Canada Wants STEM Workers—These Study Programs Are Your First Step

An illustration of two students in a science laboratory, representing stem study programs in Canada.

Careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are in high demand in Canada and are only expected to keep growing. As a result, the Canadian government recently announced its first-ever Express Entry draw specifically for those with STEM experience from STEM study programs to attract STEM workers. 

Additionally, Canada’s recently announced Tech Talent Strategy includes several measures meant to attract talented STEM workers, including a new “Innovation Stream” launching by the end of the year. So, if you’re a STEM student who wants to live and work in Canada, there’s never been a better time to make a big move. 

After working in an eligible field in Canada for at least six months, STEM workers who are interested in permanently immigrating may be eligible for category-based selection draws as part of Canada’s Express Entry system. The STEM occupations which qualify for category-based selection range from web design and database analysis to architecture, urban planning, and more. 

Ready to take the next step? We’ve outlined some excellent Canadian STEM programs below to help you prepare for the next phase of your career!


Want to jump to the section you’re interested in instead? Here’s a general overview of the STEM fields we’ve highlighted: 

  • Architecture
  • Engineering
  •   Civil Engineering and Urban Planning
  •   Electrical Engineering
  •   Industrial Engineering 
  • Science and Mathematics
  •   Data Science and Mathematics
  •   Natural and Applied Science Research
  • Computer Science
  •   Computer Systems and Cybersecurity
  •   Software Development and Programming
  •   Web Design and Development 

Did you know that the United States recently added eight new fields of study to the American STEM OPT Extension list? Find out which fields are eligible for up to two more years of US work experience. 

An illustration of tall blue buildings, representing architecture programs in Canada.

Architecture

If you like to combine your creativity with science to create structures, then a career in architecture might be for you! Whether you train to become an environmentally-conscious green designer, a commercial architect, or a home planner, working as an architect lets you show off your skills as both an artist and an engineer. Take a look at these STEM study programs with integrated work experience.

An illustration of a pencil, eraser, and ruler, representing engineering and other stem study programs in Canada.

Engineering

Civil Engineering and Urban Planning

As cities expand, experienced civil engineers and urban planners are needed now more than ever. If you’re interested in working with cutting-edge technology and creating new environments, then you’re in the right field! Here are some featured civil engineering and urban planning programs with integrated work opportunities. 

Electrical Engineering 

From smartphones to renewable energy grids, electrical systems play an integral role in today’s world. Begin your journey in innovating and creating new electric solutions by studying an electrical engineering program, like one of the ones below. 

Industrial Engineering 

Industrial engineers specialize in creating efficient production processes. Simply put, this means that they’re very good at making things easier for other people to use. If that’s something you’re into, consider an industrial engineering program with co-op opportunities. 

If you want to study for your master’s degree in engineering in the US, this blog covers programs from coast to coast

An illustration of a study book, representing science, math, and STEM research in Canada.

Science and Mathematics

Data Science and Mathematics

Data science can be applied to almost any sector and is key to understanding patterns and hidden insights. If you get excited about solving puzzles and calculating ways to find real-world solutions, then studying data science is a great bet! Check out some of these STEM study programs with integrated work opportunities below.

Natural and Applied Science Research

If scientific exploration and discovery are more your thing, you’re in luck! Your field of choice is also in demand on the STEM list. You’ll be well-positioned to create real-world innovations through scientific discovery after graduating from one of these natural and applied science programs. 

Thinking about studying health science in Canada? Check out our blog to find lots of great programs in Canada. 

An illustration of a laptop, representing computer science, programming, and other STEM study programs in Canada.

Computer Science 

Computer Systems and Cybersecurity

Have a passion for all things technology? If so, look no further than these computer systems and cybersecurity programs. With technology advancing day by day, the world needs experts to help safeguard the data in their systems. Find some computer systems and cybersecurity programs with co-op opportunities in Canada below:

Software Development and Programming

Software development and programming are careers you can find across most industries, and these workers are an essential part of many modern-day businesses. Take a look below for some Canadian software development and programming programs. 

Web Design and Development

Do you have good general knowledge of computer and web systems and a creative side? If so, you might be a great candidate for a web design and development program, like the ones here. 

Wondering if a computer science degree is right for you? Find out more on our blog.



With an increasing need for STEM workers in Canada, international students are now in demand more than ever before and are in a great position to take advantage of Canada’s Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after graduation. 

We hope these STEM study programs inspire you to find your best study program fit. Best of luck in your study abroad endeavours! 

Considering a degree in a STEM program? Let us help you find the best university or college. Register for your free account and find your dream study program with ApplyBoard!

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