A postgraduate master’s in Canada follows the successful completion of a bachelor’s degree and typically lasts between one and two years. Canada is home to some of the world’s leading universities, renowned for their high academic standards, innovative research, and inclusive learning environments.
Canadian postgraduate qualifications are highly respected by global employers and offer students an outstanding opportunity to develop academically while immersing themselves in a diverse, multicultural community.
Why Study a Postgraduate Degree in Canada?
By studying a postgraduate course in Canada, international students can:
- Enhance their career prospects
- Gain an internationally recognised qualification
- Enjoy the flexibility to shape their studies around professional or personal commitments
- Access world-class teaching, research opportunities, and industry networks
Types of Postgraduate Courses
Canadian universities and colleges offer a wide range of postgraduate-level programmes, from short professional qualifications to full master’s and doctoral degrees.
Postgraduate Certificate (Grad. Cert.)
- Duration: Typically 8 months to 1 year
- Purpose: Short-term qualification to develop practical skills in a specific field
- Best for: Professionals looking to upskill or change careers
- Tuition Fees: CAD 12,000–20,000 per year
Postgraduate Diploma (Grad. Dip.)
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
- Purpose: Advanced training and practical knowledge in a particular subject
- Best for: Students seeking employment-focused education or a stepping stone to a master’s degree
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): 2-year diplomas usually qualify for a 3-year work permit
- Tuition Fees: CAD 15,000–25,000 per year
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
- Purpose: To upgrade qualifications or shift career direction
- Best for: International students with a non-Canadian bachelor’s degree seeking a recognised Canadian credential
- Tuition Fees: CAD 13,000–24,000 per year
Master’s Degree (Thesis-Based)
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
- Structure: Focus on independent research under academic supervision, culminating in a thesis
- Best for: Students planning research careers or doctoral study
- Tuition Fees: CAD 18,000–35,000 per year
- Scholarships: Many programmes offer funded research positions
Master’s Degree (Course-Based / Taught)
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
- Structure: Emphasises coursework, projects, and group work rather than a formal thesis
- Best for: Students aiming for professional or career advancement
- Tuition Fees: CAD 16,000–40,000 per year
PhD / Doctoral Degrees
- Duration: 4 to 7 years
- Structure: Involves significant original research, culminating in a dissertation
- Best for: Those pursuing academic, research, or specialist industry roles
- Tuition Fees: CAD 7,000–20,000 per year
- Funding: Many PhD programmes include full or partial scholarships
How much does a Master’s in Canada cost?
While Canada is known for offering high-quality education at comparatively affordable rates, tuition fees vary depending on the programme, institution, and province.
Typical Annual Tuition Costs
- Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma: CAD 12,000–25,000
- Master’s Degree (Course-Based or Thesis-Based): CAD 16,000–40,000
- PhD/Doctorate: CAD 7,000–20,000 (often subsidised by scholarships or research grants)
Additional Costs
- Living Expenses: CAD 10,000–15,000 per year (depending on city and lifestyle)
- Health Insurance: CAD 600–1,000 per year (varies by province)
- Study Permit (Student Visa): CAD 150
Study a Master’s in Canada
A Canadian postgraduate qualification can open doors to international career opportunities and further academic research. Whether you are advancing in your current field or starting a new career path, studying in Canada provides a supportive, globally respected environment.
Arrange your free consultation with StudyIn today to learn more about postgraduate study options, entry requirements, and how to apply.