The process at a glance
- 01Choose Programme
Select MA or MSc stream
MA Economics (thesis or major paper, 1-2 years) — research or policy focus. MSc Economics (quantitative, research-focused). 2-year programmes provide 3-year PGWP.
- 02Prepare Application
Meet requirements
Strong mathematics background (multivariable calculus, linear algebra, statistics, econometrics). GRE may be recommended. IELTS 7.0+. Strong academic references and statement of purpose.
- 03Target Employers
Identify Canadian economics roles
Bank of Canada, Finance Canada (Ottawa), commercial banks (Toronto), economic consulting (Deloitte, Charles River Associates), investment firms, and international trade organisations.
- 04Plan PR Path
Build Canadian economics career
After PGWP, gain Canadian work experience. Economics professionals with Canadian education and work experience have competitive CRS scores. Government economists have strong pathways to PR through Express Entry or PNP.
Why Study Economics in the Canada?
Choosing to pursue a Master's in Economics in the Canada offers international students access to top-ranked programs, expert faculty, and diverse career opportunities. The Canada's higher education system is globally recognized for academic excellence and innovation in Economics education.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for Economics Master's programs include a relevant bachelor's degree, strong academic record, English proficiency evidence, and supporting documents. Most programs require GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a compelling statement of purpose outlining your research interests. Deadlines vary but typically fall in late winter for fall admission.
Tuition and Funding
The cost of a Economics Master's degree ranges from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with additional living expenses of $15,000-$25,000. Funding options include scholarships, assistantships, and external grants. Teaching and research assistantships are common ways to offset costs while gaining valuable experience in your field.
Career Outcomes
Career prospects for Economics Master's graduates are strong, with opportunities across industries. Starting salaries range from $60,000 to $120,000. The Social Sciences sector offers particular growth potential. Employers value the advanced training and international perspective that graduates bring to their organizations.
Post-Graduation Work Authorization
Post-graduation work options depend on your study country. US students can use OPT with STEM extension for Economics. UK students can apply for the Graduate Route visa for 2 years. Canadian students qualify for the PGWP for up to 3 years. Start researching these options early in your program.
A Canadian Economics MA from Queen's or UBC provides rigorous training and access to Canada's strong finance and government labour markets.
Canadian Economics MA programmes and government/finance connections
Canadian Economics Master's programmes have strong connections to Canada's finance and government sectors. UofT offers MA Economics (1-year, intensive) and the Department of Economics is one of the world's leading research departments. UBC Vancouver School of Economics offers a renowned MA Economics programme with strong quantitative training. Queen's University offers MA Economics with a strong academic tradition and connections to Ontario's finance sector. Western University offers MA Economics with excellent econometrics training. University of Alberta offers MA Economics with strengths in natural resource and energy economics — highly relevant to Alberta's economy. Simon Fraser University offers MA Economics with strengths in public policy and labour economics. Programme duration: 12-24 months. The 2-year MA programmes at UBC, Queen's, and Western provide 3-year PGWP. Canadian economics Master's graduates are competitive candidates for roles at the Bank of Canada, Finance Canada, commercial banks, and economic consulting firms.
Economics funding and Ottawa/Toronto employment corridors
Canadian Economics Master's funding is available through SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarships and university-specific awards. UofT offers the Department of Economics Master's fellowships. UBC offers graduate awards for economics Master's students. Queen's offers Queen's Graduate Awards. Western offers Economics Department scholarships. Tuition: CAD $15,000-$30,000/year for international students — lower than UK or US economics programmes. The Bank of Canada and Finance Canada in Ottawa hire economists through regular recruitment cycles and are open to international Master's graduates — the Bank of Canada's research analyst programme is a particularly strong entry point. Toronto's commercial banks (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC), investment firms, and economic consulting practices (Deloitte Economics, analysis from major consulting firms) recruit economics Master's graduates for analyst and research roles. Starting salaries: CAD $55,000-$85,000 depending on employer and location.
Economics career PR pathways and Bank of Canada sponsorship
Economics Master's graduates in Canada access excellent PR pathways. The Bank of Canada and Finance Canada sponsor PR and work permits for international staff economists — these roles are PR-supportive employers that understand immigration processes. One year of skilled economist work at the Bank of Canada, Finance Canada, or a commercial bank makes the graduate competitive for Express Entry. The Ontario PNP Master's Graduate Stream provides a direct PR pathway. Express Entry CRS for economics professionals with Canadian Master's + Canadian work is typically 460-510. Economics is classified under skill types that are frequently selected in general Express Entry draws, so no special category targeting is needed. Graduates with strong French language skills (NCLC 7+) gain additional CRS points (up to 50) and are eligible for French-language category draws. The 3-year PGWP from a 2-year programme provides a comfortable timeline for this process.
Flashcards
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What you learned
End-of-guide quiz
1 question
- 01
An economics MA graduate with a 3-year PGWP works in Toronto finance. After 18 months, their CRS score is 480 and the cut-off is 490. What backup strategy exists?
0 / 1 answered
Official sources
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Procedural deep-dives
For statutes, forms, deadlines, and evidence standards, use these legal owners on MyCaseworks.
- Canada study & PGWP library
Study permit, PGWP, and family sponsorship deep dives.
- PGWP eligibility 2026
Field-of-study and program-length rules after graduation.
- Study permit document checklist
Evidence pack for IRCC study permit filing.
Frequently asked questions
What GPA do I need for Economics Master's programs?+
Most programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Competitive programs may require 3.5+.
When should I apply for Economics Master's programs?+
Applications are typically due between December and March for fall enrollment. Start preparing materials 8-12 months before deadlines.
Can I work while studying for my Master's in Economics?+
Yes, international students can typically work on campus up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
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