Canada is one of the top preferred countries for international students who decide to study abroad. In 2023, over 900,000 students enrolled for Canada education, and this trend is continuing to grow. With its excellent education system and its abundant research opportunities, Canada becomes the center-point for international students who carry the hope of a dream within themselves. Some of the best courses in Canada are also in high demand. These in-demand courses in Canada are determined in accordance with the job market and global needs. This raises the question: What are the in-demand courses?
Hence, this blog explores high-demand programs in Canada, provides information on short courses, and discusses how to choose the right course. It concludes with a section addressing frequently asked questions.
Which Courses are In Demand in Canada
Many international students dream to study abroad in Canada for its world-class education and its diverse culture. Students pursuing a degree in Canada often have a primary goal: to secure better job opportunities and establish their presence in society. Therefore, the following list outlines the in-high demand courses in Canada:
1. Engineering
2. Computer Science & Information Technology
3. Business Administration & Management
4. Medicine & Health
5. Environmental Science & Sustainability
6. Architecture & Urban Planning
7. Finance & Accounting
8. Law
9. Nursing & Healthcare Management
10. Psychology & Counselling
11. Physiotherapy
12. Media & Journalism
13. Human Resources
14. Project Management
15. Graphic Design
16. Tourism & Hospitality
Moreover, the domestic as well as the foreign students in Canada have a provision to work 20 hours part time while studying in Canada, which is considered the best country to study abroad.
In Demand Courses in Canada for International Students
The list above highlights the popular courses in Canada that attract international students. Within the list, some in-demand courses offer comparatively better job opportunities. Hence, one can say that these courses are “Canada Job Oriented Courses.” Therefore, the following briefs out the in-demand courses in Canada in a comprehensive manner:
1. Engineering
Engineering is a popular choice for international students applying for a Canada Study Permit. Since there are a wide number of top universities in Canada, engineering is considered an evolving course. With a diverse range of specializations, such as civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, students can tailor their education to match their interests and career goals.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
UG: 12th Score: Minimum 70% with minimum score of 55% in Mathematics
PG: Bachelor’s degree; Prior Work Experience (added advantage) IELTS; GMAT; GRE |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia University of Waterloo |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelors in Civil Engineering Bachelors in Electrical Engineering |
Job Opportunities |
Electrical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer Civil Engineer |
Top Employers |
IBM
Amazon CGI |
2. Computer Science & Information Technology
Similar to Engineering, Computer Science & Information Technology are among the most popular courses in Canada for international students. As our world becomes increasingly systematic, there is a growing need for advancements in technology. In response to this demand, top public universities in Canada offer relevant programs to help students develop the skills needed to thrive in the tech industry.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
UG: 12 years of Formal education with good IELTS score
PG: UG with recognized university. IELTS; TOEFL |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto
University of Waterloo University of British Columbia |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Computer Science
Masters in Computer Science Masters in Software Engineering |
Job Opportunities |
Cloud Engineers & Architects
Quality Assurance Analyst IT Project Manager |
Top Employers |
Deloitte
IBM RBC |
3. Medicine & Health
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the ratio of doctor-to-population is 1:1000. Even though Canada has surpassed the ratio of 2.7 doctors per 1,000 people, the demand for doctors and physicians continues to rise. The pandemic underscored the need for more healthcare professionals in every country, including Canada. In response, universities and colleges across Canada offer several top programs at various educational levels to meet this growing demand. A student with a valid Canada visa can enroll in a medicine course.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
UG: Diploma (or) Equivalent with 60% minimum score
PG: Competitive Medical Degree (or) equivalent IELTS/TOEFL; MCAT |
Top Universities |
McGill University
University of Alberta Dalhousie University |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Health
Bachelors in Life Science Bachelors in Medicine |
Job Opportunities |
Physiotherapist
Health service Administrator Occupational Therapist |
Top Employers |
Alberta Health Services
Fraser Health Vancouver Coastal Health |
4. Finance & Accounting
Finance & Accounting programs, one of the in-demand courses in Canada, offer a comprehensive foundation in financial management, reporting, and analysis, equipping students with essential skills for successful careers in the industry. The course combines the theoretical knowledge with practical applications to prepare the students for a dynamic fiscal landscape. Being one of the competitive fields, the Canada International students pursuing the course must excel academically and develop strong analytical skills to succeed in a dynamic job market.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
UG: Higher Secondary with 60% mark
