Masters in Data Science in Canada: Top Universities, Courses & Scholarships

Masters in data science is quite popular in Canada among students after completing a bachelor's degree. Several top-ranking universities providing this program, such as the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, Waterloo, Queen’s, Western, and Carleton. There are various specializations, such as Masters in applied computing, business strategy and data analytics, statistics and computer science, and machine learning and big data.
The duration of a master's in data science in Canada is 1.5 to 2 years, and the tuition fee ranges between ₹15,78,000 and ₹43,17,000. Top recruiting companies such as Shopify, Deloitte, Microsoft, IBM, and other finance and consulting companies visit the campus. The job roles after a master's in data science include data analyst, business analyst, data scientist, machine learning engineer, and analytics developer. The average salary is around ₹37,00,000 to ₹70,00,000 per year.
International students can consider Canada for pursuing aata science course, as it has top-ranking universities around the world with world-class facilities. The blog shows all the details about the master's in data science in Canada.
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Quick Highlights
Check out the quick highlights for a master's in data science from Canada:
Category | Details |
Program Duration | 1.5 to 2 years |
Top Universities | University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, Waterloo, Queen’s, Western, Carleton |
Annual Tuition Fees (Range) | ₹15,78,000 and ₹43,17,000 |
Application Deadlines | July 2025 to January 2026 (varies by university) |
Language Proficiency Tests | IELTS: 6.5–7.5 or TOEFL: 86–100+ |
Standardized Tests | GRE/GMAT: Optional for most; Required by few |
Eligibility | UG in STEM with 70%+ or CGPA 3.0/4.0 |
Living Cost | ₹95,000 – 130,000 |
Popular Specializations | Data Science, AI, Big Data, Analytics, Business Intelligence |
Post-Study Work Visa | Up to 3 years (PGWP) |
Scholarships Available | GyanDhan, QS, Narotam Sekhsaria, Ritchie-Jennings, Jared J. Davis Grant |
Top Recruiters | Deloitte, Shopify, Ubisoft, Capital One, Manulife, RBC, Fraser Health |
Average Salary Range | ₹37 – ₹70 Lakhs per year. |
Career Roles | Data Scientist, Analytics Consultant, Data Engineer, Visualization Expert |
PR/Immigration Opportunities | Strong Canada PR Pathways after work experience |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Important Dates and Events
Knowing about the important dates and events for a master's in data science from Canada is important.
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Application Start & End Dates for Top Universities
Check out the application deadlines for a master's in data science from Canada:
University Name | Program | Application Deadline |
University of Toronto | Masters of Science in Allied Computing—Data Science | December 2025 |
University of British Columbia | Masters in Data Science | January 2026 |
University of Montreal | MS Data Science and Business Analytics | September 2025 |
University of Waterloo | MS Data Science and Artificial Intelligence | July 2025 |
University of Calgary | MS Data Science and Analytics | September 2025 |
Carleton University | MSc Computer Science – Data Science (Collaborative Masters) | January 2026 |
Toronto Metropolitan University | Masters in Data Science and Analytics | Oct, 2025 – Jan, 2026 |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Fees
Check out the fee structure for a master's in data science from Canada:
University | 1st-Year Tuition Fee (INR lakh) |
The University of British Columbia | 32.34 |
University of Toronto | 34.22 |
McGill University | 27.67 |
Queen’s University | 43.17 |
University of Western Ontario | 34.42 |
HEC Montreal | 21.09 |
Simon Fraser University | 21.09 |
Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan Univ.) | 15.78 |
Carleton University | 16.50 |
University of Waterloo | 21.33 |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Cost of living
Check out the cost of living for a master's in data science from Canada:
Category | Cost (CAD) | Cost (INR) |
Housing | 900 – 1,200 | ₹54,000 – ₹72,000 |
Utilities | 240 – 450 | ₹14,400 – ₹27,000 |
Internet + Mobile | 170 | ₹10,200 |
Food | 200 – 300 | ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 |
Recreation | 75 | ₹4,500 |
Total Estimate | 1,585 – 2,195 | ₹95,100 – ₹1,31,700 |
Why Choose a Master's in Data Science?
