Postgraduate Degrees in Canada

Studying a postgraduate master's in Canada

A postgraduate course in Canada follows the successful completion of a bachelor's degree, generally lasting 1-2 years. Canada is home to some of the leading universities in the world, renowned for their quality teaching and research.

A Canadian postgraduate degree is held in high esteem by employers, and for students studying in Canada presents a fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in a multicultural and exciting community of academics and students. You will:

• Improves career prospects

• Gain an internationally recognised qualification

• Flexibility to shape study around their schedule

Types of Postgraduate Courses in Canada

Canadian universities and colleges offer several types of postgraduate-level programs, ranging from short-term certificates to full master's degrees and PhDs.

Postgraduate Certificate (Grad.Cert.)

A postgraduate certificate is a short-term qualification (typically 8 months to 1 year) designed to enhance skills and knowledge in a specific field.

• Best for: Professionals looking to upskill or switch careers.

• Cost: Typically CAD 12,000–20,000 per year.

Postgraduate Diploma (Grad.Dip.)

A postgraduate diploma is a 1 to 2-year program that provides advanced knowledge and practical skills in a particular field.

• Best for: Students seeking career-focused training or a pathway to a master’s degree.

• PGWP Eligibility: A 2-year PG diploma qualifies students for a 3-year work permit.

• Cost: Between CAD 15,000–25,000 per year.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma

A Post-Baccalaureate Diploma is ideal for students with a bachelor’s degree who want to upgrade their skills or change career fields.

• Best for: International students who have completed a bachelor’s degree outside Canada and want a recognised Canadian qualification.

• Cost: CAD 13,000–24,000 per year.

Master’s Degree (Thesis-Based)

A thesis-based master’s degree lasts 1 to 2 years and focuses on independent research. Students work under the supervision of a professor and submit a thesis.

• Best for: Those interested in research careers or pursuing a PhD.

• Cost: CAD 18,000–35,000 per year.

• Scholarships Available: Many universities offer funded research positions.

Master’s Degree (Course-Based / Non-Thesis)

A course-based (taught) master’s degree typically lasts 1 to 2 years and focuses on coursework, assignments, and a final project or capstone report.

• Best for: Students aiming for professional career advancement.

• Cost: CAD 16,000–40,000 per year.

PhD / Doctoral Degrees

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Canada takes 4 to 7 years and requires independent research and a dissertation under academic supervision.

• Best for: Those pursuing academic, research, or specialist careers.

• Funding: Many PhD programs offer full or partial scholarships.

• Cost: Typically CAD 7,000–20,000 per year (with funding opportunities).

How much does a Masters in Canada cost?

Canada is one of the most affordable English-speaking study destinations, but the cost of a master’s degree varies by university, province, and course type:

• Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma – CAD 12,000–25,000 per year

• Master’s (Thesis or Course-Based) – CAD 16,000–40,000 per year

• PhD (Doctorate) – CAD 7,000–20,000 per year (with scholarships available)

Additional Costs:

• Living Expenses: CAD 10,000–15,000 per year (varies by city).

• Health Insurance: CAD 600–1,000 per year (depending on province).

• Student Visa (Study Permit): CAD 150.

Study a Postgraduate Course in Canada

If you wish to learn more about studying a master's in Canada, arrange your free consultation with SI-Canada today.