Engineering Courses in Canada

Studying Engineering in Canada

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 taking into consideration your academic background, future career goals, and where you wish to specialise.

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Types of Engineering Degrees in Canada

Bachelor's Degree

Canadian universities offer a wide range of undergraduate engineering degrees, providing students with the opportunity 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 as well as hands-on learning experiences through laboratory work, design projects, and internships.

Many universities also offer a variety of 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. There are many courses that offer co-op and internship opportunities as well, 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 recognised 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 offer students the opportunity to deepen their knowledge, specialize in a specific area of engineering and advance their career prospects. Canadian universities are renowned for their research-focused programs, industry connections, and emphasis on practical application. Students can choose to 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. There are universities that have collaborative programs and industry partnerships enhancing 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 recognised 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 offer 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 area of engineering. Many Canadian universities are renowned for their research-focused programs, world-class faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. Some of them also provide funding opportunities to support PhD students, and this support usually includes scholarships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and grants. Many universities also have research centers and institutes that offer additional funding and resources for students working on specific research projects.

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 students pursuing graduate studies in the province of 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. It aims to strengthen educational partnerships and develop human capital.
• 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.

Engineering Jobs

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 are involved in developing and optimizing chemical processes, manufacturing products, and ensuring 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 the safe and efficient extraction of minerals from the earth. They work in the mining industry, designing and managing mining 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.

Engineering 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 per year, with the national average being approximately CAD $75,000.
• Electrical Engineer: CAD $60,000 to CAD $105,000 per year, 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 per year, with a national average of around CAD $75,000.
• Chemical Engineer: CAD $60,000 to CAD $110,000 per year, with the national average being around CAD $78,000.

Where can I study Engineering in Canada?

To learn more about the top engineering universities in Canada, find details on the best ranking Engineering and Technology universities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 below:

1. University of Toronto
2. University of British Columbia
3. University of Waterloo
4. McGill University
5. Université de Montréal

Study Engineering in Canada

If you are interested in studying an engineering course at a Canadian university, arrange your free consultation with SI-Canada today.

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Engineering Degree FAQ 

Which engineering is best in Canada?

Canada offers a diverse range of engineering disciplines, and each field has its own 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 can vary depending on factors like experience, location, and industry, some engineering disciplines tend to 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 the exploration, extraction, and production of 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 growth of the technology sector. 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?

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