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Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Top Universities, Admission, Fees, Scholarships & Jobs

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Samrat Ray • 13 Mins read • 26 Jul 25
Masters in Information Systems in CanadaMasters in Information Systems in Canada

A Masters in Information Systems in Canada provides you with an advanced level of knowledge in information systems. Depending on the specific university and type of program, it typically runs from 1 to 2 years. Top universities for this course in Canada include UBC, McGill, University of Toronto, Concordia, Dalhousie, and York University.

As per the eligibility criteria, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in CS and IT streams with a GPA of 3.0 to 4.0 or higher for a Masters in Information Systems in Canada. You must have a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS and 85 in the TOEFL exam, depending on the university you applied to. Universities in Canada can offer you scholarships of up to CAD 40,000 or a full tuition fee waiver, based on your academic record and merit. 

After a Masters in Information Systems in Canada, you can get a work permit visa for up to 3 years. The average annual salary after graduation will be around CAD 65,000 to CAD 90,000. Companies like Amazon, IBM, Accenture, and Deloitte will offer you a wide range of job roles after MIS in Canada. The upcoming expected application dates for Masters in Information Systems in Canada will fall in September or October 2025 in some universities. 


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Highlights 

Check the table below for the main highlights of Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

Feature

Details

Course Name

Master of Information Systems / MIS / MIM / MSc IS

Top Universities

UBC, McGill, University of Toronto, Concordia, Dalhousie, York University

Course Duration

1 – 2 years

Eligibility (Freshers)

  • Bachelor’s degree in CS/IT
  • GPA 3.0/4.0+
  • IELTS 6.5+

Eligibility (Experienced)

Preferred 1–2 years work experience in IT/IS 

Entrance Exams

  • IELTS / TOEFL (mandatory)
  • GRE/GMAT (optional in most universities)

Average Tuition Fees

CAD 20,000 – 45,000 per year

Scholarships Available

University-specific, Mitacs Globalink, Ontario Graduate Scholarship

Average Salary Post-Graduation

CAD 65,000 – 90,000 per year

Top Recruiters

IBM, RBC, TD Bank, Deloitte, Accenture, Amazon, Shopify

Post-Graduate Work Permit

Up to 3 years

Permanent Residency 

Possible through Express Entry and PNP

Intakes

  • Fall (Primary)
  • Winter (Some programs)
  • Spring (limited) options


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Important Events and Dates

The tentative application start and end dates for Masters in Information Systems in Canada across different universities are given below. 

Events 

Tentative Dates

Application deadline at Concordia University (fall intake)

October 2025

Application deadline at Northeastern University (spring intake)

September 2025

Application deadline at Athabasca University (winter intake)

October 2025


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Visa Application Timeline

Check the table below for the important dates related to student visa applications and departure for Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

Events

Important Dates

Visa application for spring intake

December 2025

Departure for winter intake 

October 2025


Why Choose Masters in Information Systems in Canada?

Here are the main reasons to go for a Masters in Information Systems in Canada:

  • Affordable Fees: Canadian universities can offer you affordable courses in comparison to some other destinations.  
  • Cutting-edge research facilities: With Masters in Information Systems in Canada, you can expect access to cutting-edge research facilities to enable your studies. 
  • Wide range of specialisations: You can choose specialisations including cloud computing, data analytics, and IT management, among others, with an MIS program in Canada. 
  • Great earning opportunities: After completing a Masters in Information Systems in Canada, you can expect enhanced earning potential in your career. 
  • Diverse job roles: Once you complete a Masters in Information Systems in Canada, you will be eligible for a wide range of job roles based on your area of specialisation. 
  • Opportunities to work in Canada: You can get a work permit to stay and work in Canada after your Masters in Information Systems course. 

