Digital marketing courses in Canada are becoming extremely popular among professionals and students alike. With the world becoming increasingly digital, students are arming themselves with skills that are needed in the professional world today.
Here’s some telling data – as of April 2023, there were about 5.18 billion internet users worldwide, which amounted to over 64% of the world population.
Since a staggering majority spends its time online, the world of advertising and marketing has undergone a paradigm shift. It has moved away from the more traditional forms and is now using marketing content and creatives through various electronic media and the Internet including (but not limited to) websites, search engines, social media, video advertisements, blogs, textual advertisements, and infographics. The bottomline remains the same – you have got to sell. But how do we go about it in a world connected by the internet?
Here’s where digital marketing courses come in.
While you can study digital marketing in the United Kingdom, US or any other country, many students, especially Indian students, also choose Canada to specialise in digital marketing.
Here’s a look at some reasons.
1. An industry that is growing exponentially:
After the United States, Canada has one of the largest growing global market shares when it comes to the digital marketing industry. Ad spending in the Digital Advertising market is projected to reach US$14.91 billion in 2023. Canada is also expected to produce over 40,000 new job opportunities for digital marketing experts by the end of the decade. According to salaries curated by Glassdoor, the national average salary of a digital marketer in Canada is CA $62,534. With cities like Toronto and Vancouver becoming technological hubs, this is one of the primary reasons why Indian students choose to pursue digital marketing in Canada.
2. World class education opportunities:
The post secondary education system in Canada works in sync with the real world industry that exists. The diploma courses, especially the graduate diploma courses are designed keeping in mind the practical and professional requirements of the industry. The faculty in many colleges and universities is not limited to professors but also pioneers currently at the top of the industry. Considering the projected growth of the industry, most top colleges now offer specialised courses for students and professionals.
3. Government support for the technological sector:
The Government of Canada recognises that the information and communications technology sector is a significant contributor to the national GDP. So the government also invests in this sector to become global leaders and create highly skilled and lucrative job opportunities.
4. Accessible and affordable:
Compared to the U.K. or the U.S., higher education in Canada is more affordable to students, especially from India. That said, the quality of life, safety, acceptance of immigrants, multiculturalism are all reasons why students choose Canada as one of the top global study destinations.
In this section, we will be looking at the best digital marketing courses in Canada. The courses spread across different levels of study, meaning you can apply for them right after high school or after your undergraduate degree, after gaining some professional experience. We will be looking at each of the courseâs USPs, admission criteria and the fees.
S.No |
Course |
Degree/ Certificate |
Institution |
Location |
1 |
Digital and Content Marketing |
Postgraduate Certificate |
York University |
Toronto |
2 |
Digital Experience Innovation |
Masterâs Degree |
University of Waterloo |
Waterloo |
3 |
Digital Transformation and Innovation |
Master of Science |
University of Ottawa |
Ottawa |
4 |
Digital Marketing Specialist |
Diploma |
Toronto School of Management |
Toronto |
5 |
Digital Business Marketing |
Bachelor of Commerce |
Humber College |
Toronto |
6 |
Digital Media and Marketing |
Bachelorâs level certificate Course |
University of Calgary |
Calgary |
7 |
Social Media |
Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
Seneca College |
York Campus |
8 |
Marketing Management – Digital Media |
Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
George Brown College |
Toronto |
9 |
Marketing – Digital Engagement Strategy |
Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
Centennial College |
Toronto |
10 |
Digital Marketing |
Post Diploma Certificate |
Bow Valley College |
Calgary |
University/ College |
York University, Toronto, Ontario |
Level of Study |
Professional Programme/ Post-graduate certificate |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, On campus |
Duration |
8 months |
Fees |
CA $15,199 |
Source: York University
What makes this course good?
- For those starting out in the digital marketing industry, this course will provide you with the tools and the expertise to make data-driven marketing decisions.
- You will learn the intricacies of web analytics, email marketing, content marketing strategy, editorial planning, copywriting and consumer research.
- You will develop technical competencies in user data and segmentation, SEM (Search Engine Marketing), SEO (Search Engine Optimization), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), communications, and PPC (Pay per click) advertising.
- The curriculum at York University has been developed in collaboration with marketing leaders that will also allow you to develop your skills through experiential assignments and projects.
- You will graduate with a portfolio of work and begin building your professional network.
- York University is one of the largest and the top universities in Canada, giving you an authentic multicultural experience.
Fees and scholarship options
The tuition fees for international students is CA $15,199. As a professional course, it does not have dedicated scholarships, however, you can reach out to the York Bursary or the Ontario Graduate Scholarship programme, submit an application and proof of financial need to get some kind of financial aid.
