Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science: Ranking
Get complete details about Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science. Check the list of Universities with their Rankings, Fees & Requirements.
The cost of attending top universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science ranges between $50,000- $62,000. The duration of a full-time MS in Computer Science degree in Canada is around 1.5- 2 years. A computer science degree is popularly opted for by international students and ranks among the top 10 subjects in Canada.
Around 12 Canadian universities offering an MS in Computer Science are ranked in the top 300 universities globally and are renowned for their technological innovations, especially in the areas of computer and information technology. Find below some of the best universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science along with their rankings, fees, and admission requirements for international students.
Table of Contents
- Top Universities for MS in Computer Science in Canada
- Why Pursue an MS in Computer Science in Canada?
- Admission Requirements for Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science
- Tuition Fees at Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science
- Living Costs in Canada
- Application Process for Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science
- Scope of Pursuing MS in Computer Science from Canada
Top Universities for MS in Computer Science in Canada
An MS in Computer Science is one of the most popular study programs for international students in Canada. Students pursuing this course in computer science are exposed to a variety of job roles such as Information Technology Specialists, Computer Science Researchers, Software Engineers, etc. Listed below are the top universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science:
- University of Alberta
- University of British Columbia
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of Windsor
- University of Calgary
- University of Waterloo
- University of Victoria
- York University
- University of Montreal
- Simon Fraser University
- Queen’s University
- McMaster University
- University of Ottawa
- Concordia University
University of Alberta (U of A)
U of A offers both thesis-based and course-based MS in Computer Science program through its Department of Computing Science. It is ranked #126 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #125 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at U of A:
- 4-year undergraduate degree in computer science or equivalent
- TOEFL: 100
- IELTS: 7
- PTE: 68
Read More: University of Alberta
University of British Columbia (UBC)
The Department of Computer Science at UBC is one of the top computer science departments in North America recognized globally for its excellence in research and teaching with a conscious focus on interdisciplinary programs. UBC is ranked #46 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #37 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at the University of British Columbia:
- A 4-year bachelor’s degree with a First Class/ Division 1 score of 65% or the equivalent score of an 8 on a 10-point scale
- TOEFL: 100
- IELTS: 7
- PTE: 65
Read More: University of British Columbia
University of Toronto (U of T)
The School of Graduate Studies under U of T offers an MS in Computer Science degree program in a wide range of subjects. U of T is ranked #26 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #18 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at University of Toronto:
- B+ in the final year of an undergraduate program in computer science or a closely related discipline
- TOEFL (PBT): 580
- TOEFL: 93
- IELTS: 7
Read More: University of Toronto
McGill University
McGill Universityoffers a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer Science degree through its School of Computer Science. Both thesis-based and non-thesis courses are offered to students from all over the world. It is ranked #27 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #44 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at McGill:
- An undergraduate degree in Science with the equivalent of at least a strong Minor in Computer Science
- TOEFL: 100
- IELTS: 6.5
- GRE accepted
Read More: McGill University
University of Windsor (UWindsor)
The Faculty of Graduate Studies under UWindsor offers a thesis-based MSc in Computer Science program. UWindsor is ranked #601- #800 in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at University of Windsor:
- TOEFL: 92
- IELTS: 6.5
- PTE: 65
- Research Statement Form
- CV/ Resume
- 2 Reference Letters
Read More: University of Windsor
University of Calgary (UCalgary)
UCalgary offers a thesis-based MS in Computer Science program under its Faculty of Graduate Studies. It is ranked #235 in the world according to the QS World University Ranking 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at University of Calgary:
- GPA: 3.3 on a 4.0 point system
- Four-year bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent
- TOEFL: 97
- IELTS: 7
- PTE: 68
- 2 Reference Letters
- GRE scores
Read More: University of Calgary
University of Waterloo (UWaterloo)
UWaterloo offers a master’s degree in computer science to students belonging to different nationalities. It is ranked #149 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #201-250 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at University of Waterloo:
- An Honours bachelor degree in Computer Science or Engineering (or equivalent degree) with at least a 78% score
- GRE score
- 3 Reference Letters
- TOEFL: 100
