As a profession, civil engineering is in high demand in Canada, with Immigration offering temporary fast-track work programs for qualified applicants and their families to work and live in Canada.
With such a focus on civil engineering, Canadian universities offer students brilliant opportunities to study the field of civil engineering and gain a qualification that will set them up for many career opportunities, both in Canada and around the world.
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Is civil engineering a good job in Canada?
The housing boom in Canada has led to a steady demand for civil engineers. Canada’s major city centers (including Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary) present the strongest job opportunities and salaries to match.
That said, as a civil engineer, you should have no problem finding work anywhere in Canada. Even recent civil engineering graduates with limited professional experience are highly sought after.
In fact, the entry-level salary for this field is one of the highest in Canada, with new graduates regularly making figures in the mid $60,000 range.
How long does it take to become a civil engineer in Canada?
The basic educational requirement for working as a civil engineer is a four-year bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited school. Some employers, however, may require that you have a master’s in civil engineering, with a major in a field related to their operations.
Here we have highlighted 10 higher education programs that we think you should check out if you’re considering studying civil engineering in Canada.
1. Calgary
The Schulich School of Engineering (University of Calgary) – PhD in Civil Engineering
The Schulich School of Engineering is ideal for both those seeking to begin their studies in engineering, as well as those wanting to progress on to postgraduate education.
Part of the University of Calgary, they pride itself on offering a well-rounded academic experience that equips students with the skills needed to pursue successful careers in the engineering sector.
Their Ph.D. is a research-based degree that will take 3-4 years depending on prior qualifications held by the student.
2. Edmonton
The University of Alberta – Master of Engineering
The University of Alberta is one of Canada’s leading research universities, with more than $490 million in external research funding.
They put a large focus on internationalism, having over 37,00 students from 143 countries around the world. They have also been one of Canada’s greenest employers for the past eight years.
Their master’s program in Civil Engineering takes 9-12 months to complete and students are required to complete a Capstone Project as part of the curriculum.
3. Hamilton
McMaster University – Bachelor of Civil Engineering
McMaster University has gained an international reputation for offering innovative educational programming.
Through their Bachelor of Civil Engineering program, McMaster University will provide students with a broad education in civil engineering while also offering the opportunity to specialize in an area of interest to the student.
Core disciplines include Structural Design, Transportation Engineering, and Water Resources and Environmental Engineering.
4. London
Western University – Master of Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering
Founded in 1878, Western University has over 2,400 students enrolled in its engineering programs (both undergraduate and postgraduate).
This Master’s program offers students the opportunity to mix project work with course work and takes between one and two years to complete.
Students will learn practical engineering skills as well as Canadian credentials, which is a crucial entry point for international students and workers seeking employment in Canada.
5. Montreal
McGill University – Bachelor of Civil Engineering
The Department of Civil Engineering & Applied Mechanics at McGill University was established in 1871 and today has around 570 undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in their programs, of which nearly half are women and one-third are international students.
Their comprehensive bachelor’s program equips students with a foundation in mechanics and engineering, offering opportunities for students to either specialize in an advanced area of interest or gain a broader education in the field of civil engineering.
6. Concordia University of Montreal – Master of Engineering
The Concordia University of Montreal boasts an annual enrolment of 46,000 students (15% of which are international students), offering both undergraduate and postgraduate education with a focus on hands-on experience and innovative solutions.
The Master of Engineering program builds on undergraduate education and prepares students for undertaking more research-based studies (such as a Ph.D.).
Students will develop their technical knowledge in engineering, the construction process, and the impact on the environment.
7. Ottawa
Algonquin College – Graduate Certificate in Civil Engineering
Having provided high-quality education for over 42 years, Algonquin College has a strong international presence, currently welcoming students from over 100 countries around the globe.
Their three-year Graduate Certificate program explores advanced topics such as civil estimating, highway and environmental engineering, and project administration. Graduates of this program will be prepared to pursue a career in various civil engineering-related areas.
8. Toronto
University of Toronto, Toronto – Bachelor of Civil Engineering
Consistently ranked number one in Canada, the University of Toronto’s Department of Civil Engineering offers this bachelor’s program.
This is where students will be prepared to create solutions that will directly impact the quality of life everywhere, from rebuilding deteriorating buildings to creating structures to withstand natural disasters.
As well as engineering courses, students will receive education in related subjects such as maths, physics, and geology.
In the third year, students will receive opportunities to gain hands-on practical experience through camps and projects.
9. Vancouver
University of British Columbia – Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering
Consistently ranked among the top 40 universities in the world, the University of British Columbia prides itself on its entrepreneurial perspective, encouraging students to challenge convention and explore new ways of learning.
Their Bachelor’s program in Civil Engineering provides a foundation in both basic sciences and specific skills in civil engineering.
Laboratory work is integrated throughout the program to provide practical opportunities for students to apply what they learn in the coursework.
Each year, around 120 students are registered in this program.
10. Waterloo
University of Waterloo – Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering
Located at the heart of Canada’s technology hub, the University of Waterloo has over 36,000 full- and part-time students and offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Their Civil Engineering bachelor’s degree offers a highly flexible and customizable path of study where students can gain explore many aspects of civil engineering and craft their study around areas of interest.
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