Honors B.A. in Human Relations and Spirituality

Would you like to better understand the complexity of the human mind and spirit? Do you want to experience a life of high-quality relationships with yourself, others, the world around you, the transcendent? Are you interested in psychological and spiritual development, social justice, and the meaning of life?

If so, Saint Paul University offers you an Honours Bachelors of Arts with Specialization in Human Relations and Spirituality (60 units). Excellent preparation for graduate studies in the School of Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Spirituality!

The core courses in these programs are designed to develop:

• Greater effectiveness in interpersonal communication.
• An understanding of psycho-spiritual development as well as different cultural and spiritual traditions.

The study of human relations involves two main disciplines: human sciences (particularly the study of human behavior) and spirituality. Interpersonal relationships can be based on companionship, love, solidarity, professional affiliation, or other kinds of social interaction. The program’s spirituality component examines our relationship with a supreme being as well as with each other.

Offered by the Faculty of Human Sciences, the Human Relations and Spirituality undergraduate program is the only one of its kind in Ontario. It investigates such topics as social justice, human development, acceptance of diversity, inclusiveness, and humanism.

In addition to the foundational courses,* the program teaches students about the psychological, sociological, cultural, spiritual, and religious aspects that influence both the individual and society.

*The foundational courses are a compulsory part of every bachelor’s degree program offered at Saint Paul University.

Human. Open. Engaged. Spiritual.

Saint Paul University was the first post-secondary institution in Ottawa. More than a university specializing in the human and social sciences, SPU is a community.

Our goal: guiding transformation together to build a more humane and more just society on a global scale.

Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, Saint Paul University (est. 1848) is the founding college of the University of Ottawa, with which it has been federated since 1965. A bilingual institution, it offers undergraduate and graduate study programs.

Proud of its rich heritage, over the years Saint Paul University (SPU) has evolved into an institution whose primary focus is on the multiple facets of the human experience. Not surprisingly, that priority is reflected in our current study programs: in addition to our founding disciplines— canon law, philosophy , and theology —we offer courses in social communication, social innovation, transformative leadership, counseling and psychotherapy, public ethics, conflict studies, and human relations and spirituality.

Besides its academic programs, SPU offers a number of complementary services, including support and guidance to help students succeed academically and personally; access to symposiums, conferences, and workshops with distinguished specialists in the areas of issues facing today’s society; a student residence; and a library with an outstanding collection of documents and books on a range of specialized subjects.

SPU is known for its small class sizes, personalized service, diverse student population and international vision, solid reputation, rich history, and Catholic intellectual tradition.

The Saint Paul Experience

Different. And proud of it.

Academic Excellence

Through teaching as well as research, our commitment to excellence is embodied in our relevant programs that are focused on today’s social issues. Our graduates are equipped to meet challenges and find innovative and humane solutions in all sectors.

A smart investment = 2 diplomas in less time!

SPU’s tuition fees are among the most competitive in Ontario. Also, we offer an attractive college credits recognition program. This program allows you to enter the job market more quickly and better equipped!

Green space

Located in the heart of Ottawa, a stone’s throw from the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal, SPU is surrounded by greenery and small eco-friendly businesses. Our smoke-free campus is also home to a community garden and an organic café.

Human scale

Our approach is human-centered. We offer interactive teaching as well as access to professors and support staff that is second to none. The idea is to create a personalized university experience that fosters success.

Bilingualism and diversity

SPU offers programs and services in English and French, and approximately 25% of students are from abroad. Everyone can therefore study in the official language of their choice and broaden their cultural horizons.

Added value

Our concern for social justice, combined with our intellectual tradition, guides our thinking about the human condition and our plan for social transformation.