The Best Canadian Universities For Computer Science in 2025
Coding your way into Canada!
Table of Content
- 10 Best Canadian Universities for Computer Science
- 1. University of Toronto
- 2. University of Waterloo
- 3. University of British Columbia
- 4. University de Montreal
- 5. University of Alberta
- 6. McGill University
- 7. Simon Fraser University
- 8. Carleton Univeristy
- 9. University of Ottawa
- 10. Ecole de Technologie Superieure
In a world driven by technology and innovation, choosing the right university has become more important than ever. For those who wish to pursue a career in the tech sphere, choosing from the Canadian universities for computer science can be your best bet. Welcome to our comprehensive list of the top Canadian universities for computer science. From the hustle and bustle of metropolises such as Toronto and Vancouver to the scenic cities in the Rockies, the top Canadian universities for MS in computer science, as well as undergraduate, await you!
10 Best Canadian Universities for Computer Science
Canada is home to some of the best universities in the world: be it in the sphere of computer science, AI, liberal arts, or performance arts. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that you, our talented reader, are looking at the best Canadian universities for computer science. Well, let’s get started.
| University | Location | University Ranking | Course Ranking | Course Duration | Yearly Course Fees (in CA$) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Toronto, Ontario | 18 | 27 | 4 years UG, 1-2 years PG | 6,590 |
| University of Waterloo | Waterloo, Ontario | 191 | 51 | 4-5 years UG, 1-2 years PG | 36,000 - 40,000 |
| University of British Columbia | Vancouver, British Columbia | 35 | 56 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 6,000 - 6,500 |
| Universite de Montreal | Montreal, Quebec | 156 | 74 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 14,500 - 15,500 |
| University of Alberta | Edmonton, Alberta | 136 | 100 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 34,000 - 35,000 |
| McGill University | Montreal, Quebec | 54 | 111 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 6,000 - 6,500 |
| Simon Fraser University | Burnaby, British Columbia | 317 | 166 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 33,000 - 34,000 |
| Carleton University | Ottawa, Ontario | 526 | 185 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 7,500 - 8,500 |
| University of Ottawa | Ottawa, Ontario | 215 | 298 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 19,500 - 20,000 |
| Ecole de Technologie Superieure | Montreal, Quebec | 1,338 | 308 | 4 years UG, 2 years PG | 32,000 - 33,000 |
1. University of Toronto
Location: Toronto, Ontario
US News Rank in 2024: #18
Computer Science Course Ranking: #27
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 1-2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $6,590 (INR 4,01,084) per year
The University of Toronto is truly one of the best Canadian universities for computer science. Why is that? Well, the university is ranked 18 globally, while its CS course is ranked 27. The Honors BSc degree is fully accredited and comprehensive, while in the Master’s course, students can opt to pursue an MSc or Doctorate. It comes as no surprise that such a high-ranked university is one of the best Canadian universities Computer Science.
2. University of Waterloo
Location: Waterloo, Ontario
US News Rank in 2024: 191
Computer Science Course Ranking: 51
Course Duration: 4-5 years UG, 1-2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $36,000 - CA $40,000 (INR 22,215,59 - INR 24,345,85)
The University of Waterloo is one of the best Canadian schools for computer science, and it owes that to its world-class faculty, a world-renowned host of facilities and tools, and an environment that promotes learning and innovation. The cherry on top? The campus is absolutely gorgeous! The BSc, BMath, MSc, and MMath courses offer you the flexibility to specialize in the subjects of your choice.
Waterloo alumni and professors have created more than 800 spin-off companies, including OpenText, the largest software company in Canada.
3. University of British Columbia
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
US News Rank in 2024: 35
Computer Science Course Ranking: 56
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $5,960 - CA $6,500 (INR 3,62,753 - INR 3,95,620)
The BSc and MSc course offered at the University of British Columbia make it one of the best Canadian universities for computer science. UBC has become a well-reputed name in the conversations surrounding the best universities globally and it clearly shows when you look at its expertise in fields such as IT, analytics, genomics, software development, and finance, and more. Why not choose from the best Canadian universities for computer science?
4. University de Montreal
Location: Montreal, Quebec
US News Rank in 2024: 156
Computer Science Course Ranking: 74
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $14,500 - CA $15,500
The Department of Computer Science and Operations Research handles one of the best Canadian universities for computer science. What brings UdeM into the conversation of the best Canadian schools for computer science is its rigorous curriculum, coverage of theoretical concepts and establishment of a happening student hub. With its offerings of cutting-edge technologies and freedom to explore, students here are known for their groundbreaking ventures in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. If you’re interested in other branches of the tech field too, definitely ensure you check out the best engineering schools in Canada.
