Canada produces 85% of the world’s maple syrup and is the largest producer of flax seeds, canola, oats, mustard seeds, and several pulses. The North American country also grows more than 50 varieties of apples worth more than $37 million in exports. So, there is no denying that Canada is one of the best places for studying agriculture. Many students from all over the world look to study for a master’s in agriculture in Canada due to the excellence of academics in the region. Canada has more than 14 QS world-ranking universities offering programs in agricultural and forestry. So, if you are looking to pursue Masters In Agriculture In Canada, here is a comprehensive guide.
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Top Colleges For Masters In Agriculture In Canada
Master of Science in agriculture is a program designed for students looking to build an advanced career in the field. It covers all the aspects like crop research, development of new agriculture methods, and practical farming. Students have the option of choosing between course-based and thesis-based programs across Canada. Specialisations that applicants can choose for MSc agriculture in Canada are,
- Plant agriculture
- Food, agriculture, and resource economics
- Agroeconomics
- Agricultural Chemistry
- Agricultural business administration
- Agricultural engineering
- Sustainable agriculture
Canada is home to more than 30 agricultural colleges, out of which many are ranked among the top agriculture institutions in the world. Let’s discuss some of them.
University of Guelph
The University of Guelph offers a master’s in food and agricultural economics. It is one of the top-ranked universities in Canada, with a ranking of 19 in the QS world rankings. Also known as MFARE, it provides an alternative path of education for the economics of agriculture, food, and natural resources. The focus is on the development of skilled professionals and the analytical research of empirical methods in the field of agriculture.
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Eligibility requirements
- Minimum of 70% of marks at the graduation level from a recognised university
- Basic course completion in Intermediate Microeconomics (or equivalent)/Introductory Mathematical Economics (or equivalent)/Introduction to Econometrics (or equivalent)
- Need to have advanced microeconomic theory subject at the undergraduate level
- IELTS with a minimum score of 7
- TOEFL with a minimum score of 95
The average fee for the MFARE programme at the University of Guelph is 35,467.3 CAD.
McGill University
Another top-ranked university, McGill University, is considered one of the best institutes for a master’s in agriculture in Canada. It offers an MSc in Agricultural Economics. The programme provides rigorous training in economic theories, concepts, and different tools to solve economic problems in the agricultural field. Additionally, the programme helps students develop and polish analytical skills in agricultural and environmental economics. It also encourages and supports students to conduct research in resource economics, development, marketing, finance, and more.
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Eligibility requirements
- An undergraduate degree in Agricultural Economics or Economics must compulsorily include undergraduate courses in intermediate economic theory (micro and macro), calculus, algebra, statistics, and econometrics
- Minimum IELTS score of 6.5
- TOEFL with a minimum score of 86
The average tuition fee for the MSc in Agricultural Economics at McGill University is 44687.53 CAD.
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a top university that provides a master’s in agriculture in Canada. It is a two-year programme designed for agricultural professionals. Whether students are looking for specialisation or upgrading their knowledge, this programme covers all bases. The course includes topics like primary crop production, rangeland management, plant biochemistry, animal sciences, and food and agriculture products.
Eligibility requirements
- Science or engineering-based four-year undergraduate degree, or its equivalent, from a recognised university
- GPA of 3.3 out of 4 or B+ grade in the last two years of academic post-secondary study(60 credits)
- IELTS with a minimum score of 7
- TOEFL with at least 90 score
The average tuition fee for the master’s in agriculture at the University of Alberta is 26935.65 CAD.
University of Saskatchewan
University of Saskatchewan or USASK is known for its research infrastructure and world-class academic capabilities. It offers a master’s in food science, which covers microbiology, chemistry, and unit processes used by food systems. It is best for international students interested in studying the production and processing of grains, edible oils, meats, native fruits, etc.
Eligibility requirements
- A cumulative average of 70% marks in the last two years of full-time study with a minimum of 60 credit hours
- A four-year honours degree or equivalent from a recognised university in relevant academic disciplines for the agricultural and food sciences.
