What Are The Best Information Technology Schools for Undergraduate International Students in Canada?

What are the Benefits of Completing an Information Technology Program in Canada?

International students who choose to study at the best information technology schools in Canada stand to gain key skills and credentials that can lead to successful careers. According to data from Statistics Canada, 92% of students who complete a degree in “mathematics, computer and information sciences” are employed in the field within three years.

Why is IT called the Engine of Growth in Canada?

The IT field offers a lot of opportunities for new graduates. Called “The Engine of Growth in Canada” by the Information Technology Association of Canada, this sector contributes over $100 billion per year to the country’s GDP. There will be career opportunities for people with the right skills and credentials. The Canadian IT sector grew by 5.2% in the past year, and this level of growth is estimated to reach 22.4% by 2024. Graduating from a Canadian IT school will help international students stand out in this fast-developing sector.

What are the Best Information Technology Schools for International Students in Canada?

University of British Columbia: BCS - Integrated Computer Science

The University of British Columbia is one of the top-ranked learning institutes in Canada. Based in Vancouver, there is an additional campus in the picturesque Okanagan region of BC. There are more than 18,000 international students currently enrolled at UBC.

UBC offers a Bachelor of Computer Science with a specialization in Integrated Computer Science. This 20-month program is designed for students who have already completed a degree in Computer Science and are looking to transition into information technology. The program offers co-op opportunities so students can gain practical experience that will assist them in transitioning into an IT career.

Queen’s University: Bachelor of Computing with a Major in Security

Located in Kingston, Ontario, Queen’s University has been educating students for over 180 years. Queen’s is one of the oldest and top-ranked schools in Canada. There are more than 3,500 international students from over 114 countries currently enrolled at Queen’s University.

Through the Queen’s School of Computing, students can earn a Bachelor of Computer with a Major in Security. In addition to standard computing and engineering courses, students will complete courses addressing security design and maintenance for multiple systems. Students looking for a career in IT will be able to use knowledge and accreditation to build secure computing systems.

University of Calgary - Certificate in IT Fundamentals

The University of Calgary has been providing top-level education in Western Canada since 1966. A leader in the field of sustainable development, the school is based in a city ranked in the top 5 most liveable in the entire world. More than 3,500 international students from 140 different countries are currently enrolled at UCalgary.

Part of the Department of Continuing Education at UCalgary, the Certificate in IT Fundamentals can be completed with a minimum of 4 courses totalling at 120 hours. It will provide students with the fundamental knowledge of IT structure, formatting, design and repair, as well as an introduction to the C# programming language. Students looking to build a career in IT can also take additional courses in Big Data in Cloud, Information Systems Security and other related topics.

McGill University: SCS Certificate in Computers and Information Technology

Based in Montreal, McGill University is one of the most prestigious learning institutes in Canada and the world. Founded in 1821, students have been coming to McGill for over 200 years to study in a variety of subjects and graduate to become leaders in their field. International students from over 150 countries account for almost 30% of the McGill student population.

As part of the School of Continuing Education at McGill, students can earn an SCS Certificate in Computers and Information Technology. As an undergraduate program, students will learn the foundation skills covering all areas of IT including development infrastructure, database administration, and more. This online program is a convenient way for students to gain the education they need to start building a successful career in IT. International students should note that because it is online, a study permit cannot be issued for this program.

Simon Fraser University: BSc in Information Systems in Business Administration and Computing Science

Simon Fraser University has been educating students at its Vancouver and Burnaby campuses since 1965. One of the top ten schools in Canada, there are currently over 6,800 international students enrolled at SFU.

SFU offers a Bachelor of Science as a joint major in Information Systems in Business Administration and Computing Science. Students will learn about data communications, database structures and technological specifications that go into designing and maintaining information technology systems.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic Institute: Computer Systems Technology Diploma

The Saskatchewan Polytechnic Institute has been offering quality technical training since 1959. Based in the provincial capital of Saskatoon, it has grown over the past 60 years to include additional campuses in Regina, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert campus. Nearly 2,000 international students are currently enrolled in Saskatchewan Polytechnic, poised to take advantage of the thriving tech sector in one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities.

Part of the School of Information and Communications Technology, the Computer Systems Technology diploma is a two-year program. Students will learn the comprehensive technical knowledge and skills to find solutions to all computer-related issues for commercial and governmental clients. Upon completion, students will be able to work in a variety of areas, such as data management, programming, software design and more. Graduates will also have the option to transfer their diploma credits to the University of Saskatchewan, University of Regina and University of Lethbridge and earn a Bachelor's in Computer Science with an additional two years.

Centennial College: Bachelor of Information Technology

Centennial College is the oldest publicly-funded college in Ontario. Based in Toronto, it has been welcoming students to the GTA from around the world since 1966. With a diverse array of programs, it’s no wonder that there are over 14,000 international and exchange students currently enrolled at Centennial College.

Students at Centennial can earn a Bachelor of Information Technology degree. Centennial is unique, as it is the only post-secondary learning institute in the province of Ontario to offer such a program. The 4-year program aims to balance theoretical learning with hands-on experience, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the IT field.

Seneca College: Honours Bachelor of Information Technology Design and Management

Based in Toronto, Seneca College offers vocational training for students at multiple campuses in Toronto and throughout the surrounding GTA. The school was founded in 1967 with a mandate to provide comprehensive technical training to students who can then become leaders in growing industries. It is a popular destination for international students, with nearly half of the student body being born outside of Canada.

The Honours Bachelor of Information Technology Design and Management degree is an eight-semester program. It is designed for everything from advanced technical skills to management techniques that will allow graduates to meet industry challenges and become leaders. Combining in-class learning with co-op learning placements, students will complete the program with the IT skills they need to succeed.

International students come to Canada to gain the education needed to create a successful professional life in the field of their choice. For people who have a passion for tech, a career in information technology can be rewarding and enjoyable. Earning a degree at one of the best information technology schools in Canada will provide them with the tools and skills needed for a successful career. If you’re interested in a career in IT, speak with an education counsellor today to begin your journey.

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