List of Top Short Term Courses in Canada 2024: Syllabus, Fees & Eligibility

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Over the last few decades, Canada has become a famous educational hub due to its magnetic and unique appeal. According to data released by Immigration, Citizenship, and Refugees Canada (IRCC), the number of international students with active study permits in Canada increased significantly by 29% in 2023.

Compared to countries like the UK and the USA, Canada is more affordable for international students. The nation also offers individuals access to a diverse student community. Additionally, it has an uncomplicated visa process.

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However, most of the courses offered in the country are for two to three years. Fortunately, one can opt for numerous 6 month short term courses In Canada today.

If you’re looking to study in Canada for a shorter period of time, short courses are one of the best options available for you. Most short courses in Canada offer a career-oriented curriculum involving more practical training and making students industry-ready.

Plus, the cordial immigration policies enhance the attractiveness quotient of these short courses in Canada. Students who enrol in such programs gain unique skills in a short period. Short Courses In Canada are offered as certificates and diplomas.

They are of two types: 

  • Post-secondary certificates/diplomas
  • Postgraduate certificates/diplomas.

Some of the popular short-term courses available in Canada are given below in the table:

Courses UniversityTuition Fees
Communication CourseMacEwan University of Continuing StudiesINR 10L
Human Resource Management CertificateYork UniversityINR 12L
Global Logistics Management & Professional CommunicationMacEwan School of Continuing StudiesINR 11L
Software EngineeringThe University of British ColumbiaFree of Charge (Online)
Business AdministrationYork University School of Continuing StudiesINR 2L
French LanguageAthabasca UniversityINR 10L
Digital Marketing and Social MediaTrebas InstituteINR 6L
Note: All the above fees are approximate figures as per existing data and are subject to change. The fee value can vary based on the changes in Canadian dollar value.

Why should one opt for Short Term Courses in Canada?

In Canada, there is a strong emphasis on cutting-edge education, with over half of the population holding university degrees. This country is home to renowned universities, colleges, and institutions that offer flexible vocational courses and exceptional educational opportunities.  The certificates and degrees you earn from Canada are globally recognised, making your decision to study a short-term course in the country a worthwhile investment.

So, before we delve into the top short term courses available in Canada, let’s explore some of the reasons that attract hundreds of thousands of students to Canada. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider opting for short term courses in Canada:

  • Global Exposure: Canada is home to a diverse population and offers a multicultural environment. Short-term courses in Canada can open doors to global exposure, which is a crucial aspect of education. For instance, York University, Canada’s third-largest university, has an employment rate of 94% within two years of graduation and hosts 10,000 international students from 178 countries.
  • High Quality education: The universities in Canada are globally recognised for their academic excellence. The top-ranked universities, as per the World QS Rankings 2024, are University of Toronto (21), McGill University (30), and University of British Columbia. 
  • Flexibility: Short-term courses in Canada offer flexibility in terms of duration and mode of study. Generally, certificates last a year, while diplomas may take two to three years. Some Canadian colleges also offer six-month certificate programs. Additionally, the option of online learning gives you the freedom to study wherever, whenever, and however you want, enabling you to study at your own pace.
  • Excellent Job Prospects: Short-term courses in Canada are not just about learning; they’re about preparing you for a successful career. With a strong return on investment, these courses can lead to lucrative job opportunities. Graduates can earn up to CAD 59,801, equivalent to INR 36.63. These courses prepare you for the workforce and offer good career prospects. 
  • Affordable Education: Short-term courses in Canada are more cost-efficient than regular degree programs. The annual tuition fees for Short Courses in Canada range from INR 3.88L to INR 14.24L. This makes it a great way to supplement your professional development without making a significant investment.

Also Read: Why Study in Canada 2024

List of Short Term Courses In Canada 2024

Short term courses in Canada are ideal for students who are not willing to stay in the country for a long time. These courses are offered as diplomas and certificates that focus on specific specialisations and aim to prepare you for the workforce. 

The average duration of these courses is 1 to 2 years, which is shorter than undergraduate degree programs, and can take up to 4 years. Some Canadian colleges also offer certificate programs that last six months.

We have mentioned some of the popular short term courses in Canada to pursue in 2024:

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1. Communication Course – MacEwan University of Continuing Studies

The MacEwan University of Continuing Studies offers Communication professional short courses in Canada. Students who don’t have any prior educational qualifications for this course can opt for it in the Edmonton region.

This 6 months course in Canada provides individuals with vital knowledge about interrelations and interpersonal communication.