Eligibility
Here are the admission requirements
- Minimum of a baccalaureate degree with a minimum of a 60% average (C) or a 3-year Canadian College Diplomas with minimum âBâ or 70% average
- Official transcripts (International students: please provide original English translated copy of University degree and transcripts.)
- Online application form
- Statement of Interest video
- Resume
- Proof of language proficiency – Minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT of 86.
Admission process
The programme is designed for recent university graduates or those with some kind of experience in marketing, business communication, web design and so on. The application process is competitive and having the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. For international students, the intake is in Summer. The course typically begins in May and ends in early January of the following year. You must submit the completed application form through the university website along with the necessary transcripts and create a video statement of interest in order for the university to consider your application.
University/ College |
University of Waterloo |
Level of Study |
Postgraduate / Masterâs programme |
Mode of Study |
Online Full-time or Online Part-time |
Duration |
8 – 20 months, depending on full or part time |
Fees |
CA $36,180 |
Source: MDEI
What makes this course good?
- This is a programme that is completely unique to the University of Waterloo.
- It is a course-based professional degree that works in the intersection of technology, creativity and business.
- It is a project-based programme that will allow you to interact with and learn from business partners along with your faculty coordinators.
- You will get to design, prototype, and evaluate innovative, forward-thinking design solutions, including problem formulation, solution design, and solution delivery.
Fees and scholarship options
The fee is around CA $36,180 for tuition, split into three terms. However, as a public university, you have a number of scholarship options to consider.
- David Johnston International Student Entrance Scholarship
- Catherine and Feridun Hamdullahpur Graduate Scholarship
- Faculty of Arts Graduate Award
- International Masterâs Award of Excellence (IMAE)
Eligibility
- Successful completion of an Honours Bachelorâs degree, or equivalent, with a minimum overall of 78% in the last two years.
- 3 references (3 academic or 2 academic and 1 professional)
- Resume
- Statement of Interest
- Minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or TOEFL iBT score of 90 or equivalent.
Admission process
Review the steps of the online application process and keep all the necessary documents and transcripts handy. The admissions committee may request an interview, in person or by phone, to further assess a candidate’s suitability for the program. Students will be contacted directly should an interview be required. The typical application deadline is in February. Despite being an online course, the number of students admitted to UWaterlooâs MDEI programme is limited. The admission process is fairly competitive.
University/ College |
University of Ottawa |
Level of Study |
Masterâs Degree |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, On Campus |
Duration |
2 years |
Fees |
CA $38,168 |
Source: uOttawa
What makes this course good?
- It is a multi-faculty collaborative course that involves the Telfer School of Management, UOttawaâs Faculty of Arts and Engineering to delve into the world of digital technology.
- On completion, you will gain a multi-disciplinary expertise to lead any form of digital transformation.
- The course involves various facets of design, implementation, visual literacy, consumer research and data science.
- You also have the choice of similar courses wherein you can choose to specialise in Applied Data Science or UX Design.
Fees and scholarship options
The total tuition fee is around CA $38,168 for a period of two years. However, your department can automatically consider you for the Special Merit Scholarship. You also have the option to sign up to be a Teaching or a Research Assistant which are paid positions. In addition, if eligible, you can also apply for the Ontario Graduate Scholarships or the Mitacs Globalink Fellowships.
Eligibility
- Applicants must have a Bachelorâs degree with a specialisation or a major (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline with a minimum admission average of 75% (B+).
- Required courses to have been completed: Statistics; Management information systems or computing; Creative arts and humanities (online multi-media or communications); Management (digital transformation management or strategy) or Technology (online application development or data science).
- Minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or TOEFL iBT score of 100
Admission process
There is an application fee of CA $110 that must be paid at the time of submission of your application. On deciding the course and the specialisations of your choice, you are also expected to identify at least one professor who is willing to supervise our research and thesis. This course is highly competitive and intensive but will create a place for you in the digital marketing industry.
Source: Wikipedia
University/ College |
Toronto School of Management |
Level of Study |
Diploma – Bachelorâs level |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, On Campus and Co-op |
Duration |
1 year |
Fees |
CA $14,745 |
Source: TSM Diploma in Digital Marketing
What makes this course good?
- Focussing on hands-on experience and transferable skills, this programme prepares you to meet all the requirements of the digital marketing industry.
- The Toronto School of Management works in association with the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI). So, on completion, you also get a Digital Marketing Associate certificate, a global standard in this field, recognised by multinational corporations.
- The programme includes a 12-week co-op experience allowing you to integrate academic learning with practical experience.
Fees and scholarship options
The cost of the programme is around CA $15,000. All international students will be considered for a partial scholarship or bursaries at the time of application.
Eligibility
- Have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent
- Minimum IELTS score of 5.5 or pass the TSoM English assessment test.
