Bachelors in Psychology in Canada: Top Universities, Eligibility, Fees, Scholarships for BA in Psychology in Canada

Let us begin our discussion by looking at the perks of pursuing an undergraduate degree in psychology in Canada:

• Bachelor’s degrees in psychology are offered by many esteemed universities in Canada. It is noteworthy that 20 Canadian universities were featured in Maclean’s Best Psychology Programs 2021 rankings.
• Bachelor of Psychology programs in Canada offer students the flexibility to choose courses that align with their interests and career goals. These programs are typically offered as Major, Minor, Specialist, and Honors options.
• The Bachelor of Psychology program in Canada equips students with the knowledge and skills for a successful career in psychology while also promoting a healthy lifestyle. It cultivates the values of discipline and humility in students, fostering their personal growth as well-rounded individuals.

Also Read: Your Complete Guide to Studying Bachelors in Canada

A Bachelor of Psychology in Canada is a comprehensive 3- to 4-year program designed for students who have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized institution. This full-time program entails the completion of 90 to 120 credits, with a specific number depending on an individual’s academic background and chosen course of study. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to establish a solid foundation in psychology and behavioral sciences. Core topics covered in the Bachelor of Psychology program at Canadian universities include:

Having delved into the broad range of topics covered in a Bachelor of Psychology program in Canada, let’s now examine the eligibility criteria required for admission.

To pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology in Canada, prospective students must meet specific eligibility criteria. While the exact requirements vary across universities, there are common standards that most institutions uphold. Let’s explore these essential qualifications:

High School Certificate

Applicants must possess a recognized high school diploma or equivalent, typically with a minimum overall average of 55%. Specific course requirements may vary depending on the institution, but mathematics, science, and English are often mandatory subjects.

Language Requirements

English proficiency is crucial for successful academic performance in a psychology program. International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate their language ability through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum acceptable scores typically range from 6.5 to 7.0 for IELTS and 90 to 100 for TOEFL.

Passport and Visa

International students must obtain a valid passport and study permit to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology in Canada. The application process for a study permit involves providing various documents, including transcripts, proof of financial support, and acceptance letters from universities.

Also Read: What are the Exam Requirements to Study in Canada?

Admission to BA psychology colleges in Canada necessitates a comprehensive set of documents. Some of the essential documents required for admission include:

• Transcripts of All Educational Qualifications: Submit official transcripts from all academic institutions attended, including high school, secondary school, and any post-secondary institutions.
• CV or Resume: Provide an up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV) or resume that highlights your academic achievements, relevant work experience, extracurricular activities, and other notable accomplishments.
• LOR, or Letter of Recommendation: Secure two to three letters of recommendation from academic mentors, professors, or employers who can attest to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in a psychology program.
• SOP, or Statement of Purpose: Compose a compelling statement of purpose that articulates your academic interests, research aspirations, career goals, and motivations for pursuing a BA in psychology.
• Scorecards of IELTS/TOEFL: For international applicants whose native language is not English, submit official scorecards from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to demonstrate English proficiency.

Suggested: Application Requirements for the Canadian Universities

Whether you aspire to pursue a BS or a BA in psychology in Canada, the application process remains the same. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the necessary steps to navigate your path toward an enriching academic experience in this fascinating field.

• Course Selection and University Research: Clearly define your desired area of specialization within psychology, such as clinical, social, or developmental psychology.
• Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process: Visit the official websites of your shortlisted universities to gather detailed information regarding eligibility criteria and the specific admission process.

• Document Preparation and Application Submission: Prepare scanned copies of all required documents. Access the online application portal of your chosen universities and meticulously complete the application form, ensuring all information is accurate and complete. Proceed to pay the application fee, which may vary depending on the university.

• Interview preparation and participation: If an interview is part of the admissions process, thoroughly prepare by researching the university, practicing common interview questions, and refining your communication skills.

• Conditional Offer Letter and Seat Confirmation: Upon successful completion of your interview and fulfillment of all admission requirements, you will receive a conditional offer letter from the university. Carefully review the terms and conditions outlined in the offer letter and accept the offer if you intend to pursue your studies at that particular institution.

• Deposit, Payment, and Enrollment: Pay the required deposit as specified in the offer letter, adhering to the university’s payment deadlines and terms and conditions.

