Dermatologist Courses in Canada: Best Programs, Fees & Requirements

We’ve all seen the growing obsession with flawless skin. Whether it’s the 10-step Korean skincare routine or the rise of cosmetic treatments, people today care more about skin health than ever before. The global dermatology market is set to hit $36.1 billion (₹2,99,235 crores) by 2030 (Source: Market Research Future).

If you’ve ever been fascinated by skincare, acne treatments, or anti-aging solutions, taking up dermatologist courses in Canada can be a great step. The demand for skincare experts is only growing, and Canada offers some of the best training programs in the world.

Why Study Dermatology in Canada?

• More people are looking for expert skin treatments.
• Learn from leading medical schools and dermatology institutes.
• Get practical training in clinics and research labs.
• Become a dermatologist, cosmetic specialist, or medical researcher.

Take a look at the best dermatologist courses in Canada, their fees, eligibility, and career opportunities.

For students exploring medical courses in Canada, this list of medical programs.

Best Medical Schools & Dermatologist Courses in Canada

With skin-related concerns like acne, pigmentation, and hair loss becoming more common, the need for skincare specialists is rising. In Canada, over 30% of people visit dermatologists annually for medical or cosmetic treatments (Source: Canadian Dermatology Association).

Whether you want to specialize in clinical dermatology, cosmetic treatments, or dermatopathology, Canada offers some of the best dermatologist courses in Canada.

Top Medical Schools Offering Dermatologist Courses in Canada

University	Program Type	Duration	Accreditation	Tuition Fees (Per Year)
University of Toronto	Dermatology Residency	5 years	RCPSC	$58,000 (₹48.2 lakhs)
McGill University	Dermatology Residency	5 years	RCPSC	$50,000 (₹41.6 lakhs)
University of British Columbia (UBC)	Dermatology Residency	5 years	RCPSC	$48,000 (₹39.9 lakhs)
University of Alberta	Dermatology Residency	5 years	RCPSC	$52,000 (₹43.2 lakhs)
University of Ottawa	Dermatology Residency	5 years	RCPSC	$49,000 (₹40.7 lakhs)

Conversion rates may vary.

Tuition fees for international students are higher than for domestic students. Check for scholarships or funding options. 

Types of Dermatologist Courses in Canada

Dermatologist courses in Canada are mainly divided into three categories:

1. Dermatology Residency Programs (For MD graduates)

• Who can apply? Medical graduates with an MD degree.
• Duration: 5 years.
• Outcome: Board certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC).

Subjects Covered in Residency:

• General dermatology (treating skin diseases).
• Surgical dermatology (removing moles, treating skin cancer).
• Cosmetic dermatology (Botox, fillers, lasers).
• Pediatric dermatology (skin conditions in children).
• Dermatopathology (studying skin diseases under a microscope).

Note: Residency spots are highly competitive, and candidates must go through a medical residency match process.

2. Fellowship Programs (For Dermatologists Looking to Specialize)

If you want to deepen your expertise, fellowships offer advanced training in specific areas.

Specialization	What It Covers	Duration
Cosmetic Dermatology	Botox, fillers, laser treatments, anti-aging procedures	1-2 years
Surgical Dermatology	Skin cancer surgeries, mole removal	1-2 years
Pediatric Dermatology	Skin conditions in children (eczema, birthmarks)	1-2 years
Dermatopathology	Diagnosing skin diseases using biopsies	1-2 years

Tip: Fellowships help in specializing and increasing job opportunities.

3. Diploma & Certificate Programs in Dermatology

These are short-term programs for healthcare professionals, nurses, and medical students interested in skincare and aesthetic treatments.

Program Name	What It Covers	Duration	Best For
Diploma in Clinical Dermatology	Diagnosis & treatment of skin conditions	1 year	Doctors & healthcare professionals
Certificate in Cosmetic Dermatology	Botox, chemical peels, laser treatments	6 months	Skincare specialists, aestheticians
Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine Course	Cosmetic dermatology & laser therapy	6-12 months	Medical students, dermatologists

Best For: Those who want to work in aesthetic clinics or expand their practice.

