Canada has steadily risen as one of the world’s top destinations for higher education. Its multicultural society, globally recognised universities, and robust job market make it especially appealing to international students. If you’re planning your academic journey, understanding the most popular degrees in Canada and the most demanding courses in Canada can help you make informed decisions about your future.
This comprehensive guide explores the most sought-after academic paths, their career prospects, and why these popular courses in Canada attract students from around the globe.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to appreciate why Canada is such a magnet for students:
- Quality Education: Canadian universities consistently rank among the top in global rankings, with seven institutions in the QS World University Rankings 2025 top 200.
- Diverse Academic Offerings: From undergraduate to postgraduate degrees, Canada offers a wide variety of programmes tailored to meet global industry needs.
- Research Opportunities: Canadian institutions emphasise research, enabling students to stay at the forefront of technology and innovation.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: Graduates benefit from favorable post-study work policies and a strong job market.
- Multicultural Environment: Students thrive in a welcoming, inclusive society that encourages cultural exchange.
Also read: Top 9 Scholarships To Study In Canada For International Students
Overview: Most Popular Degrees in Canada
Let’s explore the most popular degrees in Canada, highlighting their relevance, career prospects, and the universities that offer them.
| Degree/Field | Why It’s Popular | Top Universities |
| Business & Management Sciences | High salaries, versatile skills, strong job market | University of Toronto, UBC, McGill |
| Engineering | High demand, innovation, hands-on learning | University of Alberta, University of British Columbia, Waterloo University |
| Computer Science & IT | Tech industry growth, high employability, evolving field | University of British Columbia, University of Toronto, McGill University |
| Health Sciences & Medicine | Aging population, healthcare needs, high salaries | McMaster University, University of British Columbia, University of Toronto |
| Finance & Accounting | Essential business function, lucrative roles | York University, University of British Columbia, McGill University |
| Law | Strong legal framework, diverse specialisations | University of Toronto, McGill University |
| Architecture & Urban Planning | Urbanisation, sustainability, creative and technical blend | University of British Columbia, University of Toronto |
| Environmental Science | Focus on sustainability, global relevance | University of Alberta, University of British Columbia |
| Media & Communication | Digital transformation, creative industries | Ryerson University, Concordia University |
| Psychology & Social Sciences | Mental health focus, diverse career paths | University of Toronto, University of British Columbia |
Detailed Look: Most In-Demand Courses in Canada
Business Administration and Management
Business degrees are consistently among the most popular degrees in Canada. These programmes cover finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and international business, equipping students with versatile skills for the corporate world. Canadian business schools are renowned for their experiential learning, industry connections, and internship opportunities, which pave the way for leadership roles in various sectors.
| Category | Details |
Top Colleges | University of TorontoUniversity of British ColumbiaMcGill UniversityWestern UniversityUniversité de Montréal |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (for graduate programmes)Minimum GPA around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (may vary)English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | Business AnalystMarketing ManagerFinancial AdvisorEntrepreneurCorporate Strategist |
Top Hiring Companies | DeloittePwCRBC (Royal Bank of Canada)TD BankShopify |
Engineering
Engineering remains one of the most demanding courses in Canada, with high demand in technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors. Canadian universities offer rigorous programmes in civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
| Category | Details |
Top Colleges | University of TorontoUniversity of British ColumbiaUniversity of WaterlooMcGill UniversityUniversity of Alberta |
Eligibility | High school diploma with strong math and science background (UG programmes)Bachelor’s degree with minimum GPA around 3.0 (for PG programmes)English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | Civil EngineerMechanical EngineerElectrical EngineerSoftware EngineerProject ManagerRenewable Energy Specialist |
Top Hiring Companies | SNC-LavalinBombardierHatch Ltd.TeslaIBM |
Computer Science and Information Technology
With the digital revolution, computer science and IT have become some of the most popular and demanding courses in Canada. Students develop expertise in programming, software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The thriving tech industry in Canada ensures strong demand for skilled professionals.
| Category | Details |
Top Colleges | University of WaterlooUniversity of British ColumbiaUniversité de MontréalUniversity of TorontoMcGill University |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field (for PG programmes)Minimum GPA of 3.0 or 78% standingEnglish proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | Software DeveloperCybersecurity AnalystData ScientistAI SpecialistNetwork ArchitectIT Consultant |
Top Hiring Companies | GoogleMicrosoftAmazonShopifyBlackBerry |
Health Sciences & Medicine
Healthcare and medicine are among the most demanding courses in Canada due to the country’s aging population and shortage of healthcare professionals. Programmes in medicine, nursing, and public health offer extensive training and a wide range of specialisations.
| Category | Details |
Top Colleges | University of TorontoUniversity of British ColumbiaMcGill UniversityMcMaster UniversityUniversité de Montréal |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (for PG programmes)Competitive GPA (often above 3.5)MCAT or equivalent (for medicine programmes) |
Career Prospects | PhysicianNursePublic Health SpecialistMedical ResearcherHealthcare Administrator |
Top Hiring Companies | Canadian Health ServicesToronto General HospitalPublic Health AgenciesResearch Institutes |
Finance and Accounting
Finance and accounting degrees are popular courses in Canada, offering pathways to lucrative careers in banking, auditing, and investment. These programmes are essential for the functioning of any business and are highly valued by employers.
