Top 10 Cyber Security Courses in Canada for Indian Students in 2024



Cyber Security courses in Canada have always been in demand as the country stands 5th in the Cyber Defense Index , as published by the MIT Technological Review. With the rate at which technology is growing and the Internet of Things with everything being connected, there has and will always be a need for professionals who will protect data from cyber attacks. A modern day knight, if you will.

The first thing one has to keep in mind is that this field is more than just technology. It includes facets of social sciences, business, computer science, engineering, law and science for, with questions of privacy and safety also come censorship. As a student, if you are looking at computer security as a career choice, then this article is for you!


What are the best Cyber security courses in Canada for international students?


Some of the best cyber security courses in Canada are

  • BA/ BSc Computer Security, York University
  • BSc Honours in Information Security, University of Toronto
  • Bachelor of Information Technology – Networking and Information Technology Security, Ontario Tech University
  • Honours Bachelor of Technology – Informatics and Security, Seneca College
  • Diploma in Cyber Security Specialist Co-op, Toronto School of Management
  • Master of Information Security and Privacy, University of Calgary
  • Master of Applied Cyber Security, University of New Brunswick
  • Master of Cyber Security and Threat Intelligence, University of Guelph
  • Master of Engineering in Information Systems Security, Concordia University
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Security Operations Analyst with Co-op, Canadian College of Technology and Business

This list is a combination of undergraduate and postgraduate level courses. You can also consider a post-secondary diploma or a post-graduate diploma programme. Do reach out to us at tcglobal.com to learn more about the different credentials.

Disclaimer: This video reflects details and rankings from 2023

1. BA/ BSc Computer Security, York University


University/ College Lassonde School of Engineering, York University, Keele Campus
Level of Study Undergraduate Bachelor’s degree
Mode of Study Full-time/ part-time, On Campus
Duration 4 years
Annual Tuition Fee CA $35,130
Other related courses
  • Post-Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security Operations
  • Post-Graduate Certificate in Offensive Cyber Security
  • Certificate in Cyber Security Fundamentals

Source: Lassonde School of Engineering, York University

What makes this course good?

  • At the end of the programme, you will learn to assess security risks, mitigate security threats, and have a working knowledge of ethical hacking and information assurance.
  • This cyber security program gives you a choice between BA and BSc. If you choose BA, you can complement your cyber security courses with liberal arts courses. In the BSc programme, you can choose science courses.
  • There is a co-op component, where you can work while you learn and gain valuable professional experience. Some of their co-op partners include Beyond Media, CIBC, Interac Corp and University of Twente (Holland).
  • This course will help you develop a solid foundation in computer science and maths and study a variety of courses, including cryptography and operating systems.

Fees and Scholarship options

The annual tuition fee is around CA $35,130. The Lassonde School of Engineering has its own entrance scholarships that do not require a separate application. You can also apply for

  • President’sInternational Scholarship of Excellence
  • Tentanada Via Award
  • Global Leader of Tomorrow Award for International Students
  • York University Academic Excellence Scholarships for International Students

Eligibility

The admission requirements are as follows:

  • Completed Grade XII (HSC/ ISC/ PUC/ AISSCE) with a minimum average of 80%.
  • Must have taken Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry in Grade XII with no less than 55%. (Physics and chemistry are not required if you are choosing the BA option)
  • Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 88 or IELTS Academic score of 6.5 or other equivalent tests.

Admission Process

Once you decide which stream you are choosing, you can submit your online application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) application, or the York University application. Your deadline will depend upon whether you are looking for the Fall (September) entry or Winter (January) entry. On receipt of your application, the university will grant you access to their online platform called MyFile wherein you can upload your required transcripts, supporting documents and monitor the progress of your application.

2. BSc Honours in Information Security, University of Toronto


University/ College University of Toronto, Mississauga Campus
Level of Study Honours Bachelor’s degree
Mode of Study Full-time, On Campus
Duration 4 years
Annual Tuition Fee CA $63,830
Other related courses
  • Certificate in Cyber Security Management
  • UofT Online Cyber Security Bootcamp

Source: UofT Computer Science

What makes this course good?

  • With in-depth courses in number theory and computation complexity aspects of computer security, this course prepares you to begin your career as a security analyst, building your way up to be a security specialist.
  • It is an interdisciplinary programme, including courses from computer science and mathematics.
  •  The University of Toronto is one of the top universities in the world, ranking number 1 in Canada and 21 in the world according to QS World University rankings.