Students looking for other healthcare courses in Canada can explore these healthcare programs for more career options.

Admission Requirements for Dermatology Programs in Canada

Getting into a dermatology course in Canada requires years of medical training, high academic scores, and a competitive residency matching process. It starts with an undergraduate degree, followed by medical school, and finally, a dermatology residency.

Dermatology is one of the most difficult residencies to get into—with only about 40 spots available per year across Canada (Source: CaRMS). That means even top students struggle to match. If you're planning to apply, here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree (Pre-Med)

You can’t apply to medical school directly after high school in Canada. First, you need to complete an undergraduate degree in science or a related field.

What to study?

• BSc in Biology, Biochemistry, or Health Sciences – Best for medical school applicants.
• Alternative fields like Psychology or Kinesiology – Accepted by some universities, but may require extra science courses.

Admission requirements for undergraduate degrees:

• High School GPA: 85% or higher.
• English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ (if applicable).
• Duration: 3-4 years.

Tip: Some medical schools prefer students with research experience or volunteer work in healthcare settings.

Step 2: Take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

Most Canadian medical schools require the MCAT, a standardized test that measures problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of science concepts.

What’s a good MCAT score?

• 510+ is considered competitive.
• Top schools like University of Toronto and McGill require 515+ for international students.

Test Breakdown:

• Biological & Chemical Foundations (35%)
• Critical Analysis & Reasoning (25%)
• Psychological & Social Sciences (20%)
• Physical Sciences (20%)

Tip: Many students take 6-12 months to prepare for the MCAT. Consider joining an MCAT coaching program if needed.

Step 3: Get Into a Medical School in Canada

How hard is it to get in?
Medical school acceptance rates in Canada are very low—with only 8-10% of applicants getting in. That means you need a high GPA, strong MCAT score, and extracurricular activities to stand out.

University	Medical School Acceptance Rate	MCAT Required?	Average MCAT Score
University of Toronto	8%	Yes	515+
McGill University	7%	Yes	512+
University of British Columbia (UBC)	9%	Yes	510+
University of Alberta	10%	Yes	511+
University of Ottawa	6%	No	N/A

Tip: If your MCAT score is below 510, your chances of getting in are low. Consider universities like Ottawa that don’t require the MCAT.

Need to compare MBBS costs? Read this guide on MBBS costs in Canada for a breakdown.

Step 4: Complete a 4-Year MD Program

Once accepted into medical school, you’ll spend four years studying medicine, including clinical rotations in different specialties like dermatology, surgery, and internal medicine.

What will you study?

• First 2 years: Classroom-based courses (Anatomy, Pharmacology, Pathology).
• Last 2 years: Clinical rotations in hospitals.

Tip: If your goal is dermatology, do research or internships in skin-related fields during medical school. This will strengthen your residency application.

Step 5: Match into a Dermatology Residency (CaRMS Process)

Dermatology is one of the hardest specializations to get into. Every year, hundreds of applicants compete for just 40 residency spots across Canada.

How does the residency matching process work?

• Apply through CaRMS (Canadian Resident Matching Service).
• Submit a personal statement, medical school transcripts, and recommendation letters.
• Attend interviews with dermatology residency directors.
• Match through the ranking system—where students and programs list their preferences.

Acceptance rate for dermatology residency?
Only about 5% of applicants get accepted, meaning only 1 in 20 students make it (Source: CaRMS).

Tip: If you don’t match, you can do a Transitional Year Residency and try again next year.

Tuition Fees for Dermatologist Courses in Canada

Studying dermatology in Canada can be expensive, especially for international students. Costs vary based on university, program type, and residency training.

The average cost of medical school in Canada for international students is $50,000 - $70,000 per year (₹41.6 - ₹58.3 lakhs) (Source: University Websites).

