Calgary is regularly ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world by top, globally-recognized ranking organizations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Ranking. Known for an abundance of entertainment, shopping, and recreation opportunities, the city is also home to some of Canada’s top universities and colleges. Here’s a look at four of Calgary’s most recognized post-secondary schools.

 University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is considered one of the country’s top comprehensive research universities, offering hundreds of programs of study through over a dozen different faculties. The school’s main campus spans several hundred hectares, and there are over 33,000 students between the university’s multiple campuses. Innovative research from the university spans several areas, including energy conservation, new earth-space technologies (NEST), chronic diseases and infections, and brain and mental health.

Mount Royal University (MRU)

Mount Royal University is one of Calgary’s smaller universities, with a student population of around 15,000. The school offers a close-knit community and a more intimate learning environment, with smaller class sizes averaging around 32 students. Students can choose from over 36 different majors in different faculty departments. The school also offers programs for a semester or a work term abroad.

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) 

Located northwest of downtown Calgary, SAIT is a polytechnic school that emphasizes hands-on skills training to prepare graduates for career success. The school is considered one of Canada’s top applied-research colleges, with several notable research facilities, including the Centre for Energy Research and Clean Unconventional Technology Solutions and the Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems. Students are given the opportunity to participate in real-world research projects through practicum placements and as research assistants. 

 Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts)

Originally called the Alberta College of Art upon its founding in 1926, the Alberta University of the Arts is an art and design university recognized for world-class facilities and award-winning faculty. The school offers bachelor’s degrees, MFAs, certificates, and continuing education courses, with programs including painting, photography, print media, jewellery, and more. AUArts also has university transition programs for applicants with strong artistic abilities who do not meet the school’s academic or English proficiency requirements, and has a pre-college program for students ages 16+ to develop their portfolios and earn credits toward a post-secondary education. 

Interested in learning more about one of the world’s most desirable cities? Contact one of our top local real estate agents or find your dream home in Calgary.

---

Image Credit: University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, Polytechnics Canada, AICAD