MBA in Human Resource in Canada: Top Universities, Scholarships & More

15 min read

An MBA in HR is like cracking the code to the world of talent! Get ready to master terms like “compensation and benefits,” the secret sauce to attracting top performers. 

You’ll dive into “talent management,” the art of nurturing A-players, and explore “workforce analytics,” the power tool for making data-driven HR decisions. 

The HR field in Canada is expected to grow by about 8% over the next decade, reflecting increasing demand for skilled HR professionals.

MBA programs in HR in Canada cover both strategic and operational HR functions, including talent management, employee relations, and HR analytics.

Graduates from MBA programs in HR in Canada often experience high employment rates, with many securing positions within six months of graduation.

Key Highlights: 

Key Highlight	Details
Number of Universities	10+ universities offer MBA programs in Human Resources across Canada.
Top Specialisations	Strategic Human Resource Management Organisational Behavior Talent Management
Top Undergraduate Courses	Business Administration Psychology Human Resources
Scholarships	Canada Graduate Scholarships Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships University-specific scholarships
Course Duration	1 to 2 years
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL (90-100) IELTS (6.5-7.0)
Intakes	Typically Fall (September) and sometimes Spring (January)
Cost of Study	INR 10L – INR 30L (CAD 30,000 – CAD 50,000)
Cost of Living	INR 1.8L (CAD 3226)
Top Universities	University of Toronto (Rotman) UBC (Sauder) McGill (Desautels) York University (Schulich)
Top Professions	HR Manager HR Director Talent Acquisition Specialist Compensation and Benefits Manager
Standardised Exams	GMAT or GRE often required; competitive GMAT scores typically range from 600-700
Average Annual Salary	INR 29L – INR 44L (CAD 50,000 – CAD 75,000)

Why study for an MBA in Human Resources in Canada?

Thinking about taking your Human Resources (HR) skills to the next level? An MBA in HR in Canada could be the perfect launchpad! 

Here’s why:

• Become a Master of All Things HR: An MBA in HR goes beyond just payroll and benefits. You’ll dive deep into strategic areas like talent management, recruitment, and employee relations. Imagine using data analytics to identify top talent or crafting training programs that boost employee engagement – that’s the kind of expertise an MBA equips you with.
• High Demand, High Opportunity: Canada has a booming job market, and skilled HR professionals are in high demand. This means more opportunities for you! An MBA can give you a competitive edge, opening doors to senior HR roles across industries, from tech startups to multinational corporations.
• Canadian Education: A Global Stamp of Approval: Canada boasts world-class universities with prestigious MBA programs. A Canadian MBA is recognised internationally, giving you an edge if you ever consider working abroad.
• Learn from the Best: Canadian MBA programs are taught by industry experts and seasoned HR professionals. Imagine learning the tricks of the trade from people who’ve been there and done that! You’ll gain practical knowledge and real-world insights that textbooks just can’t provide.
• The Canadian Experience: Canada is a multicultural hub, and studying there gives you a chance to work with people from diverse backgrounds. This exposure will hone your intercultural communication skills, a valuable asset in today’s globalised world.
• Post-Grad Options: An MBA can open doors beyond traditional HR roles. You could pursue consulting, specialise in a specific HR area like compensation and benefits, or even move into leadership positions. The possibilities are vast!

Which are the Top 10 MBA in Human Resources Universities in Canada?

Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system and diverse cultural landscape, making it an ideal destination for pursuing an MBA in Human Resources. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage and develop talent in organisations effectively.

Here’s a table detailing the average tuition fees for MBA programs in Human Resources at some of the top universities in Canada:

University Name	QS Ranking 2025	Average Annual Tuition Fees
University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management)	#26	INR 40L (CAD 58,000)
University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business)	#34	INR 37L (CAD 53,000)
McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management)	#31	INR 39L (CAD 56,000)
York University (Schulich School of Business)	#45	INR 36L (CAD 51,000)
University of Alberta	#119	INR 20L (CAD 28,000)
Queen’s University (Smith School of Business)	#43	INR 37L (CAD 53,000)
University of Calgary (Haskayne School of Business)	#121	INR 22L (CAD 31,000)
Western University (Ivey Business School)	#72	INR 37L (CAD 53,000)
University of Ottawa (Telfer School of Management)	#134	INR 20L (CAD 28,000)
Concordia University (John Molson School of Business)	#173	INR 19L (CAD 27,000)

What are the top MBA Specialisations in Human Resources in Canada?

