Aerospace engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with aircraft and spacecraft design, testing, production and maintenance. It is a practical, hands-on training course training students to meet the needs of the aerospace industry. Aerospace engineering graduates are highly sought-after by employers in Canada.
With more than 700 employers, Aerospace is known to be one of the highest performing sectors in Canada. Various provinces of Canada are of key importance to the aerospace industry for instance, Quebec has the most developed aerospace industry in Canada while Montreal is the 3rd largest centre of aerospace manufacturing worldwide and the only one where an entire aircraft can be assembled.
We have prepared a guide for aerospace engineering courses in Canada, best aerospace engineering universities in Canada, admission process, fees, scholarships, job prospects and more.
Why Study Aerospace Engineering in Canada?
Here are some reasons why studying aerospace engineering in Canada is worth it:
- Top universities: Canada is home to 22 coveted universities ranked among the top in QS subject rankings 2021 for Engineering and Technology. Some of these namely University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo and McGill University ranked among the top 50 globally.
- Demand for skilled professionals: The demand for skilled professionals in the field of aerospace engineering is far beyond the supply of labour between 2019-2028. There will be a projected demand of 14,200 skilled professionals compared to 10,700 job seekers. This is one of the major reasons which makes aerospace engineering a lucrative career option.
- Practical training: Aerospace engineering universities in Canada provide project-based learning opportunities, arrange for internships through industry partners and provide case study courses that can help students get much needed industry exposure and be prepared to meet the industry’s requirements.
Top 5 Universities for Aerospace Engineering in Canada
Some of the top universities for Aerospace Engineering courses in Canada are:
Let us take a look at each of the best aerospace engineering colleges in Canada with details of rankings, programs offered, tuition fees and more:
1. McGill University
McGill University houses the McGill Institute for Aerospace Engineering (MIAE) to provide training to future engineers through its comprehensive programs. It is one of the most coveted institutions in Canada with an excellent international reputation ensuring top notch education.
Institution Type |
Public |
McGill University World Ranking 2024 (Engineering and Technology) |
40 |
Program Offered |
Bachelor of Engineering (Minor in Aerospace Engineering) Master of Aerospace Engineering (3 years full-time, 5 years part-time) |
Annual Tuition Fees |
UG: 52,698 CAD per year PG: 25,724 CAD per year |
2. Carleton University
Carleton University provides engineering programs accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate level programs in Aerospace Engineering through the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering by combining excellence and resources of both Carleton University and University of Ottawa.
Institution Type |
Public |
Carleton University World Ranking 2024 (Engineering and Technology) |
401-450 |
Program Offered |
Bachelor of Engineering - Aerospace Engineering (3 years) Master of Engineering - Aerospace Engineering (1-2 years) Master of Applied Science - Aerospace Engineering (2 years) |
Annual Tuition Fees |
UG: 41,884 CAD per year PG (MEng): 24,050 CAD per year PG (MASc): 18,586 CAD per year |
3. Concordia University
The Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Aerospace Engineering within the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science at Concordia University provides the undergraduate and graduate degrees in Aerospace Engineering. The undergraduate program includes a co-op of 12-16 weeks.
Institution Type |
Public |
Concordia University World Ranking 2024 (Engineering and Technology) |
281 |
Program Offered |
Bachelor of Engineering - Aerospace Engineering (4-5 years) Master of Aerospace Engineering (2 years full-time, 4 years part-time) |
Annual Tuition Fees |
UG: 30,005 CAD per year PG: 23,364 CAD per year |
4. Ryerson University
Ryerson University has established a good reputation when it comes to Engineering degree programs. It provides a professional master’s diploma in aerospace engineering management which is a 1-year full-time degree program and a popular choice for many students.
Institution Type |
Public |
Toronto Metropolitan University World Ranking 2024 (Engineering and Technology) |
389 |
Program Offered |
Bachelor of Engineering - Aerospace Engineering (4 years full-time; 5 years with co-op internship program) Master of Applied Science - Aerospace Engineering (2 years full-time, 4 years part-time) Master of Engineering - Aerospace Engineering (2 years full-time, 4 years part-time) Professional Master’s Diploma in Aerospace Design Management (1 year full-time) |
Annual Tuition Fees |
UG: 38,457 CAD per year PG: 26,710 CAD per year PG Diploma: 14,700 CAD per year |
5. Laval University
Laval University specializes in offering master’s degree programs in aeronautical engineering and space technology in collaboration with Quebec businesses and universities for aeronautical engineering in Canada.
Institution Type |
Public |
Laval University World Ranking 2024 (Engineering and Technology) |
=337 |
Program Offered |
Masters in Aerospace Engineering (2 years) |
Annual Tuition Fees |
16,860 CAD per year |
PG Diploma in Aerospace Engineering in Canada
Diploma in Aerospace Engineering in Canada has gained a lot of popularity recently. These courses are particularly well-known for providing practical training. If you too are interested in pursuing a PG diploma, here is a list of universities offering diploma in aerospace engineering and diploma in aeronautical engineering in Canada:
University |
Program Offered |
---|---|
Ryerson University |
Professional Master’s Diploma in Aerospace Design Management |
Graduate Certificate in Applied Aerospace Manufacturing |
|
Advanced Diploma in Aviation Management |
|
Yukon University |
Diploma in Aviation Management |
PG Diploma in Aerospace Manufacturing Engineering Technician; Advanced Diploma in Aerospace Manufacturing Engineering Technology |
|
British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) |
Diploma in Aviation Maintenance Technician - Avionics Certificate in Aircraft Gas Turbine Technician |
We shall now take a look at the eligibility criteria, documents required and admission process for admission to some of the best aerospace engineering universities in Canada:
Eligibility Criteria for Aerospace Engineering in Canada
Depending on your choice of program, you will need to fulfill the following requirements for admission to aerospace engineering colleges in Canada:
- Educational qualification
- English language proficiency test scores
- Entrance test scores for Canada
We shall now take a look at each of these requirements in detail for admission to aerospace engineering universities in Canada:
1. Educational Qualification
For seeking admission to diploma/ undergraduate degrees, you will have to complete 10+2 with physics and mathematics as compulsory subjects. Admission to a master's degree or PG diploma requires you to complete a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution with minimum B+ grade or 75%.
