Engineering Courses in Canada

Study an engineering program at a Canadian university or college

Within the broad boundaries of the engineering profession, there are thousands of challenging activities in areas such as research, development, design, manufacture and operation of products and services. Choosing the right engineering degree and university can be difficult, and it is crucial to understand which university is best for you when considering your academic background, future career goals, and where you wish to specialize.

Types of Engineering Degrees in Canada

Bachelor's Degree

Canadian universities offer a wide range of undergraduate engineering degrees, allowing students to specialize in various engineering disciplines. Most engineering degrees are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in mathematics, sciences, and engineering principles. The curriculum focuses on theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning experiences through laboratory work, design projects, and internships.

Many universities also offer various specialization options within engineering disciplines, and students can choose from civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, computer engineering, aerospace engineering, and many more. Many courses also offer co-op and internship opportunities, enabling students to gain valuable work experience and increase their employability upon graduation.

• Course Duration: 4-5 years
• Course Fees: CAD 25,000 to CAD 50,000 per year
• Entry Requirements: Applicants are usually required to have completed their secondary education or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a GPA of around 2.5-3.5 out of 4.0. English language proficiency is required, with a minimum score of 6.5 overall and no less than 6.0 in each component of IELTS. 

Master’s Degree

Master's degrees in engineering allow students to deepen their knowledge, specialize in a specific engineering area and advance their career prospects. Canadian universities are renowned for their research-focused programs, industry connections, and emphasis on practical application. Students can focus on disciplines such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, computer engineering, environmental engineering, and biomedical engineering, among others.

Some universities offer co-op or internship options as part of their master's in engineering. These courses provide students with valuable work experience in industry settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge and gain practical skills. Some universities have collaborative programs and industry partnerships to enhance the learning experience for master's students in engineering. 

• Course Duration: 1-2 years
• Course Fees: CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 per year
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in a related field from a recognized institution with a GPA of around 3.0-3.5 out of 4.0. English language proficiency is required with a minimum overall band score of 6.5 and no less than 6.0 in each component of IELTS. 

PhD

A PhD in engineering offers students the opportunity to pursue advanced research in their chosen field, contribute to the knowledge base of their discipline and develop expertise in a specialized engineering area. Many Canadian universities are renowned for their research-focused programs, world-class faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. 

Engineering Scholarships

Canada offers various scholarships and funding opportunities for engineering students, and the following are some of the notable engineering scholarships in the country:

• Canada Graduate Scholarships—Master's Program: Offered by the Canadian government, this scholarship supports master's-level students pursuing research-based programs. It provides financial assistance to students enrolled in eligible engineering degrees across Canadian universities.
• NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships: The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) provides scholarships for students pursuing research-based graduate programs in engineering and aims to support the development of highly qualified personnel in natural sciences and engineering.
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS program is available to graduate students in Ontario. It provides merit-based scholarships to students enrolled in master's or doctoral programs, including those in engineering disciplines.
• Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED): This scholarship program is open to students from ASEAN member countries who wish to pursue studies at the undergraduate or graduate level in Canada, including engineering programs.
• Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: The Trudeau Foundation offers scholarships to outstanding doctoral students pursuing research in various fields, including engineering. These scholarships focus on leadership development, public engagement, and promoting innovative research.
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: This prestigious scholarship program is available to doctoral students, including those in engineering, who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, research potential, and leadership qualities.

