As a profession, civil engineering is in high demand in Canada, with Immigration offering temporary fast-track work programs for qualified applicants and their families to work and live in Canada.
With such a focus on civil engineering, Canadian universities offer students brilliant opportunities to study civil engineering and gain a qualification that will set them up for many career opportunities in Canada and worldwide.
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Is civil engineering a good job in Canada?
The housing boom in Canada has led to a steady demand for civil engineers. Canada’s major city centres (including Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary) present the strongest job opportunities and salaries to match.
As a civil engineer, you should have no problem finding work anywhere in Canada. Even recent civil engineering graduates with limited professional experience are highly sought after.
In fact, the entry-level salary for this field is one of the highest in Canada, with new graduates regularly making figures in the mid $60,000 range.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Civil Engineer In Canada?
The length of a civil engineering course in Canada can vary depending on the level of education you are pursuing.
For an undergraduate degree in civil engineering, the typical length of the program is four years. However, some universities may offer co-op or internship options which can extend the program by a year.
For a graduate degree, such as a Master’s or a PhD in civil engineering, the length of the program will depend on the specific university and program requirements. A Master’s degree typically takes two years to complete, while a PhD can take anywhere from four to six years or longer.
It’s important to note that these timelines may vary based on program requirements, course load, and the student’s progress. It’s always best to check with the specific university and program you are interested in to confirm the length of the civil engineering course.
Top 10 Civil Engineering Programs in Canada
1. Calgary
The Schulich School of Engineering (University of Calgary) – PhD in Civil Engineering
The Schulich School of Engineering is ideal for both those seeking to begin their studies in engineering, as well as those wanting to progress on to postgraduate education.
Part of the University of Calgary, they pride themselves on offering a well-rounded academic experience that equips students with the skills needed to pursue successful careers in engineering.
Their Ph.D. is a research-based degree that will take 3-4 years, depending on prior qualifications held by the student.
2. Edmonton
The University of Alberta – Master of Engineering
The University of Alberta is one of Canada’s leading research universities, with over $490 million in external research funding.
They focused on internationalism, having over 37,00 students from 143 countries worldwide. They have also been one of Canada’s greenest employers for the past eight years.
Their master’s program in Civil Engineering takes 9-12 months, and students must complete a Capstone Project as part of the curriculum.
3. Hamilton
McMaster University – Bachelor of Civil Engineering
McMaster University has gained an international reputation for offering innovative educational programming.
Through its Bachelor of Civil Engineering program, McMaster University will provide students with a broad education in civil engineering while also offering the opportunity to specialize in an area of interest to the student.
Core disciplines include Structural Design, Transportation Engineering, and Water Resources Environmental Engineering.
4. London
Western University – Master of Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering
Founded in 1878, Western University has over 2,400 students enrolled in its engineering programs (both undergraduate and postgraduate).
This Master’s program allows students to mix project work with coursework and takes one to two years to complete.
Students will learn practical engineering skills and Canadian credentials, a crucial entry point for international students and workers seeking employment in Canada.
5. Montreal
McGill University – Bachelor of Civil Engineering
The Department of Civil Engineering & Applied Mechanics at McGill University was established in 1871. Today, around 570 undergraduate and postgraduate students are enrolled in their programs, of which nearly half are women and one-third are international students.
Their comprehensive bachelor’s program equips students with a foundation in mechanics and engineering, offering opportunities for students to either specialize in an advanced area of interest or gain a broader education in civil engineering.
6. Concordia University of Montreal – Civil Engineering
The Concordia University of Montreal boasts an annual enrolment of 46,000 students (15% of which are international students), offering undergraduate and postgraduate education focusing on hands-on experience and innovative solutions.
The Master of Engineering program builds on undergraduate education and prepares students for undertaking more research-based studies (such as a Ph.D.).
Students will develop their technical knowledge in engineering, the construction process, and the impact on the environment.
7. Ottawa
Algonquin College – Graduate Certificate in Civil Engineering
Having provided high-quality education for over 42 years, Algonquin College has a strong international presence, currently welcoming students from over 100 countries around the globe.
Their three-year Graduate Certificate program explores advanced topics such as civil estimating, highway and environmental engineering, and project administration. Graduates of this program will be prepared to pursue a career in various civil engineering-related areas.
8. Toronto
University of Toronto, Toronto – Bachelor of Civil Engineering
Consistently ranked number one in Canada, the University of Toronto’s Department of Civil Engineering offers this bachelor’s program.
This is where students will be prepared to create solutions that directly impact the quality of life everywhere, from rebuilding deteriorating buildings to creating structures to withstand natural disasters.
As well as engineering courses, students will receive education in related subjects such as maths, physics, and geology.
In the third year, students will receive opportunities to gain hands-on practical experience through camps and projects.
9. Vancouver
University of British Columbia – Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering
Consistently ranked among the top 40 universities in the world, the University of British Columbia prides itself on its entrepreneurial perspective, encouraging students to challenge convention and explore new ways of learning.
Their Bachelor’s program in Civil Engineering provides a foundation in both basic sciences and specific skills in civil engineering.
Laboratory work is integrated throughout the program to provide practical opportunities for students to apply what they learn in the coursework.
Each year, around 120 students are registered in this program.
10. Waterloo
University of Waterloo – Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering
Located at the heart of Canada’s technology hub, the University of Waterloo has over 36,000 full- and part-time students and offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Their Civil Engineering bachelor’s degree offers a highly flexible and customizable study path where students can explore many aspects of civil engineering and craft their study around areas of interest.
How Much Does It Cost To Study Civil Engineering In Canada?
The cost of studying civil engineering in Canada can vary widely depending on several factors, including the level of education, the university you attend, whether you are a domestic or international student, and other associated costs like accommodation, food, and transportation.
On average, domestic students’ tuition fees for an undergraduate civil engineering degree in Canada range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 35,000 per year. International students may have to pay significantly higher fees, ranging from CAD 20,000 to CAD 60,000 annually.
For a graduate degree in civil engineering, tuition fees can range from CAD 5,000 to CAD 25,000 per year for domestic students and from CAD 15,000 to CAD 50,000 per year for international students.
It’s important to remember that these are just approximate ranges, and the actual cost will depend on the university, the program, and other associated costs. Additionally, scholarships and financial aid options may be available to help offset the cost of tuition fees for eligible students.
FAQs On
Canada has several top universities offering civil engineering programs. Some renowned institutions include the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Waterloo, and University of Alberta.
Admission requirements may vary between universities, but applicants for civil engineering programs in Canada are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, with courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Additionally, they may need to submit standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Yes, international students are welcome to apply to civil engineering programs in Canada. They must meet the admission requirements set by the university, including submitting proof of English language proficiency (usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL).
References
- newengineer.com – Top 10 Universities for Civil Engineering in Canada
- usnews.com – Best Global Universities for Civil Engineering in Canada
- educations.com – Top 10 Civil Engineering Programs in Canada in 2024
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