Canada proves to be an ideal place to secure your post-graduate degree in cyber security, owing to its ever-increasing demand for cyber security professionals. The sector expects to reach 174 billion dollars worth by the end of 2024 and emerge as the largest, fastest-growing services sector. Moreover, the cyber security sector will experience a rise of 31% in employment by 2029. With such a promising future and an adventurous field of study, cyber security is gaining popularity among students.
Let us have a look at everything you need to know if you’re planning to get your masters in cyber security from Canada. This guide includes program structures, top universities, costs, scholarships, career prospects, and so much more.
Why Study Masters in Cyber Security in Canada?
There are so many reasons to study in Canada. Not only is it the safest country in the world in the past five years, but it also is witnessing tremendous growth in the cyber security sector. This, in turn paints promising futures for students with degrees like MSc in cyber security in Canada.
- High Employment Rates: Many students have lately turned their higher studies towards Canada. The reason is education from top-notch, world-renowned universities and immediate, prosperous job opportunities.
- High quality of Life: Canada has been #1 for the past five years and won the label of the best country globally in terms of life quality. This is an attractive feature that brings in more and more immigrants as students every year.
- Monetary benefits: Canadian universities are relatively less expensive compared to other elite countries famous and sought after for education. Most of them offer internships, scholarships, etc. to aid student costs. Moreover, earning along with education is widespread and students often manage the two efficiently.
Program Structure of Cyber Security Masters in Canada
Cyber technology is a specialization in the field of Information Technology. There are more than one method of securing a masters degree in cyber security in Canada. You can either go for MEng, MS, MASc, or MSc in Cyber security in Canada. Let us have a look at the various cyber security master's programs in Canada and their structures:
- Course Duration: The typical masters degree in cyber security in Canada lasts for about one to two years, depending on your course selection and university.
- Course Content: The exact listicle of content covered in your cyber security master’s program again depends on your course and university selection. However, the typical cyber security masters deal with primary arenas with application and information security, cryptography, disaster recovery, and network security. Intriguing subjects like ethical hacking, analytics, information assurance, cyber laws, etc., are also dealt with.
- Alternatives to Masters in Cyber Security: Getting a degree isn’t the only way to get into cyber security. You could opt for certification courses. These are ideal for getting a job since recruiters witness natural skill development. 59% of recruitments demand at least one certification. Past job experience in relevant fields or self-taught cyber security arenas are also great to make your resume stand out.
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Top 5 Universities in Canada for Masters in Cyber Security
Listed below are some of the best universities in Canada for masters in cyber security:
- Conestoga University
- Concordia University
- University of New Brunswick
- Ontario Tech University
- New York Institute of Technology
Let us now have a look at the top universities for masters in cyber security in Canada in detail:
Conestoga University
The Conestoga University boasts being the fastest growing institute in Ontario. Loved worldwide by international students, Conestoga is an ideal study destination for its rich applied research and career-focused education technique. It is renowned for being among the most potential delivering universities in Canada.
|
Institution Type |
Public |
|
Programs Offered |
Computer Application Security (Optional Co-op)- Postgraduate program |
|
Annual tuition fees for International Students |
7250 CAD +Ancillary Fees |
|
Duration |
One year |
Concordia University
This world-class university is among the top three tied universities in Canada for masters in cyber security. Famous for its unique socio-educational approach to learning, it gives rich experience to its students through internships, work experience, and diverse cultural exposure.
|
Institution Type |
Public |
|
QS Ranking |
521-530 |
|
Programs Offered |
Information Systems Security (MEng) Information Systems Security (MASc) |
|
Annual tuition fees for International Students |
MEng: 21,431 CAD +ancillary fees MASc: 20,088.28 CAD |
|
Duration |
MEng: 18-24 months MASc: 24 months |
University of New Brunswick
The UNB is a relatively smaller university with two campuses in Fredericton and Saint John. But that doesn’t stop it from acing! The UNB is famous for having the best student-to-faculty ratio and provides extraordinary academic value and world-class program opportunities.
|
Institution Type |
Public |
|
QS Ranking |
651-700 |
|
Programs Offered |
Master of Applied Cyber Security (MACSec) Master of Computer Science (MCS) |
|
Annual tuition fees for International Students |
8480 CAD + ancillary fees |
|
Duration |
MACSec: 12 months MCS: 16-24 months |
Ontario Tech University
The Ontario Tech University is a government-administered and one of the best universities for masters in cyber security in Canada that offers top-notch education opportunities to its students. Enriched with more than 80 research labs, the UOIT is highly sought after by international and domestic students alike.
|
Institution Type |
Public |
|
Programs Offered |
Information Technology Security (Master's program) -MITS |
|
Annual tuition fees for International Students |
3,451 CAD + continuation and ancillary fees. (Full course) |
|
Duration |
2 years |
Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Cyber Security in Canada
Meeting the eligibility criteria is extremely important if you want to go for cyber security masters in Canada. While the exact requirements differ with programs chosen and universities admitted to, the general eligibility needs have been summarized below.