Fees and Scholarship options

The annual tuition fee is CA $63,830. Here are some of the scholarship options you will be automatically considered for, when applying.

  • University of Toronto International Scholar Award
  • U of T Mississauga Guaranteed Entrance Scholarship
  • President’s Scholars of Excellence Award
  • U of T Scholars Award

Eligibility

As Indian students, you must have

  • Completed CBSE/ ISC Grade XII with at least 80%. State Board students with good results may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • You must have undertaken the Class XII Standard Mathematics exam.
  • Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 or IELTS score of 6.5 or any of the equivalent exams.
  • This course is meant for students applying directly out of high school. Applicants who have completed any postsecondary studies are not eligible for admission.

Admission Process

The Information Security Honours is a Specialist programme. It means, like how you choose your majors and minors, you first get admitted to the university, take some preliminary courses, prove to them that you can handle this course load and then apply for it. So, when you apply, you will apply to an admissions category, which is a collection of similar programmes. In this case, it would be computer science. On receiving the offer, you can choose your courses accordingly to fit this specialisation. The application fee for this course is CA $90. It is done through the OUAC website.

3. Bachelor of Information Technology - Networking and Information Technology Security, Ontario Tech University

University/ College Ontario Tech University
Level of Study Honours Bachelor’s Degree
Mode of Study Full-time, In class, Hybrid
Duration 4 years
Annual Tuition Fee CA $37,111
Other related courses
  • Master of Information Technology Security

Source: Ontario Tech University

What makes this course good?

  • Offered by the Faculty of Business and Information Technology, this programme prepares you to explore career opportunities in IT security and take up different levels of industry certifications such as industry certification programs including Cisco, CompTIA and (ISC)².
  • The university is renowned for its cutting-edge equipment and labs.
  • After this course, you can pursue any of the cyber security jobs such as a Database Security Manager, Information Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer, Computer System/Network Manager or a Web Application Manager.
  • After 2 years of study, if you have maintained a CGPA of 3.0 or higher, you will also be eligible for an internship that will also give you an experiential learning opportunity.
  • The university also has an Institute for Cyber security and Resilient Systems which is a  global centre for research, innovation, teaching, and outreach.

Fees and Scholarship options

The annual tuition fee is CA $37,111. Here are some of the entrance scholarships you can consider.

  • Global Leadership Award
  • International Leaders Award
  • International Merit Awards
  • Awards of Recognition (based on academic merit)

Eligibility

  •  You must have completed Grade XII (CBSE/ ICSE / any of the state boards) with English and Mathematics
  • Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 83 or IELTS Academic score of 6.5 or any of the equivalent exams.

Admission Process

The application is online through the OUAC Website using the 105 application. You can also apply online directly through the university website, on paying an application fee of CA $100. Credentials must be authenticated by World Education Services. The typical application deadline is March 31, but you will have better chances if you apply early.

4. Honours Bachelor of Technology - Informatics and Security, Seneca College


University/ College Seneca College, Newnham Campus
Level of Study Honours Bachelor Degree
Mode of Study Full-time, Hybrid
Duration 4 years
Annual Tuition Fee CA $20,461
Other related courses
  • Diploma in Computer Engineering Technology

Source: Seneca IFS

What makes this course good?

  • Focussing on the practical applications that mitigate security threats and data breaches, this Seneca course will give you comprehensive knowledge of vulnerability and threat assessment, risk management, data analysis and network and operating system infrastructure.
  • The course comes with a mandatory co-op that involves a minimum of 420 hours of paid work in a professional environment, allowing you to explore the real world demands of the industry.
  • One of the largest colleges in Canada, Seneca is known for providing real world experiences, world class applied research facilities and student support services.

Fees and Scholarship options

One of the more affordable programmes, the tuition fee is CA $20,461. Seneca also has a number of scholarship options for overseas students.

  • Entrance Awards for the academically exceptional students
  • Annie Wong Leung Kit Wah Award for International Students
  • Bala and Karnika Krishnan Endowed Award
  • Campaign for Students Bursary for International Students
  • Daphne Fernando Memorial Award
  • Georgiana Trotman Memorial Award
  • International Student Achievement Award

Eligibility

  • Must have completed Class XII with minimum 65% in all subjects. English and Maths are compulsory.
  • Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT score of 84 or equivalent English language proficiency tests.

