What Are the Best IT Diploma Programs for International Students in Canada?

As the Canadian business sector continues to grow and digitize, the need for qualified IT professionals capable of maintaining these networks will increase. The IT sector has been called “The Engine of Growth in Canada” by the Information Technology Association of Canada, and the profession continues to expand. 

A recent study has found that 94% of leading Canadian tech companies have experienced difficulty hiring quality IT and tech personnel. Furthermore, it is estimated that there are over 216,000 IT job openings currently available.  With an IT diploma from a Canadian College, aspiring IT professionals boost their chances of getting hired for these in-demand jobs. 

Saskatchewan Polytechnic Institute - Computer Systems Technology Diploma 

Founded in 1959, The Saskatchewan Polytechnic Institute has been offering technical training for 65 years. From the main location in the provincial capital of Saskatoon, the school has expanded to additional campuses in Prince Albert, Regina and Moose Jaw. There are more than 2,000 international students currently enrolled in Saskatchewan Polytechnic and taking advantage of the city's fast-growing tech sector. 

As part of the School of Information and Communications Technology at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, students can earn a Computer Systems Technology Diploma. In a two-year program, students will learn fundamental tech skills related to information technology. From troubleshooting, repair and updating to the design, installation and maintenance of complex computer networks, these skills can be applied to all IT-related issues. Once the program is completed, students wishing to further their studies can also transfer their diploma credits to the Universities of Saskatchewan, Regina or Lethbridge to earn a Bachelor in Computer Science with two additional years of study. 

For international students at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the first-year tuition rate is $20,524.20. 

Humber College - Information Technology Solutions Certificate 

Located in Toronto, the Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning — commonly known as Humber College — has been a leader in career-based learning since 1967. Ranked one of the country's top research institutes, Humber programs are designed to teach students the skills needed to enter the workforce and start building a successful professional life in their chosen field. Almost 10,000 international students are currently enrolled at Humber.  

The Information Technology Solutions program allows students to earn an Ontario Graduate Certificate after four semesters / two years of study. The program is designed for students without any experience in IT and will prepare them with the skills needed to step into the industry upon graduation. Topics addressed include data analytics, network management, database development, software development and more. In the final semester, students will complete an industry project supervised by a Humber industrial partner, gaining invaluable experience. Humber also arranges showcases and employer engagement workshops so students can network with potential employers and demonstrate their IT portfolios. 

The tuition fee for international students in the Information Technology Solutions program at Humber is $21,737.70 per year. 

George Brown College - Computer Systems Technician Program 

Founded in 1967, George Brown College offers over 160 diploma and degree programs to students from its campus in downtown Toronto. This ensures that students have access to leaders and partners in Canada’s business capital, providing opportunities for unique learning experiences. Ranked one of the ten best colleges in Canada, more than 30% of the current student body at George Brown consists of international students. 

The Computer Systems Technician Program at George Brown is a two-year program designed to give students a complete understanding of IT and computer systems. The school continually updates its curriculum and facilities so that students are able to keep up with the latest developments in the IT sector. Upon completion, students will be prepared to write multiple industry-standard certification exams and earn the qualifications employers are seeking from IT professionals. 

The tuition fee for students in the Computer Systems Technician diploma program is $18,350.00 per year. 

Algonquin College – Computer Systems Technician Diploma 

As part of the School of Advanced Technology at Algonquin, students can earn a Computer Systems Technician Diploma. This two-year program will provide students with all the skills needed to become IT professionals, including how to maintain, design and repair complex networks for corporate and commercial clients. Students will have the opportunity to complete co-op placements for work-integrated learning experiences. 

International students earning a Computer Systems Technician Diploma at Algonquin can expect to pay approximately $9,200.00 per semester. 

Centennial College - Software Engineering Technician 

Based in the Greater Toronto Area, students at Centennial College can study over 160 different programs in Canada’s biggest city. With hybrid learning options, Centennial is committed to providing students with the ability to balance their education with other responsibilities. There are more than 12,000 international students currently enrolled at Centennial. 

The Software Engineering Technician program at Centennial is a 2-year / 4-semester program. Students will learn the skills needed to work in the software and IT field. As part of the program, students will learn the latest tools and techniques utilized in the industry, as well as a variety of programming languages including C#, Python, Java, HTML5/CSS/JavaScript/React and more. The courses are designed to focus on real-world business applications, so upon graduation, students will be prepared to step into the workforce. 

International students completing the Software Engineering Technician program at Centennial can expect to pay $18,936.00 per year. 

British Columbia Institute of Technology – Diploma in Computer Information Technology 

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) offers some of the best tech-related learning programs in Western Canada. With campuses in Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond and Metro Vancouver, students will have the facilities and environment needed to excel in their chosen field. Founded in 1964, there are currently more than 5,000 international students enrolled at BCIT. 

The Diploma in Computer Information Technology at BCIT is a 2-year program designed to give a full overview of the skills needed to be an IT professional. The program is built around smaller class sizes with hands-on learning opportunities, so students will quickly gain the skills needed to succeed in IT. With co-op and practicum opportunities, students will be able to gain real-world experience with industry leaders and employers.  

International students earning a diploma in Computer Information Technology at BCIT will pay  $45,200.00 in tuition.  

Camosun College – Information and Computer Systems Technology Diploma 

Located on Vancouver Island in the Greater Victoria Area, Camosun College has been educating students since 1971. One of the largest public colleges in the province, Camosun is committed to balancing in-class learning with hands-on experience in over 160 different programs. There are over 1,700 international students currently enrolled at Camosun. 

The Information and Computer Systems Technology Diploma at Camosun is a two-year program designed so that students will be ready to step directly into the IT field after completion. The program focuses on practical IT solutions and the skills the IT professionals will utilize in all types of situations for clients of all sizes. Students will also have the option to complete up to three paid co-op opportunities to gain invaluable experience in the workplace and make industry connections.  

International students earning an Information and Computer Systems Technology Diploma can expect to pay $18,779.00 for the entire program. 

McGill University: SCS Certificate in Computers and Information Technology 

Based in Montreal, Quebec, McGill University is one of the top-ranked schools in Canada and the entire world. Founded over 200 years ago, students attend McGill to gain an unmatched education and graduate to become leaders in their field. International students from more than 150 countries currently make up over 30% of the McGill student population. 

While not a college, students can earn an SCS Certificate in Computers and Information Technology from the School of Continuing Education at McGill. This program is completed online, allowing students to complete it at their own pace in their homes. Students will learn IT skills including infrastructure development, database administration, technical support and more. International students should note that because it is online, a study permit cannot be issued for this program and they must already be legal residents in Canada. 

International students enrolled in the SCS Certificate in Computers and Information Technology at McGill will pay a different tuition rate depending on where they are located, with some tuition rates starting at $1,559.84 per credit. 

For International students, coming to Canada to gain a good education is an important step in building a successful professional life. As the IT field continues to grow to serve the needs of businesses, there will be more job opportunities. Completing one of the best IT diploma programs in Canadian Colleges will give students the skills and qualifications required to enter the field. If you’re interested in a career in IT, speak with an education counsellor today to begin your journey. 

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