Why Engineering Degree from Canada?

Canada offers high-quality, research-oriented, and affordable education, which is recognized worldwide. Canada is a safe, secure, healthy, multicultural, and welcoming environment for international students. It's regarded as one of the best countries to live in. By the conclusion of 2023, Canada experienced a significant surge of 63% in the number of international students within the preceding five years, resulting in a total count of approximately 1,041,000 international students..

Among international students, 10% are from China, 41% are from India, 3% from France, 2% from South Korea, and 4% from Nigeria. Ontario and British Columbia are the top provinces attracting more than 65% of international students.

Types of Engineering Degrees

• Bachelor's Degree- Some of the undergraduate engineering degrees include Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.), Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Sc.Eng.), Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.), Bachelor of Civil Engineering (B.C.E.), Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (B.M.E.) and Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (B.E.E.).
  
  
• Masters' Degree- Master's degree options available in Canada are Master of Engineering (MEng), Master of Applied Science (MASc), Master of Science (MSc) in Engineering, Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Engineering Management, and Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) etc.
  
  
• Doctoral Degree- In Canada, there are several different types of doctoral degrees in engineering available, including Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Engineering, Doctor of Engineering (EngD), Doctor of Science (DSc) in Engineering, Doctor of Engineering Science (EngScD) and Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering Management (PhD EM), etc.
  
  

In addition to these categories of degrees, numerous engineering majors offer the option of an associate degree. Some engineering majors that offer an associate degree option include mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, and aerospace engineering. These programs typically provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of engineering and technical skills necessary for entry-level positions in the field. Students in these programs may also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, earning an associate degree in engineering can be a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree.

Advantages of an Engineering Degree from Canada

There are numerous benefits to pursuing an engineering degree in Canada. Some of the key advantages include:

• High-quality education: Canadian universities are known for their high academic standards and rigorous engineering programs. Graduates from Canadian engineering schools are highly respected and sought after by employers worldwide.
• Diverse range of specializations: Canada offers a wide range of engineering disciplines to choose from, including civil, mechanical, electrical, computer, and chemical engineering, among others. This allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.
• Strong job prospects: Canada has a strong demand for skilled engineers, with many industries experiencing a shortage of qualified professionals. Graduates with an engineering degree can expect many job opportunities in the public and private sectors.
• Competitive salaries: Engineers in Canada are among the highest-paid professionals in the country, with wages that are well above the national average. This makes engineering a lucrative career choice for those seeking a stable and financially rewarding job.
• Opportunities for advancement: With the rapid pace of technological advancements and innovation, engineers in Canada have ample opportunities for career growth and advancement. Many engineering graduates pursue further education or certifications to enhance their skills and expertise.

Overall, pursuing an engineering degree in Canada can open up a world of opportunities and provide a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in engineering.

Disadvantages of an Engineering Degree from Canada

• Canada's engineering degree program may have certain drawbacks that should be considered, such as limited practical experience opportunities. While the theoretical knowledge provided in engineering courses is essential, hands-on experience is equally important for students to develop their skills and apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. However, some Canadian engineering programs may not offer sufficient opportunities for students to engage in practical projects or internships, limiting their ability to gain practical experience and prepare for the workforce.
• Another drawback of Canada's engineering degree program is the lack of diversity in course offerings. While the core engineering courses are well-established and comprehensive, students may have limited options to specialize in specific engineering disciplines or explore interdisciplinary fields. This can restrict students' ability to tailor their education to their particular interests and career goals, potentially limiting their opportunities for specialization and innovation in their chosen field.
• Additionally, the high cost of pursuing an engineering degree in Canada can be a significant drawback for many students. Tuition fees for engineering programs in Canada are often higher compared to other disciplines, making it financially challenging for some individuals to pursue their passion for engineering. This financial burden can deter talented students from pursuing an engineering degree or force them to take on significant student loans, impacting their financial stability and prospects.
• The competitiveness of admission into Canadian engineering programs is another drawback that should be considered. Due to the limited number of spots available and the high demand for engineering degrees, admission requirements can be rigorous, and the competition can be intense. This can create additional stress and pressure for prospective students, potentially discouraging some talented individuals from pursuing an engineering career or forcing them to settle for alternative programs or institutions.
• Lastly, the lack of emphasis on soft skills development in Canadian engineering programs is another drawback worth mentioning. While technical knowledge is crucial for engineers, effectively communicating, collaborating, and leading is equally significant in today's professional landscape. However, some Canadian engineering programs may not prioritize the development of these soft skills, potentially leaving graduates ill-prepared for the interpersonal and managerial aspects of their future careers.

In conclusion, while Canada's engineering degree program offers many advantages, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as limited practical experience opportunities, lack of course diversity, high costs, competitiveness of admission, and insufficient emphasis on soft skills development.

Top 5 Universities for Engineering in Canada

1

University of Waterloo

• The University of Waterloo, a public research institution, is renowned for housing Canada's largest Engineering school. It is consistently ranked in the top 50 best engineering schools globally, boasting an enrollment of over 10,500 students as of 2021.
• The University provides a wide range of educational opportunities in engineering, with 15 undergraduate degrees available. Its eight academic units also offer graduate degrees for both Masters and PhD programs. The engineering schools encompass various departments, including Architecture, Entrepreneurship and Business, Chemical Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Management Science and Engineering, Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineering, and Systems Design Engineering.
• Regarding the prerequisites for engineering programs, students must have completed the Ontario 12 U courses, including Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors, Chemistry, Physics, English, and one additional 12 U or 12 M course. A minimum final grade of 70% is typically necessary in each course for admission to engineering programs.
• The English prerequisites function in the same manner as the admission prerequisites. The overall requirement entails obtaining a minimum TOEFL score of 90 and an IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum score of 6.5 in writing and speaking and 6.0 in reading and listening.
• The University of Waterloo charges a higher tuition fee for international students. The undergraduate program's tuition fee can vary from $18,000 to $73,000 for two terms, depending on the student's course and residential status.

