Usages of the computer have penetrated all walks of life. Businesses and organizations have multiple and varied uses for computers and computer scientists. There are more than 400 computer science courses available for students in Canada. With the availability of computer science courses and the recent boom in the innumerable uses of computers, the study of computer science has helped to shape many promising careers. It has also provided opportunities for building up good career pathways.

• The duration of the course is from 1-5 years, depending on the university and the course
• The certificate of passing the 12th standard is mandatory.
• Average tuition fees in the colleges are approximately 1,535 – 55,500 CAD/year.
• The top recruiters for the graduates of computer science courses in Canada are IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, Simba technology, Google, etc.

Why study Computer Science courses in Canada:

Canada boasts of housing some of the most famous and acclaimed universities across the globe that are adorned with a long history of commendable academic performances and high graduate employability rates. Listed below are some of the reasons for choosing Canada for the study of computer science.

• applicants can easily get admission into Canadian universities 
• Acquiring a student visa is relatively simpler than in other countries
• The computer science curriculum is supported by a strong theoretical background and is at par with the latest modern modules.
• Apart from the core subject, applicants also learn subjects like mathematics, statistics, engineering, and business.
• The cost of studying in Canada is comparatively less for undergraduate courses such as Bachelor of Arts.
• Students opting for a Bachelor in Computer Science can be recruited by some of the most prestigious organizations, such as iQmetrix, IBM Canada Ltd., CGI Group Inc., and Amazon, among others.
• Canada provides world-class facilities for its students, and opportunities like exposure to the international platform are easily achievable.

Computer science courses in Canada: Course Highlight

Due to its immense importance and massive impact on the modern world, the study of computer science has become a much sought-after discipline. As a result, Canada is ranked one of the top destinations for computer science study.

Best universities/colleges offering computer science courses in Canada:

Canada is one of the leaders in the world of education, and Canada offers some of the best facilities as well. The easy accessibility and toned-down application process make Canadian universities popular among students. In addition, the universities give international exposure to their students. Listed below are some of the top universities in Canada.

Level of Study :

Computer science courses in Canada are offered to students at various levels, and the curriculum for each level is more advanced than the previous one. Students who wish to gain a master’s in Computer courses in Canada can choose from various specializations.

1. Bachelor’s in computer science in Canada 

It is provided as a major, minor, specialist, and co-op program. Specialist and co-op programs are available in a few selected universities only.

• Major/Minor: Students can choose from various computer science courses as a major or a minor to study in Canada, like data science, software engineering, operating systems, parallel programming, artificial intelligence, etc.
• Specialist Program: A specialist program in computer science offers computer science courses in combination with courses from other interdisciplinary subjects like information systems, entrepreneurship, etc. 
• Co-Op Program: Students opting for a co-op degree in computer science have to enroll in a compulsory internship from the second or third year of their degree. Here the student gets an opportunity to earn as most of the internships are paid internships.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s in computer science in Canada

• 12th standard with Science Subjects
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Maths
• Minimum Percentage of marks - 70%
• English Test scores according to the needs of the universities

Admission process:

The admission process for enrolling in a University in Canada can vary depending on the institution. 

Cost of Studying:

The price of a bachelor’s degree in computer science in Canada varies from university to university when living expenses are considered. Students should start by gathering all of the required documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. Once you have everything ready, submit your application online and the documents.

2 . Diploma in computer science:

Applicants who wish to get a diploma in computer science have the opportunity to choose from a variety of universities. There are many specializations offered to the students as well. Some of them are,

• IT & Networking
• Animation & Design
• Computer Science & Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Analytics
• Cloud Computing
• Information Systems

Eligibility Criteria for Diploma in computer science in Canada

• Students must have passed class 12th
• English language proficiency scores: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, and PTE
• A bachelor’s degree
• Resume
• Letter of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose

Admission process:

A diploma in computer science is offered by all the highest-ranked universities in Canada, each having a different admission procedure than the other. Every university has its own application system. Some of the institutes located in Quebec, Ontario, and Alberta may accept applications through SRAM, OUAC, and ApplyAlberta portals, respectively

Cost of Studying:

The cost of a bachelor’s degree in computer science varies from university to university in Canada, along with living expenses. Along with the university tuition, consideration, and calculation must be given to the pre-application fees, English language competency exam expenses, and visa application fees.

3 . Master’s in computer science 

Over fifty colleges offer Master’s in computer science in Canada, and all have the highest ranks and recommendations. The universities offer a two-year master’s course. The Master in computer science is ranked in the list of the top three most popular and sought-after specializations in Canada. Applicants interested in Data Science may also opt for a Master’s in Data Science in Canada.

There are 3 types of Master’s of Computer Sciences 

• MACS: Master of Applied Computer Sciences, a 16-month research-based course that requires a thesis submission at the end of the course.
• M.Eng: Master of Computer Science and Engineering, is a 16-month course.
• MSc: Master of Computer Science is a 2-year course that requires independent research work from the applicant.

Postgraduates are offered a 3-year work extension period through Postgraduate Work Permit Programme (PGWPP) 

Scholarships and several privately funded scholarships are offered to international Computer Science postgraduates.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Computer Science in Canada

• Students must have passed class 12th
• English language proficiency scores: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, and PTE
• A bachelor’s degree
• Resume
• Letter of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose

Admission process:

There are a few steps to take to be admitted into a Master’s in computer science course at a university in Canada. First, you must ensure that you have the proper academic qualifications by completing an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field from a recognized institution. In addition, you will need to submit official transcripts as well as proof of English proficiency. Finally, once you have gathered the required documents, you will need to fill out an online application form and pay the applicable fees.

Cost of Studying:

The average cost of studying a Master’s in computer science at a University in Canada can range from $15,000 to $20,000 per year. This includes tuition fees, books, other study materials, and living costs such as accommodation and food. 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for  computer science courses in Canada:

There are several scholarships available for students of computer science like the Outstanding International Student Award, International Admission Scholarship (University of Alberta), English Proficiency Entrance Scholarship, etc. some of them are listed below,

Career opportunities after computer science in Canada:

• In order to work in Canada after graduation, international students have to apply for a Canadian Work Permit within 90 days of course completion. 
• Experienced graduates may expect an average annual salary of around 96,000 CAD (58.25 lakhs INR).
•  Popular companies like Amazon, CGI, Scotiabank, Sterling Turner, etc. recruit Computer Science graduates from various universities in Canada. 
• Top careers for Master’s in Computer Science graduates include IT Specialists, Computer Programmers, Computer Researchers, and Professors.