The curriculum of this course covers the following topics:

  • Business Planning
  • Evaluation of Solutions
  • Life Cycle Management
  • Project Management
  • Business Analysis

Fees: 17,017 CAD(INR 10L)

2. Human Resource Management Certificate – York University

The HRM certificate course is one of the most sought-after short term courses in Canada. It is offered at the York University School of Continuing Studies. Students are offered this course in Toronto. As this program is a PG certificate, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree.

It equips students with the skills to manage the resources of an organisation or company efficiently.

The curriculum of this course covers the following topics:

  • Labour Relations
  • Recruitment
  • Finance
  • Organisational Behaviour
  • Human Resources Management

Fees: 18,999 CAD (INR 12L)

short courses in canada

3. Global Logistics Management & Professional Communication – MacEwan School of Continuing Studies

While this is a slightly longer course than other six to seven month ones, it’s an in-demand one nonetheless. It allows students to understand the procedure of logistics all around the world.

Here are some of the topics that this course covers.

  • Infrastructure of Logistics
  • International Logistics
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Inventory Control
  • Risk Management
  • International Trade
  • Communication and Relational Skills

In order to apply for this course, one must have a post-secondary diploma or degree with one year of work experience in the industry.

Fees: 18,700 CAD(INR 11L)

4. Software Engineering – The University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia offers a 42-day course in Software Engineering that covers the basics of the topic. Students applying for this course need to have basic knowledge of computers.

This short course includes the following:

  • Functions of the software system
  • Refactoring and building a quality system
  • Testing and designing of the software system
  • Building a non-trivial software system

Fees: Free of Charge (Online)

5. Business Administration – York University School of Continuing Studies

The short certificate program by York University School of Continuing Studies is an eight-month course offered in Toronto. It helps individuals in becoming leaders in today’s business world.

Here are the topics in this course’s curriculum.

  • Functions of Business
  • Marketing
  • Accounting and Analysis
  • Business Communication
  • Business Introduction
  • Project Management

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree to apply to this postgraduate certificate course.

Fees: 3,845 CAD(INR 2L)

6. French Language – Athabasca University

The best thing about this short term course in Canada is that there is no time limit for completion. Students can study the French language with native speakers to learn the language super fast.

The knowledge of the French language can open up different areas of employment. So, if you’re looking to learn French to secure a job, then this short course at Athabasca University is for you.

Here are some topics covered in this course.

  • French Language Composition
  • French Pronunciation
  • French Language – First and Second University Year

The only requirement for this short course is 16 years of age. Only individuals who are 15+ can apply for this program.

Fees: 16,435 CAD(INR 10L)

7. Digital Marketing and Social Media – Trebas Institute

This 6-7 month short course by Trebas Institute is aimed at individuals looking to grow in their digital marketing careers. An on-campus program, this Digital Marketing and Social Media course offers knowledge of online advertising, analytics, SEO, social media strategy, and more.

Students of this program become specialists in developing and executing digital marketing strategies. Applicants must have passed 12th grade or its equivalent.

Fees: 9092 CAD(INR 6L)

Also Read: Canada Student Visa Requirements 2022: Study Permit, IELTS Band & Fees

Fees of Short Courses In Canada

Compared to undergraduate and postgraduate programs, short term courses In Canada are much more affordable. However, the cost of studying short term courses In Canada varies from province to province.

The average tuition fees for 6 months of short term courses In Canada start from INR 3L. Here is a general estimate of the tuition fees charged by colleges in different provinces of Canada for short courses.

  • Ontario Colleges Province – 17,900 CAD(INR 10L)
  • Alberta Colleges Province- 12530 CAD(INR 7L) to 34,500 CAD(INR 21L)
  • Quebec Colleges Province- 15,340 CAD(INR 9L) to 24,900 CAD(INR 15L)

Now:

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Admission Requirements for Short Term Courses In Canada

Transcripts

Most institutes offering short term courses In Canada ask for academic transcripts of all previous years of education. In order to enrol in a PG certificate short course, students need to show proof of the completion of a bachelor’s degree.

Language Proficiency

International students need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc. If the curriculum of the 6-month short term courses in Canada is in French, then applicants are required to prove French Language proficiency. It can be done by submitting certificates such as TCF, DALF, Bright, TEF, etc.

Study Permit & Immigration Documents

In order to enrol for short term courses In Canada, students need to submit a Canadian study permit of no longer than six months of duration. If the program is less than six months, a temporary visa also gets accepted. If you want to apply for a student permit, here are some of the documents that you’ll need:

  1. Current Passport
  2. Acceptance letter from the respective institute or college
  3. A temporary visa/travel document

Birth Certificate

Some vocational colleges, especially CEGEPs, require students to submit birth certificates. If you’re applying to a 6-month short course in Canada and are below 18 years of age, then you’ll have to have parental consent via a form as well.

