In today's technology-centric business landscape, Management Information Systems (MIS) are essential for organizations to make knowledgeable decisions, enhance efficiency, and secure a competitive advantage. MIS aids organizations in managing data, automating processes, and analyzing information to enhance strategic planning, decision-making, and operational effectiveness.
MIS professionals are anticipated to experience notable job expansion, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 17% rise in employment for computer and information systems managers from 2023 to 2033. This rate of growth is significantly quicker than the average for all jobs. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly salary for MIS managers is quite significant, standing at $171,200.
Whether you're a new graduate or a professional aiming to enhance your skills, this guide provides all the essential information about pursuing an MS in MIS in Canada, from leading universities and expenses to scholarships and job prospects.
MS in MIS: An Overview
MIS (Management Information Systems) is the area where business strategy and information technology are put together in graduate degree programs. Students acquire the necessary abilities to control, assess and boost how an organization uses information technology. Major topics in the curriculum include data management, analyzing systems, implementing IT strategies, cybersecurity, working with enterprise systems, and business intelligence. With knowledge in technology and business management, graduates of the MS in MIS are ready to solve difficult business problems using modern tools and data.
More students from around the world choose Canada to study for their MS in MIS because the country offers excellent education, diversity and a growing tech sector. Educational institutions in Canada provide modern courses that include a big focus on data analytics, cloud computing and transforming into digital environments.
Because of the PGWP, graduates from overseas can work in Canada and apply for permanent residency. Thanks to tech centers in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, MIS graduates have opportunities in areas such as finance, consulting, e-commerce, and government.
Category
Details
Key Skills Taught
Data Analytics, Systems Design, IT Project Management, Cybersecurity, Business Intelligence
Duration & Program Format
1–2 years; Full-time (some programs may offer co-op or internship options)
Average Tuition Fee
CAD 15,000 – CAD 40,000 (INR 9,29,338 - INR 24,77,793) per annum
Target Audience
Recent graduates in IT, business, or engineering, and professionals seeking a tech-management role
Career Outcomes
Business Analyst, Systems Analyst, IT Manager, Data Analyst, BI Specialist, Project Manager
Top Universities Offering MS in MIS in Canada
Multiple prestigious universities in Canada provide Master of Science (MS) degrees in Management Information Systems (MIS). Notable institutions include the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia (UBC), and McGill University. Other distinguished universities providing excellent MIS programs are York University and Concordia University.
Showcasing the leading universities in Canada that provide an MS in Management Information Systems (MIS), including the program they offer, the duration, and the approximate tuition fees:
Master of Science in Business Administration – Management Information Systems
2 years
CAD 9690/year (INR 6.0L)
Master's (MS) in MIS in Canada – Requirements for Admissions
To be admitted to a Master of Science (MS) in Management Information Systems (MIS) in Canada, you generally require a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, strong academic performance, and proof of English language proficiency. Certain universities might also ask for GRE or GMAT scores, while others could take pertinent work experience into account.
Here is a general admission criterion for admission to MS in MIS programs in Canada:
✅ Bachelor’s Degree
Typically, a 4-year undergraduate degree
Preferred fields: Business, IT, Accounting, Engineering, or Sciences
Minimum academic performance: B average (approx. 75% or GPA 3.0+)
To be eligible for an MS in MIS in Canada, applicants generally need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or an equivalent subject. In some cases, programs seek candidates with prior work experience, but others may accept applicants who have earned bachelor’s degrees in Corporate Finance or Human Resources.
The main expectations that universities have are generally the same, despite having different specific criteria.
Academic Qualifications
Students must earn a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university after 4 years.
You should have backgrounds that can be found in Information Technology, Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering or similar academic areas.
Universities generally require a GPA of 3.0 or a 75% average from the last two years.
Score from Standardized Tests
Certain universities insist on or recommend that you take either the GMAT or GRE exam.
Work/internship experience.
