Top Colleges for Masters in Design in Canada | Fees, Eligibility & Jobs

Canada has quietly become one of the most exciting destinations for design education. From world-class universities and strong industry exposure to post-study work opportunities, a Master’s in Design (MDes) in Canada offers both creative growth and long-term career stability.

In this guide, you’ll get a clear, honest, and student-friendly breakdown of studying MDes in Canada—covering benefits, eligibility, admission steps, visa process, costs, scholarships, and the best universities for Indian students.

Advantages of Studying Masters in Design in Canada

Studying design in Canada goes beyond classroom learning. Here’s why international students, especially from India, prefer Canada:

• Globally recognised degrees with strong academic credibility

• Industry-aligned curriculum focused on UX/UI, interaction design, visual communication, and sustainability

• Multicultural environment with high international student acceptance

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years

• Strong design job market in cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary

• Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) through Canadian work experience

Canada blends creativity with practicality—something design students truly need.

MDes Course Program: An Overview

A Master of Design (MDes) in Canada is usually a 1.5 to 2-year full-time program. It focuses on advanced design thinking, research, and professional practice.

Common Specialisations

• UX/UI Design

• Interaction Design

• Visual Communication

• Industrial & Product Design

• Design Research & Strategy

• Digital Media Design

Teaching Style

• Studio-based learning

• Research projects

• Industry collaboration

• Portfolio development

Most universities expect students to graduate with a strong professional portfolio, not just a degree.

Eligibility Criteria for Studying Masters in Design in Canada

While requirements vary by university, most Canadian institutions look for:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Design or a related field (Fine Arts, Architecture, Media, Engineering, etc.)

• Portfolio (mandatory for most MDes programs)

• English proficiency:

  • IELTS: 6.5–7.0 overall (no band less than 6.0)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Academic transcripts

• Letters of Recommendation (1–2)

💡 Important: A strong portfolio can compensate for an average academic score.

Admission Process for Studying Masters in Design

Here’s a simplified step-by-step admission journey:

1. Shortlist universities & specialisations

2. Prepare your design portfolio (most critical step)

3. Write SOP & collect LORs

4. Submit online applications

5. Attend interviews (if required)

6. Receive offer letter

7. Accept offer & pay tuition deposit

Intakes usually include Fall (September) as the main intake, with limited Winter (January) options.

Canada Study Visa (Student Permit)

After receiving your offer letter, you must apply for a Canada Study Permit.

Key Visa Requirements

• Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

• Proof of funds (tuition + living expenses)

• Medical examination

• SOP / Study Plan

• Biometrics

Students enrolled in eligible MDes programs can later apply for PGWP, which allows full-time work after graduation.

Documents Requirements for Studying Masters in Design in Canada

Prepare these documents early to avoid delays:

• Academic transcripts & degree certificates

• Updated CV / Resume

• Design Portfolio (PDF or website link)

• SOP (career-focused & design-oriented)

• LORs

• IELTS scorecard

• Passport

• Proof of funds

Top Universities for Masters in Design in Canada

Below are some of the most reputed Canadian institutions offering MDes or design-focused master’s programs:

🎓 University of Alberta

Known for design research, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning.

🎓 Concordia University

A strong choice for visual arts, digital media, and interaction design.

🎓 Carleton University

Offers design programs with a balance of theory, research, and practice.

🎓 York University

Well-regarded for design studies connected to business and technology.

🎓 University of Manitoba

Focuses on design research, sustainability, and innovation.

🎓 Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) University

One of Canada’s most prestigious art & design universities.

🎓 OCAD University

Canada’s top specialised university for art, design, and digital creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the total cost to study Master’s in Design in Canada?

The average tuition fee ranges between 20,000 CAD to 40,000 CAD per year.
For Indian students, this roughly translates to ₹11 lakh to ₹40 lakh per year, depending on the university and city.

Do universities offer scholarships to Indian students for MDes in Canada?

Yes. Many Canadian universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.

Popular options include:

• OCAD University In-Study Scholarships

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship

• Entrance Scholarships

• Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarships

• Concordia International Tuition Award of Excellence

• Arts Council & Visual Arts grants

Scholarship amounts can range from ₹74,000 to ₹9 lakh.

At entry-level, how much can I earn after completing MDes in Canada?

Graduates typically earn 70,000–80,000 CAD per year at entry level.
With experience, salaries can go up to 1,71,000 CAD per year, depending on role and location.

Can I do a part-time MDes in Canada?

No. To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must complete a full-time master’s degree program.

Final Thoughts

A Master’s in Design in Canada is an excellent choice if you want global exposure, industry-ready skills, and strong post-study career prospects. With the right portfolio, university selection, and visa planning, Indian students can successfully build creative careers in Canada.

If you’re planning your MDes journey and want personalised university shortlisting, portfolio guidance, or visa support, expert counselling can make all the difference.