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Conclusion

All these short term courses In Canada focus on a particular specialisation and make individuals industry-ready. While some of these are 6 months short term courses in Canada, others are 11-12 months ones.

From choosing the right short term course to helping you with applications, Leap Scholar does it all for you. So go ahead and book your free counselling session today!

You can also ace the IELTS exam to successfully enrol in your desired course, university and country with Leap’s tailored IELTS courses and IELTS Prep app. These courses are designed and taught by India’s top IELTS trainers through live online classes. On booking your seat, you will get access to mock tests, speaking and writing evaluations and comprehensive study materials. You also get access to class recordings and a course completion certificate. Book your demo session today.

Are you planning to pursue a short term course in Canada? Connect with our counsellors and learn all about studying in Canada. Right from universities to scholarships, we’ll guide you through it all. 

Book a free call now.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Which short term course is best to get a high-paying job in Canada?

    A. Short-term courses in Digital Marketing, Business Administration, Full-Stack Development, and Artificial Intelligence are ideal for getting a high-paying job in Canada.

  • Q. Which short term courses In Canada are in demand?

    A. Some short term courses in demand in Canada include:
    Global Logistics Management
    Project Management
    Software Engineering
    International Business Management.

  • Q. Is there a free certificate course that I can do at a Canadian University?

    A. Yes, there are some free certificate courses available at Canadian universities. The University of British Columbia offers a Software Construction course that students can do online at Edx. It is entirely free of cost.
    While the courses themselves are free, there may be fees associated with obtaining a verified certificate upon completion.

  • Q. Which short-term medical courses in Canada are available for international students?

    A. There are various short-term medical courses in Canada that are available for international students. The course duration usually ranges from 6 months to 1 year, allowing students to gain skills in the medical sector. Some of these courses are:
    Medical Office Administration
    Pharmacy Assistant
    Hospitality Management

  • Q. Are there any benefits of doing short term courses in Canada?

    A. Short term courses in Canada offer specialised skills, networking opportunities, and cultural immersion. It can also enhance your resume, potentially leading to better job prospects and helping in personal and professional growth.

  • Q. Are there any 3 months short term courses available in Canada?

    A. Yes, some universities offer 3-month short term courses in Canada for international students. These courses are designed to provide focused training in specific areas of study within a shorter time frame, typically ranging from a few weeks to three months. Here are some of the options:
    Software Engineering 
    Business Communications 
    Data Analytics and Visualisation
    Human Resources Management

  • Q. How much do short term courses cost in Canada?

    A. The cost of these short term courses varies depending on several variables, including course length, subject matter, extra advantages, course materials, workload, marketability, and more.
    Although some courses are reasonably priced, others cost between INR 4L and INR 12L.

  • Q. What are the most sought-after diploma/certificate programmes for international students in Canada?

    A. Selecting courses abroad is a difficult decision. You might be worried that you’ll choose the wrong location and the growth you’re hoping for will stall there. The most well-liked quick courses in Canada that might help you limit your options are:
    Economics
    Business
    Engineering
    Architecture
    Administrative Studies

  • Q. Which Canadian institutions offer the best short term courses to study in Canada?

    A. There are several Canadian universities that offer excellent short-term courses, also known as certificate or diploma programs. Here are a few universities that are consistently ranked high:
    University of Toronto
    McGill University
    Conestoga College
    Algonquin College
    University of Alberta
    British Columbia Institute of Technology

  • Q. What are the advantages of being a permanent resident of Canada?

    A. Some advantages of obtaining Canadian PR are as follows:
    All social benefits that are available to Canadian citizens are also available to immigrants, including access to Canadian health care, the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada, the ability to eventually apply for citizenship, and protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

  • Q. Are there any short term teaching courses in Canada?

    Yes, many Canadian universities offer a wide range of short-term teaching courses. The courses are generally referred to as certification programs or diploma programs. It helps you to improve your teaching skills or pursue specific areas of interest within the field of education. Here are some examples of short-term teaching courses available in Canada:
    -Bachelor of Education (BEd) program 
    -Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) Certification
    -Special Education Teachers Assistant diploma

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Hi, I'm Saloni, an experienced writer with specialization in preparing test material for English proficiency tests, particularly in IELTS. My strong understanding of SEO allows me to create informative and engaging material that helps students make the right decisions about pursuing their international academic and professional goals.

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