2

University of Toronto

• The University of Toronto consistently ranks among the top universities in the world and attracts students from across the globe. With three campuses in the heart of Toronto, the university offers its students a vibrant and diverse learning environment. It is known for its prestigious academic programs, world-class faculty, and cutting-edge research. The University of Toronto is committed to excellence in education, research, and innovation and continues to make significant contributions to society through its groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in various fields.
• The university's Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering is subdivided into various departments, including Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, Civil & Mineral Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Engineering Science, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Aerospace Studies, Biomedical Engineering, and Transdisciplinary Engineering Education & Practice.
• During the initial year of the engineering program at the university, students have the opportunity to choose from various program options such as Track One (Undeclared), Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Mineral Engineering.
• To be eligible for undergraduate engineering programs, candidates in the Ontario Grade 12 curriculum must fulfill the entry requirements. These requirements include completing the Ontario Secondary School Diploma or its equivalent and six specific Grade 12 U/M courses. These courses are English, Calculus and Vectors, Chemistry, Physics, Advanced Functions, and one additional U or M course.
• International students must meet the English language proficiency requirements by achieving a minimum TOEFL total score of 89, with at least 22 in both the Speaking and Writing sections and an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band score lower than 6.0.
• The annual cost for undergraduate engineering programs is approximately $14,000 in tuition fees.

3

McGill University

• McGill University is a public institution with campuses in downtown Montreal and the Macdonald in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. The Faculty of Engineering at the university has evolved into one of the top-ranked research-intensive engineering and design schools worldwide. The faculty's renowned engineering, urban planning, and architecture researchers spearhead innovation in sustainability, the built environment, manufacturing, health, and information technology.
• The faculty of engineering at the university comprises six departments: Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Mining and Materials Engineering.
• The engineering undergraduate program has various admission criteria, such as a Minimum Overall R-Score between 27.0 and 32.3. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency with a minimum band score of 6.5 or higher and individual component scores of 6.0 or higher. Additionally, a minimum TOEFL score of 90 is required, with at least 21 in each reading, writing, listening, and speaking section.
• The university offers engineering programs at significantly reduced tuition fees. The undergraduate fees are approximately $2,900 per term, whereas the graduate tuition fees are approximately $1,500.

4

Simon Fraser University

• Simon Fraser University is a Canadian public research institution in Burnaby, British Columbia. The university is known for its innovative programs, cutting-edge research, and commitment to sustainability. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, business, and engineering. SFU is also home to several research centers and institutes where faculty and students collaborate on groundbreaking research projects. The university has a diverse student body, with students from over 100 countries studying on its three campuses. SFU is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Canada and the world.
• The Faculty of Applied Science at the university provides undergraduate and graduate programs in Engineering Science, Mechatronic Systems Engineering, and Sustainable Energy Engineering.
• To be eligible for enrollment in the Engineering program, domestic students must have completed at least five Grade 12 courses approved by the institution. Among these courses, a minimum grade of 70% in English Studies 12 or its equivalent is necessary. On the other hand, international students must meet the English language proficiency criteria. This can be achieved by obtaining an overall score of 6.5 in the IELTS exam, with no individual section scoring below 6.0. Alternatively, an overall score of 88 on the TOEFL exam, with no section scoring below 20, is also acceptable.
• The undergraduate engineering program charges approximately $3,200 for tuition fees, while the graduate program charges around $2,100 per term. However, international students face significantly higher tuition fees, with the undergraduate program costing approximately $18,000 per term and the graduate program maintaining the same tuition fee as domestic students at around $2,100 per term.

5

Carleton University

• Carleton University, located in Ottawa, Ontario, is consistently ranked among the top universities in Canada. Known for its strong academic programs, innovative research initiatives, and vibrant campus community, Carleton attracts students from across the country and worldwide. With a focus on experiential learning, interdisciplinary studies, and community engagement, Carleton offers its students a dynamic and enriching educational experience. The university's commitment to excellence in teaching and research has earned it a reputation as a leader in higher education in Canada.
• The Faculty of Engineering and Design at the University provides a wide range of programs for students to choose from. These programs include Aerospace Engineering, Architectural Conservation and Sustainability Engineering, Biomedical and Electrical Engineering, Biomedical and Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Communications Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, and Sustainable and Renewable Energy Engineering.
• The requirements for admission to the undergraduate engineering programs mandate the completion of six Grade 12 courses at the 4U or 4M level, with no grade falling below 60%, and Grade 12 English 4U being a compulsory course.
• International students must meet the English language proficiency requirements by obtaining a minimum TOEFL score of 86 overall, with at least 22 in writing and speaking and 20 in reading and listening. Alternatively, they can submit an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0.
• The engineering programs for domestic students have tuition and fees ranging from $7,200 to $13,000 annually. Conversely, international students must pay higher tuition fees than domestic students, ranging from $31,000 to $50,000.

Some Other Important Universities for Engineering are:

• Universite DE Montreal, Quebec
• Queens University, Kingston, Ontario
• University Of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
• Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec
• University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
• University of Victoria, B.C.
• University of Calgary, Alberta
• University of Saskatchewan
• York University
• University of Western Ontario
• McMaster University
• Universite DU Quebec
• Ecole Polytechnique, Montreal
• University of Windsor