Masters in Psychology in Canada is a popular 2-year postgraduate degree program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Canada is a popular destination for international students pursuing Masters in Psychology, due to its high-quality education system, welcoming and diverse culture, and affordable tuition fees compared to other study abroad destinations. The tuition fees for Masters in Psychology in Canada can range anywhere from 8,000 CAD to 23,000 CAD (5 lakhs-14 lakhs INR) per year, depending on the university and program.

Admission requirements in the top universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada usually include a 4-year bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (83-86%), and relevant research experience. Some universities may also require the submission of GRE scores.

Graduates of a Master's in Psychology program in Canada can expect to find employment in a wide range of industries, such as healthcare, social services, education, and research.The average salary for a psychologist in Canada is around 70,000 CAD to 100,000 CAD (43 lakhs to 62 lakhs INR) per year, with the potential for higher earnings based on years of experience, location, and type of employer.

Masters in Psychology in Canada: Highlights

Degree Types MS in Psychology | MA in Psychology
Course Duration 2 years
Specializations
  • Counseling Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Social-Personality Psychology
Admission requirements Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology or a related field | 2-3 LORs | Personal Statement | GRE Scores | Research experience
GPA/Percentage Requirements Overall aggregate of 83-86%
Language Proficiency IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 90
Tuition Fee 8,000-23,000 CAD (5 lakhs-14 lakhs INR)
Average Salary 70,000 CAD (43 lakhs INR)

Masters in Psychology in Canada: Top Universities

According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, the top universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada are stated below, along with application deadlines and tuition fee:

Top Universities Programs Offered Application Deadlines Tuition Fee (CAD)
University of Toronto MA in Clinical and Counseling Psychology December 1, 2022 (applications closed) -
University of British Columbia MA in Psychology December 1, 2023 9,500
McGill University MS in Psychology January 15, 2023 (applications closed) 19,154
McMaster University MS in Psychology December 10, 2023 17,094
University of Alberta MA in Psychology December 1, 2023 8,874
MS in Psychology
University of Waterloo MA in Psychology December 1, 2023 23,088
Western University MS in Psychology December 1, 2022 (applications closed) 12,908
Queen’s University MS in Psychology December 1, 2023 12,927
Dalhousie University MS in Psychology December 1, 2023 10,341
York University MA in Psychology December 15, 2022 (applications closed) 18,825

Why study Masters in Psychology in Canada?

  • Some of the top universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada such as McGill University, University of Toronto, and University of British Columbia are among the top 50 universities in the world, as per QS World University Rankings 2023
  • According to the QS Subject Rankings 2023, 7 prestigious universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada are among the top 100 universities in the world for Psychology
  • Canada is a popular destination for international students pursuing Masters in Psychology, due to its high-quality education system, welcoming and diverse culture, and affordable tuition fees compared to pursuing this degree in other study abroad destinations such as:
  • The employment growth for Psychologists is projected to be significantly higher compared to the average for all occupations, driven by the increased public awareness of pressing social concerns such as an aging population, mental health, learning difficulties and disabilities, and acts of violence.
  • Over the period of 2019-2028, it is estimated that the demand for Psychologists will result in the creation of 15,700 new job openings, including both positions arising from expansion and replacements.
  • The median annual salary for a psychologist in Canada ranges from 70,000 to 100,000 CAD (equivalent to approximately 43 to 62 lakhs INR), with the potential for higher earnings being contingent upon factors such as level of experience, geographic location, and type of employer.
  • The unemployment rate of Canada as of 2022 is 5.29%, which represents abundant job opportunities for graduates.

Masters in Psychology in Canada: Specializations

Masters in Psychology in Canada offers specializations in various areas of psychology, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. Some of the most popular specializations include:

  • Clinical Psychology: This specialization focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and emotional disorders. Students will learn how to use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals with mental health issues.
  • Counseling Psychology: This focuses on helping individuals, couples, families, and groups with emotional, mental health, and relationship issues. Students will learn about various counseling theories and techniques, and gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical practicums. Topics covered include assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning, as well as ethical and legal issues in counseling.
  • Cognitive Neuroscience: This specialization focuses on the study of mental processes such as perception, memory, attention, language, and problem-solving. Students will learn how to apply their knowledge to real-world problems in areas such as education, healthcare, and technology.
  • Social-Personality Psychology: This specialization focuses on the study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Topics covered include group dynamics, attitude formation, and the influence of social norms and values.
  • Developmental Psychology: This specialization focuses on the study of human development across the lifespan, including physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development. Students will learn about the factors that influence development and how to apply their knowledge to fields such as education and healthcare.

What are the admission requirements to study Masters in Psychology in Canada?

