Private universities are the way to go for students looking for a more elevated way of studying, with better amenities and better infrastructure. Since private universities operate independently, they offer various benefits compared to public universities, which cater to a wide variety of students, making education more accessible. Private universities in Canada bring together students from different cultures and maintain an interactive landscape for every student.
Canada hosts some of the most popular private universities, which provide high-end quality education and impressive career opportunities. In addition to the wide variety of course options, internationally accredited faculty members make learning all the more interesting and valuable.
Top 16 Private Universities In Canada
Private colleges in Canada are the most popular spots for international students. Finding and locating them and understanding your perfect fit is the first step to making your dreams more accessible. For this, here is a list of the top 16 private universities in Canada:
| University | Average Fees (CAD/year) | Top Courses | Intakes |
| Trinity Western University | 30,000 | Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| Yorkville University | 19,350 | Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design | January, May, September |
| Université de Saint-Boniface | 7,000 – 9,000 | Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| University Canada West | 29,250 | Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration (MBA) | January, April, July |
| Concordia University of Edmonton | 20,000 | Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Management | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| Canadian Mennonite University | 18,000 | Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| Redeemer University | 22,000 | Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, Bachelor of Science | September (Fall) |
| Ambrose University | 19,500 | Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Theology | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| The King’s University | 21,000 | Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences, Bachelor of Music | September (Fall) |
| Burman University | 18,000 | Bachelor of Arts in Religion, Bachelor of Science in Nursing | September (Fall) |
| St. Mary’s University | 17,500 | Bachelor of Arts in Social Justice Studies, Bachelor of Business Administration | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| Collège Universitaire Dominicain | 8,000 | Bachelor in Theology and Religious Studies | September (Fall) |
| Crandall University | 19,500 | Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, Bachelor of Business Administration | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| Kingswood University | 18,000 | Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry | September (Fall) |
| Campion College at the University of Regina | 8,500 | Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
| St. Stephen’s University | 15,000 | Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences | September (Fall), January (Winter) |
Trinity Western University (TWU)
Trinity Western University, located in Langley, British Columbia, is a private Christian university established in 1962. It is known for its commitment to liberal arts education and offers various undergraduate and graduate programmes. The university emphasises small class sizes to ensure personalised attention for students.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $27,000 | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science (BSc) | $27,000 | 4 years |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | $30,000 | 2 years |
| Master of Arts in Leadership | $27,000 | 2 years |
Yorkville University
Yorkville University is a private institution with campuses in Fredericton, New Brunswick, and Toronto, Ontario. It focuses on providing flexible, career-oriented degree programmes that can be completed online or on-campus. The university aims to prepare students for professional careers.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) | $25,000 | 3 years |
| Bachelor of Interior Design | $25,000 | 3 years |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | $30,000 | 2 years |
Université de Saint-Boniface
Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Université de Saint-Boniface is a French-language university that offers programmes primarily in the arts and sciences. It focuses on serving the Francophone community in Canada and emphasises cultural heritage.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $7,500 | 3 years |
| Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) | $7,500 | 4 years |
University Canada West
University Canada West is based in Vancouver, British Columbia. This private institution offers business-focused programmes and is known for its flexible learning options. It caters primarily to international students and emphasises practical skills.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) | $15,000 | 4 years |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | $26,000 | 2 years |
Concordia University of Edmonton
Concordia University of Edmonton is a private liberal arts university that emphasises experiential learning and community engagement. It offers a variety of undergraduate programmes with a focus on small class sizes.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $18,000 | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science (BSc) | $18,000 | 4 years |
Canadian Mennonite University
Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canadian Mennonite University offers a unique blend of academic rigour and faith-based education. The university encourages students to explore their faith while pursuing their academic goals.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $12,000 | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Music (BMus) | $12,000 | 4 years |
Redeemer University
Redeemer University is situated in Ancaster, Ontario, and provides a Christian liberal arts education. The university emphasises critical thinking and ethical leadership across various disciplines.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $36,000/year | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science (BSc) | $36,000/year | 4 years |
Ambrose University
Located in Calgary, Alberta, Ambrose University offers a variety of undergraduate programmes with a focus on liberal arts and professional studies. The university encourages students to engage with their community through service learning.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy | $40,480/year | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) | $40,480/year | 4 years |
The King’s University
The King’s University in Edmonton, Alberta focuses on providing an education rooted in Christian values. It offers various undergraduate programmes that integrate faith with academic study.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology | $24,000/year | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Environmental Studies | $24,000/year | 4 years |
Burman University
Burman University is located in Lacombe, Alberta. It provides a Christian education with an emphasis on personal development and community service.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religion & Theology | $22,500/year | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nursing | $22,500/year | 4 years |
