Mount Royal University

Above and beyond in science, technology and innovation

Due to the growing demand for talented employees in Calgary’s digital and technology firms, Mount Royal University is accelerating talent to support these sectors. In addition to degree programs in computer science and computer information systems, the university’s Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship supports students to develop their ideas and employability in the technology sector.

Almost 50 students from the Faculty of Science and Technology have so far been part of the Institute’s specialized pitch competition, ONBOARD. Six have progressed to compete in the JHM LaunchPad Pitch Competition, winning prizes worth CAD 45,000. Through competing, students have gone further than what their programs require by creating companies, tackling society’s toughest challenges and committing to a lifetime pursuit of learning.

The Institute has recently launched new and expanded programs where around 60 students have the chance to win prizes worth CAD 34,000. This follows the university’s announcement of two new major subjects in biology and computer science, which provides more opportunities for students to dig deeper into the world of science.

Teaching excellence at Mount Royal University is provided by dedicated and passionate faculty. Professors share their experience and creativity in the classroom while focusing on the progression of their students. They are required to regularly reflect on their teaching, meaning they keep to the highest standards.

Faculty are regularly rated as wise, engaging and inspiring. MRU ranks among the top universities in Canada for student satisfaction with teaching quality, as well as the overall educational experience. Classes have an average of 31 students, so students can receive the attentive support they need.

Undergraduate students are exposed to research early on in their learning, helping them to gain a deep understanding of their studies. Students can take advantage of the work-integrated learning opportunities, such as trips where they are involved with community service, environmental sustainability and business development. Around a quarter of students participate in Community Service Learning (CSL), which includes 300,000 hours of community service at one of 500 partner organizations.

Students are classed as international applicants if they:

• Live and apply from outside of Canada and require a visa or study permit
• Are an international student already studying Mount Royal’s English Language Program (ESL/EAL).
• Are an international student studying at a different institution in Canada
• Live and work in Canada but are not a citizen or permanent resident

The university has a general admission policy for most undergraduate programs, but each has its own specific requirements. International students need to meet the English language requirements if their first language is not English. They can prove their proficiency through the following tests and scores, or equivalent:

• TOEFL – minimum score of 86 with no lower than 20 for each section
• IELTS – minimum score of 6.5 with no lower than 5.5 for each band
• PTE Academic – minimum score of 58 with no lower than 55 for each area
• CAE – C1 or C2 certificate with a minimum grade of 180 or pass Grade C

Students who do not meet the entry requirements can take the International Pathway Program, where they can improve their English language skills, complete any missing high school course requirements and take credits towards their chosen degree or diploma.

International students need to be able to cover their program and living costs during their studies. Mount Royal University offers some financial support through scholarships to reward high-achieving students and help them with the costs that come with studying overseas. Awards include:

Mount Royal Entrance Awards for Academic Excellence

Eligible students can receive up to CAD 1,000 for academic excellence.

There are more than 180 additional entrance awards, where eligible students can receive up to CAD 6,000 each. For current students, there are around 800 in-course awards giving up to CAD 6,000 each.

Students apply for awards using a single awards application once they have submitted their university application. If students match the necessary criteria an award will be given. For more information on scholarship and funding opportunities students can visit the university website.

MRU offers a supportive and extensive community environment where students have access to all they need to live, learn and grow. There are many facilities to enjoy and thrive in, such as modern classrooms, a world-class concert hall, eco-buildings, simulation labs and research centres. Other facilities include:

• Riddell Library and Learning Centre
• Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts
• Students' Association's Wyckham House
• Cougars Campus Store
• On-campus dining options

Accommodation options are contemporary and comfortable. All new first-year students who apply and pay a security deposit by the given deadline are guaranteed a place in campus accommodation. The two residence complexes, East Residence and West Residence, offer around 1,000 beds in apartments or townhouse units. Students have private rooms and share facilities with their unit mates. Residences are also close to all university facilities, including the Recreation Centre, which plays a big part in university life. Students can build relationships with other students, faculty and staff while staying healthy and fit.

Dedicated support at MRU includes:

International Student Support Centre (ISSC)

The ISSC helps students from all backgrounds to have a successful student experience. Led by volunteers and student leaders, international students can receive support, information and peer-driven programs as well as opportunities to join in with social and cultural activities. The centre offers space to study independently or in a group.

Applying and academic planning

Other international support includes international recruitment officers who assist prospective students with the application process. There are also academic advisors who help with choosing courses and goal setting.

New Student Orientation

All new students receive the tools they need for success at MRU. They learn about the campus, services, local area and more. Students get to meet faculty and senior students from their programs.

Student Learning Services

Academic support is available through tutoring, workshops and mentorships.