Following are the points students must consider when choosing a university for a master's in data science in Canada:
- Top-Ranking Universities: Canada has many top-ranking universities for the data science course, such as the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, Waterloo, Queen’s, Western, and Carleton.
- Top Recruiting Companies: Many finance and consulting companies visit the campus. These companies include Google, Shopify, Deloitte, Microsoft, IBM, and other finance and consulting firms.
- Future job scope: The job roles after a master's in data science include data analyst, business analyst, data scientist, machine learning engineer, and analytics developer. The average salary is around ₹37,00,000 to ₹70,00,000 per year.
- High Return on Investment: The top-ranking Canadian universities give high ROI. Compare the average fees and average salaries in the following blog.
- Affordable: The fee structure at top Canadian universities is lower as compared to the universities in the UK and USA.
- Networking: Top-class leaders visit the universities for networking events in tech. Students can participate in these events, workshops, and other hackathons showcasing talent.
Check out Masters in Data Science in Australia
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Qualification
Check out the qualifications for a master's in data science from Canada:
Requirement | Details |
Schooling | Minimum 70% in previous academic qualification (varies by university) with math, computer science, statistics, or relevant field |
Bachelor’s Degree | Required with minimum CGPA (typically 3.0 out of 4.0) |
Academic/Professional Experience | Preferred or mandatory depending on the university |
GRE/GMAT | Required by some universities (optional for others) |
English Proficiency Tests | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or DET (minimum scores vary by university) |
Resume/CV | Required – should include academic and professional background |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Required – outlines goals, interests, motivation, and fit for the program |
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) | Typically 2–3 from academic/professional referees |
Admission Essays | Required by some universities—must be course- and university-specific |
Masters in Data Science in Canada Eligibility Criteria – University-wise
Check out the eligibilitiy criteria for a master's in data science from Canada:
University | Eligibility Criteria |
The University of British Columbia | TOEFL (iBT): 100, IELTS: 7 Overall |
University of Toronto | TOEFL (iBT): 93, IELTS: 7 Overall |
McGill University | GMAT/GRE, TOEFL (iBT): 86, IELTS: 6.5 Overall |
Queen’s University | GMAT: 650, TOEFL (iBT)/IELTS |
University of Western Ontario | TOEFL (iBT): 94, IELTS: 7 Overall, UG Degree: 70% (Minimum) |
HEC Montreal | GPA: 3.0/4.3, GRE/GMAT, TOEFL (iBT)/IELTS |
Simon Fraser University | GPA: 3.0/4.3, TOEFL (iBT): 93, IELTS: 7 Overall |
Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan Univ.) | GPA: 3.0/4.3, TOEFL (iBT): 93, IELTS: 7 Overall |
Carleton University | TOEFL (iBT): 86, IELTS: 6.5 Overall, UG Degree |
University of Waterloo | TOEFL (iBT): 90, IELTS: 7 Overall, UG Degree: 75% (Minimum) |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Application Process
Check out the application process for a master's in data science from Canada:
Process Step | Description |
Research Programs | Identify universities offering data science programs matching your goals. |
Check Eligibility | Bachelor’s in STEM (CS, Math, Stats), min 70% or CGPA 3.0/4.0. |
Prepare Tests | IELTS/TOEFL mandatory; GRE/GMAT if required by specific universities. |
Document Preparation | SOP, LORs (2-3), Resume, Academic transcripts, test scores. |
Online Application | Apply through university portals; pay application fee (CAD 100–150). |
Interview (if applicable) | Some universities may conduct interviews (video or in-person). |
Wait for Offer Letter | Conditional/Unconditional offers issued after evaluation. |
Accept Offer & Apply for Study Permit | Submit documents and pay tuition deposit. |
Top Masters in Data Science in Canada Entrance Exams for Canada
Check out the top entrance exams for a master's in data science from Canada:
Exam Name | Required For | Score Range | Purpose |
IELTS | Mandatory for all international students | 6.5–7.5 | English language proficiency |
Accepted in place of IELTS | 86–100+ | English proficiency alternative | |
GRE | Required/recommended for some unis | 310–325 | Assesses quantitative and analytical ability |
GMAT | Rare, but accepted at some schools | 600+ | Alternative to GRE for management/data focus |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Cutoff
Check out the cutoffs for a master's in data science from Canada:
Component | Average Cutoff/Score |
Undergraduate GPA | 3.0/4.0 or 70%+ |
IELTS Score | Minimum 6.5 (no band below 6.0) |
TOEFL Score | 86–100+ (varies by university) |
GRE Score | 310–325 (if required) |
Work Experience | Not mandatory, but 1–2 years preferred |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Top Universities
Check out the top universities for a master's in data science from Canada:
Name of the University | QS World University Rankings 2023 | THE World University Rankings 2023 |
McGill University | 31 | 46 |
University of Toronto | 34 | 18 |
University of British Columbia | 47 | 40 |
University of Alberta | 110 | 118 |
Universite de Montreal | 116 | 111 |
McMaster University | 152 | 85 |
University of Waterloo | 154 | 201-250 |
Western University | 172 | 201-250 |
University of Ottawa | 237 | 137 |
University of Calgary | 242 | 201-250 |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Syllabus
Check out the syllabus and specializations for a master's in data science from Canada:
University | Program Name & Specializations |
University of British Columbia | Master of Data Science |
University of Toronto | Master’s in Applied Computing – Data Science |
McGill University | Master of Management in Analytics (MMA) |
Queen’s University | Master of Management Analytics – Business Strategy + Data Analytics Tools |
University of Western Ontario | Master of Data Analytics – 12-month program |
HEC Montreal | MSc in Data Analytics and Business Analytics – Focus on ML, Optimization, Modeling |
Simon Fraser University | Master’s in Big Data Specialization |
Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan Univ.) | MSc in Data Science and Analytics |
Carleton University | Data Science Collaborative Programs – M.C.S (CS), M.A (Econ, Comm), M. Cognitive Science, etc. |
University of Waterloo | Master of Data Science & AI (MDSAI), M.Math in Data Science – Stats, CS, Optimization focus |
Masters in Data Science in Canada vs in India vs in UK
Check out the table for a comparison between a master's in data science from Canada vs. India vs. the UK:
Parameter | Canada | India | UK |
Program Duration | 1.5 to 2 years | 1.5 to 2 years | 1 to 1.5 years |
Top Universities | University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, Waterloo | IISc, IITs, IIITs, ISI Kolkata | University of Oxford, Imperial College London, UCL |
Annual Tuition Fee | CAD 35,000–60,000 (INR 21–36 Lakhs) | INR 2–5 Lakhs (Public) INR 7–15 Lakhs (Private) | GBP 20,000–35,000 (INR 21–37 Lakhs) |
Living Costs (per year) | CAD 12,000–18,000 (INR 7–11 Lakhs) | INR 1.5–3 Lakhs | GBP 10,000–15,000 (INR 10–16 Lakhs) |
Eligibility | Bachelor's in STEM, 70%+, CGPA 3.0/4.0 | Bachelor’s in STEM with 55–60%+ | Bachelor's in STEM, 2:1 UK Honours or 60–70% |
Entrance Requirements | IELTS/TOEFL, some need GRE | GATE (for IITs), own entrance exams | IELTS/TOEFL, few require GRE |
Popular Specializations | AI, Big Data, Cloud Computing, Health Analytics | Machine Learning, AI, Stats, Business Analytics | Data Engineering, AI, FinTech, Bioinformatics |
Post-Study Work Visa | Up to 3 years (PGWP) | Not applicable | 2 years (Graduate Route), 3 years for PhD |
Job Opportunities | Excellent: tech hubs like Toronto, Vancouver | Good in metros; lower international exposure | High demand in London, Manchester, and tech zones |
Average Starting Salary | CAD 65,000–85,000 (INR 39–51 Lakhs) | INR 6–15 LPA | GBP 35,000–55,000 (INR 35–55 Lakhs) |
PR & Immigration Scope | High (Canada PR pathway) | NA | Moderate (UK Skilled Worker Visa) |
Scholarship Options | Govt & Univ-based; limited for int’l students | Govt schemes (AICTE, UGC), institute-specific | Chevening, Commonwealth, Univ-based scholarships |
