Informatics is not only the study of computers but a wide range of subjects. These include programming languages, artificial intelligence theory, information systems, information technology, and software engineering. In this article, we will list the best universities for computer science in Canada. Canada has always been the preferred choice for study-abroad aspirants not only from India but from all over the world. Apart from degree and diploma courses, Canada is also known for professional courses which are a great source of job opportunities.
Around 400+ computer science courses in Canada cater to the needs of international students, making it a favorable study-abroad destination. Under the International Education Strategy (2019-2024), international students will be rewarded with even more funding for research programs to encourage students.
Do you know?
According to the Canadian Society for Employment and Social Development, 30-35% of international candidates studying computer science are placed with multinational companies each year. Software engineering is the most in-demand job for computer science graduates in Canada. In 2019, approximately 17,010 people were employed in this field.
Without further ado… Come along!
What all is covered in this post?
To make it easier for you, we have created a quick guide to everything you need to know about the best computer science universities in Canada.
But before we move on further, let’s first understand…
Topics covered
Why study Computer Science in Canada?
Studying computer courses in Canada has various advantages, some of which are described below:
- Research opportunities in Canada: The computer science program’s strong focus on software development and scientific research is one of the most popular reasons to study CS in Canada. The Government of Canada further supports research in computer science specializations.
- Bright opportunity: Demand for computer scientists or software professionals far outstrips labor supply in 2019-2028. In the coming years, 27,500 computer engineers are expected to be in demand compared to 24,000 new job seekers. This is why computer science is one of the popular career options in Canada for international students.
- Top Universities: Computer Science courses in Canada are highly sought-after programs. It is important to note that around 6 Canadian computer science universities were ranked in the top 100 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2022.
- Networking: Studying at the best computer science colleges in Canada allows a student to cultivate their global network. Thanks to this course, they can collaborate with the world’s leading minds and professionals around the world. This will further help them understand and demonstrate their work experience to get a job after graduation.
How to apply for computer science courses in Canada?
To apply for computer science courses in Canada, follow this step-by-step guide:
- Research: Explore Canadian universities and their computer science programs. Consider factors like curriculum, faculty, reputation, location, and admission requirements.
- Choose Universities: Select the universities where you wish to apply based on your preferences and eligibility.
- Check Admission Requirements: Review the specific admission requirements for each university, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS scores), standardized tests (e.g., SAT or ACT), and prerequisite courses.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume, standardized test scores, and proof of English language proficiency.
- Submit Online Application and Pay Fees: Visit the university’s official website or online application portal and complete the application form. Provide accurate and relevant information, paying attention to deadlines. Pay the required application fees online, which may vary depending on the university.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload all the required supporting documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores, as specified by each university.
- Track Application Status: Keep track of your application through the university’s online application portal. Follow up on any additional requirements or documentation if requested.
- Accept Offer and Apply for Study Permit: If accepted, review the offer letter, accept it, and follow the instructions to secure your spot. International students may need to apply for a study permit or visa.
Remember to check each university’s website for specific instructions as the application process may vary slightly.
10 best computer science universities in Canada
Most universities in Canada offer numerous degree programs in computer science such as Bachelor of Computer Science in Canada, MS in Computer Science in Canada, and more. Check out the list of Top 10 Universities in Canada for Computer Science with their QS World Subject Rankings 2022 in Computer Science.
| University | QS World University Rankings 2022 |
| University of Toronto | 12 |
| University of British Columbia | 21 |
| University of Waterloo | 25 |
| McGill University | 44 |
| Université de Montréal | 48 |
| University of Alberta | 104 |
| Simon Fraser University | 114 |
| Queen’s University at Kingston | 148 |
| University of Calgary | 151-200 |
| University of Ottawa | 201-250 |
Deepen your knowledge about academic options in Canada
About the best computer science universities in Canada
In this section, we will introduce you with the explanation of above-mentioned list of most popular universities in Canada for computer science:
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto has been ranked as the best university for computer science programs by various surveys. The computer science program offered here is intended for students who want to be trained as researchers capable of creating original and internationally recognized research in the field of computer science.