Also Check: Master of Information Systems in Australia

Masters in Information Systems in Canada Fees

The table below shows the annual tuition fees for different types of universities for Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

University Type

Examples

Typical Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)

Top-Tier Public

University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Waterloo

CAD 20,000 – 30,000

Mid-Tier Public

Concordia University, York University, Queen’s University, University of Calgary

CAD 13,000 – 20,000

Lower-Tier Public

Memorial University, University of Lethbridge, University of Ottawa

CAD 8,000 – 15,000

Private Universities

University Canada West, Canadian College, University of Niagara Falls

CAD 20,000 – 50,000


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Living Costs for Indian Students

Check the table below for the monthly costs for your expenses as an international student pursuing a Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

Expense Category

Monthly Cost (CAD)

Accommodation

CAD 500 – 1,200

Food & Groceries

CAD 200 – 400

Transport (Local)

CAD 80 – 120

Phone & Internet

CAD 50 – 100

Health Insurance

CAD 600 – 900/year

Books & Supplies

CAD 400 – 600/year

Miscellaneous Expenses

CAD 100 – 200


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Eligibility Criteria

Check the eligibility for freshers and experienced candidates for Masters in Information Systems in Canada in the table below. 

Criteria

Freshers (0–1 yr experience)

Experienced (≥2 yrs)

Bachelor’s Degree

Relevant degree with GPA of 3.0-4.0 (75–77%) or more. 

  • Relevant degree with GPA of 3.0-4.0 (75–77%) or more. 
  • Relevant job experience in IT and IS. 

English Proficiency

  • 7.0 - 7.5 in IELTS 
  • 90 - 100 in TOEFL 
  • 7.0 - 7.5 in IELTS 
  • 90 - 100 in TOEFL

GRE / GMAT

Optional.

Optional or waived based on work profile. 

Work Experience

Not required

Industry experience creates an advantage. 

Other Documents

SOP, Resume, LORs, Transcripts

SOP with context, professional CV, LORs (academic or work)


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: SOP, LOR, and Resume Guidelines 

Check the specific guidelines for the SOP (statement of purpose), LOR (letter of recommendation, and resume for Masters in Information Systems in Canada in the table below. 

Document

Freshers

Experienced Applicants

SOP

Highlight your academic excellence and projects.

Highlight impact in industry, leadership, and transition logic.

LORs

2–3 academic references recommended

A mix of letters from academics and managers/supervisors.

Resume/CV

Focus on academic projects, relevant coursework, and internships.

Highlight work experience details, certified achievements, and leadership. 


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Admission Process

Here are the steps to complete the application and admission process for a Masters in Information Systems in Canada:

  • Apply through the university’s official website: The application process for a Masters in Information Systems in Canada is quite simple, and you can complete it on the official website of the university. 
  • Upload scanned documents and pay the application fee: You must submit your documents for qualification and IELTS/TOEFL scores, among others. Apart from that, the payment of the application fee is important for submitting your application. 
  • Receive the admission letter: Check your email for an admission letter received from the university where you applied. Follow the steps specified by the university to accept and acknowledge the admission letter and 
  • Apply for a Canadian student visa: Go to the official website of the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) at least 3 months before the planned departure to apply for your Canadian student visa. 
  • Departure: Plan your departure based on the deadline set by the university for joining the course and the course commencement date. 


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Top Entrance Exams

Check the major entrance exams required for admission to Masters in Information System in Canada in the table below, along with their typical mark requirements. 

Exam Type

Purpose

Requirement

IELTS

English Language Proficiency

6.5 – 7.0 overall

TOEFL iBT

English Language Proficiency

88 – 100+ overall, 20+ per section

Duolingo/PTE /CAEL

Alternative English Tests

Duolingo ≥ 115, PTE ≥ 58

GMAT

Aptitude Test (Business-oriented)

600+ (if required)

GRE

Aptitude Test (General)

300+ (if required)


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Entrance Preparation Strategy

Try out the following tips to develop an effective strategy for clearing the entrance exams for Masters in Information Systems in Canada:

  • Create a study schedule: You must start your preparation by creating a proper study schedule and allotting sufficient time for each topic and subject.
  • Enhance your English proficiency: Since language proficiency is a major consideration for admission to Masters in Information Systems in Canada, you must keep working on your English proficiency. 
  • Understand the exam pattern: Going through or practicing previous question papers or sample question papers for entrance exams like IELTS and TOEFL can help you in developing a clear and effective strategy for clearing them. 
  • Work on quantitative reasoning skills: If you are required to take the GRE or GMAT, you must practice your quantitative reasoning due to its importance in the field of Information Systems. 
  • Practice mock tests: Keep practicing mock tests to track your improvements, identify areas of improvement, and enhance your overall level of preparation. 


