The radiology course in Canada is an advanced, internationally-acclaimed program offered at varying levels of education. Students of the course are equipped with a detailed study of human anatomy, radiographic techniques, and radiobiology.
Generally, the radiology course in Canada curriculum is comprehensive, inclusive of theoretical lectures, lab instruction, and hospital training. The course offers students all the tools they will need to deliver patient care to diverse populations.
The course duration depends upon the level of education and the mode of instruction (full-time or part-time. With liberal regulations for international students and top infrastructure, the multicultural country of Canada is emerging as a leading choice for students interested in pursuing radiology courses.
As many as 102 universities offer a radiology course in Canada.
The following leading radiology course in Canada universities are a student-favorite this year. The table includes each university’s location, course and duration, and QS World Ranking 2023.
Name of the University
Course Name
Course Duration
Course Fees
QS World Ranking 2023
McMaster University
Medical Radiation Science program (MRSc)
Four years full-time
–
152
Dalhousie University
Radiological Technology
Four years full-time
CAD 16,860
308
McGill University
Diagnostic Radiology Residency Program
Interventional Radiology Residency Program
Five years full-time
Six years full-time
–
31
University of Toronto
Bachelor of Science in Radiation Medical Sciences
32 months
CAD 39,190
34
University of Calgary
Medical Imaging MEDI – MSc. and PhD
Two years for MSc. and four to six years for PhD.
CAD 13,597
242
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The Canada hosts the largest number of international students from across the world. Over the past few years, it has become one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad. Reasons such as best-ranked institutions, excellent support facilities, flexible academic environment, and cultural diversity contribute to making it the most preferred destination amongst students planning to study abroad.
Course Eligibility Requirements
The radiology course in Canada eligibility criteria will vary for each course level and among universities. However, all students applying for the Bachelor’s program must have completed their Higher Secondary education from a recognized Board in Bio-Science.
Those students applying for a Master’s program must have a graduate degree in Medical Radiation Technology or an equivalent course. Finally, students wishing to pursue a Doctorate program must have a Master’s degree in Medical Imaging and Radiation Technology or its equivalent course.
The radiology course in Canada admission criteria also includes proof of English proficiency for students with English as one of their secondary languages. This would consist of tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL). Minimum score requirements may vary among universities.
Other than these academic requirements, some colleges may also conduct a thorough health and police record check of the aspiring students.
Levels of Education
The radiology course in Canada requirement varies based on the level of education the candidate applies for. In general, four levels of education exist in the radiology department. These would include the following –
The undergraduate level or Bachelor’s program – course duration usually extends to three or four years (full-time).
The postgraduate or Master’s program – course duration usually extends to two years (full-time).
The Doctorate or PhD program – course duration usually extends to three years (full-time).
The Diploma program – course duration may extend to three or four years (full-time).
Note – The course duration for each level of education may vary among universities. Also, part-time or daytime courses are also available.
Scope of Education
Demand for radiologists and imaging experts is increasing by the day. Some sub-specialties that are seeing major demand include pediatric radiology, cardiac radiology, mammography, and neuroradiology.
After completing their radiology course in Canada, be it a postgraduate or research-level degree, aspirants can work as a radiologic technologist, general radiologist, or body imaging radiologist, among others.
Post undergraduate coursework, students can find work as radiology assistants. It is recommended that students pursue further education in postgraduate and research fields for more specialized roles.
Specializations
The radiology course in Canada subjects is generally divided into core and elective. Students can also choose the specialization they wish to pursue. Some of the top specialization options include –
Interventional Radiology
Diagnostic Radiology
Nuclear Medicine
Therapeutic Radiology
Angiography
Pediatric Radiology
Neuroradiology
Cost of Attendance at Every Education Level
The total radiology course in Canada includes college tuition fees, which vary based on the course level and chosen university and their fee requirements.
At the Bachelor’s level, students can expect to pay CAD 49,227 for the entire program, as is the fee structure for Fanshawe College. The college tuition fees at the Master’s level may extend from CAD 11,000 to CAD 35,000 per year (depending upon other fees and residence housing).
Besides the tuition fees, the cost of attendance will also include food, accommodation, books and supplies, and commuting costs. While books may be purchased at around CAD 1000, total living expenses for a year (including rent) may amount to CAD 17,577.
This is just an example. Living expenses may vary depending on personal spending habits and lifestyle preferences.
Whether you pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate, or Diploma program in radiology from Canada, various job opportunities open up. Your job profile, expected salary package, and career growth may depend upon the course level you’ve studied before applying for a job. The following fields in radiation technology are among the most sought-after in Canada –
Radiology Assistant – Bachelor’s or Diploma
Radiology Nurse – Bachelor’s
Radiology Technician – Bachelor’s or Diploma
Medical Physicist – Master’s
Radiation Biologist – Master’s
Health Physicist – Master’s
Radiology Professor – Doctorate
Researcher in Innovation Centers – Doctorate
Expected Remuneration Salary
The table below lists the average salary package for every career field.
Can I join the workforce after a Bachelor’s in Radiology from Canada?
Yes, several job opportunities open up even after a Bachelor’s degree in radiology from Canada. These would include radiation assistant, radiology nurse, and radiology technician, among others.
Can I open my own venture or startup after studying a radiology course in Canada?
Yes, you can set up your startup or venture after pursuing a radiology course in Canada. However, you need a Doctorate or PhD degree to do the same.
What is the scope of radiology in the future?
Given rising patient consciousness regarding MRI scans, radiation imaging, etc., the radiology and medical imaging sector is expected to see significant growth in the upcoming years. This means a highly fertile job market with good career growth and salary packages for radiology students.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.