- Have access to a personal laptop and basic computer navigation skills.
Admission process
The process begins by contacting a student advisor. Once you have your plan in place, you can apply online through the university website. If required. You might be asked to attend an interview.
University/ College |
Humber College, Lakeshore, Ontario |
Level of Study |
Bachelorâs Degree |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, on campus |
Duration |
4 years, 8 semesters |
Fees |
CA $80,416 for 4 years |
Source: Humber Bachelor of Commerce
What makes this course good?
- A modern take on a traditional business degree, this course combines cutting edge technology, advanced digital business management and marketing tools with a traditional commerce degree.
- It comes with 14 weeks of paid work between the sixth and seventh semesters, allowing you to gain practical work experience in Canada.
- Besides traditional modes of learning, you will also get numerous opportunities to interact with professionals from the industry, participate in competitions and undertake projects that will also give you essential problem solving and critical thinking skills.
Fees and scholarship options
The tuition fee is around CA $20,000 per year. However, Humber College automatically considers its incoming students for scholarships based on academic achievement in high school. You can also apply for scholarships as an existing student based on your academic performance in the course.
Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent including these required courses: Maths and English
- IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT of 80 or equivalent.
Admission process
The admission process is as follows:
- Confirm your programme availability
- Submit proof of academic standing, such as ICAS or WES evaluation.
- Meet additional programme requirements such as statement of purpose, portfolio, etc.
- Review fee schedule
- Allow processing time
- On receiving an offer of acceptance, prepare your student visa application process.
University/ College |
University of Calgary Continuing Education |
Level of Study |
Certificate Course – Bachelorâs level – International professional Programme |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, on campus |
Duration |
1 year |
Fees |
CA $22,250 |
Source: One year specialisation Digital Media and Marketing
What makes this course good?
- You need not have any prior technological background to apply for this course.
- You will learn a mix of digital media, strategic thinking, and technological competencies that will help you execute strategic marketing plans.
- The course brings together principles of design, UX and UI design, technology and programming, principles of marketing management and leadership.
- On completion, you will receive the following certificates:
- Marketing Fundamentals Certificate
- Digital Marketing Certificate
- Certificate in Front-End Web Development
- Certificate in Integrated Digital Media
Fees and scholarship options
The course costs about CA $22,250 in 2023. Since it is a professional course, there are no specific scholarship options affiliated to it. However, you can contact the UCalgary bursary office and request for financial aid, showing proof of need.
Eligibility
- You must be 18 years or older
- You must meet our English language proficiency requirements such as minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or IELTS Academic of 6.0 or their equivalents.
- You must have completed a post-secondary degree or diploma (minimum 2 years in length) from a college or university
Admission process
The application procedure is online, through the university website. The completed application along with the necessary transcripts must be submitted. The registration typically closes one month before the beginning of term. However, as an international student, it is advised to apply earlier to give yourself enough time to process your Canadian student visa. On completion of the course, you are eligible to apply for a post graduate work permit to live and work in Canada.
University/ College |
Seneca College, Seneca@York Campus |
Level of Study |
Graduate Certificate |
Mode of Study |
Online, Hybrid, Flexible |
Duration |
8 months |
Fees |
CA $16,522 |
Source: Seneca SMD
What makes this course good?
- The following are some of the learning outcomes from this course
- Developing and implementing a comprehensive social media strategy
- Using web data and analytics to optimise marketing processes
- Identifying and capitalising on engagement opportunities to drive business goals
- Creating relevant, engaging visual communications to enhance brandâs marketing
- You will also benefit from the practical experience of 100 hours of field placement.
- Senecaâs course is also supported by international partners such as Salesforce, Hootsuite, Ahrefs, American and Canadian Marketing Association.
Fees and scholarship options
The course costs CA $16,522. Seneca has a number of scholarship options for international students ranging from CA $500 to CA $5,000. Some of the awards include
1. Entrance Awards: For the academically exceptional students who have been offered an admission to Seneca.
2. Alumni Pay-It-Forward Bursary
3. Annie Wong Leung Kit Wah Award for International Students
4. Bala and Karnika Krishnan Endowed Award
5. Campaign for Students Bursary for International Students
6. Consolidated Credit Financial Empowerment Award
7. Daphne Fernando Memorial Award
8. Georgiana Trotman Memorial Award
9. International Student Achievement Award
10. TD Insurance Meloche Monnex Scholarship
Eligibility
- Ontario university or college degree or college diploma or equivalent. Second class /division degree result with minimum overall average of 55% and no more than 4 backlogs
- Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT score of 84 or equivalent.
Admission process
The application process is online through the International Student Web Application. Complete the form, upload the necessary transcripts and documents. You must also pay an application fee of CA $90 at the time of your form submission.
