Canada is a renowned global champion in education, innovation, and research for international students. With research, Canada is transforming fields like medicine, biology, information technologies, agriculture, earth and environmental sciences, etc.
In recent years, top universities in canada for masters have spent CAD 14.3 billion on research and development (R&D)(1).
| Universities in Canada for Masters fees | 10,000 CAD to 80,000 CAD |
| Duration for Masters in top universities | 8 months (accelerated)
1-2 years (full-time) 2.5 years to 4 years (part-time) |
| Best programs for MS in Canada | Data Science, Masters in Business Administration, Computer Science, Public Health, Education Administration, Applied Science, Medicine Engineering, Applied Computing |
| Scholarships for MS in Canada | Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Graduate Global Leadership Fellowships, Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships |
| In-demand Jobs after MS in Canada for international students | Research Scientist, Business Analyst, Data Scientist, Software Developer, Human Resources Specialist |
Why Study in Top Universities in Canada for Masters
- World Class Education: The best universities in Canada for masters rank high in QS and Times Higher Education Rankings. The programs have leading academic curricula and learning facilities, renowned all over the world.
- Quality of Life: Canada ranks third in the world for the highest quality of life for international students.
- Flexibility to Transfer Courses: Canada has Flexible, high-quality education and research opportunities like the USA which allows you to transfer your studies to anywhere in the world.
- Welcomes International Students: Canada is a safe and culturally diverse society that welcomes all communities and languages. You’ll feel at home in the classroom and the city. The education is renowned for cultural exchange and systematic understanding. Immigration pathways and Permanent Residence attract the brightest and most achieving students around the world.
- Affordability: Programs in Canada have high academic excellence along with affordable fees preferred by international students. The fees are generally lower than top universities in the USA or UK.
Best Universities in Canada for Masters
Below are the 20 best universities in Canada for MS programs in Canada for international students.
| University | QS Global Ranking 2025 |
| University of Toronto | 25 |
| McGill University | 29 |
| University of British Columbia | 38 |
| University of Alberta | 96 |
| University of Waterloo | 115 |
| Western University | 120 |
| Universite de Montreal | 159 |
| McMaster University | 176 |
| University of Ottawa | 189 |
| Queen’s University at Kingston | 193 |
| University of Calgary | 198 |
| Dalhousie University | 275 |
| Simon Fraser University | 319 |
| University of Saskatchewan | 340 |
| University of Victoria | 349 |
| York University | 362 |
| Concordia University | 415 |
| Universite Laval | 423 |
| University of Guelph | 456 |
| University of Windsor | 547 |
University of Toronto
The master’s program provides professional training through coursework. The academics are resourceful, entrepreneurial, and have interdisciplinary excellence. The University of Toronto is the most sustainable in the world out of more than 1,400 institutions in 95 countries.
The University of Toronto teaches using the latest technology and provides largely diverse learning opportunities.
| Address | 27 King’s College, Toronto, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1827 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 1- 4 years |
| Programs offered | Aerospace, Psychology, Urban Design, Applied Computing, Finance Risk Management, Global Affairs, Public Health, Health Administration, Mathematical Finance, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Electrical and Computer Engineering |
| Phone number | +1 416-978-2011 |
| Official Site | https://www.utoronto.ca/ |
McGill University
McGill University ranks in the top 2 universities in the world. It is renowned around the world for the excellence of its teaching, state-of-the-art equipment, and research facilities. The students at McGill have the highest grade averages and are the brightest in Canada.
The master’s programs enrich students with practical and innovative methods, resourceful thinking, professional opportunities, scientific communication, and cutting-edge learning opportunities.
| Address | 845 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1821 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 1- 3 years |
| Programs offered | Mechanical engineering, Chemical Engineering, Geography, mathematics and statistics, physiology, surgical innovation, nursing, cell biology, medical radiation physics, Law, Finance management, manufacturing management, business administration, analytics, and professional accounting. |
| Phone number | +1 514-398-7878 |
| Official Site | https://www.mcgill.ca/ |
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia has been fostering curiosity, knowledge, innovation, excellent teaching and research since 1915. UBC is a modern institute of dynamic ideas and positive transformation.