Jobs and Careers

There are numerous engineering jobs and careers in Canada across various sectors, including:

• Civil Engineer: Civil engineers are involved in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water supply systems.
• Mechanical Engineer: Mechanical engineers design and develop mechanical systems and equipment.
• Electrical Engineer: Electrical engineers work with electrical systems, power generation, and electronics.
• Software Engineer: Software engineers develop software applications, systems, and solutions.
• Chemical Engineer: Chemical engineers develop and optimize chemical processes, manufacture products, and ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Biomedical Engineer: Biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with medical and biological sciences to design and develop medical devices, prosthetics, imaging systems, and healthcare technologies.
• Environmental Engineer: Environmental engineers focus on addressing environmental challenges, sustainability, and managing resources.
• Aerospace Engineer: Aerospace engineers are involved in the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.
• Mining Engineer: Mining engineers are responsible for safely and efficiently extracting minerals from the earth. They work in the mining industry, designing and managing operations, ensuring safety protocols, and optimizing production processes.
• Project Manager: Engineering project managers oversee engineering projects from conception to completion. They coordinate teams, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure project success.

Salary

According to Payscale, the average engineering salary in Canada can vary based on factors such as experience, education, location, and industry. Following are the approximate salary ranges for some common engineering disciplines:

• Mechanical Engineer: CAD 60,000 to CAD 100,000 annually, with the national average being approximately CAD 75,000.
• Electrical Engineer: CAD 60,000 to CAD 105,000 annually, with a national average of around CAD 76,000.
• Civil Engineer: CAD 60,000 to CAD 105,000 per year, with the national average being approximately CAD 72,000.
• Software Engineer: CAD 55,000 to CAD 115,000 annually, with a national average of around CAD 75,000.
• Chemical Engineer: CAD 60,000 to CAD 110,000 per year, with the national average around CAD 78,000.

Where can I study Engineering in Canada?

To learn more about the best engineering universities in Canada, find details on the top ranking Engineering programs in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 below:

1. University of Toronto
2. University of British Columbia
3. McGill University
4. University of Waterloo
5. University of Alberta
6. Université de Montréal
7. University of Calgary
8. Queen's University at Kingston
9. McMaster University
10. University of Ottawa

Study Engineering in Canada

If you want to study an engineering course at a Canadian university, arrange your free consultation with SI-Canada today.

FAQ 

Which engineering is best in Canada?

Canada offers a diverse range of engineering disciplines, and each field has its unique opportunities and prospects. Prominent engineering fields in Canada include Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Aerospace Engineering.

Is engineering costly in Canada?

Tuition fees for international students can range from approximately CAD 10,000 to CAD 40,000 per year. However, it's important to note that Canadian universities also offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to help students offset the cost. 

How much are the fees for engineering courses in Canada after the 12th?

The tuition fees for engineering courses in Canada after 12th grade (for both domestic and international students) can vary depending on factors such as the university, specific engineering course, and whether you are studying at a public or private institution. The approximate range for annual tuition fees for engineering degrees is CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year (or higher), depending on the university and course.

Which engineer is highly paid in Canada?

In Canada, specific engineering disciplines are generally associated with higher salary potentials due to factors such as demand, industry trends, and the level of specialization required. While salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry, some engineering disciplines have higher earning potential. Following are a few engineering fields that are often recognized for their higher salaries in Canada:

• Petroleum Engineering: Petroleum engineers are involved in exploring, extracting, and producing oil and gas resources. Due to the significance of the energy sector in Canada, petroleum engineers often have higher earning potential.
• Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineers work in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and energy. Their expertise in designing and optimizing processes can lead to well-compensated positions.
• Mining Engineering: Mining engineers are involved in mineral extraction, resource management, and mine safety. Given Canada's rich mineral resources, mining engineers can often secure high-paying roles in the mining industry.
• Software Engineering/Computer Science: The demand for software engineers and computer science professionals has been consistently high due to the technology sector's growth. Specializations like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science often command competitive salaries.
• Electrical Engineering: Electrical engineers work in various fields, including power generation, electronics, telecommunications, and renewable energy. Their expertise in designing and maintaining electrical systems can lead to well-paid positions.

Which job pays the highest salary in Canada?

Certain professions in Canada are known for offering higher salaries due to factors such as demand, level of expertise, education requirements, and prevailing industry trends. The professions often associated with higher earning potential in Canada are Medical Specialists, Dentists, Engineering Managers, IT Managers, Pharmacists, and Financial Managers.