Popular courses along with the cost of study
- Bachelor of Applied Science [B. ASc] in Computer Engineering: $46,989
- Bachelor of Business Administration [B.B.A] in Management and Information Technology: $47,086
- Bachelor of Science [B. Sc] in Computer Science (co-op): $44,475
- Bachelor of Science [B. Sc] in Computer Science: $41,332
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computer Science: $20,379
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $47,416
- Master of Applied Science [M.ASc] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $20,379
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Applied Computing: $27,555
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computer Science: $6,364
University of British Columbia
Founded in May 1968, the UBC Department of Computer Science is among the best computer science departments in North America. This internationally recognized department offers a variety of computer science courses, an interdisciplinary faculty, innovative student enrichment, and flexible curriculum options for international students. So, you can choose this university to study in CS.
Below are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at the University of British Columbia:
- Bachelor of Applied Science [B.ASc] in Computer Engineering: $38,129
- Bachelor of Arts [B.A] in Computer Science: $29,680
- Bachelor of Commerce [B.Com] in Business and Computer Science: $38,404
- Bachelor of Computer Science [B.C.S] in Integrated Computer Science: $30,574
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Science: $30,573
- Master of Applied Science [M.ASc] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $6,714
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $15,792
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computer Science: $6,582
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computer Science: $8,952
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is a public university founded in 1957. Its main campus is located in Waterloo, Ontario, with satellite campuses in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Stratford. It is ranked 210th in Best Global Universities and 40th in Best Universities for Computer Science by US News and World Report Rankings. It offers 4 Bachelor’s, 7 Master and 4 Ph.D. degrees in Computer Science.
Here are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at the University of Waterloo:
- Bachelor of Computer Science [B.C.S]: $32,025
- Bachelor of Applied Science [B.ASc] in Computer Engineering: $45,975
- Bachelor of Business Administration [B.B.A]/ Bachelor of Computer Science [B.C.S]: $45,975
- Master of Applied Science [M.ASc] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $10,881
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $9,925
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computer Science: $10,773
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $10,773
McGill University
McGill University is a public university located in Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1821, McGill has two campuses: the downtown Montreal campus and the Macdonald campus in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. It is ranked 51st in the world’s best universities and 105th in computer science in the US News and World Report Rankings. Below are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at McGill University:
- Bachelor of Engineering [B.Eng] in Computer Engineering: $34,242
- Bachelor of Engineering [B.Eng] in Software Engineering: $34,242
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Science: $34,242
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computer Science: $13,470
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computer Science (Project Option): $13,470
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $13,470
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computer Science: $12,091
Université de Montréal
The University of Montreal is a public institution founded in 1878. It is ranked 140th in the world’s best universities and 70th in computer science by the US News and World Report Rankings. Below are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at the University of Montreal:
- Bachelor of Engineering [B.Eng] in Computer Engineering: $14,997
- Bachelor of Engineering [B.Eng] in Software Engineering: $14,997
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Computer Engineering: $9,324
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computer Engineering: $2,567
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta was founded in 1908 and is located in the province of Alberta in western Canada. It is ranked 138th in the world’s best universities and 101st in computer science in the US News and World Report Rankings. Below are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at the University of Alberta:
- Bachelor of Arts [B.A] in Computing Science: $20,250
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Engineering – Nanoscale System Design: $29,650
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Engineering – Software: $29,625
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Engineering: $29,625
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computing Science – Bioinformatics: $16,034
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computing Science: $22,125
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $13,980
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $14,812
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computing Science: $13,980
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computer Science – Statistical Machine Learning: $7,875
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computing Science: $6,525
Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University is a comprehensive university founded in 1965 and located in British Columbia, Canada. It is ranked 306th in the world’s best universities and 168th in computer science in the US News and World Report Rankings. Below are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at Simon Fraser University:
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computing Science: $22,035
- Bachelor of Applied Science [B.ASc] in Engineering Science – Computer Engineering: $22,035
- Bachelor of Applied Science [B.ASc] in Computer Engineering: $23,812
- Master of Science [M.Sc] in Computing Science: $11,880
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computing Science: $5,481