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Cutoff

Check the cutoffs in the various applicable entrance exams for the prominent universities in Canada for Masters in Information Systems. 

University

IELTS(Overall / Band)

TOEFL iBT(Total / Section)

GMAT

GRE

GPA(4.0 Scale / %)

University of British Columbia (UBC)

7.0 / 6.5

90 / R:22, L:22, S:21, W:21

550+

310–315+(Q/V ≥ 155)

≥ 3.0 / 75–77%

McGill University

7.5 / 7.0

100 / ≥20 each

Optional

Optional

≥ 3.0 / 75–77%

Queen’s University (Smith)

7.5 / 6.0

100 / ≥20 each

640+

300+(Q ≥ 155)

≥ 3.0 / 75–77%

York University (Schulich)

7.0 / 6.0

90 / ≥20 each

Optional

Optional

≥ 3.0 / 75–77%

Concordia University

6.5 / 6.0

85 / ≥20 preferred

Optional

Optional

≥ 3.0 / 75–77%

University of Calgary

6.5 / 6.0

86 / ≥20 preferred

Optional

Optional

≥ 3.0 / 75–77%


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Course Seats

The specific number of estimated seats for international students at the prominent universities in Canada offering Masters courses in Information Systems. 

University

Program Name

Estimated Seats for International Students

University of British Columbia (UBC)

Master of Management in IS

35–50

McGill University

Master of Information Studies (MIS)

30–40

Queen’s University (Smith School)

Master of Digital Product Management (IS)

20–30

York University (Schulich)

Master of Management (MIS Track)

35–40

Concordia University

MSc in Information Systems Security / MIS

30–40

University of Calgary

MSc in Information Security / Systems

20–30

Dalhousie University

Master of Information (MIS concentration)

25–30

Carleton University

MISM (Master of Information Systems Mgmt)

25–30


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Syllabus

Check the core and elective subjects in each year in Masters in Information Systems in Canada in the table below. 

Year / Semester

Core Subjects (Required)

Elective / Specialization Options

Year 1 – Semester 1

  • Introduction to Information Systems
  • Systems Analysis & Design
  • Database Management Systems
  • E‑Commerce & Digital Business Strategy
  • Business Intelligence & Analytics
  • IT Governance & Risk Management

Year 1 – Semester 2

  • Project Management in IS
  • Business Process Management
  • Data Analytics & Visualization
  • AI & Machine Learning in IS
  • Cloud Computing Systems
  • Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics
  • Health Information Systems

Year 2 – Semester 3

  • Communication & Leadership in IS Projects
  • Enterprise Systems / ERP
  • Research Methodology / Thesis Prep
  • Supply Chain & Logistics IS
  • Human‑Computer Interaction / UX Design
  • Financial / Healthcare IS
  • Blockchain & FinTech Applications

Year 2 – Semester 4

  • Thesis or Capstone Project (Mandatory or Optional)
  • Final electives based on project alignment and academic concentration


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Top Universities/Colleges 

Here are the top universities for Masters in Information Systems in Canada and their respective QS world rankings and approximate yearly tuition fees. 