Admission Process

Your application process begins online with the foreign student web application. You must also pay an application fee of CA $90. On completion, you will be given access to the Seneca Student Home from where you can track the progress of your application. The supporting documents include your academic transcripts, English test scores, statement of purpose and letters of recommendation.

5. Diploma in Cyber Security Specialist Co-op, Toronto School of Management


Source: Wikipedia

University/ College Toronto School of Management
Level of Study Diploma
Mode of Study Full time, On Campus
Duration 1 year
Annual Tuition Fee CA $14,745
Other related courses
  • Diploma in Data Analytics Co-op

Source: Toronto School of Management

What makes this course good?

  • This programme is tailor made for those who want to take a smaller step into this world. Within a year, you will become familiar with the fundamental concepts including blockchain, big data and the Internet of Things (IoT).
  • This programme is powered and accredited by CompTIA which gives the Security+ certification, one of the more prominent accreditations across the globe.
  • The programme also has a 12-week co-op programme where you can gain work experience in positions such as IT Support Desk specialist, network administrator or information systems analyst.

Fees and Scholarship options

The course fee is CA $14,745. While there are no specific scholarships for this course, you can always look for external funding from the Canadian government, philanthropic organisations and your home country.

Eligibility

  • Have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or its international equivalent or be at least 18 years of age and clear the Wonderlic test.
  • Minimum IELTS score of 5.5 or any of the equivalent tests.

Admission Process

The application process is entirely online. You can also contact a student advisor to clarify any questions you might have. If required. You might be asked to attend an interview. On being accepted, follow the payment plan and confirm your acceptance as you begin your application process for the study permit.

6. Master of Information Security and Privacy, University of Calgary


University/ College University of Calgary
Level of Study Master’s degree
Mode of Study Full-time, On campus
Duration 1 – 2 years
Tuition Fee CA $35,904
Other related courses
  • Bachelor’s in Information Security

Source: University of Calgary

What makes this course good?

  • Incorporating the latest research in the field and the best practices, this course delves into data privacy, network security and software security.
  • You can also choose between an internship or a capstone project at the end, to gain practical experience or apply what you have learnt.
  • The University of Calgary is one of the top ten universities in Canada.

Fees and Scholarship options

The tuition fee for this course is CA $35,904. For financial aid, you can look into

  • Delta Kappa Gamma International, Calgary World Fellowship
  • Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) Leadership Award
  • GSA Graduate Citizenship Award
  • Mitacs Accelerate Internship

Eligibility

  • A 4-year undergraduate degree in a relevant field, from a recognised institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  • The bachelor’s degree must have included computer programming with understanding of execution environments, Algorithms and data structures and either operating systems or computer networks.
  • Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 86 or IELTS Academic score of 6.5 or equivalent.

Admission Process

You have to create an eID to begin your online application. Foreign students will also have to pay an application fee of CA $145. Along with your application, supporting documents such as your academic transcripts, English test scores, a letter of intent and two letters of recommendation can be submitted. You can apply for a study permit on receiving a letter of acceptance from the university.

7. Master of Applied Cyber Security, University of New Brunswick


University/ College Canadian Institute of Cyber Security, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton
Level of Study Master’s Degree
Mode of Study Full-time, On Campus
Duration 1 year(3 semesters)
Tuition Fee CA $27,492
Other related courses
  • Master of Computer Science

Source: University of New Brunswick

What makes this course good?

  • The topics covered in this 1-year programme include Advanced data communications and networking, Cryptanalysis and database security, Fundamentals of information assurance, Foundations of privacy, Network security, Software security, Digital forensics elective + capstone project and Condensed training, R&D  project.
  • The Canadian Institute of Cyber Security is a unit of the University of New Brunswick dedicated to training, research and development, and entrepreneurial opportunities that brings together students and cyber security professionals from across the globe.

Fees and Scholarship options

The tuition fee for this programme is CA $27,492. The Faculty of Computer Science provides financial assistance in the form of GTA (Graduate Teaching Assistantship), GRA (Graduate Research Assistantship) and GAA (Graduate Academic Assistantship).

Eligibility

  • An undergraduate degree from a recognised university in a relevant field with a minimum GPA grade of B.
  • Your undergraduate studies should have included courses such as software engineering, data structures, operating systems, algorithms and computer architecture.
  • While GRE is not mandatory, it can boost your application. The minimum required scores are 600 for the quantitative section 3.5 for the analytical writing section.