University/ College |
George Brown College, Toronto |
Level of Study |
Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, On-campus |
Duration |
12 months – 2 semesters in class, 1 semester Co-op |
Fees |
CA $18,115 |
Source: George Brown Marketing Management
What makes this course good?
- Emphasis on foundational knowledge and applied skills in digital marketing that are valued by employers.
- Key areas covered in the program include social media marketing, mobile marketing, search marketing, content marketing, owned media marketing, paid media marketing along with marketing analytics. The final semester involves a capstone project.
- This programme also requires a mandatory successful completion of one semester of co-op work or internship in order to graduate. That way, you gain real world experience of what the industry demands.
Fees and scholarship options
The fees for international students is CA $18,115. This program is approved for OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Programme) funding, provided you meet OSAP eligibility criteria. GBC also offers over 30 scholarships for all eligible returning students in full-time post-secondary programmes (diploma or degree) worth between CA $1,000 and $5,000.
Eligibility
- College advanced diploma (three-year) or bachelor’s degree or demonstrated, relevant work experience (resumĂ© and references required).
- Show proof of English language proficiency through a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6,0 or TOEFL iBT score of 80.
Admission process
The application for the Spring 2024 cycle opens on 8 August 2023. Due to the popularity of the course, you can expect intense competition. So, before you begin applying, ensure you have met all the eligibility criteria and have your financial statements in order.
University/ College |
Centennial College, Toronto |
Level of Study |
Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
Mode of Study |
Full-time, blended delivery |
Duration |
1 year |
Fees |
CA $17,419 |
Source: Centennial Marketing
What makes this course good?
- You will learn to analyse trends in technology, derive insights from data, design content management strategies, and execute plans across paid, owned and earned media.
- You will get to work on your leadership, entrepreneurial, organisational, project management and teamwork skills.
- You will be eligible to earn industry certifications such as Google Ads, Google Analytics as well as prepare for the Facebook Blueprint certification.
- Based on your performance in the first semester, you can also apply for the co-op option wherein you can put your classroom learning into practice.
Fees and scholarship options
The fees for international students is CA $17,419. You can apply to any of the following for financial aid.
- Full-time General Bursary
- Aditya Jha International Business Scholarship
- Carol Mercedes Caine Scholarship
Eligibility
- Degree or a three-year college diploma in business or marketing from a recognized institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- All applicants must complete a written assessment to evaluate their analytical/problem solving skills.
- English language proficiency – Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.
Admission process
The application process for international students begins at the Centennial College website. Once you complete the form, you must also email the scanned copies of your documents to the admissions office. You can monitor your application status online. On receiving an offer of acceptance, you must secure your seat by paying the registration deposit and tuition fees. Then you can begin your student visa application process.
University/ College |
Bow Valley College, Calgary |
Level of Study |
Post Diploma Certificate |
Mode of Study |
In Class, Hybrid |
Duration |
2 terms |
Fees |
CA $18,766 |
What makes this course good?
- The programme is offered in flexible learning modules.
- It is a short yet intensive course that will allow you to learn the principles of user experience design, analytics, search engine optimization, integrated media strategies, and web development techniques
Fees and scholarship options
The programme costs CA $18,766. The college offers both entrance and in-course scholarships to international students.
Eligibility
- You must have completed a Canadian college diploma or an equivalent.
- Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT score of 83 or equivalent.
Admission process
On choosing your programme, you can apply online through the college website. Gather the necessary documents and transcripts. You must also pay an application fee of CA $140. The college typically processes your application in 4 – 6 weeks.
Now that you have all the information about the top courses in digital marketing, how do you go about the application process? Each university/ course has its own set of requirements and deadlines to keep up with. The prep work can get overwhelming. Here is how you can make the process simpler.
Step 1
Go to tcglobal.com and sign in. It opens the world of universities for you, for free. All you have to do is sign up. We simplify international education, learning, and mobility through connecting students, universities, and a global community on a single platform where there are over 1000+ education providers and over 80,000+ courses.
Our platform enables students to study anywhere in the world in just a few steps. From search and discovery and finding the right course fit for you, to applications, visas and departure – we see you through it all.
Step 2
Complete your profile. Ensure you have everything filled up especially about your existing qualifications, choice of courses and your top preferences of colleges in Canada. If you have worked in a related field, do let us know. This will help us collate the best universities for you.
Step 3
Search for the courses of your choice. All the information you need, gathered in one place, at no cost.
Step 4
Check out our insights page for more up-to-date information about universities and colleges.
Step 5
Then simply set up a visit Calendly.com/tcglobal to pick a Relationships Team closest to you and choose a slot to meet with a Relationship Member. Our RM will be with you every step of the way, helping you identify the best digital marketing courses in Canada for you.
Letâs shape your future together.