- IELTS: 7.5
- PTE: 68
- GRE accepted
Read More: University of Waterloo
University of Victoria (UVic)
UVic offers an MS in Computer Science degree through its Department of Computer Science that is recognized as being among the best in Western Canada. UVic is ranked among the top 250 universities around the world by Times Higher Education Rankings. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at :
- TOEFL: 90
- IELTS: 6.5
Read More: University of Victoria
York University
York University offers a Master’s degree program in Computer Science that covers a wide variety of topics such as artificial intelligence, computer graphics, computer vision, etc. It is ranked #494 in QS World University Rankings 2022 . It is also ranked #456 in the category of Best Global Universities 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at York University:
- TOEFL: 90
- IELTS: 7
- GPA: B+
- TOEFL (PBT): 577
Read More: York University
University of Montreal (UdeM)
UdeM offers a Master's in Computer Science program in a specific sub-area of computer science or operations research. It is offered as a thesis option and a supervised internship option for students from all over the world. UdeM is ranked #111 in QS World University Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at University of Montreal:
- Applicants should have a B.Sc. degree in computer science or another relevant degree with an average of at least 3.0 out of 4.3
- He/ she should have completed a minimum of 40 credits of university courses, or equivalent, in computer science and mathematics
- French language proficiency with a TFI test score of at least 605/990
Read More: University of Montreal
Simon Fraser University (SFU)
SFU offers a full-time Professional Master of Science in Computer Science with specialization in one of the three concentrations namely big data, visual computing, or cybersecurity. It is ranked #298 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #201-#250
in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at Simon Fraser University:
- A bachelor's degree or equivalent in computer science or a related field
- TOEFL: 93
- TOEFL (PBT): 580
- IELTS: 7.0
- PTE: 6.5
- CAEL: 70
Read More: Simon Fraser University
Queen’s University
The Queen’s School of Computing offers an MS in Computer Science program as both research-based and project-based programs. It is ranked #240 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #251- #300 in the Times Higher Education Rankings. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at Queen’s University:
- An undergraduate degree with a concentration in Computing Science
- Strong computing skills and a high upper-second class standing
- International applicants must have a minimum "A" standing (First class)
- TOEFL: 88
- IELTS: 7.0
Read More: Queen’s University
McMaster University
The School of Graduate Studies at McMaster University offers MSc in Computer Science program focused on advancing knowledge in computational theory. McMaster is ranked #140 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #80 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at McMaster:
- Honors undergraduate degree in computer science or equivalent
- GRE score
- TOEFL: 92
- IELTS: 6.5
- CAEL: 70
- MELAB: 85
- PTE Academic: 63
Read More: McMaster University
University of Ottawa (uOttawa)
uOttawa offers a Master of Computer Science degree both as a part-time and full-time option. It is ranked #230 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 and also ranked #162 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at University of Ottawa:
- A bachelor of science degree with honors in computer science (or equivalent), with a minimum average of B (70%)
- English or French language proficiency
Read More: University of Ottawa
Concordia University
Concordia University offers Computer Science (MCompSc) degree program to students from all over the world. It is a thesis-based program for a duration of 2 years. Concordia is ranked #601-#800 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022. Find below some of the admissions criteria for pursuing an MS in Computer Science at Concordia:
- An undergraduate degree in computer science or other disciplines such as engineering, sciences, and mathematics with very high standing
- English language proficiency
Read More: Concordia University
Why Pursue an MS in Computer Science in Canada?
An MS in Computer Science is offered in around 40 Canadian universities and is ranked #1 in program and research reputation by the Maclean's Canadian Universities Rankings. Around 12 Canadian universities are ranked in the top 300 universities in the world for offering an MS in Computer Science. Given below are a few reasons to pursue an MS in Computer Science in Canada:
- Quality of Education: Canada offers quality higher education in computer science to students from all over the world. The degrees are globally recognized and are primarily based on research, thesis, and hands-on training. Around 6 Canadian universities are ranked in the top 100 universities in the world for computer science according to the QS World University Ratings.
- In-demand Tech Sector: Canada’s tech sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors with a huge demand for computer science graduates both in Canada and around the world.
- Affordable Education: The cost of pursuing a computer science degree in Canada is affordable as compared to other countries such as the UK and the US. The living costs in Canada are also much cheaper than other popular study abroad destinations. Canada also ranks amongst the safest countries in the world.