Admission Process

It is advised that students should apply at least six months in advance. Early submission also increases your chances of being considered for financial assistance. The early application deadline for September entry is typically on 5 January. An application fee of CA $125 must also be paid. Your application will be considered only when it is complete along with all the supporting documents.

8. Master of Cyber Security and Threat Intelligence, University of Guelph


University/ College University of Guelph
Level of Study Master’s degree
Mode of Study Full-time, On Campus
Duration 1 year
Tuition Fee CA $42,000
Other related courses
  • Master of Computer Science
  • Master of Data Science

Source: University of Guelph

What makes this course good?

  • This intensive programme will prepare you for a career in penetration testing, security architecture, vulnerability analysis, computer forensics analysis and so on.
  • Working in partnerships with industry experts, this course teaches you to produce evidence-based solutions.
  • Since January 2023, the University of Guelph has a new state-of-the-art research, teaching and cyber security innovation facility. To keep up with professional demands, the university has invested CA $4 million in this facility.
  • The programme includes a mandatory internship.

Fees and Scholarship options

The programme costs CA $14,000 per semester and a year is divided into three semesters. You can look into the following cyber security scholarships if you are looking for financial aid.

  • Bruce Power Scholarship
  • Canadian Tire Scholarship
  • Co-operators Scholarships
  • Georgian Scholarship
  • ISA Cyber Security Inc. Scholarships
  • Long View Systems Scholarship

Eligibility

  • A 4-year honours degree in computer science or computer engineering with at least 75%. You must also prove knowledge of data communication, networking and computer programming.
  • Prior skills or work experience in cyber security will be an added advantage.
  • Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT score of 86 or any of the equivalent tests.

Admission Process

It is important for students to apply 9 – 12 months before the programme begins. Your application must be submitted online along with the necessary documents including academic transcripts, english test score, CV, statement of purpose and 2 or 3 letters of recommendation. The application is done through OUAC which charges an application fee of CA $120.

9. Master of Engineering in Information Systems Security, Concordia University


University/ College Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, Concordia University, Montreal
Level of Study Master’s Degree
Mode of Study Full-time, On Campus
Duration 2 years
Tuition Fee CA $36,300
Other related courses
  • Master of Applied Science in Information Systems Security

Source: Concordia University

What makes this course good?

  • By the end of this course, you will learn to design, implement and manage the security of real-life information systems.
  • Access high-tech labs and research centres.
  • Work with world-class faculty whose current research projects include quantitative models of network vulnerabilities, analysis and design of stream ciphers, cyber threat intelligence and security evaluations of open-source softwares.

Fees and Scholarship options

The total tuition fee of the programme is CA $36,300. You will be automatically considered for all Concordia entrance scholarships through the faculty’s graduate admissions office.

Eligibility

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or Computer Science.
  • Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT score of 85 or equivalent tests.

Admission Process

The application is online with a fee of CA $100. A complete application will include the application form and fee, CV, three letters of reference and assessment form, a statement of purpose, transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended and language test scores.

10. Postgraduate Certificate in Security Operations Analyst with Co-op, Canadian College of Technology and Business


University/ College Canadian College of Technology and Business, Vancouver, British Columbia
Level of Study Post-graduate Diploma
Mode of Study Full time, On Campus
Duration ~70 weeks
Annual Tuition Fee CA $11,650
Other related courses
  • Diploma in Cyber Security risk management with co-op

Source: Canadian College of Technology and Business

What makes this course good?

  • Supported by CompTIA, this programme will prepare you for the Security+ Certificate.
  • It is designed to make you a job-ready security operations analyst.
  • You will gain practical experience with the co-op work placement where nearly 50% of the programme duration (520 hours) is allocated to it.

Fees and Scholarship options

The total tuition cost of the programme is CA $11,650 and you are automatically considered for a scholarship on application.

Eligibility

  • A diploma or a degree in Information Technology or Computer Science from a recognised institution.
  • Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT score of 60.

Admission Process

The application is online at start.canadianctb.ca. Once you submit the form with all the supporting documents, if selected, you will receive the enrolment contract with the invoice for fees. You will receive the letter of acceptance on payment of fees.

Here are a few more programmes that almost made our list

  • Master of Applied Cybersecurity, University of New Brunswick
  • EMBA Cybersecurity, University of Ottawa
  • Advanced Diploma in Computer Systems Technology – Security, Algonquin College
  • Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity, Centennial College
  • Master of Cybersecurity, Simon Fraser University

What are the benefits of studying Cyber Security in Canada?


