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Explore Laurentian University
Study at Laurentian University
Browse Services and Support
Admission Applications
Undergraduate Degree Programs and Certificates
Apply to an undergraduate online distance education degree program as a full-time student (taking 9 or more credits per semester) through the Ontario University’s Application Centre (OUAC).
Please note all students applying for the BBA program must apply via OUAC.
Apply to study part time (taking less than 9 credits per semester) or just one course through a simple application process at the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC). Applications from students with a Letter of Permission or for a Non-degree program should also follow the same part-time application process.
Graduate Degree Programs
To apply for the MBA program delivered online, follow the instructions on the Master of Business Administration webpage under the tab “Requirements”.
Professional Learning
- Cardiac Care on the Web
Proof of your registration as a Registered Nurse with a College of Nurses from a Canadian province is necessary. - Fingerprint Detection and Analysis*
- Fire Scene Management and Investigation*
Offered exclusively to Fire Investigators
* potential applicants for both * programs can email admissions@laurentian.ca to request additional information
For all Professional Learning opportunities, submit your application to our part-time studies form on the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre website. Apply here and submit all required documentation to admissions@laurentian.ca.
Students studying on a Letter of Permission
Studying in Canada? You can take a course at Laurentian on a Letter of permission. We simply require that you supply us with a Letter of Permission from your host institution and that you complete the following form to sign up for a course.
Interested in our Programs?
Questions about fees?
Already a student? Ready to register?
Need help choosing your courses?
Recommended Technology for Online Learning
The Information Technology department has put together a short list of recommended computing (hardware and software) resources to provide the best possible experience while learning online.
Technology Checklist
☑ Bandwidth and Internet requirements (1.2Mbps or more up and downstream)
☑ Computing requirements (minimum 10th generation i5 or i7, 8Gb+ RAM, 256 SSD disk)
☑ Web cam (720p or better)
☑ Microphone (We recommend a noise-cancelling microphone)
☑ Anti-virus software (Windows Defender, ESET, MalwareBytes)
☑ Supported browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
☑ VPN (Cisco VPN)
Computing device
The Information technology department recommends that students make use of a laptop or portable device in lieu of a desktop computer in order to better adapt to changing conditions and anticipate that portability in this remote time will be most important.
Generally we recommend that Windows/PC based laptops be equipped with an i7 processor, have at least 8Gb of RAM and have storage capacity equal to or in excess of 256Gb, solid state storage (SSD) preferred.
While the less expensive and slower i5 processor might suffice for certain disciplines and programs, we still recommend the i7 to future proof and ensure that any/all of the software that you may need during your years of study at Laurentian will run without performance issues.
Shopping for a new laptop and need a recommendation on a model? We’ve gathered a list of Dell, Apple and Lenovo devices for you below.
Wondering whether to get a Mac or PC? Choose whichever one works for you, both are supported by the University and you will be able to learn and access the same softwares and services from either platform.
We highly recommend that you opt for a Dell if you’re interested in buying a Windows based laptop as we have partnered with the vendor to offer a deep discount for Laurentian students. You can access this discount by visiting www.dell.ca/laurentian and following the onscreen instructions.
Recommendations
Vendor | Model | Cost | Performance |
Dell | Latitude 3510 | $$ | ⭐⭐ |
Dell | Precision 3551 | $$$ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Dell | Chromebook 3100 | $ | ⭐ |
Dell | Chromebook 3100 2in1 | $ | ⭐ |
Apple | 13-inch MacBook Air | $$$ | ⭐⭐ |
Lenovo | 300e Chromebook 2in1 | $ | ⭐ |
Lenovo | ThinkPad L14 | $$ | ⭐⭐ |
Lenovo | ThinkPad P14s | $$$ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Lenovo | 100e Chromebook | $ | ⭐ |
Webcams & Microphones
If you’ve decided to buy one of the computing devices above, you’re all set as they already have a built-in webcam. We do however recommend that you get yourself a good pair of noise cancelling headphones with a microphone
If you don’t have a built-in microphone and webcam in your laptop or computing device, or would like to add to your current setup, we recommend that one of the following items:
The following are available from Amazon, Best Buy, Staples or direct from the manufacturer.