University

Type

QS World Rank (Overall)

Approx. Annual Tuition (CAD)

University of Toronto

Public

25 

CAD 15,400 

University of British Columbia (UBC)

Public

41 

CAD 9,313–19,000 

McGill University

Public

49

CAD 9,577–27,010 

University of Waterloo

Public

133 

CAD 48,537 

Queen’s University (Smith)

Public

193 

CAD 15,096 

York University (Schulich)

Public

246 

CAD 15,688 

Concordia University

Public

415 

CAD 14,366–27,993 

University of Calgary (Haskayne)

Public

242 

CAD 21,570 

University of Ottawa (Telfer)

Public

237 

CAD 19,444

University of Lethbridge

Public

CAD 17,362 

Memorial University Newfoundland

Public

CAD 9,666

Dalhousie University

Public

~CAD 10,000–16,000 


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Scholarships 

Here are the available scholarships for Masters in Information Systems in Canada, along with the amount provided and eligibility criteria for each of them. 

Scholarship / Award

Approximate Value

Eligibility Criteria

University of Waterloo Master’s Award of Excellence

CAD 2,500/term (max 5 terms)

  • Enrolled in a research-based MIS program.
  • Excellent academic record. 

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

CAD 5,000 per term (≤ 2 years)

  • Pursuing a full-time master’s degree at an Ontario university. 
  • Strong academic record 

University of Calgary Graduate Awards

CAD 1,000 – 40,000 (varies)

  • Merit-based
  • Enrolled in MIS and related programs.

McGill Entrance Scholarships

Partial to full tuition waiver

  • High academic standing
  • SOP and LOR strength matter.

UBC International Scholarships

CAD 3,200–18,200/year

Based on academic merit, leadership & financial needs considered. 

University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)

CAD 14,000/year for master’s

Merit-based.


Masters in Information Systems in Canada vs India

The key differences between Masters in Information Systems in Canada and India are explained in the table below. 

Particulars 

Canada

India

Program Duration

1.5–2 years

2 years

Eligibility (Freshers)

Bachelor’s in CS/IT/related + IELTS/TOEFL.

Bachelor’s in CS/IT/related field. 

Eligibility (Experienced)

Preferred but not mandatory.

Freshers are widely accepted.

Admission Exams

  • IELTS/TOEFL
  • GRE/GMAT (in some cases)

GATE/university-specific tests

Top Universities

UBC, McGill, York, Concordia, Dalhousie

IITs, IIITs, BITS, NITs, DU

Average Tuition Fees

CAD 18,000 – CAD 35,000/year

  • ₹1 – 5 Lakhs total (public)
  • ₹5 – 15 Lakhs (private)

Living Costs

CAD 10,000 – 15,000/year (₹ 6–9 Lakhs)

₹1 – 2 Lakhs/year

Scholarships

Merit-based, entrance scholarships, partial fee waivers

Limited, mostly need-based or state-funded

Teaching Language

English

English

Job Roles After Graduation

Business Analyst, IT Consultant, Data Analyst, IS Manager

Data Analyst, IT Executive, ERP Analyst

Average Starting Salary

CAD 60,000 – 75,000/year (₹35–45 LPA)

₹4 – 12 LPA

Top Employers

Deloitte, IBM, RBC, Accenture, CGI, TD Bank

TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant, Tech Mahindra

Post-Study Work Permit

Up to 3 years

Not applicable

ROI (Return on Investment)

High long-term ROI.

Faster break-even.


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Placements

The table below shows the prominent recruiters across different industries that can offer you career opportunities after a Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

Industry

Top Recruiters

Technology & IT Services

Deloitte, IBM Canada, Microsoft Canada, SAP Canada, CGI Group, Amazon Canada, Google, Cisco Systems.

Banking & Financial Services

RBC Bank, TD Bank Group, Scotiabank, Manulife Financial, Capital One, TD Waterhouse, CIBC, Sun Life Financial.

Consulting & Advisory

Accenture, PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG, McKinsey & Company.

E-commerce & Retail Tech

Shopify, Amazon, Business Insider, Google (Retail)

Telecommunications

Bell Canada, Telus, Ericsson Canada.

Public Sector & Government

Government of Canada, Canada Post Corporation, Health Canada.

Healthcare & Pharma Tech

Abbott Laboratories, Manulife, Sun Life Financial.

Energy & Utilities

P&G Canada, General Electric, TC Energy, Canada Hydro customers.


