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. A skill you can’t skip in today’s digital world
Digital Literacy — DCN 1101
Learn how to spot misinformation, protect your privacy and navigate today’s digital world with confidence. From AI tools and algorithms to research skills and online wellness, you’ll build practical skills for university, work and everyday life.
(Fall 2026 in English, Winter 2027 in French)
2. Focus on you
Personal Development and Communication Skills — SED 1111
Develop skills in communication, time management, stress management and problem solving designed to support your academic and personal success.
(Fall 2026, English and French)
3. The powerful impact of fun
Introduction to Leisure Studies — LSR 1100
From tourism and entertainment to events and travel culture, explore the world of leisure and its role in society. Discover the trends, issues and realities behind an industry that shapes the way people relax, travel and spend their free time. You’ll develop a critical, scientific approach to the field of leisure and tourism.
(Fall 2026, English and French)
4. Comfort and cravings
Food Psychology — NUT 1150
From comfort foods and cravings to food advertising and eating habits, delve into the psychology behind the way we eat. Discover how hunger, emotions, environment and behaviour influence food choices and why our relationship with food is more complex than it seems.
(Winter 2027, English and French)
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.
(Fall 2026 in English only; Winter 2027, English and French)
6. Centuries of beliefs, traditions and history
The Religions of the World 1 — SRS 1112
Ever wondered why religion appears throughout history, culture and even everyday conversations? This course explores key religious traditions from around the world, from prehistoric beliefs to major Semitic and Far Eastern religions, while examining how spirituality and belief systems shaped civilizations, societies and human experiences across centuries.
(Winter 2027, English and French)
7. Check your TikTok ‘psychology facts’
Introduction to Psychology: Foundations — PSY 1101
From emotions and memory to dreams, learning and the brain, this course explores what shapes human behaviour and thought. Perfect for students curious about how people think, feel, react and make sense of the world around them.
(Fall 2026 and Winter 2027, English and French)
8. Human stories behind global crises
Introduction to the Study of Conflicts and Human Rights — ECH 1100
From wars and humanitarian crises to peacebuilding and international law, explore the origins of violent conflicts and the global efforts to protect human rights. Study the conditions for sustainable peace and learn more about human rights and international humanitarian law. Through real-world examples, you’ll discover how societies respond to injustice, violence and humanitarian emergencies while exploring what sustainable peace can actually look like.
(Fall 2026, English and French)
9. Find out if you’ve got what it takes to act
Introduction to the Practice of Theatre: Onstage — THE 1100 or THE 1500
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.
(Fall 2026, English; Winter 2027, English and French)
10. 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.
(Fall 2026 and Winter 2027, English and French)
11. Yes, bacteria can be fascinating
Microbiology and Immunology — HSS 1100
Discover how the immune system protects your body every day against infections and microbes.
(Fall 2026 and Winter 2027, English and French)
12. 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.
(Fall 2026 and Winter 2027, English and French)
13. Stop doom-scrolling and create change
Social Impact in Global Perspective — DVM 1300
There are signs of hope! So, stop doom-scrolling and take a positive look at how innovative ideas, organizations and movements are working to tackle inequality, exclusion and global social issues. Through real-world examples and experiential learning, you’ll discover how social impact and innovation can drive meaningful change in communities around the world.
(Winter 2027, English and French)
14. 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.
(Winter 2027, English and French)
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!
(Fall 2026, English and French)
16. From observation to creation
Drawing from Life: Fundamentals — ART 1900
Whether you’re new to drawing or looking to strengthen your foundations, this course introduces the essential techniques of observational art. Practice drawing from life while exploring anatomy, perspective, shading, and creative expression across traditional and digital media.
(Offered in Winter 2027 and in English only)
17. A global approach to what good health means
Physical Activity in a Global Health Perspective — APA 1122
Discover how global health challenges affect populations differently and how movement can be part of long-term solutions. You’ll learn more about the health of vulnerable populations, the structure and roles of major national and international health organizations and key concepts related to human rights, environmental sustainability, poverty, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, child mortality and gender inequality, along with how these factors are or can be related to physical activity.
(Winter 2027, English and French)
18. Where the business world and the real world meet
Business and Society — ADM 1101
Behind every big decision there are personal, social and ethical issues. This course immerses you in the realities of today’s business world — from diversity to sustainability to social responsibility — to help you understand how organizations shape the society around us.
(Fall 2026 and Winter 2027, English and French)
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.
(Fall 2026 and Winter 2027, English and French)
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.