Cost Comparison: Undergraduate, Medical School & Residency Fees

University	Undergraduate Fees (Annual)	Medical School Fees (Annual)	Residency Stipend (Annual)
University of Toronto	$45,000 (₹37.5L)	$91,760 (₹76.4L)	$58,000 (₹48.2L)
McGill University	$22,000 (₹18.3L)	$52,000 (₹43.3L)	$55,000 (₹45.7L)
University of British Columbia (UBC)	$40,000 (₹33.3L)	$60,000 (₹50L)	$53,000 (₹44.1L)
University of Alberta	$30,000 (₹25L)	$62,000 (₹51.6L)	$50,000 (₹41.6L)
University of Ottawa	$25,000 (₹20.8L)	$69,000 (₹57.5L)	$52,000 (₹43.2L)

Conversion rates may vary.

Living Costs for Students in Canada

Apart from tuition fees, students must also consider living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation.

Expense	Average Monthly Cost	Annual Cost
Accommodation (Shared Apartment)	$800 - $1,500 (₹66K - ₹1.25L)	$9,600 - $18,000 (₹7.9L - ₹15L)
Food & Groceries	$300 - $500 (₹25K - ₹41K)	$3,600 - $6,000 (₹3L - ₹5L)
Transport (Public Transit)	$100 - $150 (₹8K - ₹12.5K)	$1,200 - $1,800 (₹1L - ₹1.5L)
Health Insurance	$600 - $900 (₹50K - ₹75K)	$7,200 - $10,800 (₹6L - ₹9L)
Miscellaneous Expenses	$200 - $500 (₹16K - ₹41K)	$2,400 - $6,000 (₹2L - ₹5L)

Want a detailed breakdown of living costs? Check out this guide on the cost of living in Canada for international students.

Residency & Specialization in Dermatology in Canada

If you’ve made it through medical school and are set on becoming a dermatologist in Canada, the next step is securing a residency spot. 

In 2023, dermatology had one of the lowest match rates in the Canadian Residency Matching Service (CaRMS), with over 200 applicants competing for fewer than 50 spots (Source: CaRMS). That means only 1 in 4 candidates secure a seat, making it tougher than most other medical specializations.

A dermatology residency in Canada takes 5 years to complete and includes training in clinical dermatology, dermatopathology, cosmetic dermatology, and dermatologic surgery.

Structure of a Dermatology Residency Program

Duration: 5 years (Post-MD training)

• Year 1: Foundational training (rotations in internal medicine, surgery, and pathology).
• Years 2-4: Core dermatology training (outpatient clinics, skin cancer treatment, cosmetic procedures).
• Year 5: Advanced specialization (Mohs surgery, laser treatments, research, and teaching roles).

Dermatology residents typically work 60-80 hours per week, attending patient rounds, assisting in surgeries, and learning aesthetic procedures.

Specializations in Dermatology

After completing a residency, dermatologists can further specialize through fellowship programs in specific fields.

Specialization	What It Covers	Best For	Duration
Pediatric Dermatology	Treats skin disorders in children (eczema, birthmarks, genetic skin conditions).	Doctors interested in child healthcare.	1-2 years
Dermatopathology	Focuses on diagnosing skin diseases using biopsies and lab tests.	Those who enjoy lab-based work.	1-2 years
Cosmetic Dermatology	Covers Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels.	Dermatologists wanting to work in aesthetics.	6 months - 1 year
Mohs Surgery	Specializes in skin cancer removal using precise surgical techniques.	Surgeons focusing on skin cancer treatment.	1-2 years

Tip: If you want to work in aesthetic dermatology, a cosmetic dermatology fellowship can help you build expertise in high-demand procedures like laser therapy, microneedling, and anti-aging treatments.

Interested in postgraduate medical studies? Read more about 1-year PG diploma courses in Canada for additional options.

How to Apply for a Dermatology Residency in Canada? (CaRMS Process)

Application Process (Through CaRMS):

1. Submit application materials: Medical school transcripts, personal statement, and reference letters.
2. Attend multiple interviews with dermatology program directors.
3. Participate in the CaRMS Match Process, where students and programs rank their choices.
4. If matched, start the 5-year residency program.