| Category | Details |
| Top Colleges | University of TorontoUniversity of British ColumbiaMcGill University |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree or diploma in related fieldsMinimum GPA around 3.0English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | AccountantFinancial AnalystAuditorInvestment BankerRisk Manager |
Top Hiring Companies | KPMGDeloitteEY (Ernst & Young)RBCScotiabank |
Law
Law is a demanding and prestigious field in Canada, appealing to those interested in legal practice, policy-making, or advocacy. Canadian law schools offer comprehensive training and diverse specialisations.
| Category | Details |
Top Colleges | University of TorontoMcGill UniversityUniversity of British ColumbiaYork UniversityUniversity of Ottawa |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree (for JD programmes)Competitive GPA (varies by school)LSAT score required by most schoolsEnglish proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | LawyerLegal ConsultantPolicy AdvisorCorporate CounselJudge |
| Top Hiring Companies | Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLPGovernment AgenciesCorporate Legal Departments |
Architecture & Urban Planning
With rapid urbanisation and a focus on sustainable development, architecture and urban planning have become popular courses in Canada. These programmes blend creativity, technical skills, and a commitment to building livable, innovative communities.
| Category | Details |
| Top Colleges | University of British ColumbiaUniversity of TorontoMcGill University |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Architecture or related fieldPortfolio submission often requiredEnglish proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | ArchitectUrban PlannerLandscape ArchitectSustainability Consultant |
Top Hiring Companies | Perkins and WillStantecHDR Inc.Local Government Planning Department |
Environmental Science
Environmental science is gaining traction as one of the most popular degrees in Canada, reflecting the country’s commitment to sustainability and climate action. Graduates work in policy, research, and environmental management.
| Category | Details |
| Top Colleges | University of British ColumbiaUniversity of TorontoMcGill University |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science or related fieldMinimum GPA around 3.0English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | Environmental ConsultantPolicy AnalystConservation ScientistSustainability Manager |
| Top Hiring Companies | Environmental Consulting FirmsGovernment Environmental AgenciesNGOs Focused on Sustainability |
Media & Communication
As digital media changes how we communicate, degrees in media and communication are becoming increasingly popular. These programmes prepare students for careers in journalism, public relations, and digital content creation.
| Category | Details |
| Top Colleges | University of TorontoRyerson University (Toronto Metropolitan University)University of British Columbia |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree or diploma in related fieldsEnglish proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | JournalistPublic Relations SpecialistDigital Content CreatorMedia Planner |
| Top Hiring Companies | CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation)Rogers CommunicationsBell Media |
Psychology & Social Sciences
Psychology and social sciences are popular for students interested in human behavior and societal dynamics. These fields offer diverse career paths in counseling, research, and human resources.
| Category | Details |
Top Colleges | University of TorontoMcGill UniversityUniversity of British Columbia |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or related Social SciencesMinimum GPA around 3.0English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Career Prospects | CounselorSocial WorkerResearcherHuman Resources Specialist |
| Top Hiring Companies | Healthcare ProvidersEducational InstitutionsGovernment Social Services |
How to Choose the Right Course in Canada?
Selecting the right degree or course in Canada is a crucial step that shapes your academic journey and future career. It requires a thoughtful balance between your personal interests, academic strengths, and the evolving demands of the global job market. Here are some comprehensive tips to guide your decision:
- Assess Your Strengths and Interests: Choose a field that aligns with your skills, passions, and long-term ambitions. Reflect on subjects you excelled in during high school or previous studies, and consider what type of work excites you. This alignment increases motivation and success in your studies.
- Research Job Prospects and Market Demand: Investigate employment rates, average salaries, and growth potential in your chosen field. Canadian universities often publish graduate employment statistics, and government labor market reports can provide insights into high-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.
- Consider University Reputation and Programme Strength: Several Canadian universities are renowned for specific programmes. For example, the University of Waterloo is famous for engineering and computer science, while McGill University excels in medicine and law. Choosing a university with a strong reputation in your field can enhance the quality of your education and employability.
- Explore Internship and Practical Learning Opportunities: Hands-on experience through internships, co-op programmes, and research projects is invaluable. Many Canadian universities integrate experiential learning into their curricula, helping students build professional networks and practical skills that employers value.
- Think Long-Term: Consider how your field might evolve over the next decade. Areas like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, data science, and healthcare are expected to grow significantly. Choosing a course aligned with future trends can increase your career resilience and opportunities.
Also read: List Of Hardest Universities To Get Into In Canada
Canada’s reputation as an educational powerhouse is well-deserved. The most popular degrees in Canada, spanning business, engineering, computer science, health sciences, finance, law, and more, promise academic excellence and open doors to rewarding careers. The most demanding courses in Canada challenge students intellectually and prepare them for real-world challenges, ensuring they are job-ready upon graduation.
Ready to take the next step toward your dream degree in Canada? Explore your options, get expert guidance, and simplify your application process with UniScholars. Start your journey today!
FAQs
Q. Which are the most popular degrees in Canada?
Engineering, computer science, healthcare, and business administration are among the most popular degrees in Canada for 2025.
Q. Which field in Canada is best for the future?
Healthcare, computer science, and engineering are considered the best fields for the future due to strong job growth and evolving industry needs.
Q. What are the best career options in Canada?
Top career options include software developer, nurse, engineer, financial analyst, and HR manager, all offering high salaries and job security.
Q. What are the best bachelor’s degrees in Canada?
The best bachelor’s degrees include computer science, engineering, business administration, nursing, and data science, which are known for strong job prospects.
Q. Is Canada a popular destination for international students?
Yes, Canada is highly popular among international students for its quality education, diverse courses, and welcoming environment.
Also read: List Of Open Universities In Canada
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities & 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