Webcam
Headphones and Microphone combination
Logitech H800 BLUETOOTH WIRELESS HEADSET
Logitech H540 USB COMPUTER HEADSET
Recommended and mandatory software
If you’ve opted for a Windows based PC, you will need to ensure to have anti-virus and anti-malware software installed. You can either use the Windows 10 Microsoft Defender Antivirus that comes free with your Windows device or use a commercial alternative like ESET and MalwareBytes .
Please note that Windows 7 is no longer supported by Microsoft and will not be supported by IT. You will need to update your device to Window 10 to be able to connect and receive support from the Information Technology department.
As the majority of the services you will assess for your courses are web-based (e.g the Desire2Learn learning management system, the myLaurentian and Self-service portals etc) you need to ensure that you’re using the most recent and stable version of a supported web browser. We recommend that you use:
Bandwidth and Internet services at home
We recommend a broadband connection over wireless, wired or 3G/4G/LTE, with a minimum connection speed of 1.2Mbps (up-down).
If you’re unsure about what speed of connection you have, you can use the following website to test your speed:
https://www.speedtest.net/?r=r
Please note that you’ll want to test the speed at various times of the day and take the average of all results. You should also ensure, whenever possible, that you stop any other transfers during the test (e.g pause your Netflix / Youtube, disconnect from Spotify etc).
You can also test your existing connection at home, and the use of your webcam and microphone, using the “join a test meeting” using the Zoom website:
VPN
And finally, once you’ve got everything else figured out, you’ll need one last piece of software in order to access resources that are normally only accessible from campus. The VPN (virtual private network) will create a secure and encrypted connection from your laptop or computing device to the Laurentian campus and, once connected, give you access to on-campus software that you may need for your labs and coursework.
You can get the VPN software from the https://ssl.laurentian.ca and follow the instructions on the screen.
Still have questions or concerns? Talk to us, we’re available from 9 to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday, using the live chat https://rocketchat.laurentian.
Laurentian Online
Laurentian Online for Credit Programs and Courses
Laurentian Online offers the largest selection of bilingual (English and French) distance education programs in Canada.
Envision the possibilities.
Laurentian Online offers 26 degree program options and nearly 400 courses in an asynchronous online format. Our offerings provide the flexibility to complete a full program of study or complement on-campus study.
Laurentian Online provides:
- Online degree programs and courses
- College-to-online degree pathways
- Admission opportunities three times a year
- Courses are created by faculty members and national research experts, undergo rigorous peer review processes, and hold the same learning outcomes as on- campus courses.
Program Offerings
Undergraduate Programs
The following undergraduate degree programs are available fully online or through distance education. Click on the program title, followed by "Program Details" and "Degree Options" for more information on specific degree requirements.
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Criminology (3-year Concentration)
- Equity, Diversity and Human Rights (3-year Concentration, 4-year Major)
- Gerontology (3-year Concentration, 4-year Major, 4-year Specialization)
- History (3-year Concentration, 4-year Major)
- Interdisciplinary Studies (4-year Major, only with subject areas available completely online)
- Psychology (3-year Concentration, 4-year Major, and 4-year Honours Specialization with non-thesis)
- Sociology (3-year Concentration)
You may also complete a General BA (3-year) with two (2) minors. For further information regarding minors please see below.
Other undergraduate degree programs:
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) (4-year as a 2+2.5 format)*
- Bachelor of Forensic Identification Degree (3-year, may require on-site practicum attendance)
Offered exclusively to Forensic Identification Officers - Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work (4-year)
- Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Science (3-year)**
- offering continuations in:
- BIOLOGY (BIOL 1000; BIOL 1700; BIOL 2011; BIOL 2110; BIOL 2701; BIOL 2757; BIOL 2806)
- CHEMISTRY (CHMI 1031; CHMI 1032; CHMI 2031; CHMI 2041; CHMI 2220; CHMI 3031)
- GEOLOGY (GEOL 1021; GEOL 1022; GEOL 2021; GEOL 2022; GEOL 2046; GEOL 3312; GEOL 3811)
- PHYSICS (PHYS 1211; PHYS 1212; PHYS 1905; PHYS 2606; PHYS 2616; PHYS 3306; PHYS 3616)
- offering continuations in:
*The 4-year online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree will be delivered in a 2+2.5 format.
