Are you looking to master the skill of managing people, handling technical aspects of projects, and bolstering your confidence to unlock your career’s next level? Pursuing project management courses in Canada can be your stepping stone.
Project Management is a coveted profession with sufficient employment and salary growth scope. Canada is home to some of the best institutes that offer courses in the discipline. As the name suggests, a degree in project management teaches management and organizational competence. Ontario is one of Canada's most sought-after provinces for the program, as several colleges provide graduate certificates in project management and pave the way for the highest average salaries for graduates.
Project managers are taught to divide large projects into fragments and separately execute each of them. To hone the skills of learners, industry-oriented subjects in project management in Canada – accounting and finance, risk management, entrepreneurship, and strategic management is paramount. You will be prepared to organize, schedule, execute, and manage projects of varying scales in diverse industries and sectors. To realize it, Canadian universities offer experiential learning. This article enlists the best project management courses in Canada, fees, and more.
Table of Contents
- Project Management Specializations
- Reasons To Study Project Management In Canada
- Highlights: Project Management Courses in Canada
- What Are PMI Certifications?
- Top Universities/Colleges for Project Management Courses in Canada
- Levels of Study
- Top Project Management Courses for International Students in Canada
- Course Curriculum
- Project Management Courses in Canada: Admission and Eligibility
- Documents Required for Project Management in Canada
- Scholarships for project management courses in Canada
- Cost of Studying in Canada: Pre And Post-Arrival Cost
- Cost of living in Canada for international students
- Scholarships for Project Management Courses in Canada
- Salaries and Job Opportunities
- Frequently Asked Questions
Project Management Specializations
It is broadly a management program that can be tailored by the student if the university offers different specializations. Some broadly classified specializations include-
- Business Management
- Construction Management
- Real Estate Development
- Sustainability
- Transportation Management
- Risk Management

Reasons To Study Project Management In Canada
Here are some of the prominent reasons to pursue project management courses in Canada for international students:
- According to the Project Management Institute (PMI) Report titled: Talent Gap: Ten-Year Employment Trends, Costs, and Global Implications, the demand for new project professionals will swell by 25 million by 2030. Nearly 2.3 million project managers and changemakers will be required to fill the projected gap.
- Enrolling in the best colleges for project management in Canada will make you eligible for specialized certifications offered by PMI upon graduation. These encapsulate Project Management–Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and Project Management Professional (PMP).
- Per the report from the Anderson Economic Group (AEG) titled: Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap, the labor workforce in project management is projected to grow by 33% globally. The course will equip you with the indispensable knowledge and skills to fill the gap.
- Canada is a great place to study project management for its high-quality education, top-notch infrastructure, and reputed institutions.
- As per the report from the Anderson Economic Group (AEG) titled Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap 2017-2027, the labour workforce in project management should grow by approximately 33% in various business sectors.
Aspirants can return and work in Canada for three years after graduation by getting work permits.
Highlights: Project Management Courses in Canada
Duration | 1–2.5 years |
Level of Study | Master’s and bachelor’s, diploma, |
Mode of Study | On-campus, Online, Hybrid |
Tuition Fee Range | $6,995 –$40,000 |
Top Universities/ Colleges | University of Calgary, University of New Brunswick, University of British Columbia, Northeastern University, Vancouver Island University, Douglas College, Humber College, Centennial College |
Popular Programs | Master of Science in Project Management, Graduate Certificate in Project Management, Diploma in Project Management, and Diploma in Technology Project Management |
Specializations | Business Management, Construction Management, Real Estate Development, Sustainability, Transportation Management, and Risk Management |
What Are PMI Certifications?
Canada's Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is recognized globally to validate holistic knowledge per international standards. The certification is of great value to an individual's profile. If you are thinking of applying for the same, you need to fulfill the following criteria:
Having five years of experience in project management and a secondary degree is indispensable. It must include 7,500 hours of working on projects and 35 hours of project management education.
If you have a four-year bachelor’s degree, you will require at least three years of project management experience, which must include 4,500 hours of managing projects as well as 35 hours of project management education.
Source: Harry Canada VBlog
Top Universities/Colleges for Project Management Courses in Canada
Here are some of the top colleges and universities for project management in Canada:
Name of the Institution | Name of the Course | Duration | Average Course Cost (CAD) |
MacEwan University | Graduate Certificate in Project Management & Professional Communication | 1 Year | $18,700.00 |
Humber College | Graduate Certificate in Project Management | 1 Year | $9,029 |
University of Calgary | MS in Civil Engineering - Project Management
MEng in Civil Engineering - Project Management | – | $25,752 (yearly) |
Northeastern University | Master of Science in Project Management | 12–18 months
| $38.9K |
Lambton College | Graduate Certificate in Construction Project Management | 4 Terms | $26,270 |
Douglas College | Post-degree diploma in Project Management | 1 year | $3,576.86 |
Royal Roads University | Postgraduate Certificate in Project Management | 6 months | $ 9,199 |
Centennial College | Graduate Certificate in Project Management | 1 year/ 3 semesters
| $20,401.00 |
Algonquin College | Graduate Certificate in Project Management | 1 Year
| $19,312.12 (2023, Fall) |
Vancouver Island University | Graduate Diploma in Project Management | 1 Year | $24,747 |
Seneca College | Project Management - Information Technology (PMC) | 2 Semesters (8 Months) | $18,613 |
Source: University Official Website
Levels of Study
The project management course in Canada can be pursued after completion of your bachelor’s degree. It can be studied in the form of two programs. They are:
Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate
These are the most commonly opted-for one-year courses for students looking to gain more experience or add to prior knowledge. These courses offer much-needed certification for aspirants in the field.
