HR is a diverse field that requires the right educational knowledge to build a successful career in this industry. In fact, People managing people revealed that Canada offers a competitive salary figure for international students when compared to other countries. According to Jobsbank Canada, over the period 2019-2028, the number of job openings for Human resources professionals are expected to total 49,000, while the number of job seekers is expected to total 49,400. Pursuing HR Courses in Canada has remained a wise decision for a long time now amongst international students. Thus, if you’re looking to pursue Masters in HR in Canada, this blog covers all the essential information you need to get started.
Why Study Masters In Human Resource Management In Canada?
Before we can proceed towards universities in Canada offering Masters in human resource management, let’s first understand why is Canada the ideal choice?
- High Demand: Masters in human resources Canada is in high demand, as stated in the NOC list (1121). HRs play a significant role in hiring the best talent to work in Canada. Thus, the need for HR professionals continues to be in demand, especially amongst international students.
- Higher Salary: The human resource management salary in Canada is one of the best. Masters in human resource management have a range of job profiles that pay well in the country. For instance, Human resource manager - 74,327 CAD/year, Human resource business partner- 77,777 CAD/year.
- Job Vacancies: Randstad revealed, ‘’The role of talent acquisition specialists jumped from the seventh most in-demand job in 2021 to the fourth most sought-after role in 2022.’’ Canada is always on the lookout for young minds to incorporate into the HR sector, which means international students have a great opportunity after pursuing human resource management in Canada.
- 360 Knowledge: One of the best reasons to study human resource management courses in Canada is quality education. HRM courses in Canada include a blend of theory, experiential learning, expert assistance in this field, and real-world experience ( internships) to train an international student for the HR world.
An Overview Of Masters in HRM in Canada
Let’s now move towards understanding what MS in human resource management in Canada looks like.
Here is an overview to give you a better understanding:
Course Duration |
1- 2 years |
Type of Study |
Full-time, Part-time |
Type of Degree |
MSc, Masters, MIR, MHRM |
Top Universities |
University of Toronto |
Programs Offered |
Master of Industrial Relations & HR |
Average Annual Tuition Fees |
15,359 CAD - 43,046 CAD/year |
Also Read: Complete guide on MBA in HR in Canada!
Eligibility Criteria To Study HR Courses In Canada
When applying to universities in Canada offering Masters in human resource management, there are eligibility criteria to meet. These criteria differ based on university choice. However, there is a standard process followed by all.
- Bachelor’s Degree
- English language proficiency test
- Work Experience
1. Bachelor’s Degree
International students need to have a 4 years bachelor’s degree in HR or an equivalent subject from a recognized university. Students should score either B+ or 3.3/ 4.0 in their degree program.
2. English language proficiency test
International students need to write and pass an English proficiency test. The test exams and scores are as follows:
3. Work Experience
Work experience isn’t mandatory for all universities, but it is considered. If you have worked in the HRM background, submit proof to the university.
Admission Requirements For Masters in Human Resource In Canada
When you apply for human resource management courses in Canada for international students, there is an admission process to be followed. Ensure the below is conducted:
- Choose the university that offers Masters in HR in Canada. View the course structure and curriculum to understand better what it offers.
- View the universities official website to see the entry requirements, exams required, and documents needed.
- Pay the application fee and attach the supporting documents needed before the application deadline. Attend an interview if scheduled by the university.
- Check your application status on the university website, and once confirmed, arrange for your funding and apply for your student visa.
Suggested: How to Apply for Canadian Universities!
Documents Required To Study Masters In HR In Canada
International students need to submit supporting documents along with their applications. Ensure the below are checked:
- Official transcripts
- CV/Resume
- English language proficiency test proof
- Letters of recommendation
- Thesis supervisor details
- Statement of purpose
- Professional experience proof
Cost Of Studying Human Resource Management In Canada
The cost of studying human resource management in Canada includes two factors, cost of living and tuition fees. Based on these two, you can arrange for your funding accordingly.
-
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees to pursue HR courses in Canada ranges between 15,359 CAD- 43,046 CAD/year.
-
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Canada ranges from 15,000 CAD to 20,000 CAD a year. The expenses you will incur are accommodation (private housing or student housing), transport, miscellaneous costs, personal expenses, healthcare, groceries, etc.
Suggested: Total expenses to study in Canada for international students
Top 5 Universities In Canada For Masters In Human Resource Management
There are multiple top universities in Canada for Masters in human resource management. These universities offer versatile HR programs with a better learning experience. We have covered the top 5 below:
- University of Toronto
- York University
- Concordia University
- Queen’s University Kingston
- University of Regina
1. University of Toronto
University of Toronto is an ideal choice for pursuing human resource management courses in Canada for international students. The course they offer here provides advanced study in the field of HR and other related sectors.
Type |
Public University |
QS World University Rankings 2022 |
26 |
Course Duration |
2 years |
Programs Offered |
Master of Industrial Relations and Human Resources |
Average Tuition Fees |
43,046 CAD/year |
2. York University
York University offers this course to help HRM specialists develop better expertise and skills to upgrade to a higher position. The course can be undertaken either on a full-time or part-time basis.
