Best Courses to Study in Canada for International Students

If you’re dreaming of studying abroad, Canada has probably made it to the top of your list for all the good reasons. While the country offers you plenty of opportunities and growth pathways, what you take for yourself depends on the course you choose. A healthcare student aims for a license, while a biotech student may research to solve an environmental threat. Picking the right program is like setting milestones for your next high-paying job, PR eligibility, and a fulfilling career in a country that values skill and dedication.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best courses in Canada for 2026, especially for Nepali students, introducing you to the fields that deliver a perfect mix of passion, opportunity, and long-term prospects.

Why Study in Canada in 2026?

Canada continues to rank among the best destinations for higher education for its high-quality education, affordable tuition compared to the US/UK, and multicultural campuses welcoming international students. Canada’s strong post-study work opportunities and clear pathways to permanent residency are also the major benefits of studying in Canada. Here’s why 2026 is an exciting year to study there:

• Explore high-demand industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, business, and biotech.
• Align your studies with in-demand job categories and permanent residency.
• Access world-class education at lower tuition than in the US or UK.
• Apply for scholarships and work part-time to manage living expenses.
• Immerse yourself in multicultural communities and inclusive campuses.
• Thrive personally and professionally in a welcoming and supportive environment.

What Are the Best Courses in Canada for International Students?

Computer Science, Engineering, Business & Management, Health Sciences, and Hospitality & Tourism are the most in-demand courses to study in Canada. These programs offer quality education, practical skills, and strong employment opportunities after graduation. International students also benefit from supportive campus services and pathways to work permits. Here, we have explained some of the most popular courses among international students, especially from Nepal:

1. Nursing

Nursing continues to be one of the most respected and in-demand professions in Canada. With an aging population and a growing healthcare sector, the country constantly needs skilled and compassionate nurses, both in hospitals and community care settings.
 

Canada’s nursing programs are globally recognized for their quality and hands-on training. The programs like Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) and postgraduate diploma in healthcare management offer practical experience through clinical placements in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care homes.

Career Scope for Nursing in Canada

The career scope for nurses in Canada is exceptionally strong. According to current job market trends, healthcare is among the top five industries hiring international graduates.
 After completing your nursing degree, you can work as:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Nurse Practitioner
• Community Health Nurse
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nursing Administrator

Most of these roles fall under Canada’s in-demand occupation list, making nursing one of the best courses to study in Canada for PR. Salaries typically range from CAD 65,000 to 90,000 per year, depending on your experience and province.

Best Courses After BSc Nursing in Canada

Canada offers excellent postgraduate pathways for BSc Nursing graduates to upgrade their qualifications and move into leadership roles. Some popular options include:

• Master of Nursing (MN) – ideal for those aiming for advanced clinical or teaching positions.
• Nurse Practitioner Program – prepares you for independent healthcare practice.
• Public Health or Healthcare Management – perfect if you wish to move into policy, research, or hospital administration.

These programs not only improve your career prospects but also increase your chances of securing Permanent Residency (PR) under the healthcare category.

2. Dentistry

Dentistry is one of the most rewarding and high-paying healthcare fields in Canada. It has recently gained attention among international students who want to build a respected medical career abroad. Canada’s focus on preventive healthcare has created a steady demand for dental professionals, from hygienists and assistants to certified dentists.

As an international student, you’ll get exposure to real-world dental practices through internships and clinical sessions under expert supervision.

Career Scope for Dentistry in Canada

The career scope in dentistry is extensive, and salaries are among the highest in the healthcare sector. Graduates can work as:

• Dental Hygienist
• Dental Assistant
• Orthodontic Technician
• Dental Therapist
• Licensed Dentist (after completing required accreditation)

Average earnings range between CAD 70,000 to 150,000+ per year, depending on your specialization and experience. You can even open your own practice or join community dental programs, which are both respected and stable career options.

3. Engineering

Engineering has always been one of the top-rated and most employable fields in Canada. From infrastructure and energy to technology and aerospace, engineers form the backbone of Canada’s development. International students from all around the world are a huge part of that story.

Canada offers engineering programs that blend theory with practical, industry-level experience. Universities often collaborate with top companies for internships, co-op placements, and project-based learning.

For Nepali students, engineering offers a perfect balance between innovation, high income, and long-term PR prospects. You can choose from bachelor’s, master’s, or diploma-level programs, depending on your academic background.

