Masters in Pharmacy in Canada: Top Universities, Costs, Eligibility, and Career Scope (2025 Guide)

Masters in Pharmacy in Canada: Key Highlights 

A Master’s in Pharmacy in Canada is a two-year program offering specializations such as Clinical Pharmacy, Industrial Pharmacy, and Drug Design. Leading universities, including the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, and the University of Alberta, offer these programs.  

Admission generally requires a strong undergraduate science background (GPA 3.0+) and English proficiency, usually IELTS 6.5 or higher. Tuition fees range from CAD 15,000–35,000 (INR 9.8L–22.9L) per year, and graduates can pursue roles as pharmacists, researchers, or regulatory professionals. 

The table below outlines the main program parameters for a master's in pharmacy in Canada: 

Top Universities 

Canada is home to several world-class institutions renowned for their Master’s in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences programs.  

The table below lists the top universities and their rankings:  

Source: QS Top Universities 

Top Specializations 

Canadian pharmacy programs offer diverse specializations that blend research, clinical practice, and pharmaceutical innovation.  

Here are the top 5 specialization fields with their focus areas:  

Eligibility and Admission Requirements 

To pursue a Master’s in Pharmacy in Canada, international students must meet academic, language, and sometimes professional benchmarks. 

While requirements vary by university and program, most follow these common criteria: 

Academic Qualifications 

Most Canadian universities require a four-year bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy or a related field with a strong academic record. 

Here’s what is required by university tier: 

English Proficiency Scores 

If English is not your first language, you must provide IELTS or TOEFL scores. 

Here are the minimum score requirements: 

Note: PTE and CAEL are also accepted by many institutions. 

Work Experience 

While research-based pharmacy programs primarily focus on academic performance, some clinical or applied programs may require prior professional experience or licensure. 

Here’s what is expected by university tier:  

Cost of Studying  

The total cost includes tuition fees and living expenses, which vary by university and city.  

Pharmacy programs generally fall in the mid-to-high range due to lab and research components. 

Here is a clear breakdown:  

Tuition Fees 

The table below lists the approximate tuition fees by tier:  

Cost of Living  

The cost of living in Canada is significantly higher than in India. 

On average, 

• The estimated monthly cost for a family of four is CAD 5,231.7 (INR 3.44L), excluding rent. 
• The estimated monthly cost for a single person is CAD 1,435.4 (INR 94,200), excluding rent. 
• Rent in Canada is, on average, 631.8% higher than in India, with monthly rent ranging from CAD 1,200–2,500 (INR 78,700–1.64L) depending on the city and apartment size. 

Top Scholarships 

Scholarships can significantly reduce costs for international students.  

Below are 5 most popular options with eligibility and coverage: 

Masters Intakes and Admission 

Canadian universities offer multiple intakes for master’s programs, which simply means different start months when classes begin.  

Main Intakes in Canada:  

• Fall Intake: September – Most popular, widest program availability 
• Winter Intake: January – Good for students who miss Fall deadlines 
• Summer Intake: May – Limited programs, mostly short courses or diplomas 

Below is a table listing some Canadian universities and their available intakes: 

Note: Most universities follow a rolling admission process, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received rather than after a fixed deadline.  

Seats are offered continuously until the cohort is full. 

How to Apply? 

Applying for a Master’s in Pharmacy in Canada is a competitive process that requires early planning.  

Here is the step-by-step procedure: 

Step 1: Research Universities – Compare rankings, tuition fees, program specializations, and career outcomes. 
Step 2: Check Eligibility – Verify academic qualifications, English proficiency, and any professional requirements. 
Step 3: Prepare Required Tests – English proficiency exams (IELTS/TOEFL); GRE/GMAT not required for pharmacy programs. 
Step 4: Gather Documents – Most Canadian universities require: 

• Academic transcripts 
• English proficiency test scores 
• Letters of recommendation 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) 
• Resume/CV 
• Passport copy 
• Bachelor’s degree certificate 

Step 5: Submit Application – Apply via official university portals and pay the application fee. 

• Application Fee Range: CAD 100–150 (INR 6,562–9,843) 

Step 6: Attend Interview – Prepare for academic and career-focused questions (if required). 
Step 7: Confirm Admission – Accept the offer, pay the deposit, and start the visa process. 

Student Visa Requirements 

International students who wish to study in Canada need a Canadian Study Permit. 

Here are the requirements: 

Eligibility 

• Be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) 
• Show proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent) 
• Demonstrate financial ability to cover tuition and living costs 

Financial Requirements 

• Tuition Fees: Full first-year fees as per admission letter 
• Living Costs: CAD 10,000 (INR 6.56L) for one year outside Quebec; CAD 11,000 (INR 7.21L) for Quebec 

Documents Required 

• Valid passport 
• Admission letter from DLI 
• Proof of funds (bank statements or loan/sponsorship letter) 
• English language test results 
• Academic transcripts and certificates 
• Immigration Medical Exam (if applicable) 
• Biometrics and visa application fee payment confirmation 

Visa Application Fee: CAD 150 (INR 9,843) 

Top Cities  

Canada’s major cities offer excellent opportunities for pharmacy students, from advanced research facilities to strong healthcare networks.  

Here are the best options: 

Top Job Opportunities  

Graduates of pharmacy programs in Canada enjoy strong career prospects across healthcare, research, and pharmaceutical industries.  

Here are the top high-paying roles: 

Source: Glassdoor