Canada is a popular study-abroad destination for international students due to its globally recognised education system, world-class infrastructure, and high-ranking institutions. The country offers great post-study work opportunities, a friendly environment, and reliable health care and support services to its international students.
Lately, an increasing number of international students have begun to opt for diploma courses to be work ready in lesser time. These courses are short-term, professionally oriented, affordable and flexible in terms of admission criteria. Indeed, the key doesn’t lie in spending time but in how you invest in it.
Canadian institutions offer two types of short-term courses – Diploma and Certificate courses. However, they both focus on specialisation and preparing the students for the corporate world.
Basis | Diploma courses | Certificate courses |
Duration | These courses take 2-3 years to complete. | Usually designed for a year. Some Canadian colleges may offer 6-8 months of certificate courses |
Course structure | Every disciplinary subject is covered in depth | Fundamentals are touched upon to make students be able to understand the field and the subject |
If you are interested in more than one discipline to explore creative aspects of the industry, then diploma programs are a great choice. Unlike degree programs, they offer to choose from ample specialisation options, and you are awarded a degree too. Usually, these short-term courses (Diploma and Certificate courses) are offered by Public Colleges, Community Colleges, and CEGEPs (Vocational Colleges). However, some universities may also have these courses available.
When applying for a diploma course in Canada, ensure all your documents are in place. Documentation and eligibility may differ from institution to institution. However, the most common documents required are:
Notary attested copies of X- & XII-mark sheets including backlogs (Re-sits)
Evidence of English Language proficiency such as IELTS (minimum 6.0 overall with no band less than 6.0)
Two academic references (where necessary for the program)
Statement of Purpose (SOP), if the university specifies in their entry requirements
Resume/CV
Portfolio (for Art, Design & Architecture Courses)
Diploma Field | Specialisation |
Diploma in Engineering | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electronics & Communication, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautics Engineering, and Architectural Engineering |
Diploma in Medical Sciences | Medical Lab Technology, Dialysis Technology, Radiography, X-Ray Technology, Physiotherapy, Anaesthesia Technology, Audiology and Speech Therapy, Ophthalmology, Optometry, Medical Record Technology, and Operation Theatre Technology |
Diploma in Nursing | Nursing Care Assistant, and Dental Hygienist |
Diploma in Management | Hotel Management and Business Management |
Diploma in Media | Journalism and Mass Communication, Acting and Anchoring, Visual Communication and VJ, RJ, and Anchoring |
Diploma in Education | Primary Education, and Elementary Education |
Diploma in Fashion | Fashion Technology, and Apparel Design |
Other | Physical fitness, Fire and safety technology, Yoga Education, Air Hostess/Steward, Photography, Interior designing, animation and multimedia, Architectural Assistantship, Culinary Arts |
Diploma courses related to the marine field, computer networking, and programming are also quite popular among international students.
Diploma courses in Canada come with an internship to provide students with first-hand experience of working in a corporate environment and seize promising job opportunities. Additionally, Canadian institutions take an extra step to tie-up with reputed companies to provide students with ample placement options. Many institutions also hire career specialists to assist students during these placement rounds and help them land a good job.
Good news is, if you choose to get enrolled in a Canadian diploma program, you become eligible to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) that allows you to work full-time, part-time, or be self-employed in Canada.
Canada is a booming study destination that offers diversified programs in multiple fields and specialisations. The diploma programs in Canada will not only offer you multi-faceted career options but will also prepare you as per industry standards in a shorter duration.
If you have any other queries regarding studying in Canada, you can get in touch with our international education experts and they will guide you through the admission process.