Less than 5% of applicants get into a dermatology residency, making it one of the hardest programs to match into (Source: CaRMS).

Tip: If you don’t match, consider doing a Transitional Year Residency in a related field (like internal medicine) and reapplying next year.

Looking for MBBS or medical courses in Canada? Check out MBBS in Canada and Medical Courses in Canada after 12th for options.

Top Dermatology Residency Programs in Canada

Not all dermatology residencies are the same. Some programs offer stronger research opportunities, while others focus on cosmetic or surgical dermatology.

Here’s a look at the top dermatology residency programs in Canada, based on training quality, hospital affiliation, and research facilities.

University	Residency Program	Duration	Specializations Offered
University of Toronto	Dermatology Residency	5 years	Cosmetic Dermatology, Mohs Surgery, Pediatric Dermatology
McGill University	Dermatology Residency	5 years	Clinical Dermatology, Dermatopathology, Surgical Dermatology
University of British Columbia (UBC)	Dermatology Residency	5 years	Cosmetic Dermatology, Skin Cancer Treatment
University of Alberta	Dermatology Residency	5 years	Clinical Dermatology, Dermatopathology
University of Ottawa	Dermatology Residency	5 years	Pediatric Dermatology, Laser Treatments, Dermatologic Surgery

The University of Toronto has one of the most competitive dermatology residencies, with an acceptance rate below 5%.

Tip: If you want to work in cosmetic dermatology, UBC and Ottawa offer strong training in laser treatments and aesthetic procedures.

What Makes a Residency Program “Good”?

• Faculty & Research: Programs with active research labs in dermatology innovations offer better training.
• Surgical & Cosmetic Exposure: If you’re interested in Mohs surgery or Botox, pick a program that includes hands-on training in these areas.
• Hospital Affiliations: Large hospitals mean better patient diversity and advanced clinical exposure.

Tip: During residency interviews, ask about fellowship placements, cosmetic dermatology training, and research funding to find the best fit for your career goals.

Specialization vs. General Dermatology: Which One to Choose?

Once you complete your dermatology residency, you have two main career paths:

1. General Dermatology – Focuses on diagnosing and treating common skin conditions.
2. Specialized Dermatology – Involves advanced training in areas like pediatric dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, dermatopathology, or Mohs surgery.

Which one is right for you? It depends on your career goals, work-life balance preferences, and salary expectations.

General Dermatology vs. Specializations: Differences

Factor	General Dermatology	Specialized Dermatology
Training Duration	5-year residency	5-year residency + 1-2 years fellowship
Scope of Practice	Treats common skin conditions (acne, eczema, skin infections).	Focuses on a specific field (pediatric, cosmetic, or surgical dermatology).
Work Setting	Private clinics, hospitals, academic institutions.	Specialist clinics, research centers, private practice.
Salary Range	$250,000 - $400,000 (₹2.08 - ₹3.33 crores)	$300,000 - $500,000+ (₹2.5 - ₹4.16 crores)
Patient Type	General skin conditions, medical dermatology.	Specific cases requiring advanced expertise.

Over 60% of dermatologists in Canada work in general dermatology, while 40% choose to specialize (Source: Canadian Medical Association).

Dermatology Specializations & Career Outlook

If you choose to specialize, here’s a breakdown of different fields and their demand:

Specialization	What It Covers	Average Salary	Job Demand
Pediatric Dermatology	Treating skin diseases in children (eczema, genetic conditions).	$300,000 - $450,000 (₹2.5 - ₹3.75 crores)	High
Cosmetic Dermatology	Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels.	$350,000 - $600,000 (₹2.91 - ₹5 crores)	Very High
Dermatopathology	Diagnosing skin diseases via biopsies & lab analysis.	$250,000 - $400,000 (₹2.08 - ₹3.33 crores)	Moderate
Mohs Surgery	Skin cancer removal with precision surgery.	$400,000 - $700,000 (₹3.33 - ₹5.83 crores)	High

Tip: If you’re interested in aesthetic procedures like Botox and laser therapy, cosmetic dermatology is a high-paying and growing field.