Career Scope After Masters in Information Systems in Canada

Go through the table below to understand the variety of job roles you can opt for after your Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

Job Role

Description

IT Business Analyst

Bridging the gap between business needs and IT solutions by gathering requirements, analysing processes, and providing improvement-related recommendations. 

Information Systems Manager

Overseeing IT operations of companies to ensure efficient, secure, and goal-aligned processes. 

Data Analyst

Interpreting data for companies using tools like Excel, Power BI, and SQL to make informed decisions. 

Business Analyst

Delivering data-driven and tech-based solutions to stakeholders by working with them to understand business processes. 

ERP Consultant (SAP/Oracle)

Implementing and customising enterprise resource planning systems for business process optimisation. 

IT Project Manager

Planning, executing, and delivering IT projects within deadlines while maintaining their scopes and budgets with Agile, Waterfall, and Scrum methods. 

Cybersecurity Analyst

Monitoring systems for vulnerabilities and implementation of security measures and responses to security incidents. 

Database Administrator

Maintaining, securing, and optimising databases to ensure integrity and performance. 

Systems Architect

Designing and implementing complex IT systems that are aligned with organisational needs. 

Cloud Solutions Architect

Developing and deploying scalable cloud business solutions with Google Cloud, Azure, AWS, etc. 

IT Consultant

Providing expert advice on IT systems, strategies, and software based on clients’ needs. 

UX/UI Analyst

Conducting research and testing aimed at improving the overall usability and design of software interfaces.


Masters in Information Systems in Canada: Salary Package

Here are the salary packages for various experience levels in each job role available after Masters in Information Systems in Canada. 

Job Role

Entry-Level (0–2 yrs)

Mid-Career (3–6 yrs)

Senior-Level (7+ yrs)

Business Analyst / BA

CAD 60,000 – 75,000

CAD 75,000 – 95,000

CAD 100,000+

Systems / Systems Consultant

CAD 65,000 – 80,000

CAD 80,000 – 100,000

CAD 110,000+

Data Analyst

CAD 52,000 – 68,000

CAD 68,000 – 84,000

CAD 90,000+

BI Analyst

CAD 65,000 – 78,000

CAD 78,000 – 95,000

CAD 100,000+

Information Systems Manager

CAD 100,000

CAD 141,000

Up to CAD 183,000

Project / Tech Services Manager

CAD 75,000 – 95,000

CAD 95,000 – 120,000

CAD 120,000+

IT Manager

CAD 85,000 – 100,000

CAD 100,000 – 125,000

CAD 130,000+

Specialized Roles (e.g., Web Developer)

CAD 85,000 – 100,000

CAD 100,000 – 120,000

CAD 130,000+


Frequently Asked Questions 


Ques: How do Master's in Information Systems programs at the University of Toronto compare with those at the University of Waterloo?

Ans: The MScSM program at the University of Toronto is focused mainly on the management aspects related to the stream. On the other hand, the Masters in Computer Science program at the University of Waterloo includes Information Systems and is more focused on the technical areas. 


Ques: Which are the top universities for a Masters in Information Systems in Canada that focus on cybersecurity?

Ans: The University of Toronto, McGill University, University of Waterloo, and the University of British Columbia can be considered as leading institutions focused on cybersecurity. 


Ques: Which Master's in Information Systems programs in Canada offer online learning options?

Ans: You can join online learning programs in Masters in Information Systems at Athabasca University, Royal Roads University, and Thompson Rivers University. Some of these institutions, like Athabasca University, can offer fully online programs. 


Ques: What are the job placement rates for graduates of Master's in Information Systems programs in Canada?

Ans: The percentage of graduates receiving jobs after Masters in Information Systems in Canada can reach up to 90%. York University and the University of Toronto are some of the universities with placement rates of up to 90% in the MIS stream. 


Ques: Where can I study Masters in Information Systems in Canada with a focus on AI and Machine Learning? 

Ans: Most of the notable universities in Canada offering MIS courses can offer specialisations in AI and Machine Learning. This includes the University of Ottawa, University of Waterloo, York University, Simon Fraser University, and others.