PG Diploma Courses in Canada: Top Colleges, Admission Requirements & Jobs

PG Diploma Courses in Canada: Top Colleges, Admission Requirements & Jobs

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Highlights:

  • PG Diploma Courses in Canada for International Students are 1 to 2-year courses that allow you to enter the workforce faster.
  • PG Diploma in Canada is offered in Business Analytics, Information Technology, Accounting, Marketing, HR Management, and Finance.
  • You can enrol for the course in any of the 3 intakes in Canada – summer, winter, or fall intake.
  • You can get a diploma certificate in Canada at affordable costs of INR 5 lakhs to 12 lakhs depending on your field.
  • A PG Diploma in Canada trains you for the workplace where you can earn average salaries ranging from INR 21 to 55 Lakhs.

Postgraduate Diploma in Canada is a one to two-year program that offers undergraduate students hands-on experience to help them get ready for work. In Canada, you can pursue a postgraduate diploma course, known as a graduate diploma, only after completing a bachelor’s degree program. The average cost of studying for a PG diploma in Canada ranges from CAD 8000 to CAD 20,000 (5 lakhs to 12 lakhs INR). After course completion, you can expect an annual salary of CAD 35,000 to CAD 90,000. PG Diploma in Canada is the most sought-after course due to its short duration, affordability and practical teaching. Pursuing top PG Diploma courses in Canada offers one-year post-study work visa eligibility while two-year courses offer immigration opportunities and extra CRS points for Canadian PR.

A graduate of the PG diploma course in marketing from Centennial College stated "When I pursued a PG diploma in Canada, I found enriching co-op opportunities. Interning at Shopify and Mount Sinai improved my data analysis and visualisation skills. This practical exposure helped me secure a full-time marketing manager role at Deloitte after graduation and strengthened my resident permit application."


What are the Best Colleges for a PG Diploma in Canada?

PG Diploma in Canada is offered across various fields such as Engineering, Management, Health Science and Information Technology. Some of the popular universities for PG Diploma in Canada as per the most sought-after courses are – 

PG Diploma Courses in Canada for Computer Science

PG Diploma Courses in Canada for Computer Science prepare you for data-related jobs in the tech industry. Some of the popular PG diploma courses in Canada in CS field are – 

Program and University Duration Average Annual Fee (CAD)
Concordia University Computer Science (GrDip) 1 year 13,000
Humber College PG Diploma in Computer Programming 2 years 18,058
Conestoga College PG Diploma in Computer Programming and Analysis 1 year 14,163
Douglas College PG Diploma in Computer and Information Systems 2 years 19,100
George Brown College PG Diploma in Computer Programming and Analysis 3 years 17,850

PG Diploma Courses in Canada for Civil Engineering

Civil engineering in Canada is becoming increasingly data-oriented, and civil engineers with strong data analysis skills are in high demand. Some popular civil engineering PG diploma courses in Canada are – 

Program and University Application Deadlines Tuition Fee (CAD)
University of Windsor Honors Certificate in Civil Engineering March 1, 2024 22,636
Conestoga College Ontario College Graduate Certificate Structural Steel Management and Detailing February 1, 2024 15,382
Centennial College Graduate Certificate in Construction and Project Management January 30, 2024 25,809
Concordia University Graduate Certificate in Building Engineering July 1, 2024 26,325
George Brown College Diploma in Construction Management August 6, 2024 26,211

PG Diploma Courses in Canada for Psychology

The Canadian Bureau of Labour Market Information (BLMI) projects a positive job outlook for psychologists with a projected employment growth of 11% from 2020 to 2030. Some popular PG diploma courses for psychology in Canada are – 

University & Program Name Duration Annual Tuition Fee (CAD)
University of British Columbia - Child and Adolescent Mental Health 1 year 38,000
McGill University - Applied Dispute Resolution 1 year 32,000
University of Toronto - Psychological Assessment 1 year 35,000
York University - Expressive Therapies 1 year 28,000
Queen's University - Addictions and Mental Health 1 year 30,000

PG Diploma Courses in Canada for Social Work

PG Diplomas in Social Work typically focus on specialized areas, like child and youth advocacy, addictions and community services, or family intervention. Some PG diploma popular courses for social work in Canada are – 

University & Program Name Duration (Months) Annual Tuition Fee (CAD)
University of Toronto - Community Development 12 32,000
University of Calgary - Child and Youth Advocacy 10 28,500
McGill University - Mental Health and Social Work 12 35,000
Dalhousie University - Addictions and Community Services 12 29,000
University of British Columbia - Family Intervention 12 39,000

The top PG diploma courses in Canada with their average tuition fee and potential job roles are as given below for your reference –  

Top PG Diploma Courses in Canada


Why Study Post-Graduation Diploma in Canada?