Want to explore related career options? Check out Masters in Public Health in Canada for healthcare leadership programs.

How to Decide?

If you prefer seeing a variety of patients and treating general skin conditions, general dermatology is a great choice.

If you’re passionate about a specific area of dermatology and want to become an expert, specializing is the better path.

Want to understand the medical education structure in Canada? Read this guide on Canada’s education system for details.

Licensing & Certification for Dermatologists in Canada

Even after completing medical school and residency, you’re not legally allowed to practice as a dermatologist in Canada until you get your provincial medical license. This process involves national exams, licensing applications, and continuing education requirements.

How to Get Licensed as a Dermatologist in Canada?

Steps to Obtain a Medical License:

Step	Description	Requirement
Pass the MCCQE (Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Exam)	A two-part exam that tests medical knowledge, clinical skills, and decision-making.	Required for all medical graduates (Canadian & international).
Complete a 5-Year Dermatology Residency	Hands-on training in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology.	Must be completed at an accredited Canadian medical institution.
Pass the RCPSC Certification Exam	The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) certification exam is required for dermatologists to prove their expertise.	Passing this exam is mandatory for board certification.
Apply for a Provincial Medical License	Each province has its own licensing body, and dermatologists must apply for a license based on where they plan to work.	Example: CPSO (Ontario), CPSBC (British Columbia).
Register with the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA)	This provides legal protection, liability coverage, and malpractice insurance for medical professionals.	Required for all practicing doctors in Canada.
Continue Medical Education (CME) & License Renewal	Dermatologists must renew their license every 1-5 years depending on provincial regulations.	Ongoing education, workshops, and training are required to stay updated with new treatments.

The MCCQE pass rate is around 90%, but many candidates take months to prepare due to its difficulty (Source: Medical Council of Canada).

Provincial Licensing Bodies in Canada

Since licensing is done at the provincial level, here’s where dermatologists need to apply:

Province	Licensing Authority	License Renewal Frequency
Ontario	College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)	Every 5 years
British Columbia	College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC (CPSBC)	Every 3 years
Alberta	College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA)	Every 5 years
Quebec	Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ)	Every 1 year

Tip: If you plan to practice in multiple provinces, you may need to apply for multiple licenses.

Continuing Education & Certification Renewal

Once licensed, dermatologists must stay updated with new medical advancements by completing Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits.

Ways to Maintain Certification:

• Attend conferences and workshops on new dermatology treatments.
• Participate in case reviews and research studies.
• Take online dermatologist courses in Canada or in-person training sessions approved by the RCPSC.

Dermatologists in Canada must complete at least 40-50 hours of continuing education per year to maintain their certification.

Tip: Staying updated with new technologies like AI-driven skin analysis, laser treatments, and regenerative skincare can improve job prospects.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Dermatology Students in Canada

Medical education in Canada is costly, but scholarships and financial aid can reduce the burden. Universities, government programs, and private organizations offer funding to medical students and dermatology residents.

Scholarships for Medical & Dermatology Students in Canada

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Funding Amount	Deadline
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship	International students applying for undergraduate medical programs.	Full tuition + living expenses	January (varies)
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)	Graduate students in medical sciences at Ontario universities.	Up to $15,000 (₹12.5L)	Varies
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	PhD students in dermatology research.	$50,000 (₹41.6L) per year	November
Canadian Medical Association (CMA) Scholarship	Medical students and residents with financial need.	$5,000 - $12,000 (₹4.16L - ₹10L)	September
University-Specific Medical Scholarships	Offered by universities for outstanding medical students.	Varies ($5,000 - $20,000)	Varies

Looking for more scholarships? Read this guide on MBBS scholarships abroad for more funding options.

Best Cities in Canada to Study & Work as a Dermatologist

Some cities have better medical schools, while others offer higher pay and job demand.

Best Cities for Studying Dermatology

Top medical schools with dermatology programs.
Strong residency programs with research opportunities.