Bachelor’s Programs
A popular university such as Yorkville University in Canada offers a BBA degree with a specialization in Project Management. With a full course load, it would take you around 2.5 years to graduate. Moreover, you can get the chance to earn Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and PMP designations upon completing the coursework.
Master’s Programs
These are full-time two-year MSc, MBA, or MEng programs with project management modules encapsulated in the curriculum. It is an interdisciplinary subject taught across degrees, as mentioned above. These degrees combine theoretical knowledge with practical training. Project management aspects such as managing the budget, costs, project evaluation, and resolving conflicts are taught.
Top Project Management Courses for International Students in Canada
Here is a quick rundown of the options that you can opt for to become a seasoned project manager.
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Program Management Professional (PgMP)
- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
- PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
- PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)
Course Curriculum
Quality management, finance and accounting, operations management, risk management, and software are included in project management program courses. The basics of project management, from the planning and development stage all the way to execution and closeout, will also be a part of the curriculum.
Case studies make up a significant portion of most project management programs; students use the knowledge they gain from studying real-world examples to complete simulated projects in the classroom. The course structure may also include a work placement, which offers students the chance to study under industry experts.
Admission Process
Students can apply for admission during any of the three intakes – May (Summer), September (Fall), and January (Winter) – on respective college/university websites. Applications open from October for all intakes, and aspirants can choose their desired semester dates. The admission cycle may take months, as receiving an offer, confirming the seat, and applying for the study visa to finally be able to go abroad takes time. So plan your applications accordingly.
You will need to adhere to the following steps for applying to project management colleges in Canada:
- To find out the requirements and available intakes for your desired program, visit the university website.
- Fill up the online form, then submit it with the required application payments.
- Upload the accompanying files using the instructions provided.
- For any updates on your application, keep checking the university website.
- Your admission offer will be sent to your email address.
- To reserve your seat, submit your acceptance and tuition payment.
- Once you have received notification of acceptance, you can move on with your application for a study permit in Canada.
Project Management Courses in Canada: Admission and Eligibility
Eligibility Criteria
Here are some of the eligibility criteria for aspirants:
Education Qualifications
- 10+2 with at least 60% in the case of UG applicants
- Undergraduate degree in engineering or science with a GPA of 3 on a four-point scale for opting for a PG degree or diploma
English Proficiency Test Requirements
English Language Proficiency tests are compulsory for each international student aspiring to apply to universities in Canada. Most universities require a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS or 86 in TOEFL. However, aspirants must check with their respective colleges; some accept lower scores also.
Entrance Test Scores for Studying in Canada
Project management colleges in Canada may ask for entrance test scores for admission. Undergraduate students may be asked for SAT or ACT scores which can also be used as proof of English language proficiency if accepted by the institution. If you are a graduate student, you will have to provide GMAT or GRE scores for most two years of project management courses in Canada.
Documents Required for Project Management in Canada
Here is a list of documents required for admission to project management courses in Canada for international students:
- School leaving certificate for UG programs
- Degree certificate for PG programs
- Proof of English language proficiency
- SAT/ ACT scores for UG programs or GMAT/ GRE scores for PG programs
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Academic transcripts from previously attended institutions
- Letters of Reference (LOR)
- Resume
- Copy of passport
- Criminal background check
- Proof of finances
Scholarships for project management courses in Canada
Here are some of the top scholarships for aspirants:
Name of the scholarship | Name of the institution | Course major |
General Contractors’ Section – T.C.A. Awards | Ryerson University | Project Management |
Bob McTague Graduate Award in Project Management | University of Calgary | Project Management |
Genivar Scholarship | Ryerson University | Project Management, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Civil Engineering and Architectural Science |
J.L. Beaton Awards in Architectural Science | Ryerson University | Building Science, Project Management and Building Science |
Morrison Hershfield Award | Ryerson University | Project Management, Architectural Science and Building Science |
Sepp Hannikainen Memorial Awards | Ryerson University | Project Management |
Tomjenovic Scholarships | Ryerson University | Project Management |
Paul F. Gans Scholarship | University of Calgary | Project Management |
Cost of Studying in Canada: Pre And Post-Arrival Cost
Apart from tuition, there will be several pre and post-arrival costs, including an application fee of CAD 110 – 200, an IELTS fee of ₹16,250 or a TOEFL test fee of CAD 162, visa fee of approx CAD 150, a one-way travel ticket costing around ₹50,000 – 60,000.
Apart from these, once you reach college, you must pay for living expenses, including accommodation, food, travel, utilities, and other miscellaneous expenditures. These expenses will vary depending on the city you reside in. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive cities in Canada, where students may have to shell out comparatively more than in suburban areas.