**The 3-year online degree is a terminal degree which does not allow you to transfer directly into the 4-year Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Science. The 4-year degree is only available on-campus and requires 1st and 2nd year courses that are not covered by the 3-year online degree. Interested in the 4-year degree? Refer to the on-campus page here for more information
Statement of Professional Learning
- Cardiac Care on the Web
- Fingerprint Detection and Analysis*
- Fire Scene Management and Investigation*
Offered exclusively to Fire Investigators
*These for credit professional development opportunities require on-site practicums
Graduate Programs
Support Services for Online and Distance Learners
The Student Success Centre
The Student Success Centre offers a variety of academic supports to help students transition to university and succeed during their studies.
- Student Success Advising
Academic advisors help students better understand their goals, their academic plans, and guide students as they make important decisions about their future. - Academic Writing Support
Academic Writing assistance is available to all Laurentian students who would like some extra help to improve their writing skills. - Student Success Tutoring
Learning Assistance provides students with resources and opportunities to improve their ability to learn at a university level.
Laurentian Online
Understanding the distinct needs of online learners, our team provides support and guidance to our student community to help them achieve their academic goals. Self-register for the A1-Orientation for Online Learners available on our learning management system.
Laurentian University Services and Supports
The J.N. Desmarais Library offers a variety of services for online and distance learners. For example, any library material that is not available to you electronically, can be ordered through OMNI, whether the material is located in Laurentian's own collections - or elsewhere.
Interested in our Programs?
Laurentian Online FAQ
How much time should I spend on one class every week?
A three-credit course is offered over one semester. You should set aside 15 - 20 hours a week to read, work on assignments, do research, participate in online discussions, watch videos, and study for tests.
How do I access my online/distance education course?
Laurentian Online uses the learning management system Desire2Learn (D2L).
You will have access to your course(s) on the first day of term.
Are textbooks included?
All the material for your online course(s), except for the required textbook(s), can be found online.
You may order the required text(s) and case packages from the online Bookstore.
Are there weekly class times?
Laurentian Online courses are geared towards asynchronous learning.
Meaning there are no scheduled weekly class meetings; however, course professors may choose to schedule a videoconference once or more during the semester.
Do I have a specific time frame in which I must complete a course?
You must complete a course within its assigned academic semester.
How many semesters are offered each year?
Courses are delivered in four terms annually: fall (F), fall/winter (FW), winter (W) and spring (SP).
You can consult the Important Dates calendar to learn the “start” and “end” dates of each semester.
Will I have to come on campus?
You will not be required to come on campus to complete an online/distance course.
Will I have to write a final exam?
Your course may contain a final in-person exam. Note that every effort will be made to provide an examination location that is within 100 km for students residing in Canada. However, you will be required to find an invigilator for your invigilated exam if:
- You are located more than 100km from one of our listed test centres; or
- You are registered with Accessibility Services and writing outside of Sudbury, or
- You are writing your exam outside of Canada
If you selected an exam centre, the exam location address, room information, and allowable examination room materials will be provided to you seven days before the examination period.
Can online students apply for financial assistance?
Yes, Online students can apply for financial assistance.
Grants, awards, bursaries, and loans are available to part-time and full-time students who qualify.
What services are available to online learners?
There are many services available to online learners.
Online learners can benefit from Accessibility Services, Academic Advising, Library, Counseling, Indigenous Student Affairs as well as many more.
How much is tuition?
Based on several factors, your university fees consist of tuition, incidental and administrative fees.
The Fees and Financing section of our website will provide you with the information to help you organize and prepare your finances.
How do I pay my fees?
You can use one of the following methods to pay your tuition fees:
- Internet banking
- Telephone banking
- Interac® debit card
- In person at the bank
Paying your tuition fees online is the easiest and fastest way. You can pay your tuition fees online if your financial institution is on the following list: CIBC Bank, Bank of Montreal, National Bank, Royal Bank, Scotiabank, Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), Caisses Desjardins, or Credit Union.
The only way to pay your fees by credit card would be through a third-party service provider.
Click here for further information regarding payment methods.