- Flexible Work-Study Options: International students can work part-time while pursuing their studies in Canada. Students can work for up to 20 hours per week either on or off-campus provided they meet all other requirements.
- Stay-Back Options After Graduation: International students can avail themselves of a 3 years work extension period through the Postgraduate Work Permit Programme (PGWPP) and stay back in Canada after their graduation to work with any organization in the country. International students can also change jobs and locations if required.
Admission Requirements for Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science
International students willing to pursue an MS in Computer Science in Canada are required to fulfill certain university-specific requirements in addition to the general requirements.
Find below some of the basic admission requirements for international applicants for an MS in Computer Science program in Canada:
- International applicants should have a minimum of 16 years of education in their respective home countries
- An undergraduate degree or equivalent from a recognized university/ institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0/ CGPA of 7-8 on a scale of 10/ 80%-85% percentile score at the undergraduate level
- TOEFL (iBT): 86/ TOEFL (PBT): 575
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 in each component
- PTE Academic: Minimum 61
- MELAB: 85% or higher
- The applicant should also have a GRE score not older than 2 years
- Students are also accessed based on their programming skills
Tuition Fees at Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science
The average cost of pursuing an MS in Computer Science in Canada is $37,778 which is affordable compared to a similar program in the USA. Find below the average tuition fees for an MS in Computer Science degree program for an international student per academic year:
| University Name | Average Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| University of Alberta | $14,550 |
| University of British Columbia | $13,428 |
| University of Toronto | $79,900 |
| McGill University | $20,374 |
| University of Windsor | $18,270 |
| University of Calgary | $13,386 |
| University of Waterloo | $21,126 |
| University of Victoria | $6,499 |
| York University | $14,118 |
| Simon Fraser University | $23,760 |
| Queen’s University | $14,619 |
| McMaster University | $25,640 |
| University of Ottawa | $41,278 |
| Concordia University | $26,100 |
Living Costs in Canada
Students need to bear various expenses like food, travel, books and supplies, etc., while pursuing their higher studies in Canada. The following is a breakdown of the different expenses that Indian students need to consider when calculating the living costs in Canada:
|
Category |
Cost |
|
Flight Expense |
INR 1,00,000- 2,00,000/- per flight |
|
Study Permit Fees |
INR 11,123 |
|
Work Permit Fees |
$155 (INR 11,493) |
|
IELTS test Fees |
INR 14,700 |
|
Accommodation |
INR 2,67,000-INR 5,39,000 per annum |
|
Travel Costs |
INR 4,300-INR 6,000 per month |
|
Health Insurance |
INR 17,000-INR 44,000 |
|
Food |
INR 17,50- INR 23,344 (monthly) |
|
Entertainment |
43,770 INR (monthly) |
Application Process for Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science
International students can apply for an MS in Computer Science program through the official website of the respective university in Canada. The application for certain programs can also be done through common application portals like ApplyAlberta, OUAC, etc.
Documents Required
International applicants are generally required to fulfill additional entry requirements for enrolling in an MS in Computer Science program in Canada. English language proficiency needs to be proved through tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, etc. Listed below are some of the other documents to be submitted along with the application for an MS in Computer Science in Canada:
- Statement of Purpose
- Personal Essay
- 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
- 3 Reference Letters
- CV/ Resume
- English language proficiency test scores
- Official academic transcripts
- GRE scores (recommended)
Scope of Pursuing MS in Computer Science from Canada
Several renowned corporations in Canada, including Amazon, Scotiabank, Sterling Turner, etc., hire post-graduates from Canadian universities. Based on your skills, location, position, and experience, the average salary after completing masters in computer science is between CAD 32,591 and CAD 53,449. The following table shows some of the popular jobs for M.S. in computer science graduates in Canada:
|
Job Profile |
Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
|
Information Technology Specialist |
62,362 |
|
Computer Science Researcher |
68,824 |
|
Trainers for Application Support |
87,453 |
|
Game Developer |
58,553 |
|
Application Analyst |
72,926 |
|
Cybersecurity Analyst |
66,031 |
|
Information Systems Manager |
91,338 |
|
Software Engineer |
76,888 |
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