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What is a STEM program? It stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It is a way of learning that combines these subjects to help you tackle real-world challenges. STEM gives you the skills to think critically, solve problems, and innovate. It opens doors to exciting careers in fast-growing fields like tech, engineering, and science.
Canada is known for its welcoming and diverse culture, making it an excellent choice for international students. Canada offers high-quality education with renowned universities and research institutions. STEM fields are in high demand in Canada, with a growing need for skilled professionals. Canada offers various immigration programs for international students, making it easier to stay and work after graduation. The Canadian government provides funding and support for STEM education and research initiatives. Canada invests heavily in STEM research, providing students with opportunities to work with top researchers. Canadian universities have modern facilities and equipment, providing students with hands-on experience also have a strong network of industry partners, offering students collaboration and internship opportunities.
Here is everything you need to know about STEM in Canada:
Top institutions offering STEM program
Here are the top institutions in Canada offering exceptional STEM programs:
Institution Name | Programs offering |
University of Toronto | • Engineering (various disciplines) • Physics • Mathematics • Computer Science • Biology • Earth Sciences • Chemistry |
McGill University | • Physics • Biology • Chemistry • Computer Science • Engineering (various disciplines) • Mathematics • 7.0 Earth and Planetary Sciences |
University of British Columbia | • Computer Science • Mathematics • Engineering (various disciplines) • Biology • Chemistry • Physics • 7. Environmental Sciences |
University of Waterloo | • Computer Science • Mathematics • Engineering (various disciplines) • Biology • Chemistry • Physics • 7. Environmental Sciences |
Western University | • Computer Science • Engineering (various disciplines) • Mathematics • Physics • Biology • Chemistry • 7. Earth Sciences |
Seneca College | • Computer science • Engineering • Biotechnology |
BCIT | • Computer science • Engineering • Environmental science |
NAIT | • Computer science • Engineering • Biotechnology |
Eligibility to study STEM Program
Criteria | Bachelor's STEM Programs | Master's STEM Programs |
Education | High school diploma or equivalent | Bachelor’s degree in a related field |
Grades | 65% - 70% in Mathematics and Science | GPA: 70% - 80% |
English Proficiency | - IELTS: 6.0 to 7.0 | - IELTS: 6.5 to 7.5 |
Optional Standardised Tests | - SAT: 1,000 to 1,500 | - GMAT: 500 to 700 |
- ACT: 20 to 30 | - GRE: 300 to 400 | |
Optional Work Experience | N/A | 2 to 5 years |
Additional Requirements | N/A | - Minimum 16 years of education |
- Four-year undergraduate degree for postgraduate programs | ||
- Relevant academic criteria: 65% to 70% in a related field |
Academic Requirement
Minimum required grade in Class XII: You will need at least 70 % and in Bachelor, you will need at least 70-75%* (depending upon the institution)
Universities/institutions must also submit a resume or any Additional tests like SAT, GMAT, IELTS or GRE.
3 Letter of Recommendations
Apply before the deadline
Students must have a basic knowledge of Pre-calculus and Physics.
Optional tests: GMAT (500 to 700) or GRE (300 to 400).
Work experience: 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience (optional).
English proficiency proof
A minimum of 6.5-No Bands less than 6.0 score in IELTS
IELTS (6.5 Overall, no band less than 6.0 in each module.
SAT (1,000 to 1,500) or ACT (20 to 30) (Optional)
Some universities may accept if the applicant has good scores in Grade 12th English above 80 / 100 * or on receiving the MOI (Medium of Instructions – from School)
Cost and Duration for Bachelors
The average duration and Cost for Undergraduate STEM programs in Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study.
Duration: 4 years (Bachelor's degree)
Tuition fees: International students: $18,000 - $35,000 per year
Scholarship is also available on a merit basis
Cost and Duration for Masters
The average duration and Cost for master STEM programs in Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study.
Duration: 2 years (Master’s degree)
Tuition fees: International students: $ $18,000 - $40,000 per year
Scholarship is also available on a merit basis
Cost and Duration for PhD
The average duration and Cost for PhD STEM programs in Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study.
