Online Classes Degrees In Canada for International Students

With advancements in technology, it is now possible for international students to pursue Canadian education online without physically being present in the country. Canada is a leader in online and distance learning and many universities and colleges offer flexible online programs that allow students to study from anywhere in the world. In this blog post, we will explore the different online degree options available in Canada for international students.

Advertisements

Understanding Online and Distance Learning in Canada

Before looking at specific online programs, it is important to understand how online and distance learning works within the Canadian education system. On the Edu Canada website, they provide a helpful overview of distance education opportunities for international students:

Distance education allows students to gain remote access to world-class Canadian universities and colleges and learn from renowned faculty online. This provides the opportunity to earn a Canadian degree even if you are unable to be physically present on campus.
Many programs can now be completed entirely online, providing flexibility for students to learn at their own pace and schedule. Some programs may require attendance at on-campus sessions or exams.
Language requirements still apply for online programs, so students need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French depending on the program. Academic and admission requirements also need to be met.
Costs vary depending on the institution, level of study (college, undergraduate, graduate), and specific program. Tools are provided to search and compare costs.
The application process is the same as for on-campus programs – students need to apply directly to the university or college offering the online program.

This overview establishes that online learning provides borderless access to Canadian higher education. Students can earn recognized and accredited degrees while studying remotely through distance formats. Let’s now explore the online program options by level of study.

Online College and Vocational Programs

Community colleges and vocational schools in Canada offer a variety of diploma programs that can be completed fully or partially online. Here are some examples:

Advertisements

Business Administration/Management: Many colleges offer flexible online business diplomas focusing on areas like accounting, marketing, finance, human resources, etc. Programs are usually 1-2 years in duration.
Health Sciences: Diplomas in areas like nursing, dental hygiene, medical lab technology, pharmacy technician, etc. include online courses and fieldwork/practicum components for international students.
Computer Sciences: Colleges have online diploma programs in information technology, cybersecurity, web development, programming and more high-demand tech fields.
General Arts & Sciences: For students wanting a well-rounded education, online liberal arts and science diplomas provide core coursework in various subjects over 1-2 years.
Skilled Trades: Some colleges offer online pre-apprenticeship certificates and diplomas for trades like electrician, plumber, and carpenter to gain industry knowledge prior to hands-on training.

Colleges are very welcoming of international students in their distance learning programs. Tuition fees typically range from $10,000 – $20,000 CAD per year depending on the specific program and college.

Undergraduate Online Degree Programs

Universities across Canada administer a variety of accredited 3-4-year undergraduate degree programs that can be completed fully or partially online by international students:

Advertisements

Business degrees (BBA, BCOMM): Popular online business programs with majors in accounting, finance, marketing, management, entrepreneurship etc.
STEM degrees: Fields like computer science, engineering, health sciences, and mathematics have well-established online BSc and BEng programs. Some with internship components.
Liberal Arts: Degrees in social sciences, humanities, and psychology are offered in flexible online formats with core & major coursework.
Education degrees: Bachelor of Education is a professional program that trains teachers with classroom and practical online components.
Continuing Education: Mature students can complete undergraduate degrees through university-level online high school credit/preparatory programs.

Top online undergraduate programs in Canada are offered by universities like University of Alberta, University of British Columbia, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Thompson Rivers University, Memorial University of Newfoundland and more. Annual tuition for international students averages around $25,000-35,000 CAD depending on the program. Some provide the option to complete the first 1-2 years online and the last 1-2 years on campus.

Graduate Online Degree Programs

For international students seeking higher education, online master’s degrees provide advanced training in specialized fields of study. Canada’s universities administer a wide selection of course-based and research-based graduate programs online:

Business (MBA): MBA programs are offered in various specializations completely online over 1-2 years. Some have face-to-face components and are well-suited for working professionals to study and advance their careers.
Engineering (MEng, MASc, MEng): Universities provide online course-based and research-based master’s in various engineering disciplines like mechanical, electrical, and civil over 1-3 years.
Health Sciences (MN, MSc): Master’s programs in nursing, public health, kinesiology, and rehabilitation are designed with flexibility for online learning.
Education (MEd): Master of Education degrees allow educators to further their studies while teaching with a mix of online and field experience courses.
Natural & Applied Sciences (MSc): Online master’s in fields such as computer science, biology, and environmental sciences offer advanced scientific training.
Humanities & Social Sciences (MA): Wide selection of online research and course-based MA degrees in various humanities & social science subjects.