St. Mary’s University
Situated in Halifax, Nova Scotia, St. Mary’s University offers a diverse range of undergraduate programmes with a focus on liberal arts education.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology/Anthropology | $13,718/year | 3 years |
| Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) in Business Administration | $13,718/year | 3 years |
Collège Universitaire Dominicain
Collège Universitaire Dominicain, located in Ottawa, Ontario, is a private French-language university that focuses on liberal arts and theology. Established in 1900, it emphasises a strong academic foundation intertwined with spiritual development. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programmes, particularly in theology and philosophy, catering to the Francophone community.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theology | $8,000 | 3 years |
| Master of Arts (MA) in Theology | $12,000 | 2 years |
Crandall University
Crandall University is situated in Moncton, New Brunswick, and was established in 1949. This private Christian university offers undergraduate and graduate programmes with a focus on liberal arts and professional studies. Crandall emphasises a holistic education that integrates faith and learning.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $15,000 | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) | $15,000 | 4 years |
| Master of Arts in Organisational Leadership | $20,000 | 2 years |
Kingswood University
Kingswood University is located in Sussex, New Brunswick, and was founded in 1945. It is affiliated with the Wesleyan Church and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees focused on theology, business, education, and music. The university promotes a strong community atmosphere and emphasises leadership development.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Ministry | $10,000 | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Business Management | $10,000 | 4 years |
| Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology | $12,000 | 2 years |
Campion College At The University Of Regina
Campion College is a federated college within the University of Regina located in Saskatchewan. It offers programmes rooted in liberal arts education with an emphasis on social justice and community engagement. Established in 1917, Campion College provides students with a unique educational experience that combines academic rigour with personal growth.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | $7,500/year | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religious Studies | $7,500/year | 4 years |
St. Stephen’s University
St. Stephen’s University is situated in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. Founded in 1975, this private Christian university focuses on experiential learning and community service. It offers a unique approach to education that emphasises personal development alongside academic achievement.
| Courses Offered | Fees (CAD) | Course Duration |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Interdisciplinary Studies | $15,000/year | 3 years |
| Master of Arts (MA) in Spirituality & Leadership | $20,000 | 2 years |
Admission Process To Study In Private Universities In Canada
To study at private universities in Canada, international students must follow a structured admission process. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the steps involved:
Admission Process Steps
- Identify Your Preferred Universities: Research and create a list of private universities in Canada that offer programmes aligned with your academic and career goals.
- Check Admission Criteria: Visit the official websites of the chosen universities to review specific admission requirements for your desired programme, including prerequisites and documentation needed.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, which typically include:
- Academic transcripts (secondary school or previous post-secondary education)
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Statement of Purpose or Letter of Intent
- Letters of Recommendation
- Evidence of financial support
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form provided by the university, ensuring all information is accurate.
- Submit Application and Pay Fees: Attach the required documents and pay the application fee before submitting your application.
- Interview Process: If shortlisted, you may be invited for a virtual interview as part of the selection process.
- Receive Offer Letter: Successful candidates will receive an unconditional offer letter from the university, confirming their admission.
- Apply for a Study Permit: After accepting the offer, apply for a student visa to study in Canada. Ensure you gather all necessary documents for this process.
Key Considerations
- Language Requirements: Private universities often have lower English language proficiency requirements compared to public universities. For example, while public institutions may require an IELTS score of 6-6.5, private universities might accept scores as low as 5.5-6.
- Tuition Fees: Tuition fees at private universities can vary significantly but generally range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, depending on the programme and institution.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit: Graduates from designated learning institutions (DLIs) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
This structured approach helps prospective students navigate the admission process effectively, ensuring they meet all requirements for studying at private universities in Canada.
FAQs
1. Is a private university degree valid in Canada?
Yes, a degree from a private university in Canada is valid. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the institution is accredited by recognised Canadian or provincial education authorities.
2. How much does a bachelor’s degree cost in a private university in Canada?
The cost of a bachelor’s degree at a private university in Canada varies widely depending on the institution and the programme. Generally, tuition fees range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 30,000 per year.
3. Is a public university better than a private in Canada?
Public universities in Canada often have larger campuses, more diverse programme offerings, and extensive research facilities. They also tend to have lower tuition fees for domestic students. On the other hand, private universities might offer smaller class sizes, more personalised attention, and specialised programmes.
4. Can I get a work permit after studying in a private college in Canada?
International students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing a programme of study in Canada, but not all private colleges make you eligible for a PGWP. The institution must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with programmes that qualify for the PGWP.
5. Which college is best, private or public in Canada?
Public colleges tend to be more affordable and have a broader range of programmes. Private colleges often offer more specialised courses, smaller class sizes, and more personalised attention.
Thank you for reading this blog on ‘Popular Private Universities In Canada’ If you’d like to read more, here are some blogs that may be of interest to you –
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further