What do I need to know about Online Learning?
In an online course, everything you need is found on the D2L Brightspace platform except for your textbooks and/or select reading packages, which you will need to purchase from the Laurentian Bookstore. The benefits of online courses are that they are more interactive and contain built-in communication features, such as the discussion board. You can therefore connect with other students and your instructor easily.
All Laurentian Online courses are completed via a learning management system. Depending on the course, you may be required to work independently or with a group. Working online does have its challenges, but it also comes with many benefits. The majority of the Laurentian Online courses are delivered in an asynchronous format, meaning students have the flexibility to read, do coursework, and go online at their convenience rather than be at a specific place at a designated time. Assignments, however, will have set deadline dates throughout the semester.
Questions to ask yourself in order to become a successful online learner
- Do I have the time and support required to successfully complete my online distance education course?
- Do I have the support of my family and employer?
- Do I have 15-20 hours a week to read, work on assignments, do research, participate in online discussions, watch videos, and study for tests?
- Do I have a designated space that I intend to do my coursework and readings throughout my course(s)?
- Can I arrange time off on weekends or evenings to attend my final exam or work on a major assignment?
Contact Us
Laurentian Online
Centre for Teaching and Continuing Learning
online@laurentian.ca
J.N. Desmarais Library, 2nd Floor
935 Ramsey Lake Road
Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6
Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6
Recruitment
Online Courses
2026 Spring - Tentative Online Course Offerings
Below is the list of the online courses in English, tentatively being offered during the Spring 2026 session.
Please click here for the tentative 2026 Spring courses available in French.
Note: Textbooks for your online courses may be purchased from the Laurentian University bookstore. In order to avoid delays, when possible we do recommend you select the electronic version of the course materials.
2025-26 Fall/Winter - Laurentian Online Course Offerings
Below are the online courses in English being offered during the Fall, Fall/Winter and Winter sessions.
Please click here for the Fall/Winter list of online courses available in French.
Note: Textbooks for your online courses may be purchased from the Laurentian University bookstore. In order to avoid delays, when possible we do recommend you select the electronic version of the course materials.
Good luck with your studies!
Your online course will be available the first day of the term. All the material for courses (except required and suggested textbooks, which are listed in the calendar descriptions below) can be found online on the learning platform D2L.
Laurentian Online courses are designed to help you maximize your chances for success. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your online/distance education course(s), please do not hesitate to email our team at online@laurentian.ca.
Already a student? Ready to register?
Not sure what course to take? Need academic advising?
Not yet a student?
Laurentian Online
J.N. Desmarais Library, 2nd Floor
935 Ramsey Lake Road
Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6
935 Ramsey Lake Road
Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6
Exam Process for Online and Distance Courses
1. Are online course final exams mandatory?
Supervised (invigilated) exams are compulsory for all Laurentian online/distance education courses unless otherwise stated in your course. All students must write an invigilated exam on the specified date and time. Check the Important Dates section of the Laurentian Online for examination period information. Do not make plans that conflict with the exam dates.
The official examination schedule (with your examination date and time) will be released by the Office of the Registrar approximately six weeks prior to the examination date.
2. Where will I have to write my final exam?
Note that every effort will be made to provide an examination location that is within 100 km for students residing in Canada. Students living in remote locations or outside of Canada may be required to find an supervisor (invigilator). The Examination Coordinator will advise you the eight weeks prior to the exam period of your course if an invigilator is required for your examination.
If you selected an exam centre, the exam location address, room information and allowable examination room materials will be provided to you seven days prior to the examination period.
3. Must I present photo ID?
All students must present photo ID (e.g., OneCard (student card), driver’s license, health card, passport, etc.) at each examination. There are no exceptions to this regulation.
4. What does invigilation mean?
Invigilation means that an exam invigilator or supervisor is present furing the final exam to ensure that cheating does not occur. An exam invigilator is someone who is selected by the Exam Coordinator for maintaining the proper conduct of a particular examination in accordance with the exam regulations.
5. Who can be an invigilator?
Exam invigilators are appointed to a position of trust and they should possess the quality, integrity and vigilance to conduct the examinations in exact accordance with the exam regulations. You will be provided with further information regarding invigilators when you register for your final exam location.