Top institutions for online graduate studies are the University of Alberta, the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Ottawa. International tuition averages around $30,000-45,000 CAD per year depending on the program.

Language Study & Preparatory Programs

Some international students may require upgrading their English or French skills before entering college/university programs taught in these languages. Canada offers the following online options:

Language Training: Universities like the University of Prince Edward Island offer online French and English as a Second Language certificate programs.
Foundation/Bridging Programs: These 1-year programs at places like Vancouver Community College help international students gain admission credits for college/undergraduate study. Delivered online with tutoring support.
High School Courses: For students needing high school prerequisites, institutions administer online credit courses in all core subjects to attain the required grades.
Test Preparation: Online support is available from tutors, programs, and self-paced materials to help prepare for language proficiency/admissions tests like IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, etc.

Completing language or bridging programs online allows international students to gain the language and academic skills needed to transition to degree-level studies in Canada in a flexible way.

Professional Certification Programs

Continuing their education online, international professionals can earn credentials or pursue licensing in their field. Here are some examples:

Project Management (PMP): Certification programs like the PMP help advance careers in this growing field and are offered 100% online over 6-12 months.
Teaching English (TEFL/TESOL): Qualifications like TEFL/TESOL certificates give professionals skills to teach English abroad which are frequently delivered as hybrid online/practicum models.
Information Technology (CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft etc.): Technical certifications from top vendors in areas such as networking, security, cloud, and programming strengthen IT resumes and experience. Timelines vary.
Health Administration: Programs such as Certified Health Executive impart leadership training for healthcare managers largely through virtual classroom study. 6-18 month timelines.
Accounting/Finance (CPA): Pursuing designations like Chartered Professional Accountant involves online coursework combined with in-person exam prerequisites over 1-3 years depending on prior education/experience level.

Online professional certification programs provide global access to high-quality professional training recommended or required within various career fields. Credentials help advance careers worldwide.

Applying to Online Programs in Canada

When interested in studying a Canadian program online, international students follow the same application process as on-campus programs:

Research programs of interest on the institution’s website noting admission requirements and deadlines. English proficiency levels are required.
Complete the online application form and provide all required documentation such as transcripts, proof of funds, letters of recommendation, etc. as specified.
Pay the application processing fee which is often the same for online/distance students. Fees range from C$50-150 per program usually.
Meeting the minimum academic and language qualifications will lead to an admission decision being issued. Other factors like personal statement and experience profile may also be considered.
Upon acceptance, students pay the online enrollment deposit usually C$500-1000 to secure their seat. This is later deducted from tuition fees payable.
Course registration and tuition fee payment deadlines must be followed each term. Many institutions offer 10-12 month study permit support services.

Investing the time to research programs and prepare a strong application is key as competition for online study spots is increasing. Starting early ensures ample processing time for admission and finances. Student support services are provided every step of the way by the international offices.

Types of Online Learning in Canada

While the core principle of online education involves studying at a distance using Internet technology, there are various formats of online learning offered in Canada:

Asynchronous Learning: Students can access pre-recorded lecture videos, reading material, and assignments on their own schedule without real-time participation. Communication is done via discussion forums or messages. Programs rely heavily on self-paced independent study.

Synchronous Learning: Classes take place live online at scheduled times for students to participate, ask questions, and collaborate just as on-campus. Lectures are conducted in virtual classrooms through video conferencing software like Zoom where attendance is taken.

Blended/Hybrid Learning: A combination of both synchronous and asynchronous activities along with some required face-to-face sessions on-campus for exams, meetings, labs, etc. This balances flexibility with networking opportunities.

Modular Courses: Semester-long courses are divided into smaller weekly modules that can be completed one by one with set deadlines. Assessments and support take place continuously throughout the term.

Cohort-Based Learning: An intimate online class setting where a small group of students move through a lock-step program of synchronized courses together, building rapport.

MOOCs: Massive open online courses are offered globally through third-party online learning platforms for self-paced study with no formal assessment. Used for continuing education.

As technology advances, new delivery formats will emerge in online education. The appropriate modality depends on learner needs, program requirements and learning objectives. Hybrid models may effectively combine different styles for student success in virtual studies.

Advertisements