Most of the top universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada require a 4-year bachelor’s degree in psychology or related fields, with specific admission requirements varying among institutions as outlined below:

Top Universities Admission Requirements
University of Toronto Bachelor’s (hons) degree | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | 2 LORs | Personal Statement | Updated Resume/CV
University of British Columbia Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | Overall aggregate of 76% | Research experience | 2 LORs | Statement of Intent
McGill University Bachelor’s (hons) degree | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | 2 LORs | Personal Statement | Updated Resume/CV
McMaster University Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | 2 LORs | Statement of Interest
University of Alberta Bachelor’s (hons) degree | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | GRE Scores
University of Waterloo Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | 3 LORs | Personal Statement | GRE Scores
Western University Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | 2 LORs | Statement of Interest
Queen’s University Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | 2 LORs | Statement of Interest | Research experience
Dalhousie University Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | Overall aggregate of 75% | 2 LORs | Statement of Interest | Research experience
York University Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | Overall aggregate of 75% | 2 LORs | Statement of Interest

Masters in Psychology in Canada: English Language Test Scores

The minimum ELP scores required by the top universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada are given below:

Top Universities IELTS TOEFL
University of Toronto 7.0 93
University of British Columbia 6.5 90
McGill University 6.5 86
McMaster University 6.5 86
University of Alberta 6.5 90
University of Waterloo 7.0 90
Western University 6.5 86
Queen’s University 7.0 88
Dalhousie University 7.0 92
York University 7.5 100

Masters in Psychology in Canada: Eligibility Criteria

A majority of the following given requirements are common with most of the Canadian universities that offer Masters in Psychology in Canada:

  • A bachelor's(hons) degree in psychology or related fields with 80% is mandatory for pursuing Masters in Psychology in Canada
  • Where to Apply for Masters in Psychology in Canada?: Official website of the respective Canadian University.
  • Supporting Documents: The following documents must be attached along with the application:
    • High school mark sheets, transcripts, and degrees.
    • Statement of Interest: Stating your academic background, career goals, research interests, and relevant experiences to the admission committee.
    • Curriculum Vitae: Updated and recent CV mentioning the applicant’s overall GPA, grades, education level, and professional or research experience.
    • References: 2-3 references from academicians or professionals having closely worked with the applicant.
  • Test Scores for Admission to Masters in Psychology in Canada include:
    • Standardized Test Scores: GRE scores
    • English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 6.5 | TOEFL- 90
  • Valid Passport
  • Student Visa

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Masters in Psychology in Canada: Costs

The majority of the expenses incurred while studying abroad in Canada are composed of tuition fees and cost of living expenses. The following section provides a comprehensive breakdown of these costs:

What is the tuition fee for Masters in Psychology in Canada?

The tuition fees for Masters in Psychology in Canada can range anywhere from 8,000 CAD to 23,000 CAD (5 lakhs-14 lakhs INR) per year, depending on the university and program. The tuition fees for Masters in Psychology in Canada in some of the top universities is as follows:

tuition fee for Masters in Psychology in Canada

Top Universities Tuition Fee (CAD) Tuition Fee (INR)
University of British Columbia 9,500 5.87 lakhs
McGill University 19,154 11.84 lakhs
McMaster University 17,094 10.57 lakhs
University of Alberta 8,874 5.48 lakhs
University of Waterloo 23,088 14.28 lakhs
Western University 12,908 7.98 lakhs
Queen’s University 12,927 7.99 lakhs
Dalhousie University 10,341 6.39 lakhs
York University 18,825 11.64 lakhs

Cost of Living in Canada

The estimated expenditure and cost of living in Canada for an international student is around 1,987 CAD (1.19 lakhs INR)

Expense Type Average Cost (CAD) Cost Equivalent (INR)
Accommodation 1,037 62,465
Food 290 17,471
Transport 107 6,446
Internet 80 4,819
Books and Supplies 163 9,818
Miscellaneous 310 18,673

Cost of Living in Canada

Masters in Psychology in Canada: Scholarships

International students can avail various scholarships provided by the Canadian government and top universities in Canada to ease up their financial burden. Following are some of the popular scholarships in Canada for international students:

Scholarship Awarding Institution Eligibility Awards
Canada Graduate Scholarships Government of Canada Bachelor’s degree with a minimum overall aggregate of 75% | research potential | relevant work experiences 17,500 for 12 months
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Canadian Universities Enrolled full-time 15,000-30,000
McCall MacBain Scholarship McGill University Enrolled in full-time masters or second-entry professional undergraduate programs Full tuition and fees coverage | Stipend of 2,000 CAD per month
Global Opportunities Awards Western University Academic merit | Experience 1,000-2,000 CAD
Mackenzie King Open Scholarship UBC | McMaster University Academic merit 12,000

What job can I get with a Masters in Psychology in Canada?

