Ontario Tech University

Signs of innovation are everywhere at Ontario Tech University. The north Oshawa campus reflects the university’s emphasis on technology, with more than 416 research labs, 80 of which are specialized. Among them is ACE, an automotive research centre where one of the world’s largest and most sophisticated climatic wind tunnels is being used for phase two of Project Arrow, the development of the first all-Canadian-made zero-emissions car; two new prototypes will be unveiled in 2026. The university has Canada’s largest geothermal system, which heats and cools campus buildings. In collaboration with Lakeridge Health, the school’s Mindful Artificial Intelligence Research Institute is exploring AI applications to enhance patient outcomes and provide hands-on student learning opportunities. Shawenjigewining Hall houses tech-enhanced classrooms and research labs, as well as Mukwa’s Den, an Indigenous space where all students can learn more about Indigenous culture. Several downtown Oshawa buildings provide additional classrooms, labs and study space. “Through Ontario Tech’s specialized programs, our students gain a thorough understanding of the social implications of technology. Embedded, hands-on experiential learning is central to our educational model, preparing career-ready graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world,” says president Steven Murphy. Oshawa is less than an hour’s GO train ride from Toronto. The university is close to pubs, restaurants, and sport and concert venues in a rapidly growing community.

Campus buzz: The university just broke ground on The Ridge, a new on-campus residence expected to open in 2027. It will add 450 new beds at first and will increase to 2,000 beds in the coming years.

Quick facts

Tuition
(includes compulsory ancillary fees) $8,584 ($9,222 out-of-province students) 

Median Entering Grades
Arts: 83% | Science: 83% | Commerce: 81% | Engineering: 83%

Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 11,655 | Part-time: 807
Graduates: Full-time: 1151 | Part-time: 242
International Students: First-year: 5.8% | Graduate: 55.6%

Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 1,550 (approx. 700 reserved for first-year students)
Cost of double room: $7,100
Cost of single room: $8,750 to $9,150 
Cost of double room with meals: $14,021 to $14,657
Cost of single room with meals: $15,671 to $16,707
Cost of apartment-style: $6,200 to $6,800

Standout programs

Railway Engineering: This program teaches students skills across engineering disciplines, including automotive, manufacturing, mechanical and mechatronics engineering.

Educational Psychology Students learn how biological, cognitive, emotional and social factors influence learning and development, and how to create supportive educational environments.  

Sustainability Studies: This program provides students with an interdisciplinary education in sustainability, including the natural sciences, engineering and social health sciences. Students graduate ready to tackle sustainability challenges.

Reputation

Ranked #10 (Primarily Undergraduate) among faculty members and hiring managers in the 2025 reputation survey, powered by Angus Reid Group.