including academic support, financial aid, cultural inclusivity, and strong career prospects.

1. High-Quality Medical Education at a Top-Ranked University

• The University of Ottawa is among Canada’s top 10 medical schools, offering internationally recognized medical training.
• The MD program is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), making Indian students eligible for residency in Canada, the US, and other countries.

2. Pathway to Residency & Medical Practice in Canada

• Indian students who complete their MD at the University of Ottawa can apply for residency programs in Canada through the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS).
• The university has a high residency match rate, increasing the chances of securing postgraduate training in Canada.

3. Research Opportunities in Advanced Medical Fields

• The Faculty of Medicine receives over 50% of the university’s total research funding, offering vast opportunities for Indian students to engage in biomedical, clinical, and public health research.
• Students can participate in research at leading institutes like the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) and CT Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre.
• Research experience strengthens applications for residency and international fellowships.

4. Cultural Inclusivity & Indian Student Support

• The university has a diverse student community, including a strong presence of Indian students.
• Several student organizations support Indian students, including:
  • Indian Students’ Association (ISA)
  • South Asian Medical Student Association (SAMSA)
  • International Student Support Centre
• Regular cultural events, Indian festivals, and networking opportunities make it easier for Indian students to adjust to campus life.

5. Strong Clinical Training & Early Patient Interaction

• Indian students gain early clinical exposure, starting in Year 1 of the MD program.
• Clinical training takes place at renowned hospitals, including:
  • The Ottawa Hospital
  • Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)
  • Montfort Hospital (for French-speaking students)
• A mix of urban and rural medical training allows students to experience diverse healthcare settings.

6. International Medical Licensing & Career Prospects

• Graduates of the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine are eligible to apply for:
  • Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) – for medical practice in Canada.
  • United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) – for medical practice in the US.
  • Medical Council of India (MCI)/National Medical Commission (NMC) screening test – if they wish to practice in India.
• Many Indian graduates secure residencies in Canada, the US, or return to India with a prestigious medical degree.

7. Safe & Student-Friendly Environment

• Ottawa is one of Canada’s safest cities, with high quality of life and affordable living costs compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
• The University of Ottawa provides on-campus accommodations, international student housing, and off-campus rental assistance.
• The campus has student wellness services, mental health support, and academic advisors for international students.

8. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) & Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways

• Indian students completing their MD can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada after graduation.
• Canada’s Express Entry & Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) offer pathways for permanent residency (PR) to international medical graduates.
• Completing a medical residency in Canada can lead to permanent job opportunities and Canadian citizenship.

FAQ’s

Does the university offer an MBBS program?

No, Canada does not have an MBBS program like in India. Instead, medical education follows the MD (Doctor of Medicine) pathway, which is equivalent to an MBBS degree in India.

Can Indian students apply for permanent residency (PR) after graduation?

Yes, Indian graduates can apply for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) and later qualify for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) through:

• Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class – CEC)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

What are the career prospects after completing an MD at the University of Ottawa?

Graduates can:

• Apply for residency programs in Canada through CaRMS.
• Take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to apply for residencies in the US.
• Return to India and appear for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).

Is there support for Indian students on campus?

Yes, Indian students have access to:

• Indian Students’ Association (ISA) for cultural and social events.
• South Asian Medical Student Association (SAMSA) for networking and mentorship.
• International student support services, including academic advising, mental health support, and career counseling.

How competitive is admission to the MD program?

Admission is highly competitive, with limited spots for international students. Strong academic performance, MCAT scores, and clinical/research experience significantly improve admission chances.

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