Lakehead University offers a broad range of degree and diploma programs—including programs designed for Indigenous students—across nine faculties on two campuses. The university’s focus on research and experiential learning “provides opportunities for our students, throughout their degree, for hands-on learning in labs, co-ops and placements—all of which prepare students for jobs,” says outgoing president Moira McPherson. “Over 97 per cent of our graduates are working within six months of graduating.” (Gillian Siddall takes over as president later this year.)

The main campus—home to the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law—is located in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Sightings of foxes, beavers and deer are common. At the centre of campus, man-made Lake Tamblyn offers a prime fishing spot and doubles as a skating rink during the winter. A tunnel system that connects most campus buildings comes in handy on cold winter days. Thunder Bay is somewhat isolated from big cities, but affordable flights connect it to Toronto, Winnipeg and beyond. Lakehead’s Orillia campus, a 90-minute drive north of Toronto, offers a slate of programs in almost 20 areas, including interdisciplinary studies, criminology, environmental sustainability, and media, film and communications.