- TOEFL with a minimum score of 86
- IELTS with at least a band of 7
The average tuition fee for a master’s in food science at the University of Saskatchewan is 46311.36 CAD.
Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University is one of the most popular universities in Canada, ranked among the top 300 universities on the QS world rankings. Apart from that, it also ranks 12th among other universities in Canada. MSc in the agriculture program at Dalhousie University is designed for research purposes. So, it is a thesis-oriented course like a doctorate, so you may need to seek supervision from an academic professor at the university.
Eligibility requirements
- A cumulative average of 70% marks in bachelor’s degree from a reputed institution
- TOEFL with a minimum score of 92
- IELTS with at least a band of 7
The average tuition fee for this program at Dalhousie University is 15464.91 CAD.
Laval University
Laval University is one of the top agriculture colleges in Canada, with a ranking of 354 among global universities. It provides a program for M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics, which includes the economics of plant-based crops, commercial aspects of agriculture, business management, and more.
Eligibility requirements
- A bachelor’s degree or diploma in agricultural economics or equivalent from a recognised institution.
- English proficiency proof or studied in English medium at the bachelor’s level
Application Process for a Master’s in Agriculture in Canada
The application process for MSc Agriculture in Canada depends on which university you choose. However, there are some common requirements also. For example, most universities demand proof of English proficiency. So, international students from different countries like Germany, Australia, Singapore, and India need to score well on tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Further, a four-year bachelor’s degree in the relevant field is mandatory by most colleges. Fortunately for students, some colleges allow applicants with a diploma to apply for admissions. To begin the application process, students need to apply through official website portals. However, for Agriculture colleges in Ontario, applicants can apply through Ontario Universities’ Application Centre(OUAC) portal. Some of the documents that applicants need to attach with the application form are,
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- TOEFL/IELTS scores
- Work experience, if any
- Personal essay on the study plan
On receiving the application, the admission board will review it and respond through email.
Conclusion
The agricultural sector is one of the few industries that will continue to exist and grow as long as humans live on earth. With the increasing population, need for food, and innovations in Agriculture, students can make a great career in Canada. However, finding the right agricultural college, application, student visa, and preparation for IELTS or TOEFL can get overwhelming, even if this is not your first time applying to foreign universities. Fortunately for you, LeapScholar can guide you and reduce the burden on your shoulders. So, book a consultation now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of MSc Agriculture in Canada?
The annual tuition fee from top agricultural colleges in Canada ranges from 150,00CAD to 35,000CAD. Apart from these, there are many other costs that you need to consider like accommodation costs, travelling and living costs.
What is the scope of MSc Agriculture in Canada?
The agricultural industry is growing at a rapid pace due to the demand for organic crops and the commercialisation of farming. There are many positions that you can apply for after pursuing the MSc in Agriculture and earn up to 57,024 CAD per year.
What is the salary of an MSc in Agriculture?
Individuals with MSc in agriculture in Canada have following salaries based on their designation – Agronomist – 57,047 CAD; Microbiologist – 49,829 CAD; Policy Analyst – 60,649 CAD; Sales Manager – 69,760 CAD; Operations Supervisor – 60,293 CAD.
Is IELTS mandatory for admission to MSc Agriculture?
IELTS is not mandatory for International applicants. However, they need to provide proof of English proficiency. While some colleges demand academic records of studying in English medium, others only require test scores of IELTS/TOEFL.
Which subject is best for a Master’s in Agriculture?
Plant agriculture, Food, Agriculture and Resource Economics, Agricultural Economics or Agroeconomics, Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural Business, Agricultural Engineering, and Sustainable Agriculture are specialisations offered under the Master’s course program to international students and Canadian nationals.
Is Agriculture a good career in Canada?
Agriculture jobs in Canada have a huge prospects and offer competitive salaries ranging from 48,000 CAD to 70,000 CAD. This implies that an individual with a master’s degree in agriculture can lead a comfortable lifestyle while earning a good salary.
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