- Educational criteria
- English language test criteria
- Canadian study permit
- Prior work experince
Educational Criteria
Foremost, you need to have an undergraduate degree in a related field. Cyber security, computer science, information technology, etc. are some examples. The exact minimum GPA differs, but on average, universities require 3.0 or more. Having a background in mathematics can also be helpful here.
English Language Test Criteria
International students that emerge from non-English speaking nations or those who did not have English as their first language need to give an English language proficiency test. The IELTS or TOEFL are two prominent tests widely acceptable worldwide. The minimum score required again varies, but the average required band score for IELTS is 6.0 or more.
Canadian Study Permit
As an international student, you will need to have a Canadian study permit. The document is issued by the government and allows a student to study in all DLIs of Canada. It is necessary to apply for this before you travel to Canada. The permit lasts for as long as your course does, and gives an extra 90 days. You can either prepare to leave the nation or apply for staying back.
Prior Work Experience
Although not necessary, prior work experience when applying for a masters in Canada is like the gold dust on your profile. It boosts your student application and raises your acceptance rate. Moreover, it is highly beneficial for post-masters job applications. Internships and other volunteering programs also count.
Documents Required for Securing A Masters Degree in Cyber Security in Canada
You will also need certain documents to complete your registration as a student for your master’s degree:
- Official Transcripts
- Bachelor’s degree or other proof of prior education
- English language proficiency test record
- Official GMAT/GRE scorecard
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Reference
- Financial proof
- Passport photocopy
- Your CV
Admission Procedure for Cyber security Masters in Canada
The admissions for masters in cyber security in Canadian universities usually take place in three terms: Fall, spring and summer, with fall being the commonest. Make sure to check beforehand with your university website the exact dates of form release.
- The admission procedure differs from universities and courses, but the general procedure is mentioned here:
- Browse the official website of your university
- Navigate to the admissions section
- Check for form availability and fill it correctly. Pay registration fees.
- Prepare and upload required documents carefully.
- Track the admission status if you want. The acceptance letter will arrive soon.
- If you’re accepted to the university, respond to it and pay the fees required to secure your seat.
- Prepare for the Canadian study permit.
Suggested: How to Apply to Canadian Universities?
Cost for Studying Masters in Cyber Security in Canada
The cost of studying masters in cyber security in Canada can be huge at times. When clubbed with living costs, the degree could really be cutting a hole in your pockets. However, it is best to be informed beforehand to prevent any surprises.
Tuition Fees
With cyber security being in high demand, the best universities for masters in cyber security in Canada have increased tuition fees. Stay ahead of time by planning your course and the corresponding fees. Find out more here:
|
Name of Program |
Annual Tuition Fees in CAD |
|
Master of Applied Cyber Security |
8480 |
|
MEng in Cyber Security |
21,431 |
|
MASc in Cyber Security |
19,598 |
|
Masters in Information Technology Security |
3,451.45 |
Note: Additional ancillary, stationary, and continuation fees may apply.
Living Costs
The living costs in Canada depend on the province, city, area, and amenities chosen. On average, on-campus accommodation costs 8,000 CAD to 10,000 CAD annually. Off-campus, students can rent apartments with roommates. The rent then amounts to approximately 400 to 700 CAD per month. Cost for food, transportation, and recreation is excluded but approximately amounts to 400 CAD per month.
Scholarships for Cyber Security Masters in Canada
While studying in Canada can be a real hole in pockets, there are various scholarship programs worldwide that aid students financially. Listed below are a few helpful scholarships that can cut down your cost significantly. Note that the eligibility criteria may be confined to certain universities/genders/races, etc. all is applicable to masters programs in cyber security in Canada.
|
Name of Scholarship |
Value in CAD |
|
ISC Graduate Scholarships |
1400-7000 |
|
Ontario Graduate Scholarships |
10000 |
|
(ISC)² Women’s Cyber security Scholarships |
Variable |
|
Delta Kappa Gamma World Fellowships |
5068 |
|
Arbour Foundation |
13,000 |
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Job Prospects after Masters in Cyber Security in Canada
Cyber Security is a highly demanded job that helps keep people safe and secure in Canada with an excellent salary. The following table lists Cyber Security jobs in Canada and their annual salary.
|
Job Title |
Annual Average Salary in CAD |
|
Finance Executive |
50,000-70,000 |
|
Computer Network Technician |
1,300,000 |
|
System Administrator |
60,000-80,000 |
|
Cyber Security Project Manager |
99,070 |
|
Cyber Risk and Security Operation Analyst |
1,350,000 |
|
Cyber Security Engineer |
135,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions about Cyber Security Masters Programs in Canada
- Can we do MS in Cyber Security in Canada easily?
Ans. The MS in cyber security is offered under several courses in Canadian Universities. You could go for MEng, MASc, MS, etc.
- How much does an Entry Level Cyber Security professional make in Canada?
Ans. An entry-level cyber security graduate makes around 70,800 per year. The true amount depends on your job role, experience, resume, company, etc.
- Which province is the best option for cyber security careers and jobs?
Ans. Vancouver is undoubtedly the best, fastest-growing tech city in Canada.
- Is a master’s degree in Cyber Security worth it?
Ans. Postgraduates in Cyber security have an extraordinarily high ROI, and the growth prospects are also skyrocketing.
