Licentiate in Canon Law

The Licentiate in Canon Law degree (JCL) is an ecclesiastical program governed by the Apostolic Constitution Veritatis Gaudium and other norms of the Holy See. The program consists of 75 course credits, covering the fundamental principles and specific canons of the Code of Canon Law of the Catholic Church.

Throughout the program of studies, emphasis is placed upon the practical application of law. Students are required to do a major research project accomplished in the research seminar under the guidance of a professor of the Faculty of Canon Law.

The JCL degree enables clergy, religious, and lay persons to hold a variety of roles in tribunals and diocesan curias. It also prepares them to serve as key leaders and advisors in dioceses, religious institutes, societies of apostolic life, and various Catholic organizations.

The JCL is always pursued concurrently with the Master in Canon Law.

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.