Overview of Université Laval
Founded in 1852, Université Laval is a distinguished public research university located in Quebec City, Canada. As the oldest French-language university in North America, Laval has played a pivotal role in higher education in the Francophone world. As a comprehensive institution, it serves over 45,000 students through 17 faculties and operates principally from its extensive main campus in Sainte-Foy, Quebec. With a heritage of academic excellence and a robust research agenda, Université Laval holds national significance and international recognition across diverse disciplines.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Université Laval is renowned for its leadership in areas such as engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, forestry, humanities, and social sciences. The university is distinguished for strong multidisciplinary and problem-based learning approaches, encouraging students to engage in real-world issues from early in their studies. As one of Canada’s top research-intensive universities, Laval generates over $400 million in annual research funding and hosts over 300 research groups and chairs. It consistently features in the top 10 Canadian universities for research volume and impact, and maintains robust international collaborations through joint degrees and global academic consortia. Notably, Laval was the first Canadian university to obtain a STARS Gold rating for sustainability, underscoring its leadership in research-driven innovation.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at Université Laval is vibrant and inclusive, with more than 230 student-run clubs, cultural associations, and professional societies, fostering broad student engagement. The university values diversity and supports a strong international community, with approximately 3,000 international students representing nearly 120 countries. Students benefit from dynamic cultural events, comprehensive support services, modern on-campus residences, and extensive athletics facilities, including varsity teams and recreation centers. Arts and music also play a prominent role, enriching the campus experience and facilitating personal development alongside academic achievement.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Université Laval’s mission is to advance knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility through research and education, prioritizing sustainability, equity, and global citizenship. The university upholds a commitment to academic excellence and inclusive leadership for the benefit of society.