Masters in Psychology in Canada can lead to a variety of career opportunities in the field of psychology and related industries. Some of the most common job roles for graduates of Masters in Psychology in Canada include:

Masters in Psychology in Canada Placements

Job Roles Average Annual Salary (CAD) Salary Equivalent (INR)
Psychologist 81,000 50 lakhs
Research Associate 60,000 37 lakhs
Clinical Supervisor 72,000 44 lakhs
Psychotherapist 58,000 36 lakhs
Occupational Therapist 62,000 38 lakhs
Clinical Director 92,000 57 lakhs
Clinical Psychologist 82,000 51 lakhs
Educational Psychologist 79,000 49 lakhs
Counseling Psychologist 77,000 48 lakhs

Explore: Post-Study Work Visa in Canada

Masters in Psychology in Canada v/s Masters in Psychology in USA

For applicants wondering, “Which country is better for Masters in Psychology: Canada or USA?”, the table below provides basic differences between the two countries:

Parameters Masters in Psychology in Canada Masters in Psychology in USA
Degree Types MS in Psychology | MA in Psychology MS in Psychology | MA in Psychology
Course Duration 2 years 2 years
Specializations
  • Counseling Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Social-Personality Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Counseling Psychology
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Child Development
  • Criminal Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Experimental Psychology
  • Neuropsychology
Admission requirements Bachelor’s (hons) degree in Psychology | 2-3 LORs | Personal Statement | GRE Scores | Research experience Applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field of study | SOP | 2-3 LORs | Updated Resume/CV
GPA/Percentage Requirements Overall aggregate of 83-86% A minimum GPA of 3.0- 3.5 on a scale of 4.0 (~83-90%) or equivalent is required
Language Proficiency IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 90 TOEFL: 100 | IELTS: 7.0
Monthly Cost of Living 1,987 CAD (1.19 lakhs INR) 2,448 USD (2 lakhs INR)
Tuition Fee 8,000-23,000 CAD (5 lakhs-14 lakhs INR) 25,000-58,000 USD (20 lakhs-48 lakhs INR)
Average Salary 70,000 CAD (43 lakhs INR) 25,000 USD to 100,000 USD (~18 to 73 LPA)

The demand for psychologists in Canada continues to rise, driven by the growing importance of mental health and the need for professionals who can provide these services. Pursuing Masters in Psychology in Canada opens up a wealth of career opportunities, including roles as neuropsychologists, clinical psychologists, and counseling psychologists. The degree is globally recognized and holds a high standing in the field, making it an attractive option for students. With a growing population and improved access to health insurance, investing in a Masters in Psychology in Canada is a smart decision for those looking to advance their careers in the mental health industry.

FAQs

Ques: What can I do with Masters degree in psychology in Canada?

Ans: With a Masters degree in Psychology in Canada, you can pursue a variety of career paths in the field of psychology. Some of the most common career options include:

  • Psychologist
  • Research Associate
  • Clinical Supervisor
  • Psychotherapist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Clinical Director
  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Educational Psychologist
  • Counseling Psychologist

Ques: How long is a Masters in Psychology Canada?

Ans: Masters in Psychology in Canada is a popular 2-year postgraduate degree program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes.

Ques: How much does a master in psychology cost Canada?

Ans: The tuition fees for Masters in Psychology in Canada can range anywhere from 8,000 CAD to 23,000 CAD (5 lakhs-14 lakhs INR) per year, depending on the university and program.

Ques: What are the requirements for Masters in Psychology in Canada?

Ans: A majority of the following given requirements are common with most of the Canadian universities that offer Masters in Psychology in Canada:

  • A bachelor's(hons) degree in psychology or related fields with 80% is mandatory for pursuing Masters in Psychology in Canada
  • Where to Apply for Masters in Psychology in Canada?: Official website of the respective Canadian University.
  • Supporting Documents: The following documents must be attached along with the application:
    • High school mark sheets, transcripts, and degrees.
    • Statement of Interest: Stating your academic background, career goals, research interests, and relevant experiences to the admission committee.
    • Curriculum Vitae: Updated and recent CV mentioning the applicant’s overall GPA, grades, education level, and professional or research experience.
    • References: 2-3 references from academicians or professionals having closely worked with the applicant.
  • Test Scores for Admission to Masters in Psychology in Canada include:
    • Standardized Test Scores: GRE scores
    • English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 6.5 | TOEFL- 90

Ques: Is Canada good for Masters in Psychology?

Ans: Canada is a popular destination for international students pursuing Masters in Psychology, due to its high-quality education system, welcoming and diverse culture, and affordable tuition fees compared to other study abroad destinations. Some of the top universities for Masters in Psychology in Canada such as McGill University, University of Toronto, and University of British Columbia are among the top 50 universities in the world, as per QS World University Rankings 2023

Ques: Are psychology jobs in demand in Canada?

Ans: The employment growth for Psychologists is projected to be significantly higher compared to the average for all occupations, driven by the increased public awareness of pressing social concerns such as an aging population, mental health, learning difficulties and disabilities, and acts of violence. Over the period of 2019-2028, it is estimated that the demand for Psychologists will result in the creation of 15,700 new job openings, including both positions arising from expansion and replacements.

Ques: How much does a master in psychology earn in Canada?

Ans: The median annual salary for a psychologist in Canada ranges from 70,000 to 100,000 CAD (equivalent to approximately 43 to 62 lakhs INR), with the potential for higher earnings being contingent upon factors such as level of experience, geographic location, and type of employer.