Masters in Public Health in Canada

Over 4.2 lakh Indian students are studying in Canada —and public health is quickly becoming one of the top fields. A Master’s in Public Health in Canada combines world-class education, research opportunities, and access to jobs.

The digital health market is projected to reach $197.88 billion by 2025, and Canada is actively preparing for this growth. The country is investing in skilled professionals across public health, health policy, and healthcare research. Top universities like Toronto, McGill, and UBC rank globally for life sciences and health programs.

Here’s what makes this degree a solid choice:

• Course length of 1–2 years
• Training in epidemiology, policy, and health systems
• Clear post-study work and PR pathways

Many graduates work with public hospitals, NGOs, research labs, and government agencies. This page covers everything—top universities, tuition fees, admission requirements, scholarships, and career options after your Master’s in public health in Canada.

Looking at Canada as your study destination? Here’s why Indian students are choosing Canada for higher education.

Highlights: Master's in Public Health in Canada 

Want to explore more public universities and master’s programs? Check out top study options in Canada for international students.

Best Universities for Master’s in Public Health in Canada (2025)

Canada offers some of the world’s most respected public health programs. Most Master's in Public Health in Canada programs are offered by public universities, which means lower fees and strong government funding. These institutions also have strong links with hospitals, NGOs, and public agencies—giving students access to hands-on experience and real-world projects.

Top Public Universities for Master’s in Public Health in Canada

All these universities are public and offer recognized, research-led programs that are widely accepted in Canada and abroad.

Why Indian Students Prefer Public Universities in Canada

• Lower fees compared to private or USA universities
• Post-study work visa (up to 3 years) after graduation
• Strong focus on real-world health problems—epidemiology, policy, global health
• Easier access to PR through Canadian Experience Class
• Friendly campuses with strong South Asian student networks

If you’re looking for a degree that gives you international exposure, job security, and a path to PR, these universities are worth considering.

Get a complete breakdown of cost of living in Canada for international students.

What Specializations Can You Choose in a Master's in Public Health in Canada?

Master's in Public Health in Canada programs specializations help you align your studies with your career goals and stand out in competitive job markets. The right track can lead you into data analysis, fieldwork, healthcare leadership, or policy development.

Common MPH Specializations and Career Roles

These tracks are highly valued by hospitals, government health bodies, and international NGOs in Canada.

How Do You Choose the Right Specialization?

Ask yourself:

• What’s your background—medicine, science, or management?
• Do you want to work with data, people, or policy?
• Are you aiming for research, fieldwork, or leadership roles?

Some universities let you choose electives instead of fixed tracks. That gives more flexibility if you're exploring different interests.

Types of Master's in Public Health Available in Canada

Students often come across different public health degree titles while applying in Canada. Each type has a different approach—some focus on field practice, others on research, and some prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.

Public Health Degree Options in Canada

What Sets Them Apart?

• MPH is practical and widely preferred by Indian students aiming to work in Canada after graduation
• MSc Public Health involves deeper research and is ideal if you're considering a PhD later
• MBA in Healthcare prepares you for leadership roles in private hospitals, pharma, and consulting firms

If you're looking to work soon after graduation, MPH and MBA tracks usually offer faster job entry points.

Wondering how to begin your application? Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a Canadian student visa.

Eligibility Criteria for Master's in Public Health in Canada

Canadian universities are clear about what they expect, especially for public health programs. Most look for a strong academic record and proof that you're ready for graduate-level study.

Some programs also prefer applicants with a background in healthcare or public service, but it’s not always a must.

What Do You Need to Apply?

Some universities may ask for a Statement of Purpose (SOP), academic CV, and Letters of Recommendation as part of the application.

Confused about IELTS scores? Here’s the minimum IELTS score required for Canadian universities.

Still in school? You can also study in Canada after 12th—here’s how.

Can You Apply Without a Science Background?

It depends on the university. Some MPH programs accept students from social sciences, economics, or even humanities—if your SOP shows clear intent and interest in public health. Check university-specific requirements to be sure.

Application Process for Master's in Public Health in Canada

Most MPH programs in Canada open applications up to a year in advance. You’ll need to prepare your documents, meet the deadlines, and apply through each university’s online portal.

Step-by-Step Application Timeline

When Should You Start Applying?

• Fall intake (September) is the most common
• Begin preparing by May–July (previous year)
• Submit applications between October and February
• Some programs may close earlier if seats fill fast

Apply early to increase your chances of admission and scholarships.

Cost of Studying Master's in Public Health in Canada

Tuition fees for a Master's in Public Health in Canada usually range from CAD 18,000 to 34,000 per year (₹11 lakh – ₹21 lakh approx.), depending on the university. Most programs run for 1.5 to 2 years.

Once you’ve factored in tuition, the next big part is living expenses and other one-time costs. Here's what Indian students should know.

Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

Living costs depend on the city. Larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive, while places like Halifax or Saskatoon are more affordable.