Top Engineering Fields in Canada

• Civil Engineering: Strong demand for infrastructure and urban development projects.
• Mechanical Engineering: Opportunities in manufacturing, design, and automation.
• Electrical Engineering: Key to Canada’s renewable energy and technology sectors.
• Computer Engineering: Blends IT and hardware skills for modern tech jobs.
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineering: One of the most promising and in-demand technical fields, with opportunities in aviation companies and airlines.

Career Scope for Engineers in Canada

Engineering graduates enjoy excellent job security and salary growth. Entry-level engineers earn around CAD 60,000–80,000 annually, with experienced professionals making CAD 100,000+.

4. Business and Management

If you’ve got an interest in leadership, communication, or entrepreneurship, business and management might be your best path forward. This field remains one of the most popular choices among Nepali students. The program is versatile, and business graduates are needed in every industry.

Canadian business schools focus on practical learning and global exposure. Through internships, co-op programs, and real-world projects, you’ll develop skills that apply anywhere in the world.

The beauty of this field is its flexibility. You can work in marketing, finance, supply chain, or even start your own venture. Among them, Digital Marketing has become one of the most trending specializations in recent years, offering exciting roles in social media, SEO, and e-commerce.

Career Scope for Business Graduates in Canada

Business graduates enjoy a wide range of job opportunities, from corporate firms to startups. Common career paths include:

• Marketing Executive / Digital Marketing Specialist
• Business Analyst / Data Analyst
• Human Resource Manager
• Supply Chain Coordinator
• Financial or Project Manager

Salaries start around CAD 55,000–75,000 per year, and rise quickly with experience or managerial positions.

5. Information Technology (IT) & Computer Science

In a world driven by technology, Canada’s IT sector is booming, and so are the opportunities for skilled tech graduates. This makes Information Technology and Computer Science one of the most future-proof and high-paying courses for international students.
 

Canadian universities offer degrees in Software Development, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Web Development. Major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are the world’s fastest-growing tech hubs. This rapidity provides numerous internships, co-op placements, and full-time jobs after graduation for international students.

Career Scope for IT Graduates in Canada

The IT field offers one of the highest employability rates among international students. Common job roles include:

• Software Developer / Programmer
• Data Scientist / Data Analyst
• Cybersecurity Specialist
• IT Project Manager
• Cloud Solutions Architect

Entry-level salaries often start around CAD 65,000–85,000, with experienced professionals earning well over CAD 120,000 per year.

6. Hospitality and Tourism

If you love meeting people, organizing experiences, and working in dynamic environments, then hospitality and tourism could be your calling. It’s a field that combines creativity, service, and cultural exchange, all of which fit beautifully with Canada’s welcoming spirit, diverse landscapes, and world-famous cities.
 

Studying hospitality in Canada provides hands-on exposure through internships at hotels, travel agencies, airlines, and event management firms. Many study programs also include co-op placements, allowing you to gain paid experience while studying.

Career Scope for Hospitality and Tourism Graduates

The industry offers stable and people-oriented career paths, including:

• Hotel or Resort Manager
• Tourism Consultant / Travel Advisor
• Event Planner
• Food and Beverage Supervisor
• Airline Service Coordinator

Salaries in the hospitality sector vary by position but typically range between CAD 45,000–70,000 annually, with managerial roles going higher. Hospitality jobs can also be your pathway to PR, especially if you work in provinces with strong tourism sectors like British Columbia, Alberta, or Nova Scotia.

7. Education and Early Childhood Development

If you’re someone who finds joy in helping others learn and grow, Education and Early Childhood Development could be the perfect path for you. Canada highly values educators and childcare professionals who can contribute to its inclusive and diverse learning environment.

For this, Canadian universities and colleges offer world-class teacher training programs that blend academic theory with practical classroom experience. Students get opportunities to work directly in schools, daycare centers, and community learning spaces, all under professional supervision.

Career Scope for Education Graduates in Canada

Graduates can work as:

• Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
• Teaching Assistant
• Educational Administrator
• Childcare Center Director
• Special Needs Instructor

Average salaries for early childhood care range from CAD 45,000–80,000 per year, depending on the role and region. The roles fall under NOC 42202, 41220, which are priority occupations for permanent residency in several provinces.

8. Biotechnology

For students who love science and innovation, Biotechnology is one of the most exciting and fast-growing fields in Canada. It combines biology, technology, and research to solve real-world challenges in various fields, from healthcare and agriculture to the environment.

Canada invests heavily in research and development, especially in pharmaceuticals, food technology, and environmental sciences. So, as a biotech student in Canada, you enjoy advanced labs, research centers, and partnerships with global industries.

For Nepali students, it’s a chance to turn scientific curiosity into a global career with strong earning potential and pathways to PR through Canada’s STEM-friendly immigration system.