Competitive scores:
GMAT: 550+
GRE: 300+ (combined verbal + quant)
English Language Proficiency
International candidates are required to show their English proficiency by taking standardized examinations such as the IELTS or TOEFL. Here is a table displaying the score requirements for leading Canadian universities that provide MIS or similar programs:
University
IELTS (Academic)
TOEFL iBT
Concordia University
6.5 overall; 6.5 in writing; ≥6.0 in other bands
90 overall; 27 in writing; ≥20 in other sections
Queen’s University – Smith School of Business
6.5 overall; no band below 6.0
88 overall; 20 in each section
York University
7.0 overall; 6.5 in reading & listening; 7.0 in writing & speaking
103 overall; 23 in listening, 24 in reading, 28 in writing, 28 in speaking
University of Lethbridge
6.5 overall; no band below 6.0
86 overall; 20 in each section
University of Ottawa
6.5 overall; no band below 6.0
86 overall; 22 in writing
Concordia University of Edmonton
6.0 overall
80 overall
University of Waterloo
7.0 overall; no band below 6.0
90 overall
McGill University
6.5 overall
86 overall
Memorial University of Newfoundland
6.5 overall; 6.0 in reading & listening; 6.5 in speaking & writing
90 overall; 20 in reading & listening; 25 in speaking & writing
University of British Columbia (UBC) – Sauder School of Business
Evidence of Financial Support (bank statements, GIC, sponsorship letter demonstrating a minimum of CAD 20,635 annually for living costs, in addition to tuition)
Identity and Passport
Medical examination and biometric data collection (if necessary)
Purpose statement or study outline for visa application
How to Get Admission to Top Universities Offering MS in MIS in Canada
Gaining acceptance into a leading Canadian university for an MS in Management Information Systems (MIS) requires a polished academic profile, robust supporting documentation, and thoughtful planning. Adhere to these essential steps to enhance your odds of achieving success:
Investigate and Compile a List of Universities
Begin by recognizing leading Canadian universities that provide an MS in MIS or similar programs (such as Business Analytics, IT Management, or Information Systems). Concentrate on:
QS Rankings
Curriculum alignment with your career goals
Tuition fees and funding options
Co-op/internship opportunities
Admission deadlines and intakes (usually Fall or Winter)
Meet Academic and Test Requirements
Academic Profile: Hold a 4-year bachelor's degree (preferably in IT, business, computer science, or engineering)
Maintain a competitive GPA (typically 75 % + or 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale)
Standardized Tests: GMAT/GRE: Required or recommended by some universities (e.g., McGill, Alberta)
English Proficiency: IELTS (6.5–7.5 overall) and TOEFL (88–100+)
Prepare Key Application Documents
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Describes your professional aspirations, educational history, and motivations for selecting the program.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Typically two or three, from academic instructors or professional managers.
Curriculum Vitae – Emphasizing educational background, projects, internships, and work experience.
Academic Records – From every post-secondary institution attended.
Evidence of English language skills – IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo results.
Submit Your Application Online
Every university maintains its application platform and deadlines. Make certain to:
Submit your application prior to the official deadline (usually between Dec–Feb for Fall enrollment).
Submit the application fee (CAD 100–150 for each school)
Monitor the status of your application frequently.
Apply for Scholarships (Optional but Recommended)
Look for:
Merit-based entrance scholarships
Graduate assistantships or research roles
External scholarships (e.g., Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship, Vanier CGS)
Secure a Study Permit (Visa)
Once admitted:
Apply for a Canadian study permit via the IRCC portal
Consider applying under Student Direct Stream (SDS) for faster processing (available to citizens of India, China, Philippines, etc)
Prepare for Departure and Enrollment
Reserve accommodations and organize your trip.
Participate in university orientation activities.
Establish a local bank account and SIM card in Canada.
Begin connecting with colleagues, professors, and graduates.
Cost of Studying MS in MIS in Canada
The cost of an MS in MIS in Canada can range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 per year, depending on the university and program. Additional living expenses, including accommodation, can add another CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 annually.
Here's a bullet-point summary of the actual cost of pursuing an MS in MIS in Canada, including tuition, living, and additional expenses:
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Indian Students in Canada
Indian students seeking to study in Canada have access to various scholarships and financial aid options, including government-funded and university-specific programs, as well as non-government scholarships and grants. These resources can help offset tuition and living expenses.
University-Specific Scholarships
University
Scholarship Name
Eligibility Criteria / Description
University of Toronto
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities
McGill University
McGill Entrance Scholarships
High academic standing and strong SOP and references
University of British Columbia
International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES)
New international undergrad/grad students with top academic records
University of Alberta
Graduate Entrance Scholarship
Offered automatically based on academic merit (CAD 17,500+)
University of Waterloo
International Master's Award of Excellence (IMAE)
CAD 2,500/term for up to 5 terms; awarded for strong academic performance
Queen’s University
Smith School of Business Scholarships
Varies; competitive funding available for MIS and Analytics programs
Government Scholarships
Scholarship Name
Value
Eligibility / Description
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
CAD 50,000/year for 3 years
For exceptional students pursuing doctoral-level programs (including some MS/PhD combos)
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Grants
Varies (short-term research or training)
For students enrolled in Indian institutions with a Canadian academic partner
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
CAD 5,000 per term (up to CAD 15,000/year)
Must be studying in Ontario; awarded based on academic merit
Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence Scholarships
Partial to full tuition waivers
Available through collaborative academic research programs
Assistantships and Part-Time Work
Canadian universities and the government support international students with work opportunities:
Graduate Assistantships - Offered by many universities in teaching, research, or administrative departments. The pay ranges from CAD 10,000–20,000+ per year, depending on hours and role. It is often awarded to students with strong academic and communication skills
On-Campus & Off-Campus Part-Time Work - Work up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. The work includes roles in libraries, cafes, student services, or relevant off-campus roles. The average pay: CAD 15–22/hour, depending on the job and city
Career Opportunities After Pursuing an MS in MIS in Canada
Canadian students with a Master’s Degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) gain access to many options such as IT, business analysis and data management. You should be ready to find opportunities in business systems analysis, data mining, information security and project management.