Students are enriched with a rich learning culture, multidisciplinary research, and a global, engaging setting. The master’s program equips students with a real-world learning setting, technology, best knowledge-gaining methods, and practical application.
| Address | University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1908 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 1- 3 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Biomedical Engineering, Business Administration, management, business analytics, Civil Engineering, Data Science, Health Administration, Mathematics Education, medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, fine arts. |
| Phone number | +1 604 822 2211 |
| Official Site | https://www.ubc.ca/ |
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is Top 4 in Canada and 91st in the Academic Ranking of World Universities. The University of Alberta has garnered an international reputation for excellence in the humanities, sciences, creative arts, business, engineering, and medical sciences. The master’s programs have expert academics in a large diversity of courses, imparting a wealth of knowledge.
| Address | 116 St 85 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1906 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 1- 2 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Public health, medicine, psychology, nursing, master of business administration, master of science, political science, physics, neuroscience, surgery, economics, linguistics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, educational studies, and computing science. |
| Phone number | +1 780-492-3111 |
| Official Site | https://www.ualberta.ca/en/index.html |
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo has top-ranking facilities like 1st most innovative university in Canada in the Maclean’s University Rankings 2024. The university cultivates the latest knowledge and a global network of links and organizations for students. Students are prepared for a positive change in a complex, scientific, and technological world with valuable knowledge.
| Address | 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1956 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 1- 2 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Physics, nanotechnology, earth sciences, biology, chemistry, quantum technology, applied science, philosophy, Engineering Co-op, Management Science Co-op, Management of Technology, Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology, civil engineering, chemical engineering, electrical and computer engineering |
| Phone number | +1 519 888 4567 |
| Official Site | https://uwaterloo.ca/ |
Western University
The Western University achieves transformational change and excellence among students for world welfare. It is the Top 3rd university in Canada for student services in Maclean’s University Rankings 2024. It also ranks in the top 1% of universities in the world in the Centre for World University Rankings 2024.
The graduate school and its world-class faculty at Western University shape ideas and greater knowledge for a positive future. The graduate studies inculcate progress, development, and a resourceful curriculum. An enriching theoretical learning and quality hands-on experience prepare graduate students for the biggest career challenges.
| Address | Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1878 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 1- 2 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Power Systems Engineering, software engineering, Engineering in Medicine, Accounting, Advanced Health Care Practice, Artificial Intelligence, Business Administration, Data Analytics, Economics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Political Science. |
| Phone number | +1 519-661-2111 |
| Official Site | https://www.uwo.ca/ |
University de Montreal
The Universite de Montreal ranks first in Quebec as an education hub. The university engages students in interdisciplinary collaboration, a vast wealth of knowledge, and professional achievement. Students deepen their knowledge with advanced research, innovation, thesis, cutting-edge coursework, Internationally renowned faculty, and scientific excellence.
| Address | 2900 Edouard-Montpetit Boul, Montreal, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1878 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 2- 4 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Biochemistry, biomedical engineering, business law, computer science, comparative literature, criminology, education administration, forensics and information, health technology assessment, international studies, informational sciences, mathematical and computational finance. |
| Phone number | +1 514 343-6111 |
| Official Site | https://www.umontreal.ca/en/ |
McMaster University
McMaster University teaches and prepares students to foster the welfare of society and the world. The university brings innovative approaches to teaching, research, collaboration, and creative solutions and is a premier institute of problem-based learning.
Students are taught with scholarly teaching strategies, increasing knowledge, and professional disciplines. Teachers challenge traditional teaching, assessment, and evaluation methods, believing in the Institutional Quality Assurance Process.
| Address | 1200 Main St W, Hamilton ON, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1887 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 2- 4 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Biochemistry, biomedical engineering, biology, business administration, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computing and Software, Computational Science and Engineering, Engineering Physics, Finance, globalization, global health, Health Research Methodology, Neuroscience. |
| Phone number | +1 905-524-3465 |
| Official Site | https://www.mcmaster.ca/ |
University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa has a friendly community to cultivate knowledge with no boundaries, technology, and cutting-edge expertise and reach the maximum potential. From Co-op work opportunities, interconnected global perspective, work-study programs, and international exchange, the University of Ottawa has more than academic excellence to offer to its international community of students.