Career Scope for Biotechnology Graduates in Canada

After graduation, you can explore roles such as:

• Research Scientist
• Biochemist / Lab Technologist
• Biomedical Engineer
• Pharmaceutical Analyst
• Environmental Consultant

Biotech professionals earn between CAD 60,000–100,000 annually, with growth in both private companies and government research institutes. 

9. Finance and Accounting

If you’re good with numbers and enjoy planning, analysis, and strategy, Finance and Accounting is one of the most stable and high-paying fields to study in Canada. Canada’s universities offer specialized programs in Accounting, Financial Analytics, Investment Management, and Auditing, designed according to global professional standards like CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant).
 

For Nepali students, this field offers excellent job security, PR opportunities, and strong ROI (return on investment). 

Career Scope for Finance Graduates in Canada

Career options for accounting and finance learners include:

• Financial Analyst / Investment Advisor
• Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
• Business or Budget Analyst
• Tax Consultant / Auditor
• Financial Planner

Average salaries start at CAD 55,000–80,000, and senior roles can exceed CAD 120,000 annually. 

10. Film Making and Creative Media

If you’re passionate about storytelling, visuals, or production, Film Making and Creative Media can turn your creativity into a career. Canada has one of the world’s largest and most dynamic film industries, making it an exciting destination for media students.

Canadian film and media programs focus on both artistic expression and technical expertise. You’ll learn about cinematography, editing, scriptwriting, and post-production using industry-standard equipment and software.

Career Scope for Film and Media Graduates in Canada

Graduates can pursue diverse roles such as:

• Film Director or Producer
• Video Editor / Cinematographer
• Digital Content Creator
• Scriptwriter / Screenplay Editor
• Media Strategist

Starting salaries are around CAD 45,000–70,000, but creative professionals with strong portfolios can earn much higher, especially in production or digital marketing.

While not a direct PR track, Canada is a great destination for film and creative careers, where you earn a chance to work in media hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

11. Fashion Design

For students who dream of turning creativity into a career, Fashion Design in Canada offers a blend of art, innovation, and business. Canadian fashion schools are globally recognized for their focus on sustainability, diversity, and technology in design.

Canadian institutions integrate modern tools like digital design, 3D modeling, and sustainable materials. Here, you gain hands-on studio experience, exposure to multicultural design influences, and entrepreneurial training. If you are willing to build your own brands or work with top labels and align with global trends, Canada might just be the right place to open your doors to international opportunities.

Career Scope for Fashion Design Graduates in Canada

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

• Fashion Designer / Brand Developer
• Textile or Apparel Designer
• Fashion Illustrator / Stylist
• Product Developer
• Retail Buyer / Fashion Marketing Specialist

Starting salaries range from CAD 45,000–70,000, but designers who launch their own lines or work for established brands can earn much higher.

12. Project Management

If you’re a planner, organizer, and problem-solver by nature, Project Management might be the most strategic course you can take in Canada. Canadian colleges and universities offer specialized postgraduate programs in project management that align with global certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional). These programs combine leadership, analytics, and budgeting.
 

For Nepali students, this course offers not only high employability but also a potential PR advantage, since project management roles appear on Canada’s in-demand occupation lists in multiple provinces. This field is usually the best bet for those with a background in business, IT, or engineering.

Career Scope for Project Management Graduates in Canada

Every industry, from IT to construction to healthcare, needs professionals who can manage resources, deadlines, and teams effectively. Graduates can work as:

• Project Coordinator / Project Manager
• Operations Manager
• Construction or Engineering Project Lead
• IT Project Supervisor
• Business Development Manager

Starting salaries average around CAD 65,000–90,000, with senior project managers earning over CAD 120,000 annually.

Best Courses to Study in Canada for PR

Courses in Nursing, IT & Computer Science, Engineering, Business & Management, Accounting, and Hospitality are considered highly PR-friendly. These fields have strong labor demand and often qualify for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) after graduation. Choosing such courses increases your chances of securing work experience and permanent residency in Canada.

1. Nursing (Registered Nurse) & Dental Pathways

Nurses and dentists are in high demand across Canada, with numerous provincial streams favouring healthcare professionals. Completing a nursing program can lead to eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), facilitating Canadian work experience, which is a crucial step towards PR. Dental care roles fall under Canada’s skilled occupation list, so this field is also a strong PR-friendly pathway.

2. Information Technology (IT) & Computer Science

Since many IT roles are part of the National Occupational Classification, this field is ideal for those who want both career growth and permanent residency. Graduates in this field often secure employment quickly, have higher chances of a work permit, and fall under Canada’s Express Entry PR system.

