The Royal College is the national professional association that oversees the medical education of specialists in Canada. We accredit the university programs that train resident physicians for their specialty practices, and we write and administer the demanding examinations that residents must pass to become certified as specialists. We protect the health of Canadians by helping physicians build skills, knowledge and expertise in their specialties. 

Our Maintenance of Certification Program supports specialist physicians along their paths of lifelong learning and professional development and ensures their continued competence in a constantly evolving medical environment. The Royal College share our expertise and maintain close working relations with Canada’s 17 university medical schools, national professional associations, national specialty societies, voluntary health organizations and government agencies. Our voice is respected and influential in critical discussions on issues that affect medical education, medical research and the delivery of high-quality health care to Canadians. 

The Royal College contribute to scholarship on medical education, educational standards and health policy. In collaboration with leading researchers and partners in specialty medicine, we work to establish more effective ways to assess physician competence and find innovative solutions to health system issues that are important to Canadians. 

In June 1929, a special act of Parliament established the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada to oversee postgraduate medical education. At first, the Royal College offered just two specialty qualifications: Fellowship in general medicine and Fellowship in general surgery. Now, the Royal College recognizes almost 100 specialties, subspecialties, special programs and Areas of Focused Competence (AFC-diplomas). 

In 2009, Royal College Canada International was established to serve as the Royal College’s mechanism for facilitating international initiatives. Expanding activities in the international arena also include humanitarian work and the Royal College’s collaborative relationships with sister colleges in other countries. 

The Royal College’s building is admired and recognized as an architectural landmark. Located at 774 Echo Drive in Ottawa, Ont., the brick building was formerly the monastery of the Sisters Adorers of the Precious Blood. It was originally constructed in 1921, and the tall arches, striking stained glass and other key design features reflect this long history.