My program (French to English translation) is very unique and the university, of Ottawa's school of translation and interpretation within its faculty of arts, was one of the only schools in the province that offered it.
Course Curriculum
The curriculum is much more challenging than most people expect. It challenges the students in a way that greatly benefits their learning; however, often results in low grades. Although the students are still learning the same material that they were taught at the start of the first semester by the end of the second semester, they find that there is still much room for improvement, and the only way to improve is with practice.
Fees
The fees was very confusing as it is very difficult to figure out what exactly we \ were paying for. In the first year, it was especially so because housing and dining was listed as a second account, but the school requested they be paid together with tuition and school fees. The school did not add the numbers up for us. We pay for factory fees, transportation, health care, tuition, student federation fees and some others.
Examination Structure
Final exams are all written; however, most, if not all, language courses also have oral exams during the semester, and most courses have 1 to 3 midterms. The university offers accommodations for those with learning difficulties or who think differently (I.e. Different space/room; typing answers rather than hand writing; additional time... Etc.)
Faculty
Although the faculty is undergoing internal reconstruction to better serve the students, it is a little messy. It is oftentimes hard to communicate with the faculty and adding minors to the program is very difficult. The faculty does not advertise very clear guidelines for taking these minors. Trying to minor is something outside of the faculty us especially difficult because neither faculty knows which of them to consult to enroll in those classes.