3. Engineering 

Most engineering roles are part of Canada’s National Occupational Classification, making this one of the best courses to study in Canada for PR. Holding a degree in engineering can lead to a PGWP, which is important for PR eligibility. Many Nepali students who started in engineering have successfully transitioned into long-term residents and even permanent citizens. 

4. Finance & Accounting

Finance professionals are included in NOC 11101, 11100, both of which are recognized under PR-eligible occupations. With professional certificates, graduates can gain Canadian work experience in accounting roles, leading to eligibility for PR through the Federal Skilled Worker Program or PNPs.

5. Business & Management

Business and management roles are included in several PR-friendly categories, making it one of the best courses in Canada for long-term career growth and PR prospects. These fields offer versatility, with opportunities across various sectors. Graduates can leverage Canadian work experience in managerial roles to qualify for PR through Express Entry or PNPs.

6. Education & Early Childhood Development

Early childhood educators are in demand in several provinces. Graduates can pursue certification in their respective provinces and, with Canadian work experience, become eligible for PR through PNPs.

If you are planning to study in Canada with a long-term vision, it is essential to consider factors like job opportunities, PGWP (Post-Graduate Work Permit), PR prospects, and related immigrant policies. Graduating from one of  the above-listed courses  increases your chance of permanent residency (PR) in Canada since there is a significant vacuum of qualified professionals for these rapidly growing fields. Canada is a very rewarding country, one that offers opportunities for its students, and and also the fulfilling outcomes that truly reflect your hard work.

How to Select the Best Course in Canada as an International Student?

To select the best course in Canada, research programs, check university rankings, and consider courses that align with post-graduation work opportunities. The choice of course can shape your entire study experience, job prospects, and even your pathway to permanent residency (PR). Here are some practical tips for you:

1. Personal Interest – Find What Drives You

Start by asking yourself what truly excites you. Are you drawn to helping people, solving technical problems, managing businesses, or creating art? Studying a field you enjoy not only makes the learning process easier but also increases your chances of excelling in internships and work placements.

Make a list of your strengths, hobbies, and subjects you enjoy. Cross-check them with courses offered in Canada to find a natural fit. Choose the field where you believe you can thrive. 

2. Scope & Demand – The Passion That Pays You

It is important to balance passion with practicality. Research which industries are growing in Canada and which skills are most in demand. Fields like IT, healthcare, engineering, finance, and business management have consistent job opportunities for international graduates.

Look at the National Occupational Classification (NOC) list to identify PR-friendly jobs in high-demand fields. This ensures your studies can lead to stable post-graduate employment and future settlement (PR prospects).

3. PR Prospects – A Secured Future, Reward for Your Dedication

One of Canada’s biggest advantages is its clear pathway to permanent residency for skilled graduates. Some programs align perfectly with Canada’s immigration priorities. Healthcare, IT, engineering, education, and certain management roles are particularly strong in this regard.

If PR is one of your goals of studying in Canada from Nepal, prioritize courses that match high-demand occupations in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta. Quebec, a province in Canada, has distinct immigration policies and language requirements. This strategy increases your chances of a smoother transition from student to permanent resident.

4. City & Degree Affordability

Cost is another key factor; both tuition and living expenses vary widely depending on the city. Studying in Toronto or Vancouver may give you access to bigger industries, but smaller cities like Halifax, Winnipeg, or Montreal can offer equally high-quality education at a lower cost.

Do not let a high tuition fee obstruct your path to your dream career because most students manage it with part-time jobs in Canada. Besides, compare universities and programs on the basis of internship opportunities, scholarships and funding, part-time work availability, and cost of living. A well-planned budget ensures your focus stays on learning and career growth.

Cost of Studying in Canada for Nepali Students

Understanding the total cost of studying in Canada from Nepal is essential for planning your budget, applying for scholarships or part-time work, and making informed financial decisions. Tuition fees vary depending on your program, and you need to consider additional costs like accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. The average tuition fees for various study programs in Canada can look like:

Conclusion

Choosing the best course in Canada is more than just picking a program; it’s about shaping your career, lifestyle, and future in a country that rewards skill and dedication.

For Nepali students, the ideal course balances personal passion, job demand, PR eligibility, and affordability. Whether you aim to become a nurse, engineer, IT specialist, business leader, or creative professional, Canada has options that can help you grow academically, professionally, and personally.

The right course opens doors to high-paying jobs, permanent residency, and a fulfilling life abroad. Start your research, align your interests with market demand, and consult with a reputed education consultancy to set a confident path toward your brighter future in Canada.