It is the 5th largest co-op program in the country and has more than 4500 employers. The master’s programs are an opportunity for fulfillment, career progress, and achievement.
| Address | 75 Laurier Ave. East, Ottawa, ON, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1848 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 10 months- 2 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Executive Master of health administration, communication, economics, education, applied science chemical engineering, political science, public administration, business administration, masters of engineering advanced materials and manufacturing. |
| Phone number | +1 613-562-5700 |
| Official Site | https://www.uottawa.ca/en |
Queen’s University at Kingston
The Queen’s University at Kingston is ranked 8th in 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. Queen’s University is prepared for the bigger challenges in community, teaching, and learning, with a strong network of 150,000 global alumni. The Queen’s mission is marked by global engagement and a better future for the world. The various faculties at the Queen’s University are:
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Arts and Science
- Smith Engineering at Queen’s University
- Faculty of Education
- Smith School of Business
| Address | 99 University Ave, Kingston ON, Canada |
| Year Founded | 1841 |
| Duration of Masters Program | 10 months- 2 years |
| Masters Programs offered | Cancer research, health sciences, Biostatistics, astrophysics, history, chemistry, biology, economics, computing, public administration, mathematics and statistics, chemical engineering, engineering and applied physics, civil engineering, mechanical and materials engineering, management, and education. |
| Phone number | +1 613 533 2000 |
| Official Site | https://www.queensu.ca/ |
How to Choose the Top Universities in Canada for Masters?
University Rankings
Researching the university rankings and achievements will give you an insight into the facilities, technology, history of teaching methods, and quality of education. Many universities in Canada rank for leading research, positive change, and employability. This will be the best decision for your future and bring out the best in you for a Master’s in Canada.
- QS World University Rankings
- Academic Rankings of World Universities (ARWU)
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings
Types of Institutions in Canada for Higher Education
There are three types of education institutions in Canada with different education systems, characteristics, and offerings. Students should check the types to settle for the best option for their educational goals.
- Liberal Arts Colleges: These colleges provide a well-rounded development of students in ideal smaller class sizes. These colleges focus on creativity, thirst for knowledge, and intellectual studies. Some of the liberal arts colleges in Canada are the University of King’s College, Bishop’s University, St. Francis Xavier University, Simon Fraser’s University, and Acadia University.
- Public Institutions: These colleges are government-managed and funded and have the best state-of-the-art facilities. Students study in a diverse community, an environment full of learning opportunities and diverse academic programs, networking and research innovation, and academic progress. Some of the public universities include the University of Waterloo, the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
- Private Institutions: These institutions rely on donations and fees for funding, having no funding source like government funds. These colleges have smaller classes, unique academic and learning methods, specialized learning, and focus on growing individual knowledge. Some of the private educational institutions in Canada are York University, Trinity Western University, Yorkville University, and the University of Calgary.
Intakes for Admission Process
Find out which of the main intakes are best for you. Check the top colleges, and programs offering requirements in the fall and winter intake in Canada. Comply with the requirements and present yourself as a committed, ambitious, and passionate student with relevant experience to increase your chances of acceptance into the colleges. Decide which program, study patterns, and learning methodology is best for your educational requirements and plan accordingly.
Read more in Detail: Upcoming Intakes in Canada
The Course Structure
The course structure determines the quality of education, knowledge, and learning methodology involved during the program. Students should be aware of the course topics, facilities, professional skills, work opportunities, credits, top faculty, and other crucial prospects of the course and department.
Check the assessment, teaching techniques like case studies, research and lectures, specialization, reputation, and top industry networks provided for students.
Work and Placement
Investigate the placement reputation, work opportunities, internships, co-op programs, recruiters, industry network, and career guidance. Knowing and planning your prospects will lay a foundation for your future opportunities.
Other factors
Above are just as important to familiarise yourself with university life and quality of education. The other factors when choosing and investigating a university are :
- Scholarships and student support services
- Location, student life, campus facilities, and surrounding areas
- Research and faculty standards
- Diversity and international student community
Requirements for Universities Canada for Masters
- You must have completed a bachelor’s degree or relevant qualification from a recognized institution in the field of study of the Masters program you are applying to.