Post Graduation Diploma in Canada is a popular course among international students as it offers international students a quick entry into the workforce. With innovative research projects and practical teaching methods, Canadian universities can provide you with a secure environment, excellent healthcare, social benefits, and a comfortable living standard.

Criteria Canada UK USA
Average Tuition Lower Cost 
₹8.7 Lakhs - ₹17.4 Lakhs
₹12.3 Lakhs - ₹24.6 Lakhs ₹20.7 Lakhs - ₹41.4 Lakhs
Cost of Living Lower Cost of Living
CAD 12,000 - CAD 20,000 - (₹7 Lakhs - ₹11.7 Lakhs)
£15,000 - £25,000
(₹18.4 Lakhs - ₹30.7 Lakhs)
US$15,000 - US$30,000
(₹12.5 Lakhs - ₹24.9 Lakhs)
Visa PGWP Availability Student visa with Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility Tier 4 (General) student visa with possible post-study work visa options Varies by program and visa type
Average Salary Profitable Salaries
CAD 60,000 - CAD 80,000 (₹43.9 Lakhs - ₹58.5 Lakhs)
£30,000 - £50,000
(₹36.9 Lakhs - ₹61.5 Lakhs)
US$60,000 - US$100,000
(₹49.8 Lakhs - ₹82.9 Lakhs)

Therefore, as we can see, Canada is a top study-abroad destination for PG diploma courses as it is known for its vibrant economy, multicultural society, and quality education. The country offers globally recognized postgraduate programs at a lower cost compared to the US, UK, and Australia. Seven of its universities rank among the world's top 150 according to QS World University Rankings 2024.


What are the top PG Diploma Courses in Canada?

The most popular PG diploma programs you can opt for in Canada are -

Courses Universities Average Tuition Fee Average Salary
PG Diploma in Science and Engineering University of Toronto, Thompson Rivers University, University of Calgary CAD 33,500 CAD 83,000
PGDM in Business Management Queen’s Smith School of Business, McGill Desautel University of Alberta CAD 70,909 CAD 90,000 - CAD 152,970
PGDM in Information Technology University of British Columbia, University of Winnipeg Ontario Tech CAD 40,000 CAD 85,000
PG Diploma in Health Science University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University CAD 29,415 CAD 68,000
PGDM in Hospitality Management Centennial College, Algonquin College, Seneca College, Sault College CAD 16,072 CAD 58,000
PG Diploma in Accounting University of Toronto, Centennial College, Red River College CAD 20,000 CAD 57,100
PG Diploma in HR Management George Brown college, Humber College, Mohawk College CAD 13,179- CAD 18,048 CAD 42000
PGDM in Marketing Algonquin college, St. Lawrence college, Bow valley college CAD 18,694 CAD 57,322

PG Diploma in Canada Course-wise average fee


What are the Eligibility Criteria for PG Diploma Courses in Canada?

Unlike a master's degree in Canada, you can apply for a PG diploma course even after a three-year bachelor’s degree.

PG diploma courses in Canada Requirements

Some of the important admission requirements for pursuing PG diploma in Canada are:

Eligibility Requirements Scores/Data
Undergraduate Aggregate Marks At least 65%
Work Experience (for marketing, management, and business administration courses) 2-3 years
English Language Proficiency Tests (IELTS) 6.5 and above
English Language Proficiency Tests (TOEFL) 90 to 100
PTE 58
Duolingo 115
GMAT Scores (for PG Diploma in Management) 550 - 675
GRE Scores (for Science, Technology, and Engineering fields) 280 - 330
Acceptance Letter from Chosen Institution Required
Work Experience 2-3 years (Preferred)

If you're looking to enrol in a PG diploma course in Canada, you'll need to secure a Canada study visa first. Make sure to choose a designated learning institute and gather all the necessary documents for the application process which is as follows –

Study Visa Application Process for Canada


What is the Fees for a PG Diploma in Canada?

The cost of studying PG diploma in Canada is less as compared to other developed countries like the US, the UK, and Australia. We can divide the overall cost into 3 sections - pre-arrival costs, university fees, and the cost of living in Canada.

