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Here’s why STEM courses have become so popular in Canada

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.

Reasons why studying STEM in Canada is a great option

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, the Author

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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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