Mount Royal University: A Century of Higher Education in Calgary
Mount Royal University (MRU), located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, has a rich history and a diverse range of programs and courses. Founded in 1910, MRU has evolved from a college to a comprehensive university, playing a significant role in the educational landscape of the region. This article explores the history, programs, courses, and other key aspects of Mount Royal University.
A Historical Overview
Mount Royal University was established on December 16, 1910, by an Alberta provincial charter under the Arthur Sifton government and officially opened on September 8, 1911. Originally named "Mount Royal College", the institution was founded by Calgary Reverend George W. Kerby (1860-1944), who envisioned a higher education opportunity for young people from rural homes in the area. The provincial charter, presented in the legislature by R. B. Bennett, was titled "Bill 48, An Act respecting the Calgary College".
In 2015, the $69.69 million Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts (TCPA) officially opened. This state-of-the-art facility accommodates the growing Mount Royal Conservatory, a musical conservatoire that has been in operation since 1910, serving up to 10,000 Calgarians annually.
Academic Programs and Courses
Mount Royal University offers a wide array of courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study. As a comprehensive university, MRU provides a range of fields of study and degree levels.
Fields of Study and Degree Levels
Mount Royal University provides courses and programs across various disciplines. While a detailed matrix of fields of study and degree levels may be available, it is understood that MRU caters to a broad spectrum of academic interests, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels.
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Admission Requirements
Mount Royal has a general admission policy that applies to most undergraduate (credit) programs. Each program also has specific admission requirements. Admission to Mount Royal is competitive, meaning students with higher grades will be considered first. When applying for admission, final, official transcripts are required for all high school (secondary) and post-secondary coursework completed.
For international applicants, English language proficiency is a key requirement. The university accepts several standardized tests, including:
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language): 86 (minimum score)
- IELTS (International English Language Test [Academic]): 6.5 (minimum score)
- MET (Michigan English Test): 62 (minimum score)
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): 58 (minimum score)
- CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment): 70 (minimum score)
- LanguageCert Academic: 70 (minimum score)
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees at Mount Royal University vary depending on the student's status (local or international) and the degree level (undergraduate or postgraduate). Yearly tuition fees refer to the amount of money that a student is charged by the University for one academic year of full-time study.
University Facilities and Services
University facilities and services are important factors to consider when choosing a university.
Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts (TCPA)
The Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts is a significant addition to Mount Royal University. It houses 43 soundproof rehearsal studios, six ensemble suites, and the 787-seat Bella Concert Hall. The design, by Pfeiffer Partners Architects in cooperation with Sahuri + Partners, features a "contemporary interpretation of the rural barn on the expansive prairie of Alberta". The Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts is named after the family name of businessman, philanthropist, and Calgarian Don Taylor, who donated $21 million to the project.
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Riddell Library and Learning Centre
The Riddell Library and Learning Centre is another key facility at Mount Royal University, offering resources and spaces for students to learn and collaborate.
Athletics and Recreation
Mount Royal University's athletic teams are known as the Cougars. The university offers a range of athletic and recreational programs for students.
University Profile and Recognition
Mount Royal University is officially recognized by the Ministry of Advanced Education. It is a large-sized coeducational Canadian higher education institution.
Rankings and Reputation
Mount Royal University is a non-profit public higher education institution. The university has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.
Notable Alumni
Mount Royal University has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:
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- Doris Anderson (1939): Editor of Chatelaine magazine from 1957 to 1977.
- Paul Brandt (Nursing, 1992): The most awarded male country musician in Canadian history.
- Chris Gailus (Journalism, 1989): Emmy Award-winning news anchor.
- Norman Kwong (Commercial, 1949): Former CFL player and Alberta’s 15th Lieutenant Governor.
- Bruce McCulloch (Public Relations): Director, writer, actor, and comedian who has won several Gemini Awards and received multiple Emmy Award nominations.
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