Lakehead University is a learner-centred institution with campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia, Ontario, Canada.
Lakehead University describes itself as dynamic, modern, and highly learner-centred. Its main campus is at 955 Oliver Road in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and it also has a campus in Orillia at 500 University Avenue. The university has been operating for 60 years.
Over 8,500 students study across undergraduate and graduate programs, with more than 65 programs to choose from. Classes are smaller, and students can begin undergraduate research as early as first year. 100% of students engage in experiential learning opportunities.
Facilities listed on the university's website include residence tennis courts, a residence basketball court, a residence ice rink, the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse, The Hangar, Wolf Den, the Orillia on-campus fitness room, the Thunderwolves Icefield, and the Centre for Analytical Services (LUCAS). The Bartley Kitchenette is also listed.
Lakehead hosts 11 Canada Research Chairs and has a Paleo-DNA Laboratory and a Biorefining Research Institute. In the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, it was ranked 90th overall among 2,318 institutions and was the top-ranked university with under 10,000 students in Canada and North America. It ranked 2nd in Canada and 23rd in the world for SDG 1: No Poverty.
Undergraduate admission is available on a general basis, based on academic background and program. Separate routes exist for Post Diploma (College Transfer) Engineering applicants and Nursing transfer applicants.