Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Osgoode

The spirit of inclusion defines Osgoode and the wider York University community as we welcome students of diverse backgrounds, experience and perspectives. Our faculty members represent similarly varied outlooks and approaches while sharing a commitment to opening doors for all. Everyone at our school — students, faculty and staff — can count on having their views heard and finding others who share them.

This commitment to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion is reflected in all aspects of Osgoode, from our holistic admissions policy to the supports we provide to students with different learning needs. In addition to lowering barriers and promoting equity, we foster a culture of collaboration and the free exchange of ideas — all aimed at helping everyone thrive in our vibrant campus community.

Osgoode’s admissions policy recognizes outstanding students whose abilities are evidenced by social engagement and non-academic achievements, in addition to LSAT results and academic performance. We’ve introduced several initiatives that reduce socioeconomic barriers to enrolment. Together, these strategies help to ensure that every student cohort comprises varied perspectives and reflects the many dimensions of diversity — from language, culture and migration status to income, gender, sexuality and ability. In addition to enriching our school, our policies benefit Canadian society generally by promoting continued diversification of the legal profession.

Paving Pathways

Diversity in the legal profession begins with admission to law school. We have created programs that break down barriers and open doors for a new generation of people to enter the profession.

Learn more about our access programs ›

Supporting Success for All

Osgoode is committed to providing supports and accommodations to ensure an equitable learning environment for students with physical, medical, sensory, mental health and learning disabilities.

Learn more about our support programs ›

Committed to Indigenization

In 2018, Osgoode introduced the Indigenous and Aboriginal law graduation requirement for the JD program. All students must complete at least one course focused on Indigenous and Aboriginal law, including the professional practices and skills required to serve Indigenous clients fairly and effectively. Although this graduation requirement is new, our school has long been an active centre of research and learning with respect to Indigenous peoples and the law.

Learn more about our Indigenous programs ›

Aligned with York University

Osgoode embraces and is guided by York’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. York promotes a respectful and equitable university community through the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion, which provides accessible, impartial, non-adversarial and confidential programs and services designed to uphold human rights, facilitate equitable access to opportunities, and champion diversity and inclusion.

Learn more about York’s Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion ›

Statements on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Commitment to Combatting Anti-Black Racism

A national non-profit organization dedicated to advancing civil justice reform through research and advocacy.

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Statement of Mourning for 215 Indigenous Children

An independent and authoritative voice exploring legal governance issues at the intersection of intellectual property and technology.

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Statement by the Administration of Osgoode Hall Law School, the Osgoode Jewish Law Students’ Association and the Osgoode Muslim Law Students’ Association

Focuses on scholarship in feminism and law, with links to the Canadian Journal of Women and the Law / Revue Femmes et Droit and feminist and gender research centres in Canada and internationally.

View the statement