It was incorporated into the city with amalgamation in 2001 (elections were held in 2000).

Previously, the ward existed on the earlier Ottawa-Carleton Regional Council.

The ward is represented on city council by Laine Johnson.

Prior to amalgamation, the area now covered by College Ward in Ottawa's west end was in Carleton Ward.

It was created in 1950, when Ottawa's west end was annexed from Nepean Township.