PG: Completion of Bachelors IELTS/TOEFL/PTE; GMAT/GRE |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia Queen’s University |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Finance
Masters in Finance Economics Masters in Accounting |
Job Opportunities |
Financial Analyst
Financial Advisor Bookkeeper |
Top Employers |
RBC
TD Scotiabank |
5. Nursing & Healthcare Management
According to the data, the number of senior citizens aged 60 and above is steadily increasing, which could lead to significant challenges in the future. Consequently, this course is becoming one of the most in-demand courses in Canada, given the growing need to address the needs of an aging population. The universities offer nursing programs that deliver high-patient care, promote health and well-being, and lead healthcare effectively. For students worried about tuition fees, there are numerous Canada scholarships available to help ease the financial burden.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
UG: Completion of 12th or Equivalent
PG: Bachelors Completion IELTS/TOEFL |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto
University of Alberta McMaster University |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Nursing
Masters in Kinesiology Masters in Public Health Science |
Job Opportunities |
Nurse Practitioner
Critical Nurse Educator |
Top Employers |
Trillium Health Partners
Nova Scotia Health Authority University Health Network |
6. Architecture & Urban Planning
Architecture and urban planning in Canada showcase a rich tapestry of cultural influences, combining Indigenous heritage, colonial history, and contemporary design. Since the Canadian cities emphasize sustainability, they tend to focus on eco-friendly materials and technologies in their buildings. Additionally, urban planning prioritizes liveability and inclusivity, often incorporating transit-oriented development and vibrant public spaces. This dynamic field seeks to balance heritage with innovation, creating communities that are environmentally responsible and socially engaging.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
UG: Completion of high school diploma or equivalent
PG: Bachelors completion from recognized university IELTS/TOEFL (or) French |
Top Universities |
University of British Columbia
University of Toronto McGill University |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Architectural Studies
Masters in Urban Systems Industrial Design |
Job Opportunities |
Urban Designer
Landscape Architects Property Developer |
Top Employers |
MGA
KPMB Architects Lemay |
7. Psychology & Counselling
The Psychology & Counselling course is one of the in-demand courses in Canada that emphasize mental health and well-being, reflecting a country’s diverse population. The course covers essential theories, practices, and ethical considerations in mental health care. The curriculum includes research methods and evidence-based practices that prepare graduates to effectively support individuals on their mental health journeys.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements | Academic credentials
Work Experience (if applicable) IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
Top Universities |
University of British Columbia
University of Toronto McGill University |
Degrees to Pursue |
Masters in Psychology
Masters in Clinical Psychology Masters in Applied Psychology |
Job Opportunities |
Childcare Worker
Counsellor Community Worker |
Top Employers |
Fraser Health
CASA Mental Health Medavie Blue Cross |
8. Law
As advocates of justice, fairness, and equality, international students actively choose to come to Canada to pursue a law degree. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking, legal research, and writing skills, often incorporating case studies and practical experiences such as internships or moot court participation. The course empowers students for effective navigation of the complex legal system in Canada.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements |
Completion of high school diploma or Equivalent
LSAT Test IELTS/TOEFL |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto
McGill University University of British Columbia |
Degrees to Pursue |
LLB in International Law
LLB in Administrative Law LLB in Legal Studies |
Job Opportunities |
Attorney at Law
Patent Attorney Corporate Counsels |
Top Employers |
Dentons
Norton Rose Fulbright Epiq |
9. Media & Journalism
Media & Journalism occupies an important place in Canadian education. As per the data, the Canadian media market had reached 64 billion in 2020. Given the aftermath of the pandemic, the number is expected to rise. Not only bachelors, pursuing masters in Canada too helps to rope up in a reputable role in the media and journalism sector. Moreover, the program was tailored in a way that the students exposed themselves in the practical realm to explore the contemporary aspects of journalism.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements | UG: High school Diploma (or) Equivalent
PG: Bachelors; Work Experience (Advantage) IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia University of Montreal |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Journalism
Masters in Journalism Doctorate in Communication and Journalism |
Job Opportunities |
Journalist
Market Research Analyst Multimedia Manager |
Top Employers |
BBC
Thomson Reuters Bell |
10. Tourism & Hospitality
The Tourism & Hospitality course explores the travel industry and effective hospitality management. The curriculum includes hands-on experiences through internships and projects, covering topics like event management and hospitality technology. Moreover, students learn about tourism trends, sustainable practices, and cultural influences while developing skills in marketing, operations, and customer service. Overall, the program equips students to thrive in Canada’s vibrant tourism sector.