Pre-Arrival Cost

The pre-arrival cost includes application fees, visa fees, English language proficiency exam fees, etc., which you need to plan for before coming to Canada.

Categories Amount in CAD
Program application fees 75 to 100
Health insurance 13000
Study permit application fees 235, (University dependent, 150 for a study permit and 85 for biometric fees)
IELTS fee Between 243 and 250
TOEFL fee Between 210 and 320

University Tuition Fee

The annual postgraduate diploma fees in Canada range between CAD 16,000 (INR 9,86,140) and CAD 25,480 (INR 15,70,430) per annum.

University Name Type of Specialisation Annual Tuition Fee (CAD) Annual Tuition Fees (INR)
University of Toronto Professional Accounting 16,765.81 10.3 lakhs
University of Calgary Data Science and Analytics 36,624.35 22.5 lakhs
University of Winnipeg Artificial Intelligence 21,978.07 13.5 lakhs
York University Cyber Security & Cyber Security Operations 18,722.07 11.5 lakhs
George Brown College Computer Programming & Analysis 17,094.57 10.5 lakhs
Durham College Accounting & Business 13,838.46 8.5 lakhs
Seneca College Accounting & Finance 15,466.52 9.5 lakhs
Algonquin College Digital Marketing 19,373.85 11.9 lakhs
Centennial College Biotechnology 17,906.14 11 lakhs
North Island College Global tourism & hospitality management 13,838.46 8.5 lakhs
Nova Scotia Community College Human Resource Management 11,720.38 7.2 lakhs

University Tuition Fee - PG Diploma in Canada

Cost of Living in Canada

Indian students studying PG courses in Canada should budget for monthly living expenses ranging from INR 1 lakh to 1.5 lakh. This cost covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and study materials.

Expense Type Average Cost (CAD) Cost Equivalent (INR)
Accommodation 2,000 1.23 lakhs
Food 370 22,700
Transport 100 6,100
Internet 86 5,200
Books and Supplies 163 10,000
Miscellaneous 350 21,500

Cost of Living in Canada


Are there any Scholarships for Top PG Diploma Courses in Canada?

Yes, some of the colleges providing PG diploma courses in Canada for international students offer scholarship opportunities for international students. The popular scholarships you can opt for while pursuing a PG diploma in Canada are:

Scholarship Name Benefit granted
Paul Foundation CAD 26900
Fork tip Women's Innovation CAD 2000
Humber College International Entrance Scholarship CAD 2000
Brokerfish International Student Scholarship CAD 91300
International Student Scholarship (Niagara College) CAD 2000

What is the duration of Post-Study Work Permit after a PG Diploma in Canada?

The duration of the Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP) after completing a PG Diploma in Canada typically depends on the length of your diploma program.

PG Course Duration PGWP Duration
Less than 8 months Not eligible
8 months - Less than 2 years Equal to course duration
2 years or more 3 years
Multiple programs (each at least 8 months) Combined duration of all programs

What are the Job Prospects after a PG diploma in Canada?

PG Diploma courses in Canada for international students are highly career-oriented as they prepare you for jobs within the country as well as in the global market. Students generally receive a one to three-year Open Work Visa to gain experience, potentially leading to permanent residency.

Jobs after PG Diploma in Canada

After completing PG diploma courses in Canada, international students have abundant job opportunities, including roles in Fortune 500 companies and emerging firms. The top job titles you can apply for as per your specialization are -

Job Role Average Annual Salary
Marketing Specialist CAD 62,883 (INR 38,75,720)
Quality Assurance Technician CAD 46,608 (INR 28,72,630)
Human Resource Assistant CAD 48,482 (INR 29,88,130)
Assistant Mechanical Engineer CAD 73,434 (INR 45,26,020)
Chemical Engineering Research Assistant CAD 37,325 (INR 23,00,480)
Architectural Technologist CAD 56,981.16 (INR 35 lakhs)
Executive Assistant CAD 53,713.18 (INR 33 lakhs)
Graphic Designer CAD 47,202.49 (INR 29 lakhs)
HR Manager CAD 66,741.87 (INR 41 lakhs)
Legal Assistant CAD 48,835.52 (INR 30 lakhs)
Marketing Manager CAD 56,981.16 (INR 35 lakhs)
Operations Manager CAD 69,997.57 (INR 43 lakhs)
Operations Supervisor CAD 60,230.47 (INR 37 lakhs)
Software Developer CAD 65,097.84 (INR 40 lakhs)
Web Developer CAD 56,981.16 (INR 35 lakhs)