Here are some of the reasons why Canada is one of the best places to study cyber security.

1. Growing market:

We live in a world where data is highly valuable. This directly reflects upon the cyber security market that is growing in leaps and bounds. Revenue reached around US $3.55bn in 2023. The market size was estimated at US $11.68 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow by almost 11% by 2028. A rapidly growing sphere such as this is constantly on the lookout for highly skilled professionals who will keep up with the rapidly increasing demands. The projection is that in six or seven years, we will need 40% more in the cybersecurity workforce worldwide, creating more job opportunities.

2. A worldwide community of professionals:

Cyber security courses in Canada offer a level of preparation so you can find your place as a certified member of organisations such as CompTIA or (ISC)². Canada also has the The Canadian Institute of Cyber Security that brings together students and industry experts from across the globe.

3. World class universities:

There is no doubt that Canada is one of the leading global study destinations. The country is home to some of the top universities in the world that have global recognition, state-of-the-art infrastructure and research facilities, and renowned members of the faculty. Most of these universities and colleges also work together with local companies / organisations, incorporating a practical component into the teaching process.

4. High standard of living:

Many students, especially from India, choose Canada over the U.K. or the U.S. due to its acceptance of multiculturalism and immigrants. The quality of life is high and some of the top ranked cities in this regard are located in Canada.

Career options after Cybersecurity in Canada for Indian Students


According to data collected and analysed by IBM, an average data breach can cost a Canadian company around $7 million. Keeping this in mind and the fact that about 1 in 6 cyber security roles remains unfilled, there is a clear dearth of computer security professionals in Canada. The demand for experts is expected to grow by an estimated average annual rate of 2.9%.

The average salary of an experienced cyber security analyst in Canada is around CA $81,000, as reported by Glassdoor. The roles and designations vary depending on the nature of your specialisation, experience and the organisation.

Some of the common job roles include

  • Cryptographer
  • Specialist in information security law
  • Database Security Manager
  • Data Centre Specialist
  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Security Engineer
  • System/Network Manager
  • Web Application Manager
  • Security Architect
  • Security Engineer
  • Security Analyst
  • Penetration Tester
  • Forensic Analyst
  • System Administrator
  • Cyber security Consultant
  • Vulnerability Analyst

How to apply to Cyber Security colleges in Canada?


Now that you have all the information about the different cyber security courses in Canada, how do you go about the application process? Each university/ course has its own set of requirements and deadlines to keep up with.

There are also other factors to consider. For instance, Fanshawe college has a great diploma programme called Information Security Management. However, the course duration is 30 weeks, which makes you ineligible for a post graduate work permit.

The point is that the research and prep work can get overwhelming. You also have to choose if you want to go the research way or take the clinical path. Here is how you can make the process simpler.

Step 1

Go to tcglobal.com and sign in. It opens the world of universities for you, for free. All you have to do is sign up. We simplify international education, learning, and mobility through connecting students, universities, and a global community on a single platform where there are over 1000+ education providers and over 80,000+ courses.

Our platform enables students to study anywhere in the world in just a few steps. From search and discovery and finding the right course fit for you, to applications, student visas and departure – we see you through it all.

Step 2

Complete your profile. Ensure you have everything filled up especially about your existing qualifications, choice of courses and your top preferences of colleges in Canada. If you have worked in a related field, do let us know. This will help us collate the best universities for you.

Step 3

Search for the courses of your choice. All the information you need, gathered in one place, at no cost.

Step 4

Check out our insights page for more up-to-date information about universities and colleges.

Step 5

Then simply set up a visit Calendly.com/tcglobal to pick a Relationships Team closest to you and choose a slot to meet with a Relationship Member. Our RM will be with you every step of the way, helping you identify the perfect course and college, assisting you in the admission process all the way till immigration.

Let’s shape your future together.

You May Also Like:



Date added
01.04.2024

Filed under:

Global Ed

Subscribe!

No spam, just your favourite topics.

Choose Insight topics that you are interested in to subscribe for your personalized newsletter.

A world
of possibilities awaits.
Join the movement.
Find your perfect university,
in one of 40 countries all over the world
Prepare for the future,
whether at university, business or in employment
Secure your future,
through STEM courses
Connect with leading international companies
and unlock the potential of your team
Fill in the form, so we can contact
you and start our journey together.