Eligibility / Basic Requirements | Certain academic credentials
GRE/GMAT scores IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
Top Universities |
University of British Columbia
University of Alberta University of Waterloo |
Degrees to Pursue |
Bachelors in Hospitality and Tourism Management
Masters in Arts and Tourism Management Masters in Tourism & Hospitality |
Job Opportunities |
Hotel Development
Hospitality Marketing & Digital Communications Event Management |
Top Employers |
Accor SA
Coast Hotels Limited Marriot International Inc. |
Short Term Courses in Canada
In addition to full-time courses, Canada also offers a variety of short courses. Like the in-demand courses in Canada, international students can opt for the short courses too. The major reasons for enrolling in short courses are affordability, quick job market entry, less program duration, and so on. To provide a broader perspective, here’s a list of the top in-demand short courses for international students:
1. Communication Course
2. Human Resource Management Course
3. Global Logistics Management & Professional Communication
4. Software Engineering
5. Business Administration
6. Digital Marketing and Social Media.
Scholarships in Canada for International Students
On average, the cost of studying in Canada ranges from $7000 to $40000 across different credentials. This excludes the living and accommodation costs. From the above, it is clear that a student who turns the valid Canada student visa application into a success may struggle to cover the financial expenses incurred while studying in Canada. To alleviate the financial burden, there are scholarships in Canada that help reduce expenses, as outlined below:
Government Scholarships:
-
- Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
- IRDC Research Awards
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship Program
Non-Government Scholarships:
-
- Anne Vallee Ecological Fund
- Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship
- Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships
University-Based Scholarships:
-
- University of Toronto Ontario Graduate Scholarships
- University of Waterloo International Funding
- McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid.
Average Salary in Canada
International students, after completing graduation in Canada, employ themselves as per the course and credential they’d enrolled in. Students enrolled in in-demand courses in Canada may receive a subjective salary. Hence, for a broader picture, the following table infers the average salary of a graduate who pursued the in-demand courses:
S.No | In-Demand Courses | Average Salary (CAD/year) |
1 | Engineering | 84.9k |
2 | Computer Science & Information Technology | 80.0k |
3 | Medicine & Health | 2.10L |
4 | Finance & Accounting | 90.3k |
5 | Nursing & Healthcare Management | 76.1k |
6 | Architecture & Urban Planning | 96.1k |
7 | Psychology & Counselling | 1.36L |
8 | Law | 1.26L |
9 | Media & Journalism | 62.4k |
10 | Tourism & Hospitality | 77.2k |
Why is it important to Choose the Right Course
There are three intakes in Canada for international students: Fall, Winter and Summer. A student can apply to a specific university multiple times in the subsequent intakes to increase their chances of a successful application. However, the student must choose the right course to pursue. This right course serves as a foundation for the student to build a fortified career. Also, there are other reasons to choose the right course, which are as follows:
1. Selecting the right course and qualification can significantly enhance a student’s chances of landing their dream job.
2. If a student chooses a course that doesn’t align with their dream job, they risk wasting both time and money. Additionally, they will need to acquire the necessary skills separately to pursue their desired career.
3. Most importantly, choosing the right course can significantly reduce educational stress. Furthermore, it provides students with a clear path post-graduation. Recent surveys reveal that those who study in Canada and excel in their fields often achieve promotions to higher promotions more rapidly.
4. One of the main reasons for visa refusal is selecting an inappropriate course. Applicants whose course of study choices are weak may face denial of their study visa for Canada.
Therefore, choosing the right course of study not only benefits students in the present but also shapes their future. To make an informed decision, thorough research and analysis are essential. If students need guidance, they can seek assistance from an expert counsellor like CanApprove for studying abroad.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing in-demand courses in Canada offers international students a valuable opportunity to enhance their skills and improve their career prospects. With a strong focus on quality education and diverse programs, Canada is an excellent choice for aligning studies with market needs. By choosing the right course, students can secure a rewarding future and navigate the challenges of studying abroad with confidence. For a student who wishes to seek guidance from scratch, consider CanApprove.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ )
- Which course has high demand in Canada?
Computer Science & Information Technology courses have high demand in Canada.
- Which course is best for PR in Canada?
There are several courses that are best suited for PR. Many people regard the Medicine & Health course as one of the best options for obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.
- Which degree has the most job opportunities in Canada?
Engineering and health degrees offer the best job opportunities in Canada.
- Which IT course is in demand in Canada?
There are more IT courses such as Web Development, AI, Cloud computing, and so on are in demand in Canada.
- How can I get a full scholarship in Canada?
You can get a full scholarship by meeting the eligibility criteria and submitting strong applications that highlight your achievements in academics and other skills.