- English proficiency tests like IELTS 7.0, PTE, CAEL, and TOEFL
- GPA 3.1 out of 4.0/ 63 percent/ first class/ 1:2 degree/ B+ grade
- Admission interview
Documents Required for MS in Canada
- Proof of financial resources for living costs, fees, and travel fare.
- Academic transcript and certificates
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Curriculum Vitae
- Provincial Attestation Letter
Explore more: Minimum Bank Balance for A Canada Student Visa
Scholarships for Masters in Canada
Government Scholarships in Canada
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program
Scholarships in Universities in Canada for Masters
- University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
- University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
- UBC Graduate Global Leadership Fellowships
- University of Calgary Graduate Awards
- University of Waterloo International Master’s Awards
- University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarships
Private Scholarships
- Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
- Mitacs Globalink Graduate Fellowship
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Read more in detail: Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada
Job Opportunities after Masters in Canada
| Job Profile | Description | Average Salary |
| Marketing Manager | Marketers develop strategies to reach customers, promote services, create marketing campaigns, raise brand awareness, and increase sales. | $77,760 |
| Business Analyst | Canada’s strong business and finance sectors mean a high value for analytical thinkers who can study data, business processes, and accounts, identify trends, improvise strategic recommendations, and work on business principles. | $75,281 |
| Research Scientist | Canada’s innovative environment and cutting-edge research facilities make it an ideal place for Research Scientists. They contribute to scientific advancement through experimentation, hypothesis testing, data analysis, and publishing research papers. | $73,973 |
| Software Developer | With the growing tech industry, Canada needs talented Programmers and Software Engineers to design applications, develop software, program, code, and maintain a wide range of applications. | $82,012 |
| Financial Analyst | In Canada’s diverse industries, Financial Analysts play a crucial role in sectors like Investment Banking, Corporate Finance, and Risk Management. They analyze economic trends and market conditions to provide investment advice and strategic recommendations. | $71,002 |
| Accountant | Accountants manage and analyze financial records, prepare financial statements, and oversee income, expenditures, and tax obligations. Their responsibilities include project planning, cost analysis, auditing, financial strategy, and tax preparation. | |
| Human Resources | HR professionals are essential for recruiting talent, managing employee relations, designing work strategies, maintaining workplace efficiency, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. | $85,850 |
| Management Consultant | Management Consultants are sought after for their analytical and problem-solving skills. They assess business performance, profitability, and operational efficiency to provide strategic guidance and improve organizational effectiveness. | $90,271 |
| Data Scientist | Data scientists are in demand in organisations. Data scientists extract data, analyze the scientific data from complex information, and decide a course of action within the organization. | $97,267 |
Contact our study in canada consultants for free counselling for you and teaching facilities in the top Canada university for MS.
FAQ Regarding “Best Universities in Canada for Masters”
How much does it cost for a master’s in Canada?
The affordable master’s programs in Canada usually cost anywhere between 10,000 CAD to 80,000 CAD. The fees are specific and subject to change in every university, program, and cost of living.
Read more in detail: How Much Money Is Required to Study in Canada?
Which master’s degree is best in Canada?
All the master’s programs in Canada have cutting-edge research and foster student growth and development. However, some of the excelling master’s programs in Canada are:
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Computer Science, Information Technology or Artificial Intelligence
- Master of Engineering
- Master of Data Science
- Master of Education
- Master of Health Sciences
- Master of Law
- Master of Fine Arts
- Master of Public Health
- Master of Finance
- Master of Human Resources
- Master of Management
How many years is MS in Canada?
Most of the full-time master’s programs last one to two years. Some courses might exceed the duration to three years depending on research and thesis, the main focus of Canadian education.
Explore more: 1 Year Masters Program in Canada for International Students
Do Canadian universities offer internships after a Masters?
Yes. Most of the top Canadian universities have renowned career placements, study-with-work programs, internships, co-op internships, and work opportunities. They have great statistics for graduate employability, the number of recruiters, and professional opportunities. The universities that offer internships after master’s are:
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- University of Ottawa
- University of British Columbia
- Concordia University
- University of Waterloo
What GPA do you need for a Masters in Canada?
The minimum GPA requirement for a master’s in Canada is 3.0 out of 4.0 or its equivalent. Students need to have a B+ grade or 1:2 qualification.