Duration: 3-5 years (Thesis)
Tuition fees: International students: $15,000 - $30,000 per year
Scholarships are also available on a merit basis. If you get approval from the faculties, you can opt for the 100% Scholarship that also includes your living expenses
Salary and Career Prospect
The average salary of a STEM Degree holder some of the top career options for STEM students in Canada include:
Field | Average Salary (CAD per year) |
Computer Science | 72,841 |
Information Science | 76,689 |
Astronomy | 97,767 |
Physics | 72,427 |
Aerospace Engineering | 81,969 |
Students can apply for various scholarships that can help pay for their tuition and other related study expenses. It is essential to research and review the requirements of institutions carefully. The scholarships had specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines to apply and to be eligible.
Quebec Merit Scholarship Program: For international students pursuing graduate degrees in STEM fields.
University of Toronto's Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering Scholarships.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Program: For graduate students pursuing research-based degrees in STEM fields.
British Columbia Graduate Scholarship: For graduate students pursuing research-based degrees in STEM fields.
Alberta Innovates Scholarship: For graduate students pursuing research-based degrees in STEM fields.
Saskatchewan Innovation and Science Scholarship: For graduate students pursuing research-based degrees in STEM fields.
SSHRC Scholarships: For graduate students pursuing research-based degrees in social sciences and humanities, including STEM-related fields.
NSERC Scholarships: For graduate students pursuing research-based degrees in STEM fields.
Graduates with STEM degrees have numerous career opportunities, including the following positions:
Science | Technology | Engineering | Mathematics |
Quality Control Specialist | Data Scientist | Software Engineer | Quantitative Analyst |
Science Teacher/Professor | Network Administrator | Mechanical Engineer | Mathematical Modeler |
Data Analyst | Web Developer | Civil Engineer | Operations Research Analyst |
Laboratory Technician | IT Project Manager | Mining Engineer | Mathematician |
Regulatory Affairs Specialist | Database Administrator | Chemical Engineer | Actuary |
Clinical Research Coordinator | Software Engineer | Electrical Engineer | Statistician |
Science Writer | Technical Support Specialist | Aerospace Engineer | Machine Learning Engineer |
Environmental Scientist | Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer | Systems Engineer | Data Analyst |
Research Scientist | UX/UI Designer | Biomedical Engineer | Computational Biologist |
While considering the career options, always consider your Skills and interests when you are exploring the options. Below are a few more Emerging and Interdisciplinary Fields, which you can look for after pursuing your STEM Degree.
Emerging Fields | Interdisciplinary Fields |
Healthcare Technology | Renewable Energy and Sustainability |
Blockchain and Cryptocurrency | Mathematics and Economics |
Cybersecurity | Computer Science and Biology |
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | Environmental Engineering |
Climate Change and Sustainability | Biomedical Engineering |
Internet of Things (IoT) | Nanotechnology and Engineering |
Data Science and Analytics | Materials Science and Engineering |
As technology continues to evolve and shape our world, the importance of STEM education will only continue to grow. STEM education is a vital component of modern learning, offering numerous benefits and opportunities. By incorporating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, STEM fosters one will be well-versed in the development of essential skills, Innovation and creativity, Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, Enhanced collaboration and communication skills, Real-world applications and practical learning experiences and a competitive edge in the global economy. By embracing STEM, we can empower individuals, drive innovation, and create a brighter future for all.
If you want to know more about studying abroad. Get in touch with our international education experts at IDP.
Updated on November 20, 2024
Vanshika Sood is an international education expert with IDP, specializing in the Canada study abroad destination. A certified Canada Counsellor (now Assistant Manager - Counselling). With Over 10 years of experience in the Industry, she has been with IDP for the past almost 6 years and is based in Sector 9 C, Chandigarh. Having helped countless students achieve their dream of studying abroad.
In her role, she is committed to providing students with proper guidance to help them to choose the appropriate courses and university to achieve their career goals, besides this helping them make a successful admission and visa application. She solve all their queries and help providing the right solutions to make a successful application.
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