Courses and qualifications in Canada
Canada offers both research universities and a large, well-regarded college sector. Your choice of program now affects more than your career — under current rules it can determine your eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Types of study
University degrees
Bachelor's (3–4 years), master's, and doctoral programs at research universities. The clearest route to a PGWP field-of-study exemption.
College diplomas
1–3 year applied, career-focused programs at public colleges and polytechnics — practical and often cheaper.
Post-graduate certificates
1–2 year college programs for students who already hold a degree and want Canadian, job-ready specialisation.
Pathway and language programs
English or French preparation and academic pathways into degree and diploma study.
Popular courses
Bachelor of Computer Science
Bachelor's 4 years
A four-year undergraduate degree in programming, computing theory, and software development, backed by Canada's strong technology sector.
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor's 4 years
A four-year undergraduate degree spanning biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, taught within Canada's research-intensive university system.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master's 1-2 years
A graduate management degree covering strategy, finance, marketing, and leadership, often paired with co-op or consulting work in Canada.
Master of Engineering
Master's 1-2 years
A one-to-two-year graduate degree building advanced, specialised engineering knowledge and applied project work on top of an undergraduate foundation.
Program choice and the PGWP
Since 2024–2025, many college and non-degree graduates must have studied an eligible field of study to qualify for a PGWP, while university degree graduates are exempt from that restriction. Check the current field-of-study list before committing to a program if post-study work matters to you.
How you apply
- Apply directly to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — only DLIs can host study-permit holders.
- Once you accept, get your Provincial Attestation Letter and apply for your study permit.
- Meet the institution's academic and English/French language requirements.
Official source: EduCanada.