Explore Courses

Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada: A Complete Guide

Entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in driving innovation and economic growth. A Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada provides students with the essential skills to develop, manage, and scale businesses successfully. 

With Canada's startup-friendly ecosystem, government support, and renowned universities, students gain access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and venture capital funding.

This blog will cover top universities, eligibility, admission process, costs, scholarships, job opportunities, and more, helping you navigate your journey toward a career in entrepreneurship.

Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada - Overview

A Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada is a one to two-year program designed for aspiring business leaders, startup founders, and innovators. 

It offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, with many programs incorporating business incubators, venture capital exposure, and real-world startup challenges.

Graduates can pursue careers as entrepreneurs, business consultants, venture capital analysts, and product managers. 

With Canada’s booming startup scene and favorable immigration policies, this degree is an excellent choice for international students looking to build businesses or work in high-growth industries.

Why Study Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada?

  1. World-Class Education – Canadian universities are globally recognized for strong business programs and cutting-edge entrepreneurship research.
  2. Thriving Startup Ecosystem – Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are home to major tech startups and incubators.
  3. Government Support – Programs like the Canada Start-Up Visa, Small Business Grants, and Venture Capital Funds create opportunities for entrepreneurs.
  4. Networking & Mentorship – Students connect with renowned entrepreneurs, angel investors, and business leaders through university incubators.
  5. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities – Canada offers Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) and immigration pathways for international students.

Eligibility Criteria for Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

Eligibility requirements vary by university, but the general criteria include academic qualifications, English proficiency, and other application essentials.

Criteria Details
Academic Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (or 75%)
  • Some universities accept students from non-business backgrounds with additional coursework.
English Proficiency
Work Experience Not mandatory, but some universities prefer 1-3 years of entrepreneurial or business experience.
GMAT/GRE Required for some programs; GMAT 550+ or equivalent GRE score may strengthen applications.
Additional Documents

To learn more about specific eligibility requirements for Indian students applying for an MBA in Canada, including visa and other country-specific details, you can check out our comprehensive guide on Eligibility for MBA in Canada for Indian Students. This resource will help you navigate additional requirements and provide tips for a successful application.

Admission Process for Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

The admission process involves several key steps:

1. Research & Shortlist Universities

Compare universities based on course structure, tuition fees, faculty, incubators, and career prospects before finalizing your list.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, English test scores, SOPLORs, resume, and GMAT/GRE scores (if applicable).

3. Submit Applications

Most applications are submitted through university portals. Some universities charge an application fee (CAD 100 - 200 / INR 8,500 - 17,000).

4. Attend Interviews (If Required)

Some universities conduct virtual or in-person interviews to assess candidates' entrepreneurial mindset and business acumen.

5. Receive Offer Letter & Apply for Study Permit

Once accepted, you need to secure a study permit (student visa) and arrange tuition payments.

Application Deadlines & Intakes

Most universities in Canada have two main intakes for Master’s programs:

  • Fall Intake (September) – Application Deadline: December - March
  • Winter Intake (January) – Application Deadline: July - October

Some universities may also have a Summer (May) intake, but it is less common for entrepreneurship programs.

Top Universities for Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada (h2

Canada is home to several prestigious universities offering specialized entrepreneurship programs, often in collaboration with startup incubators, venture capital firms, and industry leaders.

Top Universities for Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

Top Universities QS World University Ranking 2025 Approx. Tuition Fees (Per Year)
University of Toronto #25 CAD 65,000 (INR 39L)
McGill University #29 CAD 58,000 (INR 35L)
University of British Columbia #38 CAD 50,000 (INR 30L)
University of Alberta #96 CAD 42,000 (INR 25L)
Western University #120 CAD 60,000 (INR 36L)
Queen’s University #193 CAD 48,000 (INR 29L)
University of Calgary #198 CAD 44,000 (INR 27L)
Simon Fraser University #319 CAD 41,000 (INR 25L)
York University #362 CAD 47,000 (INR 29L)
Concordia University #415 CAD 39,000 (INR 24L)

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary as per the currency exchange rates.

These universities offer cutting-edge entrepreneurship programs, mentorship opportunities, funding support, and practical experience through startup incubators and accelerators. 

