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English Juris Doctor

The English Common Law Program offers a three-year Juris Doctor (JD) degree taught in English. The program provides a comprehensive legal education in the common law tradition, with courses covering a broad range of areas including public and private law, litigation and dispute resolution, Indigenous law, international law and human rights, technology law and environmental law.

You can take selected courses offered in French as well, an opportunity to study law in both of Canada’s official languages. You can also enrol in selected courses offered by the Civil Law Section, to explore Canada’s two legal traditions.

The program also provides numerous opportunities for experiential learning, allowing you to apply your legal knowledge and develop practical skills in various settings.

Why choose this program

Students in Fauteux

You study common law in English while gaining a broad legal foundation and opportunities to explore specialized areas of practice.

The program combines a comprehensive core curriculum with diverse upper-year electives and experiential learning opportunities. You can pursue areas of particular interest while developing the analytical, research, advocacy and practical skills you need for legal practice.

You also have the opportunity to study in both English and French and to take selected courses in civil law, gaining a broader and more flexible legal education.

Beyond these options, the Common Law Section offers specialized upper-year elective courses across multiple legal fields. Introductory courses are generally delivered in a lecture format, while advanced and specialized courses are offered in smaller seminars, workshops and other practical learning formats.

Admission requirements (undergraduate)

English JD

The University of Ottawa’s English JD program welcomes applicants from diverse undergraduate backgrounds.

To be eligible, you must:

  • Complete at least three years (90 credits) of undergraduate study at a recognized university before beginning law school, unless you’re applying under the “mature” category.
  • Have a strong undergraduate academic record.
  • Complete the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The LSAT is mandatory.
  • Submit a complete application through the Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS), including official transcripts, a personal statement, an autobiographical sketch and at least two reference letters, including one academic reference.

There are no formal minimum CGPA or LSAT scores. Applications are evaluated holistically, considering academic performance, LSAT results, your personal statement, references, extracurricular and community involvement, work experience and other relevant experience. Most successful applicants have an LSAT score of 158 or higher (above the 70th percentile).

How to apply to the Faculty of Law, Common Law Section

Rideau Canal and the uOttawa campus

Why choose uOttawa Common Law

Study at the world’s largest English French bilingual university, located in the heart of the nation's capital. At uOttawa Common Law, we’re educating tomorrow’s leaders in law and society. You’ll benefit from exceptional professors, hands-on learning opportunities, strong connections to government, courts and legal organizations, and a vibrant student community. Gain the knowledge, practical experience and professional network to prepare for diverse careers in law and beyond.

Student experience

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International Exchange Program

Study abroad and gain an international perspective through exchange opportunities.
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Common Law Student Society

Get involved through student government, clubs and organizations that foster leadership, networking and community.
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The Spirit Garden

A space dedicated to reflection, reconciliation and community.

Contact us

Common Law admissions

Fauteux Hall
57 Louis Pasteur Private
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 6N5

Email: [email protected]

Join the virtual line to speak with the Common Law Admissions Office