Best Cities for Dermatology Jobs

High demand for dermatologists.
Competitive salaries and cost of living.

Top Cities for Studying & Working in Dermatology

City	Top University	Residency Availability	Job Market Strength	Avg. Salary for Dermatologists
Toronto	University of Toronto	Yes	Very High	$350,000 - $500,000 (₹2.91 - ₹4.16 crores)
Montreal	McGill University	Yes	High	$320,000 - $450,000 (₹2.66 - ₹3.75 crores)
Vancouver	University of British Columbia (UBC)	Yes	High	$330,000 - $480,000 (₹2.75 - ₹4 crores)
Edmonton	University of Alberta	Yes	Moderate	$290,000 - $420,000 (₹2.41 - ₹3.5 crores)
Ottawa	University of Ottawa	Yes	Moderate	$300,000 - $430,000 (₹2.5 - ₹3.58 crores)
Calgary	University of Calgary	Yes	Growing	$280,000 - $400,000 (₹2.33 - ₹3.33 crores)

Toronto and Vancouver have more dermatologists, while Calgary and Edmonton have higher demand due to fewer specialists.

Want to know why Canada is a top choice for studying? Read this guide on studying in Canada for more insights.

Career Opportunities for Dermatologists in Canada

Your career path will depend on your area of interest—whether it’s treating skin diseases, performing surgeries, or specializing in cosmetic treatments.

Dermatologist Salaries & Job Market in Canada

Career Stage	Experience Level	Average Salary (Annual)	Best Cities for Jobs
Entry-Level Dermatologist	0-5 years	$250,000 - $350,000 (₹2.08 - ₹2.91 crores)	Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa
Mid-Career Dermatologist	5-10 years	$350,000 - $500,000 (₹2.91 - ₹4.16 crores)	Montreal, Vancouver, Toronto
Senior Specialist	10+ years	$500,000 - $700,000+ (₹4.16 - ₹5.83 crores)	Private Clinics & Cosmetic Centers

Many dermatologists choose private practice because it offers higher earnings and more flexibility than working in hospitals.

Looking for work in Canada after your degree? Read this guide on Canada’s Post-Study Work Visa for job eligibility and visa details.

Career Paths for Dermatologists in Canada

Career Path	What It Involves	Where You Work	Job Demand
Medical Dermatology	Treats acne, eczema, skin infections, psoriasis.	Hospitals, private clinics	High
Cosmetic Dermatology	Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels.	Aesthetic clinics, private practice	Very High
Mohs Surgery	Skin cancer removal through precision surgery.	Hospitals, cancer centers	High
Dermatopathology	Diagnosing skin diseases using biopsies.	Labs, research centers	Moderate

Tip: Cosmetic dermatology is a fast-growing field due to the rising demand for anti-aging treatments and laser procedures.

Worried about visa approvals? Check out this guide on Canada Visa Interview Questions to prepare for your student or work visa.

Path to Permanent Residency (PR) for Dermatologists in Canada

Many international students stay in Canada after their medical training by applying for Permanent Residency (PR).

How to Get PR as a Dermatologist in Canada?
Gain work experience under a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Apply through Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Secure a job offer to increase PR approval chances.

Looking to settle in Canada? Read this PR Visa Guide for step-by-step details.

upGrad Abroad – Helping You Pursue Dermatology in Canada

Dreaming of becoming a dermatologist in Canada but not sure where to start? upGrad Abroad is here to guide you at every step.

• Medical School & Residency Applications
  Get expert help with your medical school applications, dermatology residency selection, and interview prep to secure your seat in top Canadian universities.
• Scholarships & Financial Aid Support
  Studying abroad is expensive, but we help you find scholarships, grants, and financial aid to reduce tuition costs.
• Visa & Licensing Exam Preparation
  Need help with your student visa, PR applications, or medical licensing exams? Our team provides step-by-step assistance to make your journey smooth.

Want to study dermatology in Canada? Schedule 1:1 consultation with upGrad Abroad today!