Studying in one of these institutions can provide a strong foundation for launching  a successful venture in Canada or globally.

Course Curriculum of Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

The curriculum of a Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to launch, manage, and scale businesses successfully. 

It combines practical learning, case studies, and real-world business challenges to help students develop an entrepreneurial mindset.

Most programs follow a flexible curriculum consisting of core courses, electives, experiential learning projects, and startup incubation opportunities. 

Some universities also offer accelerators and mentorship programs to help students turn business ideas into viable ventures.

Course Structure

The program is typically 12-24 months long, depending on whether students opt for full-time or part-time study. The structure includes:

  1. Core Courses – Foundational subjects in entrepreneurship, finance, and business management.
  2. Elective Courses – Specialized areas of entrepreneurship tailored to student interests.
  3. Capstone Project/Business Plan Development – Students develop and pitch a startup business plan.
  4. Internship/Incubator Support – Hands-on experience through startup accelerators, venture labs, or internships.

Core Subjects in Master’s in Entrepreneurship

Core courses focus on fundamental business and entrepreneurial principles, ensuring students develop strong leadership, strategic thinking, and financial planning skills.

Core Subject Description
Business Strategy & Growth Understanding market dynamics, business models, and long-term strategic planning for business expansion.
Financial Management for Entrepreneurs Budgeting, fundraising, financial forecasting, and managing cash flow for startups.
Leadership & Decision Making Developing leadership skills, risk assessment, and decision-making strategies in uncertain business environments.
Innovation & Design Thinking Applying creativity and user-centric approaches to product and service innovation.
Business Law & Ethics Learning about intellectual property, business regulations, startup legal frameworks, and ethical entrepreneurship.
Marketing & Branding for Startups Branding strategies, digital marketing, and customer acquisition techniques for new ventures.
Operations & Supply Chain Management Managing logistics, supply chain efficiency, and operational challenges for startups.

Electives in Master’s in Entrepreneurship

Students can customize their learning experience by choosing elective courses that align with their career goals and business interests.

Elective Course Description
Venture Capital & Funding Strategies Understanding how to attract investors, secure venture capital, and develop fundraising strategies.
Technology Entrepreneurship Focused on building tech-based startups, including AI, SaaS, and FinTech ventures.
Social Entrepreneurship Creating businesses with social impact, focusing on sustainability, healthcare, and education.
Digital Business Models Learning about digital transformation, e-commerce, and platform-based business strategies.
Corporate Innovation & Intrapreneurship Driving innovation within established companies and launching internal ventures.
International Business & Global Markets Understanding global trade, business expansion strategies, and international market entry.
Legal Aspects of Entrepreneurship Learning about startup laws, tax policies, and regulatory compliance for business owners.

Entrepreneurship Specializations in Canada

Students pursuing a Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada can choose specializations based on their interests and career goals. 

Specializations help students develop expertise in specific entrepreneurship domains, from tech startups to social enterprises and corporate innovation.

Many universities offer customized learning tracks in partnership with industry leaders, startup incubators, and venture capital firms to help students specialize in areas with high market demand.

Popular Entrepreneurship Specializations

Specialization Description Career Opportunities
Technology Entrepreneurship Focuses on launching and scaling tech-based startups, including AI, SaaS, blockchain, and FinTech ventures. Startup Founder, Product Manager, Tech Investor, CTO
Social Entrepreneurship Emphasizes creating businesses that address social issues, such as sustainability, healthcare, and education. Social Enterprise Founder, NGO Leader, Impact Investor
Corporate Innovation & Intrapreneurship Training to drive innovation within established companies, launch new business units, and develop disruptive strategies. Corporate Innovation Manager, Business Consultant, Strategy Lead
Startup Management Covers the operational aspects of running a startup, including finance, marketing, and growth hacking. Startup CEO, Business Development Manager, Incubator Manager
E-Commerce & Digital Business Focuses on online business models, dropshipping, digital marketplaces, and subscription services. E-commerce Entrepreneur, Digital Business Strategist, Online Brand Consultant
Venture Capital & Startup Finance Understanding investment strategies, venture capital, angel investing, and startup valuation. Venture Capital Analyst, Investment Manager, Financial Consultant
Sustainable Entrepreneurship & Green Tech Creating eco-friendly and sustainable businesses, including renewable energy, sustainable fashion, and waste management. Sustainability Consultant, Green Tech Founder, Environmental Business Strategist

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

International students can apply for various scholarships to help cover tuition and living expenses.