Popular Job Roles with their Salary Expectations
Job Title
Role Overview
Average Salary (CAD/year)
Business Analyst
Acts as a bridge between business needs and IT solutions. Analyzes data and systems to improve business processes.
69,913 (INR 43L)
Systems Analyst
Evaluates, designs, and implements IT systems to support business operations. Works closely with developers and stakeholders.
71,681 (INR 44L)
IT Manager
Manages an organization's IT infrastructure, oversees tech teams, and ensures alignment with business goals.
95,292 (INR 58L)
Data Analyst
Collects, cleans, and interprets data to help businesses make informed decisions. Proficient in tools like SQL, Python, Power BI.
69,320 (INR 42L)
Source: Glassdoor
Employers and Industries hiring MIS graduates in Canada
Company
Industry
Common Job Titles
Deloitte Canada
Consulting/Tech Advisory
Business Analyst, Tech Consultant, Systems Analyst
IBM Canada
Information Technology
Data Analyst, IT Specialist, Project Manager
RBC (Royal Bank of Canada)
Banking & Finance
Business Systems Analyst, Data Analyst, IT Manager
TD Bank Group
Banking & Financial Services
IT Business Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst
CGI Group
IT & Consulting Services
MIS Consultant, Application Support Analyst
Shopify
E-Commerce/Tech
Product Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst
Manulife Financial
Insurance & FinTech
Information Systems Specialist, Data Engineer
Bell Canada
Telecommunications
Network Analyst, IT Solutions Consultant
Government of Canada
Public Sector
Information Management Analyst, Systems Administrator
How upGrad Can Help You
upGrad is a recognized online learning platform that partners with distinguished international universities to offer great academic and job support to students hoping to study overseas programs such as an MS in MIS in Canada.
International University collaborations
Comprehensive admission assistance
Guidance and support for careers through mentorship
In Canada, how many months or years is the average MS in MIS program?
Most master’s degree programs in Management Information Systems in Canada are completed in 1 to 2 years. The time it takes to complete the program varies by university, the type of study you choose and if it is completed full-time or part-time. There are universities where the program lasts just 1 year and others that need students to work through the program for 2 years.
Do you have to submit your GRE or GMAT scores for admission?
You do not have to submit GRE or GMAT scores for all graduate programs. Certain applications still require SAT or ACT scores, but a lot are not looking at these test scores anymore. Check which requirements apply for every university and program before you apply.
Are workers on student visas able to take jobs while they study?
Maybe you’ve heard that various nations allow international students to work, but within certain boundaries. In some places, international students may work only during certain hours during their studies.
Which job positions can be pursued after finishing an MS in MIS?
A Master’s in Management Information Systems (MIS) provides access to various job opportunities, especially in areas that necessitate a combination of technical and business expertise. These positions frequently require overseeing and examining data, creating and executing IT solutions, and connecting IT with business requirements.
What is the typical salary following the completion of an MS in MIS in Canada?
Upon earning an MS in Management Information Systems (MIS) in Canada, the typical salary varies between CAD 78,000 and 150,000 per year. Certain sources indicate a general average of CAD 76,000 annually based on PayScale. Compensation may differ depending on the particular field of expertise and the hiring organization.
Does a Master's in MIS facilitate obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Canada?
Indeed, an MS in Management Information Systems (MIS) can potentially result in permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Although not guaranteed, a Master's degree, especially in a discipline such as MIS, can greatly improve your qualification for several immigration programs, such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Are there scholarships for international students?
Certainly, scholarships can be accessed by international students. Although some scholarships are limited to particular universities or nations, numerous options are available for international students seeking higher education. These scholarships can pay for tuition, housing costs, and additional expenses.
Is work experience necessary for a Master's in MIS in Canada?
Work experience isn’t required, but certain universities favor candidates who have 1–2 years of pertinent experience. It can enhance your profile, though it is not an absolute necessity.
Is it possible for international students to work while pursuing an MS in MIS in Canada?
Certainly. International students are permitted to work a maximum of 20 hours each week while classes are in session and can work full-time during designated breaks with a valid study permit.
Is the MIS program designated as STEM in Canada?
Although "STEM" is a U.S. designation, the majority of MIS programs in Canada concentrate on technology and data, equipping students for positions in IT, analytics, and technology-oriented business functions.
What are the steps to apply for an MS in MIS programs in Canada?
You usually submit your application via the university's website. Necessary documents consist of transcripts, English proficiency test results, recommendation letters, a resume/CV, and a statement of purpose. Certain programs may also need application fees and might hold interviews.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to c...
Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.