Assumption University

Windsor, Canada Founded 1857

Updated Sep 2026

Overview

English Name: Assumption University
Founded: 1857
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private

Assumption University is a Roman Catholic institution in Windsor, Ontario, tracing its origins to 1857, when Assumption College was founded by the Society of Jesus and received royal assent the following year.

The Congregation of St. Basil has administered the university since 1870, and its Basilian tradition continues to shape its mission: to help students cultivate goodness, embody discipline, and pursue knowledge throughout their lives, expressed in its tagline "Cultivating goodness, embodying discipline, pursuing knowledge." After decades as an affiliate of the University of Western Ontario, Assumption became independent in 1953 and took the name Assumption University of Windsor in 1956.

When the secular University of Windsor was chartered in 1963, Assumption entered federation with it, a relationship that continues today: Assumption keeps its own Board of Governors, Senate, and degree-granting authority in theology, while its students draw on the University of Windsor's facilities and faculties for most of their coursework. Assumption's own direct academic offering is the Graduate Diploma in Catholic Studies, a five-course credential delivered online for students exploring the Catholic intellectual tradition, with advanced-standing pathways into seminary and graduate theology programs elsewhere.

Beyond academics, Assumption runs an active Campus Ministry serving the wider University of Windsor community with regular Mass and ecumenical outreach.

The university also holds a place in Canadian collegiate sport history as originator of the McGee Trophy, awarded annually to the U Sports men's basketball national champion.

Location & Contact

Assumption University's coordinates, postal address, and the contact channels admissions teams respond on. Campus tour bookings often have their own page distinct from general contact channels.

Academic Details

Below are the institutional metrics for Assumption University: scale, staffing balance, and accreditation context. These shape the academic experience more than headline rankings often suggest.

Admission Requirements: Assumption University's only degree-granting program, the online Graduate Diploma in Catholic Studies, admits applicants who hold a completed three- or four-year undergraduate degree in any field of study and who have earned a minimum cumulative undergraduate average of 70%. Applicants apply through an online application form and must supply one official undergraduate transcript, either attached to the application or emailed directly to the registrar. No standardized English-language proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, is published as a requirement. Assumption welcomes applications from international students, but because the diploma is delivered fully online, the university cannot sponsor study visas, so international applicants must already hold status permitting them to study from within Canada. Admission runs on three annual intakes -- September (Fall), January (Winter), and May (Spring) -- with no fixed application deadline published; applicants are advised to apply early because course space is limited.

Programs Offered

Below are Assumption University's active programmes grouped by degree level, with search. Use the filter to narrow by keyword and the level groupings to compare options at the same qualification tier.

1 programme on record. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Canada

Postgraduate Diploma 1 programme

How to apply to Assumption University

Five steps that capture how most applications to Assumption University flow, from research through submission to follow-up correspondence.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Assumption University's catalogue includes 1 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Assumption University's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Submit your completed application through Assumption University's official website at www.assumptionu.ca. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Assumption University

Concise answers to the most-searched questions about Assumption University, useful as a quick orientation before exploring the rest of the profile.

When did Assumption University open?

Assumption University traces its founding to 1857 (approximately 169 years ago).

What city is Assumption University in?

Assumption University operates from Windsor, Canada.

What is Assumption University's control type?

Assumption University is a private institution.

How do I find Assumption University online?

You can find Assumption University online at www.assumptionu.ca.

Top-Ranked Universities in Canada

Canada's most prominent universities are listed below — relevant for assessing Assumption University's national positioning. National prominence signals not just academic strength but also employer recognition.

Faculties at nearby universities

Universities geographically close to Assumption University are listed below — useful if commute, campus visits, or regional culture factor into your shortlist. Many students compare nearby options before committing to a final choice.

Where Else to Study Religious Studies

Industry partnership exclusives on Religious Studies programmes vary — some Canada institutions hold sponsored chairs, others run rotating industry guest-teaching arrangements.

Universities Compared with Assumption University

Joint research consortia among universities at Assumption University's level — shared grants, co-supervision arrangements — make peer institutions natural collaborators rather than just competitors.

Browse all articles →

Spotted something outdated or missing?

Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.

Explore More Universities in Canada

Free calculators and converters to plan your study-abroad journey.

Latest Articles

Fresh guides and advice for studying abroad.

View all →

Compare Compare