5. University of Alberta
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
US News Rank in 2024: 136
Computer Science Course Ranking: 100
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $34,000 - CA $35,000 (INR 20,689,80 - INR 21,298,32)
The University of Alberta makes it onto our list of the best Canadian universities for international students due to its superior faculty members, such as Dr. Richard Sutton, and amazing facilities. The Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (AMII) is a top player in machine learning and AI innovation and growth, placing it on the list of top 10 Canadian universities for MS in computer science. The university’s strong focus on experiential learning makes it so sought-after for professors and students alike globally.
6. McGill University
Location: Montreal, Quebec
US News Rank in 2024: 54
Computer Science Course Ranking: 111
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $6,000 - CA $6,500 (INR 3,65,114 - INR 3,95,540)
McGill University is truly one of the best Canadian universities for computer science and its facilities and faculty stand testament to that. The university hosts the Centre for Cybersecurity and Privacy, which is known for collaborating with industry experts and leaders to address the challenges faced by the field. What’s more? The program offers amazing opportunities for students, such as the Security and Privacy Research Lab, where they can engage in cutting-edge research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members. This specialization in cybersecurity makes McGill one of the top Canadian universities for computer science.
7. Simon Fraser University
Location: Burnaby, British Columbia
US News Rank in 2024: 317
Computer Science Course Ranking: 166
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $33,000 - CA $34,000 ( INR 20,00,000 - INR 20,68,980)
One of the best Canadian universities for computer science for a reason, Simon Fraser University definitely stands out! Fostering an interdisciplinary approach which involves collbaoraitng with fields such as urban planning and cognitive science. In addition, students get to engage with highly qualified faculty at the AI and Human-Centered Computing Lab. Students can even tackle IRL issues at hand at the Big Data Hub, which ensures its place among the best Canadain universities for computer science. Thinking of applying soon? Understand the guide intakes in Canada before applying to the top Canadian universities for computer science.
8. Carleton Univeristy
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
US News Rank in 2024: 526
Computer Science Course Ranking: 285
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $7,500 - CA $8,500 (INR 4,56,392 - INR 5,17,245)
Carleton University remains one of the best Canadian Universities computer science primarily due to its unique blend of high-quality theoretical and practical learning. The co-op program at Carleton lets bright students work hand-in-hand with big companies such as Shopify and IBM. Carleton's research initiatives, such as the Advanced Real-Time Simulation Lab, allow students to engage in life-sized projects, like developing simulations for autonomous vehicles.
9. University of Ottawa
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
US News Rank in 2024: 215
Computer Science Course Ranking: 298
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $19,500 - CA $20,000 (INR 11,86,621 - INR 12,17,047)
The University of Ottawa is highly sought-after for its exceptional research opportunities and more. The university's Centre for Advanced Studies in Visualization and Simulation conducts groundbreaking research in areas like virtual reality and computer graphics, providing students with hands-on experience in fields that will help them grow in their careers. The best Canadian universities for computer science are key in collaborating with tech giants around the world, and Ottawa’s reputation as a tech hub lets students network as much as possible.
10. Ecole de Technologie Superieure
Location: Montreal, Quebec
US News Rank in 2024: 1,338
Computer Science Course Ranking: 308
Course Duration: 4 years UG, 2 years PG
Yearly fees: CA $32,000 - CA $33,000 (INR 19,47,275 - INR 20,08,127)
Computer Science at Ecole de Technologie Superieure (ETS) is highly regarded as one of the best Canadian universities for computer science. Thanks to ETS's close partnership with firms such as Ubisoft and Bombardier, cooperative education programs and internships offer students the opportunity to get practical experience. For example, ETS's Research Chair in Artificial Intelligence for the Industrial Internet of Things provides students with excellent research possibilities by working on revolutionary projects in fields like smart manufacturing and predictive maintenance.
These best Canadian universities for computer science provide aspiring students with an array of options to gain the education to pursue their dreams. In addition, students heading to the country can also check out the best things to do in Canada to make their free time as fun as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Canadian university has the best Computer Science program?
There is a wide range of best Canadian universities for Computer Science. Some of the best ones include the University of Toronto, the University of Waterloo, and the University of British Columbia.
Is Canada a good place to study CS?
Canada hosts the top Canadian universities for computer science. With top-ranked universities, vibrant tech ecosystems, and ample opportunities for research and industry collaboration, students can receive a high-quality education while enjoying a welcoming and diverse environment
How much does it cost to study Computer Science in Canada?
Canada is one of the most affordable countries for education, and it also hosts the best Canadian universities for computer science. The average fee to study CS in Canada per year is around CA $20,000 to CA $50,000.
Is the University of Toronto good for CSE?
Yes, the University of Toronto is highly regarded for computer science education (CSE). It consistently ranks among the best Canadian universities for computer science, offering comprehensive programs, renowned faculty, and access to amazing research opportunities, making it an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing CSE.
How much percentage is required for computer science in Canada?
A percentage of 80-90% in your senior secondary is a good benchmark to pursue an education in some of the best Canadian universities for computer science.