Here is a list of scholarships: 

Scholarship Name Offered By Benefit
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Ontario Government CAD 15,000 (INR 9L)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship Canadian Government CAD 50,000 (INR 30L) per year
UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award University of British Columbia Covers tuition + living costs
Haskayne Entrance Scholarship University of Calgary CAD 20,000 (INR 12L)

For more detailed information on the eligibility criteria, selection process, and additional scholarship opportunities for MBA students in Canada, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on Scholarships for MBA in Canada – Eligibility & Selection

Cost of Studying Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

Pursuing a Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada involves significant financial investment, including tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs like health insurance, textbooks, and extracurricular activities. 

While tuition fees vary based on the university and program, students should also budget for housing, food, and daily expenses.

Tuition Fees in Canada for Master’s in Entrepreneurship

Tuition fees for Master’s in Entrepreneurship programs vary based on the university, program structure, and duration. The estimated cost per year is:

  • Public Universities: CAD 40,000 - 55,000 (INR 24L - 33L) per year
  • Private Universities & Business Schools: CAD 55,000 - 70,000 (INR 33L - 42L) per year
  • Part-Time & Online Programs: CAD 20,000 - 35,000 (INR 12L - 21L) per year

Some universities may charge additional fees for international students, covering student services, technology access, and extracurricular activities.

Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

Living expenses depend on the city, accommodation type, and personal lifestyle choices. The table below provides a breakdown of estimated yearly costs:

Expense Category Estimated Cost (Per Year) INR Equivalent
Accommodation (On-campus or shared off-campus housing) CAD 10,000 - 18,000 INR 10.7L - 19.2L
Food & Groceries (Dining out, meal plans, and groceries) CAD 3,000 - 5,000 INR 3.2L - 5.3L
Transportation (Public transit, rideshares, occasional travel) CAD 1,000 - 1,500 INR 1.1L - 1.6L
Utilities & Internet (Electricity, water, WiFi, mobile plans) CAD 1,500 - 2,500 INR 1.6L - 2.7L
Books & Study Materials (Coursebooks, software, subscriptions) CAD 1,000 - 2,000 INR 1.1L - 2.1L
Health Insurance (Mandatory for international students) CAD 600 - 900 INR 64K - 96K
Personal & Miscellaneous Expenses (Entertainment, shopping, gym) CAD 2,000 - 4,000 INR 2.1L - 4.3L

Note: The amount mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary as per the currency exchange rates.

To gain a more detailed breakdown of the tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs involved in pursuing an MBA in Canada, along with insights into the best universities for your MBA, you can explore our dedicated guide on Cost of MBA in Canada: Top Universities, Fees & Cost of Living

Job Opportunities & Salary After Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada

A Master’s in Entrepreneurship opens doors to multiple career paths, including starting a business, joining a startup, venture capital, business consulting, and innovation management. Graduates can also work in corporate innovation roles, helping established companies launch new products and services.

Canada’s thriving startup ecosystem, government support for entrepreneurs, and strong investment landscape make it an excellent destination for aspiring business leaders.

Career Paths After Master’s in Entrepreneurship

Graduates can explore various roles depending on their interest, experience, and risk appetite. Some may launch their own startups, while others prefer stable roles in venture capital, product development, or corporate innovation.

Job Role Average Salary (Per Year) INR Equivalent
Startup Founder Varies based on funding N/A
Business Consultant CAD 66,817 INR 45L
Venture Capital Analyst CAD 85,000 INR 51L
Product Manager CAD 99,417 INR 60L
Innovation Manager CAD 88,899 INR 54L
Corporate Strategy Manager CAD 128,967 INR 78L
Startup Incubator Manager CAD 75,000 INR 46L
Business Development Manager CAD 77,544 INR 47L

Sourced from: Indeed

Note: The amount mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary as per the currency exchange rates.