Shared housing, meal plans, and using student discounts can help cut monthly costs.

One-Time & Annual Costs

How to Manage Expenses as an Indian Student

• Work Part-Time: Allowed up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during breaks
• Apply for Scholarships: Many universities offer entrance awards and merit-based funding
• Choose a Budget-Friendly City: Living in mid-sized or smaller cities can save ₹3–5 lakh over the course
• Consider Education Loans: Many Indian banks and NBFCs offer student loans with flexible repayment options
• Look for Paid Practicum or Internships: Some MPH programs offer hands-on opportunities with stipends

With smart planning, you can comfortably manage your budget and still gain a world-class education.

Scholarships for Master's in Public Health in Canada

Scholarships can ease a lot of financial pressure. Indian students applying for a Master's in Public Health in Canada can explore multiple options—from university-based awards to government-funded scholarships.

Some offer full coverage, including tuition and living expenses. Others provide partial waivers or one-time grants.

Types of Scholarships Available

Fully-Funded vs Partial Scholarships

Explore fully funded scholarships in Canada for Indian students and find the right one for your profile.

Also check Canada scholarships specifically for Indian students.

How to Apply for Scholarships?

• Check the university website for scholarship deadlines and criteria
• Write a strong SOP that clearly explains your goals in public health
• Submit academic transcripts, LORs, and English test scores
• Apply early—some scholarships close 6–8 months before the intake
• Look for external options like Inlaks, and Commonwealth (for research-focused tracks)

Some universities automatically consider students for entrance awards—you don’t always need a separate application.

Career Opportunities After Master's in Public Health in Canada

Public health is a growing field in Canada, with increasing demand across hospitals, government agencies, research labs, and NGOs. After completing a Master's in Public Health in Canada, you’ll qualify for roles that focus on health systems, data, policy, or community health programs.

Graduates find work in both public and private sectors. Job roles vary based on your specialization and prior experience.

In-Demand Career Paths After MPH

Salary Range for Public Health Professionals in Canada

Salaries vary depending on your role, specialization, and province. Roles in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver often pay higher.

Curious about salaries in the public health field? Check average salaries in Canada across industries.

Want to know if your role is on the PR list? Use Canada’s NOC codes to check your job category.

Top Employers Hiring MPH Graduates

• Health Canada & Public Health Agency of Canada
• World Health Organization (Canada Office)
• Provincial Health Departments (e.g. BC Centre for Disease Control)
• Hospitals and Research Centres (Sunnybrook, SickKids, CAMH)
• NGOs and Global Health Foundations (e.g. Médecins Sans Frontières, Red Cross)
• Academic Institutions and Think Tanks

Having Canadian work experience (through practicum or internships) increases your chances of landing a full-time role after graduation.

Certifications That Complement a Master's in Public Health in Canada

Indian students graduating with an MPH in Canada often pursue certifications to specialize further—especially in areas like epidemiology, health informatics, or public health leadership.

Top Certifications for Public Health Professionals

When Should You Get Certified?

• Some students start preparing during their MPH
• Others complete certifications after securing their first job
• If you’re planning to work in specialized roles, certifications give you an edge

Certifications aren’t mandatory but help you qualify for competitive roles—especially with government or international agencies.

Work Permit & PR Pathways After Master's in Public Health in Canada

Public health is listed among priority sectors in several provinces, and Canadian immigration policies favor international graduates with local education and work experience.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

This allows you to gain Canadian work experience—which is essential for PR.

Looking to settle in Canada after your MPH? Here’s how to apply for Canada PR after your studies.

PR Pathways for MPH Graduates

provinces even prioritize healthcare profiles in their PNP draws.

Industries Hiring Public Health Professionals

• Healthcare & Hospitals
• Government Health Agencies
• Public Health Research Centres
• NGOs and International Health Foundations
• Private Healthcare Consultancies

Canada continues to invest in community health, policy, and research—creating stable demand for MPH graduates.

Is a Master's in Public Health in Canada Worth It?

Yes—for most Indian students, it’s a strong investment.

Pros:

• Global degree with Canadian work rights
• High demand for public health professionals
• Strong salary potential (₹30 – ₹45 lakh/year)
• Clear PR pathways post-study
• 1.5–2 year programs save time and living costs

Cons:

• Admission to top schools is competitive
• Practicum may not be paid (in some universities)
• Cost of living in big cities is high

If you’re aiming for a public health career in Canada or globally, this degree gives you the right mix of education, exposure, and long-term opportunity.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You with Master’s in Public Health in Canada

Planning to study public health in Canada? upGrad Abroad helps you move forward with clarity and support.

Here’s what we do:

• Suggest universities that fit your profile and goals
• Help you write your SOP, prepare your documents, and apply on time
• Help with resources for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and more
• Guide you with scholarship options and visa steps

You focus on your goals—we’ll help with the rest.

Connect with our team for 1:1 consultation.