2. English Language Proficiency Test Scores
International applicants whose primary language is not English must submit English language proficiency test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum IELTS requirements are:
- IELTS score for diploma/ undergraduate programs: 5.5-6.0
- IELTS score for graduate/ PG diploma/ advanced diploma programs: 6.5
- IELTS score for PhD: 6.5-7.0
3. Entrance Test Scores for Canada
You may have to submit entrance test scores for Canada such as SAT/ ACT for undergraduate degrees and GRE for graduate degrees. In most cases these scores are not asked for but it is best to keep them handy if you have already taken the test.
Documents Required to Pursue Aerospace Engineering in Canada
A list of the general documents required for admission to various Aerospace Engineering courses in Canada are:
- Transcripts of academic records with mark sheets
- School leaving certificate for admission to undergraduate programs
- Proof of degree for admission to graduate programs
- Official English language proficiency test scores
- Entrance test scores such as SAT/ ACT for undergraduate programs or GRE for graduate programs
- Letters of reference
- Statement of purpose
- CV
- Criminal background check
- Copy of passport
- Evidence of financial support
Admission Process for Aerospace Engineering in Canada
There are 3 yearly intakes for admission to aerospace engineering universities in Canada in Fall, Winter and Summer. Fall is the primary intake for admission to aerospace engineering in Canada. Summer intake may not be available at all universities. Make sure you check the available intake and application deadlines in Canada for your chosen program before proceeding to the application. Here are the general steps to be followed to apply for admission to aerospace engineering colleges in Canada:
- Browse the official university website and check whether you meet the eligibility criteria for your chosen program.
- Complete the online application and submit the necessary application fee.
- Check the procedure for uploading the supporting documents.
- After completing your application, you can log in to the admission portal to check for updates on your application.
- Meanwhile you can prepare all documents required to apply for a Canadian study permit.
- If you are accepted, you will receive an admission offer which you must reply to.
- Follow the steps for enrollment to the university and pay the tuition deposit to confirm your seat.
- Once you have received a confirmation of acceptance you can proceed with the application for a study permit.
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Cost of Studying Aerospace Engineering in Canada
Studying in Canada requires a good amount of financial commitment. You will have to manage sufficient funds for paying the tuition fees and cost of living in Canada. On an average you will need 800-1,000 CAD per month to meet your living expenses depending on your accommodation type, location and personal expenses.
The tuition fees depend on the university and program. Let us take a look at the aerospace engineering in Canada fees for various levels of program:
Program |
Average Tuition Fees |
---|---|
PG Diploma in Aerospace Engineering |
14,000-19,000 CAD/ year |
BSc/ BEng in Aerospace Engineering |
35,000-45,000 CAD/ year |
MSc/ MEng in Aerospace Engineering |
20,000-35,000 CAD/ year |
PhD in Aerospace Engineering |
7,000-17,000 CAD/ year |
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Career Opportunities After Aerospace Engineering in Canada
Aerospace engineering is a highly rewarding field. The scope of aerospace engineering in Canada cannot be undermined given the shortage of labour. The average salary and job title will vary depending on your level of study. The salary of aerospace engineers in Canada ranges between 73,900 CAD and 242,000 CAD per year. Let us briefly discuss various factors that can boost your earning potential:
- Public sector employees have nearly 4% higher salaries than private sector employees.
- Quebec being the hub of aerospace industries in Canada offers higher salaries and growth opportunities than other provinces.
- The growth of your salary is guaranteed with the increasing levels of education. With a bachelor’s degree you can expect 24% higher salaries than a diploma for the same job and about 29% higher salaries with a master’s degree.
Here is a table showing different job titles and their respective average annual salaries:
Job Title |
Average Annual Salary |
---|---|
Aerospace Engineer |
154,000 CAD |
Aerospace Technician |
113,000 CAD |
Aircraft Engineer |
125,000 CAD |
Air Crew Officer |
81,200 CAD |
Aircraft Maintenance Technician |
54,800 CAD |
Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor |
127,000 CAD |
Airlines Structural Assembler |
56,300 CAD |
Aviation Analyst |
164,000 CAD |
Aviations Operation Controller |
134,000 CAD |
Aircraft Electrician |
65,400 CAD |
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A degree in aerospace engineering can unlock doors to exciting and rewarding careers. You can be associated with research and development, design, assembling building, maintenance, inspection, operations or project management. It is a well-known fact that higher the education level, higher will be your job prospects in Canada. As you enroll in a higher level program, you will also get the opportunities to develop a deeper understanding of the industry and get hands-on experience as well.