Cost of living in Canada for international students
Having a fair idea of your expenses before you fly to your desirable study-abroad destination is essential. Here’s what you can expect to incur as part of your project management course in Canada.
Accommodation | CAD 500 to 2,000, depending on whether you choose an on-campus residence hall or a rented apartment. |
Public transportation (monthly pass) | CAD 98 to CAD 174 per month |
Food estimation | CAD 300 to CAD 800 per month |
Cell Phone with data for internet | CAD 60 to CAD 150 per month |
Home Cable with internet | $100 to $200 per month (this is optional as some rental units and homestays cover this cost) |
Provincial health insurance | $163 per term |
Source: Official Website
Scholarships for Project Management Courses in Canada
If finances to study in Canada build a roadblock for you, the following scholarships would keep you covered.
Name of the Scholarship | Government/ Institution | Course Major | Award (CAD) | Deadline |
Delta Kappa Gamma World Fellowship | Government | Awarded to international female students enrolled for full-time master's degrees. | $5,301
| April 1 |
Morrison Hershfield Award | Project Management, Architectural Science, and Building Science | Based on the available funds and varies each year |
| |
Bob McTague Graduate Award in Project Management | University of Calgary | Project Management | $4,800 | May 1
|
J.L. Beaton Awards in Architectural Science | Toronto Metropolitan University | Building Science, Project Management, and Building Science | Varies each year |
|
Paul F. Gans Scholarship | University of Calgary | Project Management | $2,000 | - |
Project Management Institute - Southern Alberta Chapter Graduate Scholarship | University of Calgary | MSc, MEng, MBA, MPM, PhD, or Diploma in Project Management | $500
| – |
Source: Official Website
Salaries and Job Opportunities
There is great scope for skilled project management graduates in Canada. They are hired in several industries like insurance, banking, IT, automobiles, healthcare, infrastructure, telecommunications, and more. Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario are popular provinces to work in Canada as project managers.
Here are some of the job roles with average salaries:
Roles | Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
Project Coordinator | $59,524 |
Project Manager | $86,245 |
Production Superintendent | $122,532 |
Project Administrator | $56,396 |
Construction Project Manager | $91,278 |
Program Project Manager | $86,245 |
Source: Glassdoor
Considering the global market, there is an increasing demand for adroit project managers across domains. This also highlights the growing competition in the field, and to stand out, you can also opt for some specialized programs – CAPM, PMP, and more.
Now that you are aware of the global importance of project management courses in Canada for international students, you can expedite your journey to success by booking a free session with our study-abroad experts.
“Disclaimer! All course fees/salaries/expenses are indicative.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What subjects are in project management?
Project management subjects may differ as per program however, some of the common topics include the following:
1. Strategic management
2. Introduction to international business
3. Bank strategy and management
4. Managerial economics
5. Accounting
6. Entrepreneurship
7. HR Management
8. Quality control
9. Operations management,
What is CAPM vs. PMP?
Getting a certification in project management helps students upskill and earn higher remuneration in the field. Two popular picks are PMP (project management professional) along with CAPM (certified associate in project management). The latter is an entry-level program, while the former is more job-oriented. Aspirants may get a higher salary with PMP certification, while this is also more coveted and better-known. Yet, CAPM examinations are no less tough, although slightly easier and more affordable than PMP qualifying tests.
How long does a PMP certificate take?
PMP certification involves a sizable amount of time in preparation. The examination itself is only four hours long, but several months are needed to prepare for the same. 3-5 days are needed for the PMI to contact aspirants regarding their application status. It is possible to obtain PMP certification approximately 8-12 weeks after applying. Once your application is accepted by the PMI, you can start preparations and choose your examination date carefully.
How do you become a project manager in Canada?
Here are some requirements that you need to keep in mind to become a project manager in Canada:
a. Undergraduate degree in business or management.
b. Master’s degree in project management or business management.
c. Certification in project management.
d. Certified associate qualification for project management.
e. Work experience in the industry.
Which project management course is the best in Canada?
The most popular project management courses in Canada are the postgraduate diploma in project management, graduate certificate in project management, MBA in project management, and MS or MEng in project management.
Is project management a course in demand in Canada?
The PMP or project management programs assist you in gaining practical knowledge, skills, ethics, industry standards, tools, and strategies. Project managers are in more demand than employees in other occupations in Canada. Moreover, as cited by Talent Gap: Ten-Year Employment Trends, Costs, and Global Implications Report, the demand for skilled project managers will increase by 25 million.
Who is eligible for a project management course in Canada?
An aspirant looking to study project management in Canada should have cleared 10+2. They must also have secured at least 60% in their undergraduate degrees. Aspirants must appear for an English proficiency test to be eligible for the course. Apart from this, they will require a set of documents such as academic transcripts, SOP, proof of finance, LOR, and a valid passport.
What is the starting salary after completing project management in Canada?
The average project manager salary in Canada is $125,777 per year or $64.50 per hour. Moreover, entry-level executives get $90,000 per year, while most experienced make up to $135,111 per year, per ca.talent.com