A university on the rise: Ontario Tech’s growth reflected in Maclean's 2027 rankings
Strong results in student services and research as Ontario Tech joins Canada’s mid-sized university group
November 2, 2026
Ontario Tech University’s continued growth, expanding research activity and strong student services results are highlighted in the latest Maclean’s University Rankings.
With more than 15,000 students, Ontario Tech is now assessed among Canada’s mid-sized universities under Maclean’s new size-based classification system, reflecting the university’s expanding size and scope, and placing it alongside larger institutions across the country.
Among Ontario’s mid-sized universities, Ontario Tech placed first for student services and second for research volume. Nationally, the university ranked second and fourth in these measures, respectively. The results highlight the importance of supporting students as the university continues to grow.
Meeting rising demand
First-year confirmations from Ontario high school students have increased by nearly 50 per cent since 2021, reaching a record high for the 2026-2027 academic year. Ontario Tech has also expanded its programs in high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, energy and emerging technologies. That momentum extends to research, with sponsored research funding growing by 24 per cent in 2026 to approximately $30.5 million.
Amid this continued expansion, Ontario Tech remains focused on student success, preparing career-ready graduates and advancing research that addresses real-world challenges, all guided by its commitment to tech with a conscience.
Quote
“Ontario Tech is growing because more students and partners see the value of what we do and the role we can play in Canada’s future. We’re preparing graduates for a rapidly changing economy, advancing research that responds to real-world challenges and building partnerships that turn ideas into impact. As we grow, our focus remains on creating an exceptional student experience and ensuring technology serves people and society.”
- Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University