If you are reading this article, it means you are connected to an internet-enabled device that may or may not be under a cyber threat. As our dependence on computers grows, so does the increasing threat of cyberattacks. Cybersecurity is a specialized field in information technology that ensures the safeguarding of our devices, data, and information online. A degree in cybersecurity will equip you with the skills to innovate technology and cloud-based security solutions that protect against various existing and future cyber threats, such as hacking, viruses, malware, and cybercriminals.
In addition, a Master's degree in Cybersecurity also equips students with the necessary legal and ethical aspects of cybersecurity. Data hacking is a common occurrence in today's constantly evolving world, contributing to the growing demand for cybersecurity courses, and, Canadian universities are well-known for producing some of the best cybersecurity professionals in the world.
Offering a range of courses in cybersecurity, universities and colleges in Canada have top-notch research facilities providing theoretical as well as practical experiences, such as hands-on labs and simulations. Students get access to superlative instructors in addition to strong academic and industry support. This is one of the top reasons for large-scale student influx into the country.
Canada is one of the few countries witnessing exemplary growth in Computer Science. As a result, students aspiring to learn more about Cyber Security can look forward to promising careers after completing a Master's degree from a top Canadian university.
Canada is home to numerous top-notch cybersecurity organizations and companies, offering excellent networking and internship chances for international students. The demand for professionals in the field of cybersecurity is growing rapidly in Canada, presenting a wealth of job opportunities for those with an MSc cybersecurity degree.
Canada is one of the widely sought-after study-abroad destinations for pursuing advanced studies in Cybersecurity. The program offers a comprehensive understanding of the techniques and strategies used to protect digital systems from malicious attacks. Students can expect to gain knowledge in network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, malware analysis, and vulnerability management.
Here’re some of the best Cyber Security courses offered at Canadian universities, which are in high demand among the international students-
Cyber Security Fundamentals
CCSP
Certified Information Systems Security Professional
CISSP
Cyber Security Nexus Practitioner
IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate
Systems Security Certified Practitioner
CISA
CompTIA Security+
CISM
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You need to meet the standard requirements to be eligible to study Masters in Cybersecurity in Canada. Bear in mind that every college/university has specific admission criteria, hence you must check the individual university requirements before submitting your application. You would need-
A valid passport
A valid Canadian Student Visa
A Bachelors or Undergraduate degree in Cyber Security or a related field of study, such as Computer Science or Information Technology (IT)
Previous work experience in a job relevant to the field of study (if applicable)
English language proficiency scores (minimum 6.5 or above in IELTS)
You would also need to submit the following documents to process your admission application for MS in Cyber Security:
Updated Resume
Official academic transcripts
Copy of Bachelor’s degree and all other prior academic qualifications
Proof of funds
Reference letter from a previous academic institution/employer
Scores of GRE/GMAT tests
The average tuition fee for international students pursuing Masters in Cyber Security in Canada ranges between 14,900 CAD and 44,000 CAD per annum. However, note that the Cyber Security course fees in Canada will likely differ from one institution to the other. This can be attributed to several factors, some of which include the location of the college/university in Canada, the rank of the university, research facilities offered at the institution, quality of infrastructure, and extracurricular activities.
Canada prides itself in being home to numerous world-class universities offering globally recognised degrees in the field of Cyber Security. Here’re some of the top Cyber Security colleges in Canada that you may consider during your admission process based on the QS World Rankings 2023 and THE World University Rankings 2023-
University | QS World Rankings 2023 | THE World University Rankings 2023 | Next Intake for MS in Cyber Security |
34 | 18 | May | |
47 | 40 | May | |
154 | 201-250 | Jun | |
31 | 46 | May | |
110 | 118 | Mar | |
328 | 251-300 | Jan | |
246 | 251-300 | Jan | |
242 | 201-250 | Mar | |
237 | 137 | Jan |
Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/world-university-rankings/2023
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/2023/world-ranking#!/page/0/length/25/locations/CAN/sort_by/stats_pc_intl_students/sort_order/desc/cols/stats
Canadian government and universities offer attractive scholarships and grants to make the course affordable to more international students. Here’re some of the most popular scholarships offered at most Canadian universities for an MS in Cyber Security course.
Scholarships | Eligibility Criteria for Application |
Ontario Graduate Scholarship | PG at all universities in Ontario |
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships | Applicants for PG courses |
QS Leadership Scholarship | Applicants for PG courses |
(ISC)2 Women's Cybersecurity Scholarships | Female applicants for UG/PG courses |
ISC Graduate Scholarships | Applicants for PG in Cybersecurity |
Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Applicants for PG courses |
The Canadian job market is fast adapting to the changing needs of the information technology era. With courses like Cyber Security gaining rapid prominence, the IT sector in the country is too welcoming graduates in MS Cyber Security to apply their learned skills and knowledge to finding solutions to real-world practical problems.
The following popular Cyber Security jobs in Canada are likely to become available once you complete your Masters in the course from a leading Canadian university:
Cybersecurity Risk Specialist
Cybersecurity Associate
Information Systems Quality Assurance Analyst
Cloud Security Engineer
Cybersecurity Analyst
The average annual salary package for an entry-level role as a Cybersecurity Associate is estimated to be around 48,430 CAD. This is expected to increase with a proportional increase in years of professional experience and an upgrade in the candidate's skill set.
What are the job prospects after completing MS in Cyber Security in Canada?
Canada offers a host of lucrative career opportunities for MS graduates in Cyber Security, some of which include:
Cyber Security Analyst
Cyber Security Account Executive
Cyber Security Cloud Specialist
What is the duration of a Master’s in Cyber Security in Canada?
MS in Cyber Security in Canada is generally for 1 or 2 years (duration may vary as per the course curriculum of the university you apply to). Universities in the country offer this course in the Summer, Fall, and Winter terms of the year.
What qualifications do I need to study Cyber Security Master’s in Canada?
The essential prerequisite for a candidate applying for MS in Cyber Security at a Canadian university is that he/she must have completed a Bachelor's level or Undergraduate degree in Cyber Security or a related field of study. This may include Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), and the like.
What are the visa requirements for studying MS in Cyber Security in Canada?
All international students aspiring to pursue MS in Cyber Security from a university in Canada must possess a valid study permit for Canada along with a valid (unexpired) international passport.
What is the minimum GPA required for MS in Cyber Security in Canada?
Most universities in Canada require international students to share a minimum average GPA score of 3.0 or above during the application process for MS in Cyber Security courses. However, do note that this GPA requirement may vary between different universities. Hence, it is recommended to check with the particular university you choose to apply to regarding its specific requirements.