The University of Ottawa offers a broad range of prerequisite-free electives, allowing you to explore new disciplines and broaden your outlook on the world.
We know that building the ideal schedule is important, so here’s an updated list of courses you can take to fulfill your elective requirements.
1. Start up your mindset
Building an Entrepreneurial Mindset — EMC 1100
Develop key entrepreneurial skills such as creativity, problem-solving, resilience, leadership and innovation with this brand-new course, offered by the Telfer School of Management in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Hub. Learn how to build an entrepreneurial way of thinking — whether or not you plan to start a business.
2. Casting spells
Witchcraft, Magic and Occult Traditions — SRS1110
Who says magic isn’t real? In this class you’ll explore the historical traditions and practices built on the belief in paranormal phenomena, which includes witchcraft, magic and the occult, and their relation to traditional religious behaviour.
3. Find out if you’ve got what it takes to act
Introduction to the Practice of Theatre: Onstage — THE 1100
Are you the next Mikey Madison or Timothée Chalamet? Tap into your hidden talents and learn the basics of acting on stage in this introductory course that covers the techniques and disciplines of theatrical performance. You’ll explore practical acting exercises (solo, duo and group), diction, voice, improvisation, working with a script and building a character.
4. Win your next trivia night!
Popular Culture and Communication — CMN 2180
Learn about different forms of popular culture and examine related stereotypes and myths. You’ll uncover the narratives behind your favourite trends and media, from the origins of the Kardashian dynasty to the role of the Beatles in the 1964 British Invasion!
5. A move towards reconciliation
Introduction to Indigenous Studies — EAS1101
This course examines the history and current conditions of Indigenous communities in Canada and around the world. Given the significance of truth and reconciliation, learning about the history and contemporary conditions of Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world is an important part of becoming a well-rounded and informed human.
6. Modern medicine
Drugs 101 — BPS 1101
Did you know that leeches were used to treat disease up until the 19th century? Thankfully, we now have more modern methods in the form of pharmacology. This elective explores the history of drugs and the origin of disease, as well as other topics, including performance-enhancing substances in sports, antibiotics, and cancer chemotherapy. Offered in Winter 2026 and online only.
7. Find out how animals influence the human world
Introduction to Animal Studies I — AHL2110
An introduction to the emerging field of animal studies. Topics include animal representations in the arts and literature, companion animals, the intersections of science, advocacy and animals, and human and non-human animal relations.
8. Bring out your inner child
Children's Literature — ENG2110
Expelliarmus! If you wished you could study Harry Potter in high school English class, then look no further. Take a trip down memory lane and revisit classics such as Where the Wild Things Are, Alice in Wonderland, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas and of course, Harry Potter. Offered in Winter 2026.
9. Test your interest in teaching French
Introduction to Second Language Teaching I — DLS 1100
Discover if you want to pursue a career in language teaching with this no-strings-attached introductory course. It covers basic concepts of second-language teaching, sociocultural issues and major trends and methods. For the past 50 years, there has been a shortage of French as a second language teachers. You’ll have a great chance of getting a job if you have the skills!
10. Learn how to tell who’s right and who’s wrong
Reasoning and Critical Thinking — PHI1101
Ever heard “Everyone’s opinion matters” before? There may be some truth to that, but is it always the case? You probably know someone who’s constantly trying to force their opinions on others. This course will help you separate fact from fiction in what people tell you — from your friends to your employer. You’ll get the tools you need to evaluate arguments and spot logical fallacies.
11. We will, we will rock you!
The Sound of Rock — MUS2304
This one is a banger. The Sound of Rock explores the history and sound of iconic rock bands like AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Pink Floyd and many others. Get your headphones ready to tune into the genre’s most beloved tracks! Offered in Winter 2026.
12. It’s a catastrophe!
Earth: Natural Disasters Explained — GEO1301
Natural disasters have recently been on the rise worldwide. Discover what causes natural catastrophes such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, avalanches and floods and how we can predict them. You will also learn about the history of the Earth, tectonic plates, mountain formation and the movement of glaciers. Offered in Winter 2026.
13. Decipher tough talk about tariffs
Canada and the Challenges of International Development and Globalization – DVM1100
Learn to decipher all the tough talk about tariffs: Study the impact of globalization on Canadian society. This course analyzes the role Canada plays in international development and globalization and examines government development institutions and policy, the private sector and civil society organizations.
14. Psychoanalysis
Introduction to Psychology: Applications — PSY1102
Psychology is a fascinating field that studies how the human mind works, an area that can help you understand both yourself and others! In this class, you’ll discover many different topics, such as human development, intelligence, personality, mental health and treatment approaches.
15. Explore the beautiful continent of Africa
Introduction to African Studies — AFR 1100
This course introduces you to Africa’s history, ecology, demographics, and diverse cultures. Develop your critical thinking skills by challenging myths about the African continent through a cross-cultural and interdisciplinary approach!
16. Find out what the real issues are in sport
Sociology of Sport and Physical Activity in Canada — APA 1302
What happens after the final whistle blows? This course looks at sport through a different lens: as a social phenomenon rooted in culture, media, politics, inequalities and more. No matter what you’re studying (or how often you go to the gym), you’ll find something about sport that sparks your interest! Offered in Winter 2026.
17. Travel back in time to explore the legacy of classical antiquity
Greek Civilization — CLA 1101. Offered in Fall 2025
Roman Civilization — CLA 1102. Offered in Winter 2026.
There’s more to the legacy of the Greeks and Romans than philosophy and conquest. Let the Faculty of Arts’ Department of Classics and Religious Studies take you back in time. From Zeus to Caesar, you’ll explore the myths, art and ingenuity of the civilizations that shaped the Western world.
18. Want to know why cinema is the way it is?
History of Cinema I: 1895-1960 — CIN2101
A study of various international film schools and movements from the inception of cinema to the 1960s: the pre-cinema screen tradition, the invention of cinema and its first years (1880s-1904), the inception and development of sound cinema (1929-1945), and post-war cinema (1949-1960s).
19. Feminism 101
Women, Gender, Feminism: An Introduction — FEM1100
Feminism is a term you’ll often hear, but what does it really mean to be a feminist? This course offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding gender, race, class, sexuality, and disability in Canadian and global contexts. You’ll delve into key debates in feminist and gender studies, developing critical analytical skills along the way.
20. Hello, Olá, Bonjour, Hola, Ciao, 你好, مرحباً, Здравствуйте, Hallo!
Learn French, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, or Russian.
Did you know that learning a new language improves brain function by strengthening the parts of the brain that control memory, reasoning, and sensory perception? The Faculty of Arts offers many modern language courses for both beginners and more experienced learners. You may need to take a language placement test to determine which course best suits your needs.
Unsure when you can enrol in or drop a class? See the important academic dates and deadlines. Unsure if the classes are offered in person or online? Check the course schedule.