Each of these MBA specialisations in Human Resource Management in Canada offers targeted training and skills development tailored to the demands of the current job market. 

By choosing a specialisation aligned with your career goals, you can enhance your expertise and improve your employability in the dynamic field of Human Resource Management.

1. Strategic Human Resource Management:

Specialisation	Description & Focus Areas	Alignment with Trends & Job Market Demands
Strategic Human Resource Management	Focuses on aligning HR practices with business strategy to improve organisational performance. Includes strategic planning, HR policies, and performance management.	It aligns with the growing need for HR professionals who can integrate HR strategies with business goals, which is crucial for achieving competitive advantage and organisational success.

2. Organisational Behavior:

Specialisation	Description & Focus Areas	Alignment with Trends & Job Market Demands
Organisational Behavior	Emphasises understanding and managing workforce behaviour within an organisation. Covers leadership, motivation, team dynamics, and organisational culture.	Responds to the increasing focus on enhancing employee engagement and productivity, which are key to driving organisational effectiveness and adaptability in a rapidly changing business environment.

3 Talent Management:

Specialisation	Description & Focus Areas	Alignment with Trends & Job Market Demands
Talent Management	Focuses on recruitment, development, and retention of top talent in organisations. Includes talent acquisition, employee development, and succession planning.	Meets the demand for HR professionals skilled in attracting and retaining high-calibre employees, essential for sustaining a competitive edge in the talent-driven market.

4. Labour Relations: 

Specialisation	Description & Focus Areas	Alignment with Trends & Job Market Demands
Labour Relations	Covers the relationship between management and the workforce, including negotiation and conflict resolution. Includes collective bargaining, dispute resolution, and employment law.	Addresses the ongoing need for effective labour relations management to ensure harmonious workplace environments and compliance with employment regulations.

5. Human Resource Analytics:

Specialisation	Description & Focus Areas	Alignment with Trends & Job Market Demands
Human Resource Analytics	Focuses on using data and analytics to make informed HR decisions. Includes HR metrics, data analysis, and evidence-based HR practices.	This aligns with the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making in HR to improve recruitment, performance management, and employee retention strategies.

What are the types of MBA in Canada?

Canada offers a variety of MBA programs catering to different professional needs and career stages. The duration of these programs can vary based on the mode of study and the intensity of the coursework.

1. Full-Time MBA:

Program Type	Description	Duration
Full-Time MBA	A traditional MBA program designed for students who can commit to full-time study. It covers a comprehensive curriculum, including core business courses and specialisations.	1 to 2 years

2. Part-Time MBA:

Program Type	Description	Duration
Part-Time MBA	Ideal for working professionals who wish to pursue their MBA without leaving their jobs. Classes are typically held during evenings or weekends.	2 to 4 years

3. Executive MBA (EMBA):

Program Type	Description	Duration
Executive MBA (EMBA)	Designed for senior executives and experienced professionals. The curriculum focuses on advanced management topics and leadership skills.	1 to 2 years

4. Accelerated MBA:

Program Type	Description	Duration
Accelerated MBA	A fast-track program for students with a solid business background or undergraduate degree in business. This program compresses the MBA curriculum into a shorter timeframe.	12 to 18 months

5. Dual Degree MBA:

Program Type	Description	Duration
Dual Degree MBA	It combines an MBA with another graduate degree, such as a JD/MBA, MD/MBA, or MSc/MBA. This program allows students to earn two degrees simultaneously.	3 to 4 years

6. Online MBA:

Program Type	Description	Duration
Online MBA	Offers flexibility for students to complete their MBA entirely online. Ideal for those who need to balance study with personal or professional commitments.	2 to 3 years

7. Modular MBA:

Program Type	Description	Duration
Modular MBA	Delivered in intensive modules, often over weekends or in blocks of a few weeks. Suitable for professionals who can take short breaks from work.	2 to 3 years

The variety of MBA programs in Canada ensures that prospective students can find a program that fits their professional needs and personal circumstances. 

Whether you are looking to study full-time, part-time, or online or are seeking an accelerated path or dual degree, there are options available to suit different durations and formats.

What is the Course Curriculum of an MBA in Human Resources in Canada?

The course curriculum for an MBA in Human Resource Management (HRM) in Canada is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both general business practices and specialised HR functions. 

The program typically combines core business courses with HR-specific electives and practical experiences.

1. Core Business Courses:

These foundational courses cover essential aspects of business management, equipping students with a broad skill set applicable across various industries.

