Royal Roads University
Colwood, Canada
Royal Roads University
Colwood, Canada
Founded
1995
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
~4,100
Alumni Network
34,000+
Discover Royal Roads University: A Hub for Changemakers
Discover Royal Roads University: A Hub for Changemakers
Royal Roads University is a publicly funded, applied research university located at Hatley Park National Historic Site in Colwood, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island. Established in 1995 on the grounds of the former Royal Roads Military College, the university specializes in applied and professional programs delivered through an innovative blended learning model that combines online coursework with intensive on-campus residencies.
The university offers over 70 programs ranging from certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees across fields including business, leadership, environment and sustainability, communication, tourism, and social innovation. With an average class size of approximately 25 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, Royal Roads provides a highly collaborative and personalized learning experience through its signature cohort model.
Royal Roads is recognized by Ashoka U as one of only a handful of Canadian universities committed to social innovation in higher education. With alumni connected across more than 90 countries and campuses in Colwood, Langford, and Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE, the university has a truly global reach while maintaining deep roots in the Greater Victoria community.
Key Milestones
- 1940: Hatley Castle purchased by the federal government; the site becomes a naval training establishment during World War II.
- 1995: Royal Roads University established as a public degree-granting university through the Royal Roads University Act, succeeding the decommissioned Royal Roads Military College.
- 1996: The university offers its first program, the Master of Arts in Leadership and Training, graduating 48 students in its inaugural class.
- 2021: The CAD 15 million Dogwood Auditorium opens, transforming the former military college swimming pool into a modern academic and event space.
Academic Structure and Programs
Academic Structure and Programs
Royal Roads University organizes its academic offerings into faculties and schools, each delivering programs designed for working professionals and career-focused students. The university is currently refining its academic structure into three new faculties to better support interdisciplinary education, applied research, and student success across all levels of study.
Faculty of Management
Focuses on business administration, executive management, and organizational leadership, preparing graduates to lead in dynamic professional environments through applied and experiential learning.
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Innovation and Sustainability
- Master of Business Administration in Executive Management
- Doctor of Business Administration
Faculty of Social and Applied Sciences
Encompasses programs in environment, sustainability, communication, education, and humanitarian studies, equipping students with the skills to address complex social and environmental challenges.
- Master of Arts in Environmental Education and Communication
- Master of Science in Environment and Management
- Master of Arts in Disaster and Emergency Management
School of Leadership Studies
Offers graduate-level leadership programs through blended and fully online delivery, supporting professionals seeking to develop advanced leadership competencies for organizational and community impact.
- Master of Arts in Leadership
- Master of Arts in Executive and Organizational Coaching
- Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching
School of Communication and Culture
Provides programs in professional communication, intercultural studies, and digital media, preparing graduates for careers in public relations, journalism, and strategic communication.
- Master of Arts in Professional Communication
- Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication
School of Tourism and Hospitality Management
Delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in tourism and hospitality, combining industry knowledge with sustainability principles to develop leaders in the global tourism sector.
- Bachelor of Arts in International Hotel Management
- Master of Arts in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management
School of Humanitarian Studies
Addresses justice, human security, and conflict resolution through applied programs that prepare graduates for careers in social justice, public policy, and humanitarian action.
- Master of Arts in Human Security and Peacebuilding
- Master of Arts in Justice Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic RequirementCompletion of two years of post-secondary education (60 credits) with a minimum B average (GPA 3.0/4.33) for entry into third-year programs
- English Proficiency (IELTS)IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, no single band below 6.0
- English Proficiency (TOEFL)TOEFL iBT: 88 overall with minimum 24 in writing, 20 in listening, reading, and speaking
- Application FeeApproximately CAD 131 (non-refundable)
- Supporting DocumentsOfficial transcripts, resume, and statement of intent
Graduate Admission
- Academic RequirementFour-year bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.33 (B average) in the last two years of study
- English Proficiency (IELTS)IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, no single band below 6.0
- English Proficiency (TOEFL)TOEFL iBT: 88 overall with minimum 24 in writing, 20 in listening, reading, and speaking
- Work ExperienceMany graduate programs require relevant professional experience (varies by program)
- Supporting DocumentsOfficial transcripts, resume/CV, statement of intent, and letters of reference (program-dependent)
Application deadlines vary by program; most fall intake deadlines are between March and June. Check the specific program page for exact dates.
Select programs offer a January start date with application deadlines typically falling between September and October of the prior year.
Some programs offer an April intake with deadlines typically between December and January. Availability varies by program.
Certain certificate and professional development programs accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Tuition and Scholarships
Tuition and Scholarships
Tuition fees at Royal Roads University vary by program and residency status. International students pay higher tuition than domestic students. All figures below are approximate annual estimates in Canadian dollars; contact the university for exact program-specific fees.
| Fee Category | Domestic Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | CAD 7,000 - 10,000 | CAD 18,000 - 25,000 |
| Graduate Tuition (per year) | CAD 9,000 - 20,000 | CAD 20,000 - 40,000 |
| Student Fees & Ancillary | Varies by program | Varies by program |
| Books & Supplies (estimated) | CAD 1,000 - 1,500 | CAD 1,000 - 1,500 |
| Total | CAD 10,000 - 31,500 | CAD 21,000 - 66,500 |
Royal Roads International Entrance Scholarship
Awarded to outstanding international students from partner high schools who plan to pursue undergraduate studies at Royal Roads University. Scholarship amounts range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 3,000 depending on the school and country of origin.