Type |
Public University |
QS World University Rankings 2022 |
494 |
Course Duration |
1.5 years |
Programs Offered |
Master of Human resource management |
Average Tuition Fees |
15,359 CAD/year |
3. Concordia University
Concordia University offers a range of management programs where HR courses are taught in-depth. All programs are research-based graduate programs designed to help students develop their expertise in HR and similar related sectors.
Type |
Public University |
QS World University Rankings 2022 |
521-530 |
Course Duration |
2 years |
Programs Offered |
Master of Science in Management, MSc Management |
Average Tuition Fees |
42,000 CAD/year |
4. Queen’s University Kingston
Queen’s University Kingston is considered the leading graduate degree, especially in this field. The course focuses on two main aspects, labour relations, and human resources practice.
Type |
Public University |
QS World University Rankings 2022 |
240 |
Course Duration |
1 year |
Programs Offered |
Master of Industrial Relations |
Average Tuition Fees |
35,314 CAD/year |
5. University of Regina
University of Regina offers a 30 credit hour program for international students. The course can be undertaken either full-time or part-time. They even have a co-op program option to help students incorporate their study knowledge into their work activities.
Suggested: What is Co-Op Education in Canada?
Type |
Public University |
Course Duration |
2 years |
Programs Offered |
Master of human resource management, Master in human resource development (thesis/project/course) |
Average Tuition Fees |
26,780 CAD/year |
Scholarship Opportunities For HR Courses In Canada
Canada makes it simple for international students to pursue Canada's best human resource programs. International students can enjoy the funding benefits top Canadian universities offer with scholarship opportunities. We have covered the top ones:
Scholarship Name |
Covers/Amount/Value |
Exemption Scholarship- Universite de Montreal |
|
UBC Sauder School of Business Dean’s Entrance Scholarship Awards |
|
Brokerfish International Student Scholarship |
|
York Graduate Fellowship |
|
Graduate Scholarship Base Fund from University of Regina |
|
Suggested: Cost of Masters in Canada for International students
Difference Between PG Diploma in HR & Masters In HR In Canada
After completing a Bachelor’s degree in HR, most international students either choose PG Diploma in HR or Masters in HR. But which amongst the two is a better choice?
Let’s first understand the difference between the two in Canada:
PG Diploma in HR |
Masters in HR |
Course duration is 1-2 years |
Course duration is 1.5- 2 years. Most courses are of 2 years |
Best suited for tight budgeted students |
Ideal for students who can afford the fees structure from top universities in Canada |
Average Annual tuition fee ranges between 13,179 CAD- 17, 200 CAD/year |
Average Annual tuition fee ranges between 15,359 CAD- 43,046 CAD/year |
After graduation, need to pursue Masters for further education or apply for a job |
After graduation can apply for a job immediately or apply for doctoral programs in the field |
Work permit is 1 year |
Work permit is up to 3 years |
Degree value isn’t as high when compared to Masters |
Holds a bigger qualification value |
No scholarship opportunity |
Multiple scholarship opportunities provided |
International students can make this decision better based on their interests. If you’re looking for an affordable medium to pursue HR courses in Canada, PG Diploma is a great choice. If you’re looking for a degree that will hold immense value to your educational qualifications, Masters in human resource management in Canada is the ideal choice.
Career Opportunities After HR Courses In Canada
After pursuing human resource management masters in Canada, there are many job profiles to choose from. International students can also expect an excellent human resource management salary in Canada.
Here is an overview of the popular job profiles in the HR industry:
Job Profile |
Average Annual Salary |
Talent Acquisition Specialist |
59,708 CAD |
Human Resources Generalist |
55,348 CAD |
Human Resources Analyst |
61,234 CAD |
Human Resources Advisor |
83,419 CAD |
Learning & Development Specialist |
54,462 CAD |
Suggested: Post-graduation work permit in Canada
Canada’s educational system, highly-ranked universities, and exceptional career opportunities are all contributing factors that indulge international students in pursuing their further education here. With Masters in HRM in Canada, this country offers a higher job vacancy and better salary when compared to other countries. Thus, if you wish to study further, you can explore PG Diploma in Human Resource Management in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions About Masters In Human Resource Management In Canada
Ques: Is HR management a good career in Canada?
Ans: Yes, HR management is a great career to make in Canada. This job is in high demand and the country offers multiple job vacancies and better salaries.
Ques: Is HR a good Master’s degree?
Ans: Yes, pursuing a Masters in HR in Canada is a great degree as the country offers better HR programs from globally recognized universities.
Ques: Which HR certifications are best in Canada?
Ans: Human resources professionals are considered the best certifications to undertake in Canada.
Ques: Which province in Canada is best for HR jobs?
Ans: Quebec is considered the best province in Canada for HR jobs. Y-axis revealed that the vacancy rate in Quebec is 4% which is relatively higher than other provinces in Canada.
Ques: What is the most wanted job in Canada?
Ans: HR is one of Canada's highly considered and demanded jobs. Multiple international students pursue HRM courses in Canada to get good employment opportunities.