Also Read: How to Apply to Canadian Universities

The expenses associated with pursuing a BA in psychology in Canada are contingent upon various factors. Broadly, the overall cost can be categorized into two primary components: tuition fees and the cost of living.

Tuition Fees

The cost to study psychology in Canada varies in accordance with the programs and universities you choose. On average, the psychology course fees across Canadian universities range from CAD 18,000 to CAD 29,000 per year.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Canada depends upon your lifestyle and preferences. An estimated cost for international students is CAD 900 - CAD 1500 per month. It covers all amenities like housing, food, travel, stationery, recreational activities, etc.

Suggested: Cost of Studying in Canada for International Students

Bachelor of Psychology programs are offered by numerous Canadian universities across the country. Among the top-ranked institutions for pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology in Canada are: 

University of Toronto

The BS Psychology program at the University of Toronto in Canada delves into the intricate workings of the human mind and animal behavior, with a focus on understanding individual characteristics rather than group dynamics. This undergraduate program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of psychology and introduces them to the diverse methodologies employed in psychological research. It offers a variety of program options, including BS Major, Minor, Research Specialist, and Certificate programs in Psychology, Economics, and Management.

McGill University

Bachelor’s degree in psychology in Canada at McGill University emphasis on the scientific study of human behaviour. The Department of Psychology here provides three undergraduate programs in total. They are: BA in Psychology under the Faculty of Arts, BSc in Psychology under the Faculty of Science and last but not least, BA & BSc in Psychology under the Faculty of Arts and Science.

University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a prestigious university offering a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology program in Canada. Upon completing the program, graduates qualify for various entry-level positions in the healthcare, counseling, and social work fields. Additionally, starting from the winter term of 2022, UBC’s Faculties of Science, Arts, and Medicine have collaboratively launched an Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience (UPN) at the Vancouver Campus.

University of Alberta

The University of Alberta offers a reputable bachelor of psychology program through both the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science, leading to either a BA or a BS degree. While the core degree requirements for a bachelor’s degree in psychology (e.g., major or minor) are largely the same for both programs, the general BA and BS degree requirements differ significantly. For students with a preference for humanities-based courses, a BA degree is recommended, while those with a stronger inclination towards science-based courses would find a BS degree more suitable.

Simon Fraser University

The Department of Psychology at Simon Fraser University resides within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. However, undergraduate-level psychology courses are considered part of liberal arts education. The primary goal of liberal arts education is to foster students’ interpersonal communication skills, encompassing both written and oral, analytical, and research proficiency. The BA in Psychology at SFU prioritizes the holistic development of its students.

Undergraduate scholarships in Canada are graciously funded by different sources to help students fund their studies. Some important scholarships for bachelor in psychology in Canada are discussed below:

Suggested: How To Finance Your Studies In Canada as an International Student?

Graduates of bachelor’s programs in psychology in Canada have a wide range of entry-level job opportunities that provide an excellent foundation for their professional careers. These positions enable psychology graduates to gain valuable experience and skills while contributing to various sectors, including healthcare, education, social services, and human resources.

Suggested: Highest Paying Jobs in Canada for International Students

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology in Canada can be a rewarding and fulfilling decision for those interested in understanding human behavior and mental processes. Psychology is a diverse and dynamic field that offers a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, education, social services, and business.

Registered psychologists with over 20 years of experience believe that a bachelor’s degree in psychology provides a strong foundation for entering the field and pursuing a variety of career paths. Practicing psychologists highlights the following benefits of obtaining a psychology degree:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes.
• Develop strong research and analytical skills.
• Learn effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Prepare for further education in psychology, such as master’s or doctoral programs.
• Qualify for a variety of entry-level positions in the field of psychology.

According to experts, psychology graduates are in high demand in Canada, with a growing need for qualified professionals in various sectors. They emphasize that job prospects for psychology graduates are generally favorable, with many opportunities for career advancement and specialization.

To learn more about pursuing a bachelor’s in psychology in Canada, sign up for Yocket Premium and get end-to-end assistance from shortlisting universities to pre-departure sessions. In addition to these, you'll also get other perks, such as expert opinions with 15+ years of experience, personalized dashboards, and so much more.