Western University's Student Population: A Comprehensive Overview

Western University, formerly known as the University of Western Ontario, is a public research university located in London, Ontario, Canada. The university has a rich history, dating back to its founding in 1878, and has since become a vibrant centre of learning with a diverse student population of over 36,000 individuals. The campus life at Western University is shaped not only by its traditions but also by its commitment to innovation and excellence in teaching and research. With more than 400 undergraduate programs and nearly 200 graduate and professional programs, Western University offers a wide range of academic options for its students. The university's main campus spans 455 hectares, providing a mix of historic and modern buildings, and the university operates twelve academic faculties and schools.

Western University has over 36,000 students

Western University, formerly known as the University of Western Ontario, is a public research university in London, Ontario, Canada. It was founded on 7 March 1878 by Bishop Isaac Hellmuth of the Anglican Diocese of Huron as The Western University of London, Ontario. The university has since grown substantially and now boasts a student population of over 36,000.

The university offers a wide range of academic programs to its students, with more than 400 undergraduate options and over 150 graduate degree programs. Western's 12 faculties and schools provide a full range of degree options and specializations, including professional programs in business, medicine, dentistry, engineering, law, and education. The university also has a strong focus on research, with state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to innovation.

Western's campus life is vibrant and diverse, with students coming from various backgrounds and countries. The university has a long tradition of excellence in teaching and research and is home to some of Canada's top scholars and researchers. Western is also a leading institution in Indigenous education, with one of the largest communities of Indigenous scholars in the country.

The admissions process at Western University is highly competitive, with an average of around 37,000 applicants each year and an acceptance rate of less than 50%. The university's most popular programs include the Ivey Business School, engineering, and medicine. Western's medical program is particularly competitive and provides students with the opportunity to work alongside leading medical researchers.

With its rich history, diverse community, and commitment to academic excellence, Western University offers a unique and engaging educational experience to its students. The university's focus on research and innovation ensures that its students are well-prepared to become leaders and innovators in their chosen fields.

The university offers more than 400 undergraduate programs

Western University in London, Ontario, Canada, offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various fields, providing students with diverse academic options to pursue their passions and interests. With over 400 undergraduate programs, the university allows students to tailor their educational journey to meet their unique goals and aspirations.

The university's undergraduate offerings span a broad spectrum, including traditional disciplines such as humanities, law, education, and health sciences, as well as specialised fields like engineering, business, and medicine. This variety of options enables students to explore a multitude of interests and gain a well-rounded education.

One of the unique aspects of Western University is its emphasis on experiential learning. Many of the undergraduate programs incorporate real-world experiences, internships, co-ops, or practicums, providing students with valuable hands-on exposure in their chosen fields. This approach equips students with practical skills and knowledge that complement their academic learning.

The undergraduate programs at Western University are designed to foster critical thinking, communication skills, and a sense of citizenship. Students are encouraged to explore different areas of study during their first year, allowing them to discover their passions and make informed decisions about their academic paths. The university also offers a range of flexible modules and degree combinations, giving students the freedom to customise their educational experience.

With a vibrant community of over 43,000 students from 129 countries, Western University provides a diverse and enriching learning environment. The university's 12 faculties and schools offer a comprehensive range of degree options and specialisations, ensuring that students can find the right program to align with their interests and career aspirations.

There are nearly 200 graduate and professional programs

The University of Western Ontario, branded as Western University, offers nearly 200 graduate and professional programs. The university operates twelve academic faculties and schools, with 11 faculties and schools providing a full range of degree options and specializations.

Western University's graduate programs include master's and doctoral (PhD) programs, as well as diplomas. These programs are offered in a variety of formats, including thesis-based, course-based, and project-based options, as well as part-time and full-time study modes.

The university's 11 faculties and schools cover a wide range of disciplines, including:

• The Don Wright Faculty of Music
• Faculty of Arts & Humanities
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Engineering
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Faculty of Information & Media Studies
• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Science
• Faculty of Social Science
• Ivey School of Business
• Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry

The range of graduate programs available at Western University reflects the university's commitment to providing a diverse and comprehensive educational experience. The university's unique learning environment combines exceptional academics, outstanding facilities, and practical opportunities such as internships, co-ops, or practicums in every program.

In addition to its graduate programs, Western University also offers a wide range of undergraduate options, with over 400 programs across the arts and humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The university's undergraduate programs provide a strong foundation for further study, allowing students to tailor their academic journey towards their specific goals and interests.

With its diverse range of programs, exceptional academics, and focus on practical experiences, Western University offers a rich and engaging educational experience for students seeking to advance their knowledge and skills.

Western University is located on a 500-hectare campus

The university's main campus spans 481.2 hectares, with Gothic-style buildings and modern, LEED-certified structures. The campus boasts more than 7 million square feet of space in 87 buildings, joined by 16 km of roadway and 15 km of sidewalks. There are more than 7,000 parking spaces available in 21 lots.

The development of Western's present campus began in the 1920s, with many of the university's earliest buildings designed in the Collegiate Gothic style. As the campus expanded in the late 1960s, the university shifted towards brutalist and modernist architectural designs. The central campus, which includes most of the university's student residences and teaching facilities, covers approximately 170.8 hectares.

The university's library system, Western Libraries, operates six libraries that house over 2.45 million books, as well as electronic resources. The university also offers nine student residences on the main campus, providing a variety of layouts and amenities to suit different lifestyles.

Western University's 500-hectare campus provides a vibrant and welcoming community for its students and scholars, offering a blend of natural beauty, architectural diversity, and state-of-the-art facilities.

The university has 11 on-campus residences

Western University is a public research university located in London, Ontario, Canada. The university has 11 on-campus residences that provide a safe and comfortable living community for students. With a commitment to providing a rich campus life, Western University ensures that approximately 31% of its building space is dedicated to student housing.

The university offers a range of housing options, including traditional-style residences, suite-style residences, and hybrid-style residences. Traditional-style residences include Delaware Hall, Medway-Sydenham Hall, and Saugeen-Maitland Hall. Suite-style residences, such as Alumni House, Elgin Hall, Essex Hall, and London Hall, offer a more modern living experience. Meanwhile, hybrid-style residences, like Perth Hall and Ontario Hall, combine elements of both traditional and suite-style accommodations.

In addition to its on-campus residences, Western University also provides off-campus housing options. Platt's Lane Estates, located south of the university's campus, offers townhouses and apartments, accommodating upper-year, graduate, and student families. The university also manages Gibbons Lodge, the official residence of the university president, located off-campus.

The university's student housing is not just about providing a place to live but also fostering a supportive community. Over 500 upper-year students take on various roles, such as Residence Staff, Academic and Leadership Programmers, and Community Leaders, to assist first-year students in adjusting to university life and provide resources for their growth.

The University Community Centre, or UCC, serves as the heart of student activities and governance, housing various student organizations, retail and food services, club spaces, and study rooms. It is a hub for student engagement and a place where Western University students can call their own.

Frequently asked questions