Overview

Granted a Royal Charter in 1852, but with 17th century roots, this public research university was the first francophone higher education establishment in North America. Originally a Roman Catholic institution it was completely secularised in 1972. It offers a broad range of undergraduate programs (1er cycle). The spacious, green campus is situated on the north bank of the St Lawrence River, about 7km south of the old town of Québec. The old town is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is split between the Haute Ville, which is perched above the river on the Cap Diamant Cliffs and boasts grand military structures and fine churches and the Basse Ville (Lower Town) with its narrow, winding, cobbled streets, 17th and 18th century houses with beautiful mansard roofs, museums and galleries. It is one of N. America’s oldest and most beautiful settlements and of great historic significance. The surrounding countryside is stunning and the spring and autumn colours magnificent. Québec’s Winter Carnival is probably one of the most colourful in the world. The city lies about 263km west of Montréal and has very good road and air connections.