General Certificate in Law

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Learn more about our General Certificate in Law.

General certificate in law

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This program offers a basic legal education to students not intending to practise law. As a result, the teaching objectives for this program are focused on the study of law as a social phenomenon and on understanding the impact of law on various aspects of society.

The certificate program is offered on a part-time basis only. However, you can register in additional courses in other disciplines on a full-time basis if you have all the course prerequisites.

This general certificate in law comprises 30 credits (10 courses). You can take this program in English, in French or in both languages.

Courses in the general certificate in law program

Admission requirements

In order to apply to the Certificate in Law program, you must:

Have completed two years of college studies or two years at an Ontario College of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT); or
Have completed the equivalent of one year of university studies (minimum of 30 credits); or
Meet the definition of a mature applicant;
A minimum average of 65% is required to apply for admission.

Courses considered for advanced standing in the general law certificate program

If you have successfully completed law courses at another university as part of a program leading to a law certificate or degree, you can request advanced standing (supporting documentation for the courses is required). The University will base its decision on the objectives, content and level of the courses you’ve completed and on your overall academic record.

Your request for advanced standing must be submitted in writing and include the necessary supporting documentation.

Please note that a maximum of 15 credits advanced standing will be granted. To receive the general certificate in law, you must have completed at least 50% of your credits (i.e., at least 15 credits) at the University of Ottawa.

Courses recognized for equivalencies when applying for admission to the civil law degree program (LL.L.)

If you have completed a general certificate in law or a minor in law, you can apply for admission to the civil law degree program (LL.L.). If you’re admitted and meet the minimum admission criteria, you will be granted advanced standing for no more than 15 credits of optional courses.

You cannot be granted advanced standing for DCC2117, DCC2118, DCC2119, DCC3101, DCC3102, DCC3103, DCC3117 or DCC4102 (or equivalent courses offered in French) because the content of these courses is explored in great detail in the mandatory first- and second-year courses of the in LL.L. program.

Please submit your application for admission using the online undergraduate admission application form.

Course Sequence