Universities in Canada

Why Canada

Canadian degrees are respected in academia, government and business worldwide. Programmes cover sciences, fine arts, economics, business, linguistics, technology, film and more — and many include paid placements. Canada consistently ranks among the countries with the highest quality of life, and Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Edmonton are known for safety and cultural diversity.

Types of institution

Canada has around 100 universities and about 150 public colleges and polytechnics. Universities award academic degrees; colleges and polytechnics focus on professional training with diplomas and certificates, and some award bachelor's degrees. College credits can often be transferred to a university.

Degree levels

• Bachelor's: four years
• Master's: one to two years — mostly academic and research-oriented
• Doctorate (PhD): three to four years
• Postgraduate certificates and diplomas: practical one-year-plus programmes, often with paid work placements
• Co-op programmes alternate study terms with paid work in the student's field

Visas

Programmes of up to six months can be taken on a visitor visa (which does not allow work). Longer study requires a study permit, which covers the whole period — even if a student moves from an English course to a pathway programme and then university. Study permit holders can usually work up to 24 hours a week off campus during term and full time in holidays. Since 2024 Canada has capped the number of new study permits, so plan early.

Study and work

If you are unsure which subject to choose, Canada's official Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca) shows demand, employers and salaries by profession and province — a useful way to see where graduates find work most easily.