Top Industries for Entrepreneurship Graduates in Canada

  1. Technology & AI Startups: Toronto and Vancouver are leading AI and SaaS startup hubs.
  2. Fintech & Blockchain: Emerging digital banking and cryptocurrency sectors are growing rapidly.
  3. E-commerce & Retail: Shopify, founded in Canada, has inspired a surge in online businesses.
  4. Healthcare & Biotech: Montreal and Toronto have major health-tech startup ecosystems.
  5. Sustainability & Green Tech: Canada is a leader in renewable energy and eco-friendly innovations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cities in Canada for entrepreneurship students?

Canada’s top cities for entrepreneurship students are Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Waterloo. These cities offer startup incubators, venture capital access, and networking opportunities. Toronto and Vancouver have strong tech ecosystems, while Montreal and Calgary provide lower living costs and growing startup communities.

Do Canadian universities offer incubator programs for entrepreneurship students?

Yes, many Canadian universities have startup incubators and accelerators, such as Creative Destruction Lab (University of Toronto), CDL West (UBC), and District 3 (Concordia University). These programs offer mentorship, funding opportunities, and workspace for students launching their own ventures.

Can I get funding for my startup while studying in Canada?

Yes, students can access government grants, university startup funds, and private venture capital. Programs like Mitacs Entrepreneur International, Startup Canada Grants, and university-based pitch competitions provide funding. Many incubators also connect students with angel investors and venture capital firms.

Is a Master’s in Entrepreneurship different from an MBA in Canada?

Yes, a Master’s in Entrepreneurship focuses specifically on startup development, innovation, and venture scaling, while an MBA covers broader business disciplines like finance, marketing, and leadership. Entrepreneurship programs are hands-on, often including incubators, business model development, and venture funding guidance.

Are there part-time or online Master’s in Entrepreneurship programs in Canada?

Yes, some universities offer part-time, hybrid, and online programs in entrepreneurship. For example, York University and UBC have flexible options for working professionals. These programs allow students to develop startup ideas while balancing work and studies.

What kind of visa do I need to start a business in Canada after graduation?

Graduates can apply for the Start-Up Visa Program, which requires endorsement from a designated Canadian incubator, venture capital firm, or angel investor. Additionally, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows students to work and build their businesses in Canada after completing their studies.

Do I need a business background to apply for a Master’s in Entrepreneurship?

Not necessarily. While some programs prefer business-related degrees, many accept students from engineering, technology, and arts backgrounds if they demonstrate entrepreneurial interest. Universities may require additional coursework or startup experience to bridge business knowledge gaps.

What are the biggest challenges international students face when launching a startup in Canada?

International students often struggle with business registration, visa regulations, and securing initial funding. Networking is crucial, and many universities provide mentorship, legal support, and access to investors. Additionally, adapting to Canadian market trends and customer behavior can be a learning curve.

Can I work while pursuing a Master’s in Entrepreneurship in Canada?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Many students work in startup hubs, university incubators, or co-working spaces to gain practical experience and connect with potential co-founders and investors.

How do Canadian universities support student entrepreneurs after graduation?

Universities offer alumni mentorship, business accelerators, and funding opportunities even after graduation. Programs like MaRS Discovery District (Toronto) and UBC Innovation Hub help students refine business ideas, secure funding, and scale their startups post-graduation.

What industries have the most successful startups in Canada?

Canada has thriving startups in fintech, AI, cleantech, e-commerce, and biotech. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver lead in technology and AI, while Montreal is known for gaming and AI startups. Sustainability-focused startups in cleantech and renewable energy are also rapidly growing.

...Read more
  • Level of study
  • Streams
  • Countries
  • Cities
  • Fees
  • Exams Accepted
  • Course Duration
  • Masters
  • Clear All
2 results found

Master of Business Administration with Specialization in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Business)

University of Alberta, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 0.00L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025

Master of Engineering Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MEIE)

Toronto Metropolitan University, Canada

  • DURATION
    1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JAN 2025

TRENDING SEARCHES

Masters

Top Universities

Top Streams

Editor's Pick

Bachelors

Study in Canada

Disclaimer

All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.