Course Name	Description
Financial Accounting	Introduction to financial statements, accounting principles, and financial analysis techniques.
Marketing Management	Strategies and techniques in marketing, consumer behaviour, and market research.
Managerial Economics	Economic theory and its application to managerial decision-making.
Operations Management	Concepts and techniques for managing production and operations in manufacturing and services.
Corporate Finance	Financial management, investment decisions, capital structure, and valuation.
Strategic Management	Frameworks and tools for strategic planning and implementation in organisations.
Organisational Behavior	Study of individual and group behaviour in organisational settings, leadership, and team dynamics.
Business Ethics	Examination of ethical issues and decision-making in business.
Management Information Systems	Role of information systems in business operations, decision-making, and competitive advantage.

2. HR-Specific Electives:

These courses focus on specialised topics in Human Resource Management, preparing students for advanced HR roles.

Course Name	Description
Talent Acquisition and Recruitment	Strategies for attracting, selecting, and onboarding top talent.
Employee Development and Training	Techniques for employee training, career development, and performance improvement.
Compensation and Benefits	Design and management of employee compensation, benefits, and reward systems.
Labor Relations and Negotiation	Management of labor relations, collective bargaining, and conflict resolution.
Human Resource Analytics	Use of data and analytics to inform HR decisions and strategies.
Employment Law	Legal aspects of employment, including labor laws, employee rights, and compliance.
Strategic HR Management	Align HR practices with business strategy to enhance organisational performance.
Diversity and Inclusion	Approaches to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Leadership and Change Management	Theories and practices of leadership and managing organisational change.

3. Practical Experience:

Many MBA programs in HRM incorporate practical learning opportunities to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Component	Description
Internship/Co-op Placement	Hands-on work experience in HR roles within organisations.
Capstone Project	Real-world projects where students apply their knowledge to solve business challenges.
HR Consulting Project	Students work as consultants to address HR issues faced by organisations.

What are the requirements for an MBA in Human Resources in Canada?

General Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: A four-year undergraduate degree from a recognised institution.
• Minimum GPA: Typically around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (equivalent to 75% or higher).
• Work Experience: 2-5 years of full-time professional experience preferred.
• Standardised Tests:
  • GMAT or GRE scores are often required.
  • Competitive GMAT scores range from 600-700.

Documents Required

• Application Form: Completed application form submitted through the university’s portal.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): An essay outlining career goals, reasons for pursuing an MBA, and program choice.
• Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 letters from professional or academic references.
• Resume/CV: Detailed resume highlighting educational background, work experience, and relevant skills.
• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• GMAT/GRE Scores: Official test scores sent directly from the testing agency.
• English Language Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers.
  • TOEFL: 90-100
  • IELTS: 6.5-7.0
• Application Fee: Non-refundable fee varies by institution.

Additional Considerations

• Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require specific undergraduate courses in business or related fields.
• Interview: This may be required as part of the admission process, conducted in-person or online.
• Professional Certifications: Relevant certifications (e.g., SHRM, PHR) may strengthen your application.

Visa Requirements for International Students

• Student Visa: Required to study in Canada, applied for after receiving an acceptance letter.
• Proof of Funds: Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
• Medical Examination: May be required depending on country of origin.
• Biometrics: Fingerprints and photos may be required as part of the visa application process.
• Immigration Medical Exam (IME): Required for students from certain countries or those who have lived in certain countries for six or more consecutive months.

Work Permit after Graduation

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
  • Allows international students to work in Canada after graduation.
  • Valid for up to three years, depending on the length of the study program.
• Eligibility Criteria: Completion of a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, at least eight months long.
• Application Timing: You must apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion.

What is the cost of studying for an MBA in Human Resources in Canada?

Pursuing an MBA in Human Resources in Canada can be a significant investment in your future career. Understanding the cost involved is crucial for budgeting and financial planning. 

The cost of studying for an MBA in Human Resources varies depending on the institution, program duration, and location. Generally, tuition fees for such programs range widely, reflecting the diverse options available across Canadian universities. 

Here’s a table of the costs: 

Course	Estimated Tuition fees in CAD	Estimated Tuition fees in INR
MBA in Human Resource	CAD 30,000 – CAD 50,000	INR 10L  – INR 30L

What is the Cost of Living in Canada?

Curious about the cost of living in Canada? 

Well, let’s break it down for you. 