Top Job Roles after PG Diploma

Top Recruiters

Some of the top organizations hiring for PG Diploma graduates in Canada are -

Company Name Domain Average Annual Salary (CAD)
Cirrus Consulting Group Marketing 64,696
The Home Depot Inc. HR 70,555
EY (Ernst & Young) Graphic Designing 59,750
IBM Canada Ltd. Software Development 81,994
Royal Bank of Canada Web Designing 76,800
Bennett Jones LLP Legal Assistance 48,000
Walmart Operations 61,000
Amazon.com Inc Operations 83,508

Top Recruiters of PG diploma


Which is better, a 1-year PG diploma or a 2-year diploma in Canada?

The choice between 1-year or 2-year PG diploma programs usually depends on the program you are opting for and the duration of your post-study work visa.

Parameters One-year PG diploma course Two-year PG diploma
Semesters Comprises 2-3 semesters, focuses on specific skills Thesis-oriented, 4-6 semesters, includes independent research
Cost (INR) 6.18 - 9.28 lakhs 7 - 11 lakhs
Post-Study Work Visa Duration One year Three years

Canadian PG Diplomas are 12 to 18 months and they offer a cheaper way (CAD 15,000 - CAD 30,000) for international students to gain job-ready skills in business, healthcare, or other fields. Graduates of the program can potentially earn CAD 30,000 - CAD 60,000 after graduation. These two-year programs often include internships and study-abroad opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques. What are the top PG diploma programs in Canada?

Ans. Top-ranked institutions in Canada offer PG diploma courses in various fields. Let us have a look at the top colleges for pursuing graduate diplomas in different fields and their annual tuition fee-

CD Rank College Course Annual Fee
#123 Durham College PG Diploma in Accounting & Business CAD 14,184

INR 8.53 lakhs

#99 Centennial College Advanced PG Diploma in Biotechnology CAD 18,444
INR 11.12 lakhs
#141 Seneca College (Newnham Campus) PG Diploma in Accounting & Finance CAD 16,011

INR 9.65 lakhs

#126 George Brown College PG Diploma in Computer programming and analysis CAD 17,841

INR 10.75 lakhs

#139 Mohawk College Advanced PG diploma in Mechanical engineering & Technology CAD 16,510

INR 9.95 lakhs

#104 Algonquin College PG Diploma in Advertising & Marketing Communication Management CAD 18,694

INR 11.27 lakhs

#205 Niagara College PG diploma Computer programming & Analysis CAD 16,575

INR 10 lakhs

#130 St. Clair College PG Diploma in Business Administration & Finance CAD 15,987

INR 9.64 lakhs

Ques. Are there good 1 year PG Diploma courses in Canada?

Ans. Some top 1 year PG diploma programs in Canada you can pursue are -

  • Biosciences, Medicine and Healthcare
  • Business Administration
  • Computer Science and Information Technology
  • Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, Data Analytics, Computers & Networking.
  • Engineering and Engineering Management
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Global Hospitality Management, Food Technology, Pharmacy & Nursing.
  • Health & Environment Management, Hospitality & Tourism Operations Management.
  • Marketing, Supply Chain Management.

Ques. Is a postgraduate diploma equivalent to a Masters degree in Canada?

Ans. No, a Post Graduate Diploma (PG Diploma) in Canada is not equivalent to a Master's degree. While both require a bachelor's degree beforehand, a Master's program is a more advanced and in-depth level of study, typically lasting 2 years. PG Diplomas are shorter (1-2 years) and focus on specific skills and practical knowledge for careers.

Ques. What are the top colleges offering PG diplomas in Canada?

Ans. The top colleges offering PG diploma courses in Canada along with their annual tuition fee include

  1. Lambton College - Graduate Certificate Program – Financial Planning & Wealth Management - CAD 22,434 (INR 13,82,690) - CAD 25,380 (INR 15,64,260)
  2. Centennial College - Graduate Certificate in Marketing Management - CAD 16,000 - CAD 17,505
  3. University of Winnipeg - Financial Management Diploma - CAD 25,480
  4. Humber College - Graduate Certificate in Supply Chain Management - CAD 18,058
  5. Douglas College - Post-degree diploma in Financial Analysis - CAD 9,693

Ques. How do you apply for a study permit in Canada?