- Eligibility: International students from RRU partner high schools
- Award Amount: CAD 1,000 - CAD 3,000
- Basis: Nomination-based from partner institutions
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Prestigious national scholarship for doctoral students pursuing graduate research in the social sciences and humanities at Royal Roads University. Scholars are recognized as experts in their fields of study.
- Eligibility: Doctoral students in social sciences and humanities
- Award Amount: CAD 50,000 per year for three years
- Selection: Competitive national nomination process
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Royal Roads University's main campus is set within the 260-hectare Hatley Park National Historic Site in Colwood, British Columbia. Surrounded by old-growth forests and situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, the campus features historic gardens, scenic trails, and the iconic Hatley Castle, which has appeared in major films including X-Men and Deadpool.
The iconic Scottish baronial mansion completed in 1908, now serving as the university's main heritage building and home to a Canadian Military Museum.
A major academic facility housing environmental science labs, conference spaces, student commons, and the International Study Centre with 11 classrooms.
World-renowned Italian, Japanese, Croquet, and Rose gardens offering serene spaces for study, reflection, and outdoor learning.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing
Royal Roads offers short-term residency accommodations primarily designed for students attending on-campus intensive residency periods as part of blended programs.
- Millward and Nixon residence buildings on the main campus circle
- Approximately 150 student beds available in dormitory-style rooms
- Short-term room rates range from approximately CAD 50 to CAD 95 per night plus taxes
Campus Amenities
The campus provides a range of services and amenities to support student life, wellness, and academic success during on-campus residencies and full-time study.
- Recreation Centre with fitness studio, free weights room, and 30+ machines
- The Farm at RRU for local food production and experiential learning
- Dogwood Auditorium for academic events, conferences, and community gatherings
Student Life at Royal Roads
Student Life at Royal Roads
Student life at Royal Roads University is shaped by its unique cohort-based learning model, which fosters deep connections among peers. The Royal Roads University Student Association (RRUSA) serves as the voice of the student body, organizing activities, events, and advocacy initiatives that enrich the campus experience.
Location: Colwood and Greater Victoria
Location: Colwood and Greater Victoria
Life in Colwood and Greater Victoria
Colwood is a safe and friendly community of approximately 20,000 residents in the Greater Victoria area on Vancouver Island. Located just 25 minutes from downtown Victoria, the provincial capital, students enjoy a mild coastal climate perfect for year-round outdoor activities, along with access to the cultural, dining, and entertainment offerings of one of Canada's most beautiful cities.
Mild Pacific Climate
Victoria enjoys Canada's mildest climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters, ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year including hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Natural Beauty
The region offers stunning Pacific Ocean shorelines, old-growth forests, the Olympic Mountain views, and numerous parks and trails connecting the campus to the surrounding landscape.
Cultural Capital
Victoria is a global tourism destination welcoming over 3.65 million visitors annually, with a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, world-class restaurants, and diverse cultural festivals.
Accessible Transportation
Full-time undergraduate students receive a U-Pass for unlimited access to Victoria's public transit system. The campus is served by multiple bus routes and is connected to downtown Victoria.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where RRU Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Royal Roads provides dedicated support services for international students including visa and study permit guidance, cultural integration programs, mentorship opportunities, and assistance with housing arrangements in the Greater Victoria area.
The Global Learning and Language Centre offers English language preparation and support programs to help international students meet admission requirements and succeed academically throughout their studies.
The Career Learning and Development department provides resume writing assistance, interview preparation, job search strategies, and access to CareerRoads, the university's online job portal connecting students and alumni with employers.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings
University Rankings
Royal Roads University is a specialized, smaller institution that is not typically ranked in major global university rankings due to its focused mission and size. However, it has earned recognition for student engagement, social innovation, and applied learning. The university is recognized by Ashoka U as a Changemaker Campus and has received strong ratings in national student satisfaction surveys.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Student Engagement (NSSE) | National Survey of Student Engagement | #1 in Active and Collaborative Learning |
| Social Innovation | Ashoka U | Changemaker Campus Designation |
| Sustainability in Business Education | Corporate Knights Magazine | Top 25 BCom programs in Canada (historical) |
| Student Satisfaction | Globe and Mail Canadian University Report | B+ Overall Grade |
Features
Royal Roads University is a public institution in British Columbia, Canada, known for its innovative and flexible learning model that combines online studies with short on-campus residencies. Located on the historic Hatley Park estate, the university emphasizes applied learning, leadership, sustainability, and global awareness. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs designed for both recent graduates and working professionals. RRU’s collaborative cohort system, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections provide students with practical skills and career-ready experience. The beautiful natural campus and commitment to environmental responsibility further enhance its unique educational environment.
Accommodation
n-campus housing is available for short-term/residency stays (33 ensuite rooms + 59 dorm-style rooms) in the Nixon building.\n\nFor long-term stays, students are advised to find off-campus housing.
Work While Studying
International students may work on campus and off campus if they meet the criteria of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Co-op/Internship Participation
Many programs include internships or co-op/field-practice components. Career Services and the university’s websites support students in finding these opportunities.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
February - June
Location
2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5Y2, Canada
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