Though living in Canada can be expensive, the costs vary depending on the city you choose to live in. For instance, Toronto and Vancouver have higher living expenses, while Ottawa and Montreal are comparatively more affordable.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the living expenses in Canada:

Rent per month	CAD 1906.24  (INR 1L)
Basic Utility (Monthly)	CAD 215.75 (INR 13K)
Transportation	CAD 104.90 (INR 7K)
Miscellaneous Expenses	CAD 1000 (INR 60K)

What are the Scholarships for an MBA in Human Resources in Canada?

Here is a list of scholarships available for students pursuing an MBA in Human Resources in Canada. These scholarships can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses.

Let’s take a look: 

Scholarship Name	Type of Scholarship	Award
Canada Graduate Scholarships	Government Scholarship	Up to CAD 17,500 per year (INR 14,54,500)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships	Government Scholarship	CAD 50,000 per year (INR 41,50,000)
Queen’s University MBA Scholarships	University-Specific Scholarship	CAD 5,000 – CAD 15,000 (INR 4,15,000 – INR 12,45,000)
University of Toronto Rotman School Scholarships	University-Specific Scholarship	CAD 10,000 – CAD 20,000 (INR 8,30,000 – INR 16,60,000)
UBC Sauder School of Business Scholarships	University-Specific Scholarship	CAD 10,000 – CAD 25,000 (INR 8,30,000 – INR 20,75,000)
McGill University Desautels Faculty of Management Scholarships	University-Specific Scholarship	CAD 5,000 – CAD 20,000 (INR 4,15,000 – INR 16,60,000)
York University Schulich School of Business Scholarships	University-Specific Scholarship	CAD 10,000 – CAD 20,000 (INR 8,30,000 – INR 16,60,000)
Western University Ivey Business School Scholarships	University-Specific Scholarship	CAD 10,000 – CAD 30,000 (INR 8,30,000 – INR 24,90,000)
The John Dobson Foundation MBA Scholarship	Private Foundation Scholarship	CAD 10,000 – CAD 25,000 (INR 8,30,000 – INR 20,75,000)
Canadian Business College Scholarships	Private Foundation Scholarship	CAD 2,500 – CAD 5,000 (INR 2,07,500 – INR 4,15,000)

What are the Jobs after MBA in Human Resources in Canada?

An MBA in Human Resources in Canada opens up diverse career paths in the HR field. Graduates can pursue strategic management, talent acquisition, and organisational development roles. These positions offer opportunities to shape company culture, manage employee relations, and drive HR initiatives.

Here’s a table outlining various job roles available after completing an MBA in Human Resources in Canada, along with their average annual salaries:

Job Role	Average Salary in CAD	Average Salary in INR
Human Resources Manager	CAD 95,000	INR 57,00,000
HR Director	CAD 120,000	INR 71,00,000
Talent Acquisition Specialist	CAD 85,000	INR 50,50,000
Compensation and Benefits Manager	CAD 100,000	INR 59,50,000
Employee Relations Manager	CAD 90,000	INR 53,70,000
HR Consultant	CAD 110,000	INR 65,50,000
Training and Development Manager	CAD 95,000	INR 57,00,000
Organisational Development Specialist	CAD 100,000	INR 59,50,000
HR Business Partner	CAD 105,000	INR 62,50,000
Recruitment Manager	CAD 85,000	INR 50,50,000

Career Scope

An MBA in Human Resources in Canada provides a broad array of career opportunities across various sectors. Graduates can pursue roles such as Human Resources Manager, HR Director, Talent Acquisition Specialist, and Compensation and Benefits Manager. These positions involve strategic planning, policy development, talent management, and employee relations. 

The demand for skilled HR professionals is strong due to ongoing organisational changes and the need for effective talent management. 

Additionally, roles in consulting and organisational development are prevalent, offering opportunities to influence company culture and performance on a larger scale. The dynamic nature of HR in Canada ensures diverse career paths and growth potential.

Average Salary 

As an MBA graduate specialising in Human Resources, understanding the potential earnings can provide valuable insight into the financial rewards of this career path. The salary for HR professionals with an MBA in Canada varies based on experience, location, and the specific role within an organisation. 

Course	Estimated Salary
MBA in Human Resource	INR 50L – INR 75L

Top Recruiters

Embarking on a career with an MBA in Human Resources opens doors to numerous prestigious organisations across Canada. These top recruiters are renowned for their robust HR practices, dynamic work environments, and commitment to employee development.

Here is the table showcasing top recruiters:

RBC (Royal Bank of Canada)	TD Bank Group	Bell Canada
Loblaw Companies Limited	Shopify	Manulife Financial
CIBC (Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce)	Scotiabank	KPMG Canada

Frequently Asked Questions