Ans. Applying for a study permit in Canada involves a few key steps:

  • Ensure you meet the basic requirements like having an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada and proof of financial support.
  • Collect required documents like your passport, medical exam results, police certificates (if applicable), and proof of English language proficiency.
  • You can submit your application electronically through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or by mail through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
  • There are application processing fees and potentially biometrics fees associated with the application.
  • Processing times can vary, so plan accordingly.

Ques. Should I consider a 1-year PG Diploma or a 2-year PG Diploma?

Ans. Many students opt for the two-year program as it offers a 3-year post-study work permit, providing enough time to gain valuable work experience. On the other hand, a 1-year PG diploma gives an additional year to build practical skills and experience.

Ques. Can I get PR after a 1 year PG diploma in Canada?

Ans: Yes, international students can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada after completing a 1-year PG Diploma course. However, they must work in their field of study for at least one year after obtaining their postgraduate work permits.

Ques. Does a PG Diploma have value in Canada?

Ans: Yes, a PG Diploma holds value in Canada. It enhances your CV, particularly if you aim for a good job or plan to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada. Depending on the sector and job role, freshers who complete a PG diploma in Canada can expect salaries ranging from 21.52 lakhs to 55.33 lakhs per year.

Ques. What is the scope of a PG Diploma in Canada?

Ans. A PG Diploma in Canada offers a faster, career-focused path to get job-ready skills in 1-2 years. It can lead to good salaries (CAD 30,000 to CAD 60,000) and potentially opens the door to permanent residency through work experience.

Ques. What PG Diploma courses are available in Canada after a BSc in Chemistry?

Ans.  Your background in Chemistry opens doors to several exciting PG Diploma options in Canada. Here are some examples, along with top universities offering them:

  • Chemical Laboratory Technician: Lambton College, Centennial College
  • Environmental Chemistry Technology: Sheridan College, Humber College
  • Biotechnology: George Brown College, University of Alberta
  • Forensic Chemistry: Seneca College, British Columbia Institute of Technology

Ques. What PG Diploma courses can I pursue in Canada with a Commerce background?

Ans. Some popular PG diploma courses in Canada for commerce students are – 

  • Business Analytics: University of Toronto, McGill University
  • Marketing Management: York University, University of British Columbia
  • Project Management: Concordia University, Queen's University
  • Supply Chain Management: Humber College, Seneca College

Comments


Found 13 Comments

H
himanshu yadav
Mar 29, 2024 10:26

I have a business diploma. Would a PG Diploma be a good fit for me, or should I consider a Master's degree?

L
Lagan Kapoor
Apr 3, 2024 01:20

Both PG Diplomas and Master's degrees can be good options for someone with a business diploma in Canada, but the best choice depends on your specific goals and circumstances. PG Diplomas are typically 1 year or less, allowing you to gain specialized skills and enter the workforce faster.

S
Simran Kumari
Apr 4, 2024 20:06

Choosing between a Master's degree and a PG Diploma hinges on aligning your career aspirations, interests, and desired level of specialization. Both options offer distinct advantages, paving the way for rewarding and fulfilling career paths tailored to individual ambitions and industry demands.

H
himanshu yadav
Mar 29, 2024 10:25
Can I work part-time while studying for a PG Diploma?
L
Lagan Kapoor
Apr 3, 2024 01:18

Yes, you generally can work part-time while studying for a PG Diploma in Canada, but there are some regulations and limitations to consider. You'll need a valid study permit with a condition allowing off-campus work. This is typically mentioned on the permit itself.

S
Simran Kumari
Apr 4, 2024 20:08

Yes, it's possible to work part-time while studying for a PG Diploma. However, it's essential to consider the workload of both your studies and job to ensure you can manage both effectively without compromising your academic performance. 

H
himanshu yadav
Mar 29, 2024 10:25

Which is better, a 1-year PG diploma or a 2-year diploma in Canada?

L
Lagan Kapoor
Apr 3, 2024 01:13

The best choice between a 1-year PG diploma and a 2-year diploma in Canada depends on your individual goals and priorities. Get qualified and enter the workforce quicker, potentially saving on tuition and living expenses. Many 1-year PG diplomas are designed to equip you with specific skills directly relevant to current job market demands.

S
Simran Kumari
Apr 4, 2024 20:10

The choice between a 1-year and a 2-year PG diploma in Canada depends on your specific goals, career aspirations, and the requirements of your chosen field. Consider factors such as curriculum, industry demand, and your personal circumstances before deciding.