University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is the largest bilingual university in the world, located in Ottawa, Ontario. It was founded in 1848 and offers education in French and English. It is ranked 192nd in the world’s best universities and 236th in computer science in the US News and World Report Rankings. Below are some of the popular computer science programs along with fee details offered at the University of Ottawa:
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Science: $59,294
- Bachelor of Applied Science [B.ASc] in Computer Engineering: $59,295
- Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] in Computer Science – Management and Entrepreneurship: $59,294
- Bachelor of Computer Science [B.C.S] in Computer Engineering: $59,295
- Master of Computer Science [M.C.S]: $20,639
- Master of Engineering [M.Eng] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $25,403
- Master of Applied Science [M.ASc] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $20,639
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Computer Science: $5,294
- Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Electrical and Computer Engineering: $5,294
Popular specialization
A wide variety of computer science courses are available at Canadian universities offered in different specializations. Courses are offered in the form of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs and several diploma and certificate programs. Below are a few popular majors offered at the best computer science universities in Canada:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Big Data Analysis
- Bioinformatics
- Computer and Network Security
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Graphics and Visualization
- Cyber Security
- Hardware and Computer Architecture
- Information Management
- Information Technology
- Machine Learning
- Mobile and Web Computing
- Software Development
- Software Engineering
Scholarship for studying computer science in Canadian Universities
Scholarship amounts for master’s in computer science programs in Canadian colleges range from US$500 to US$23,000. Certain colleges require a separate scholarship application, while others consider students automatically during the admissions process. Noteworthy university scholarships available for international students in Canada includes the following. Please note that the below list is not exhaustive:
| Scholarship Name | Amount |
| Computer Science Entrance Award | 1000 (Rs. 75k) |
| David R. Cheriton Graduate Scholarships | 10,000 (Rs. 7.52 lakhs) |
| Entrance Scholarship | 23,000 (Rs. 17.31 lakhs) |
| Graduate Fellowships Stephane Durocher | 14,000 (Rs. 10.53 lakhs) 16,000 (Rs. 12.04 lakhs) |
| International Major Entrance Scholarships Outstanding International Student Award | Varies |
| WowAuto Scholarship | 500/year (Rs. 37K) |
Career opportunities after studying computer science
Studying computer science at Canadian universities opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the ever-evolving field of technology. Canada is known for its robust tech industry and has a growing demand for skilled professionals. Graduates with a computer science degree can pursue various rewarding careers, including:
- Software Developer/Engineer: Develop and design software applications, systems, and websites for businesses and organizations.
- Data Scientist: Analyze and interpret complex data sets to extract meaningful insights and make informed business decisions.
- Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer: Work on developing AI algorithms, machine learning models, and intelligent systems.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Protect and secure computer systems and networks from potential threats and attacks.
- Systems Analyst: Assess and improve computer systems, networks, and processes to enhance efficiency and productivity.
- IT Project Manager: Oversee the planning, execution, and management of technology projects within organizations.
- Web Developer: Design and develop websites, ensuring functionality and user-friendliness.
- Database Administrator: Manage and organize data, ensuring its integrity and availability for efficient retrieval.
- Software Quality Assurance Analyst: Test and debug software applications to ensure they meet quality standards and user requirements.
- Research Scientist: Engage in cutting-edge research and development projects to advance the field of computer science.
These are just a few examples of the diverse career opportunities available to computer science graduates in Canada. The country’s thriving tech ecosystem and innovative companies provide ample prospects for growth and advancement in this field.
Summing Up!
In the above article, we discussed in detail about best computer science universities in Canada. Although studying abroad is a dream for many students it is equally important for students to be aware of everything that it takes to pursue higher education in Canada.
iDreamCareer is on a mission to reach every state and every child in order to ensure that talent is appropriately delivered into the industry.
Talk to our study abroad experts who have 20+ years of experience to know yourself in and out! We have helped several brilliant but confused minds with an aim to select their most-suited career choices. Hear the success story of Aayush who got an offer from top 3 universities and is now studying in University in Ottawa in Canada after getting career guidance from our industry experts!
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- Canada PR
- IELTS Requirement for Canada
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- MBBS in Canada
- PG Courses in Canada
- Canada Student Visa
- Masters in Computer Science in Canada
FAQs
This degree is highly recognized worldwide due to the top engineering institutions in the country. Canada is one of the best destinations for international students to study engineering courses. A computer engineer can earn an average of $72,439 per year in Canada.
The main areas of computer science specialization are artificial intelligence, data science, data analytics, computer software, software maintenance, human-computer interaction, robotics, etc.
The best computer science courses that will get you a high paying job around the world are: Data Science, Cybersecurity, Big Data Engineering, Software Development, Computer Hardware Engineering and Networking etc.
The average salary of a computer science graduate in Canada is CAD 58,386/ INR 35,03,767 per year or CAD 2,994/ INR 1,79,671 per hour. Salary for an entry level position starts at CAD 42,900/INR 25,74,446 and can go up to CAD 96,194/ INR 57,72,641 per annum.
Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.