Industry Links | Strong links with Google, IBM, Shopify | TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Startups | DeepMind, NHS, Barclays, Deloitte |
Research Opportunities | High at UofT, UBC, McGill | High at IISc, ISI; limited in private colleges | High at Imperial, UCL, Oxford |
Read More: Data Science in Austrailia
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Career Scope
Check out the career scope after pursuing a master's in data science from Canada:
- Data Analysts
- Data Systems Developers
- Functional Analysts
- Data Scientists and Advanced Analysts
- Analytics Managers
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Scholarships
Check out the scholarships for a master's in data science from Canada:
Scholarship Name | Amount Awarded | Eligibility/Notes |
Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarship | Variable | For Master’s degrees in USA, Canada, etc. |
Jared J. Davis Grant | USD 1,000 | Merit-based |
QS Scholarship for Academic Excellence | Up to USD 10,000 | Based on academic merit and SOP |
GyanDhan Scholarship | INR 1,00,000 | For Indian students pursuing Master’s abroad |
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship | Up to USD 10,000 | For students pursuing accounting, finance, or data-related programs |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Scholarship Deadline
Check out the scholarship deadlines for a master's in data science from Canada:
Scholarship Name | Deadline |
Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarship | March, 2025 |
Jared J. Davis Grant | August, 2025 |
QS Academic Excellence Scholarship | Vary by intake; next: September 2025 |
GyanDhan Scholarship | May, 2025 |
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship | February, 2025 |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Top Recruiters
Check out the list of top recruiters after completing a master's in data science from Canada:
Top Recruiting Companies | |
Shopify | FPT Software |
Deloitte | Fraser Health |
Ubisoft | Ontario Power Generation |
Capital One Canada | Procom |
RBC Bank | Belcan |
Manulife | Boeing |
Masters in Data Science in Canada: Salary Package
Check out the average salary package after completing a master's in data science from Canada:
Job Role | Average Salary / Salary Range (in CAD) | Equivalent Salary (in INR) |
Data Scientist | CAD 72,920 – 92,333 | ₹43.75 – ₹55.40 Lakhs per year |
Data Governance Specialist | CAD 62,716 – 79,412 | ₹37.63 – ₹47.64 Lakhs per year |
Analytics Developer | CAD 80,539 – 116,593 | ₹48.32 – ₹69.96 Lakhs per year |
Analytics Consultant | CAD 83,656 – 105,928 | ₹50.19 – ₹63.56 Lakhs per year |
Data Analyst & Visualization Specialist | CAD 87,692 – 111,083 | ₹52.61 – ₹66.65 Lakhs per year |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What are the best universities for a master's in data science in Canada?
Ans: There are several top-ranking universities providing this program, such as the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, Waterloo, Queen’s, Western, and Carleton.
Ques: What are the scholarships provided in the Data Science Masters in Canada?
Ans: The scholarships provided in the Data Science Masters in Canada are
- Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarship
- Jared J. Davis Grant
- QS Scholarship for Academic Excellence
- GyanDhan Scholarship
- Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship
Ques: What are the top 3 data science master's programs in Ontario, Canada?
Ans: The top 3 data science master's programs in Ontario, Canada:
- Master’s in Applied Computing – Data Science
- MSc in Data Analytics and Business Analytics – Focus on ML, Optimization, Modeling
- Master’s in Big Data Specialization
Ques: How to choose the right master's program in Canada?
Ans: To choose the right master's program in Canada, students must research the course and university in depth. Check the facilities, specialization, and future scope in the country.
Ques: What are the requirements for admission to data science programs in Canada?
Ans: The requirements for admission to data science programs in Canada are:
- Bachelor’s in STEM (CS, Math, Stats), min 70% or CGPA 3.0/4.0.
- IELTS/TOEFL is mandatory; GRE/GMAT is required by specific universities.
- SOP, LORs (2-3), resume, and academic test scores.