Top Universities in Calgary: Fees, Popular Courses, Rankings

Updated on 10 February, 2024

Pragya Sharma

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Checking out universities in Calgary? The city is home to various higher educational institutions, each renowned for its unique features. For example, the Southern Alberta Institute of Calgary (SAIT) boasts international students from over 140 countries, while the University of Calgary offers over $20 million worth of scholarships, bursaries, and awards annually. Let’s look at the best universities in Calgary, so you have a better idea before making the final choice.

Top 5 Universities in Calgary

With Calgary being ranked the 7th most livable city in the world in 2023, it sure is a good choice to pursue your higher education aspirations. Listed below are the top universities of Calgary that are home to international students from several countries.

University of Calgary

It is considered to be the entrepreneurial university of Canada. With over 250 undergraduate programs and 65 graduate courses, this university is a combination of cutting-edge creative labs, amazing mentorship, and practical learning opportunities. They attract students from worldwide to create new pathways for their careers, enhance their knowledge, and pursue ground-breaking research work. It also offers several professional courses best suited to working professionals, including more than 70 certificate programs and 1,200 other courses. Here are the details you must know about this university:

Type of University Public
Year of Establishment 1954
QS World University Ranking 2024 182 
Average Range of Tuition Fees $2,104 - $46,700 (varies according to the course)
Study Benefits
  • The University of Calgary offers paid internships to students at different Canadian companies. 
  • Over 300 club options
  • 50 intramural sports, leadership, and volunteering opportunities
  • Work-integrated learning
  • Student success center
  • Career services 
  • Student wellness services
  • On-campus living benefits for high school students during their 1st year. 
Popular Programs

Undergraduate Course:

  • Accounting - Bachelor of Commerce (BComm)
  • Actuarial Science - Bachelor of Science (BSc)
  • Ancient and Medieval History - Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Art History - Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
  • Architecture - Master of Architecture (MArch)
  • Biomedical Engineering - Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc in Eng)
  • Biomedical Sciences - Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc)

Graduate Courses:

  • Doctor of Philosophy - Anthropology - PhD (thesis-based)
  • Doctor of Philosophy - Archaeology - PhD (thesis-based)
  • Master of Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - MEng (course-based)

Professional Education:

  • Courses for Continuing Education
  • Executive Education
  • Professional Development Program
  • Continuing Medical Education and Professional Development

Mount Royal University

With innovative programs, passionate faculty, and an exceptionally talented student base, this is one of the top universities in Calgary. You can pursue your bachelor's degree or acquire certificates or diplomas in various subjects. There are alternative entrance options as well if you want to achieve a competitive edge in the market or try out new learning curves before committing to any full-time program. The Community Service Learning Citation (CSL) at the university allows you to get hands-on opportunities to contribute to the community. Mount Royal University is renowned for its student-centric approach and commitment to anti-racism initiatives with its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy. The below table depicts the university's essential details:

Type of University Public
Year of Establishment 1910
Average Tuition Fees $8,600 - the fee may vary depending on your chosen course.
Study Benefits
  • Research facilities
  • Learn with top faculty members
  • Basic needs and emergency support
  • Emergency funding
  • Scholarships
  • Health and wellness support
  • State-of-the-art library with various resources & books
  • Job search and application support
  • Several recreation activities
Popular Programs
  • Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
  • Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Arts - Policy Studies
  • Bachelor of Business Administration - Supply Chain Management
  • Bachelor of Interior Design
  • Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science
  • Social Work Diploma
  • Athletic Therapy Post Bachelor's Certificate
  • Business Administration Post Bachelor's Certificate - Marketing
  • International Pathway Program (applicants from outside of Canada/US)

St Mary's University

It is one of the top universities in Calgary, known for its dedicated faculty members and its approach to contributing toward turning the students into a whole person by focusing on all aspects – body, mind, and spirit. 

In addition to providing traditional education, the organization's transformative education venture engages students in community service programs, clubs, and athletics to grow as a whole person. Nearly 50% of the students at this university engage in volunteer community work because of the university’s approach to wholesome development. 

Type of University Private
Year of Establishment 2004
Average Range of Tuition Fees $294 - $1,122 per credit hour - the tuition fee will vary depending on your chosen course. 
Study Benefits
  • Several scholarships and awards
  • Involvement in university clubs and you can also start your own club
  • Bookstore & Library
  • Small class size allows for a personalized approach
  • One-on-one assistance from world-class tutors
  • Success seminars 
  • Shared study room for a positive learning experience
Popular Programs
  • Diploma in Ministry
  • Degree Program in Social Justice and Catholic Studies
  • Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Social Responsibility
  • Degree Program in English
  • Degree Program in Liberal Studies

Alberta University of the Arts

This university in Calgary is motivated to inspire you with the most prominent artists, designers, and critical thinkers. The built-in shared studios, supervised by professionals, help you learn in a communicative environment. 

With practicing artists as faculty members, you get tremendous exposure and understanding of the world. The 1:16 ratio of tutor and students makes the perfect ambiance to study art and experience a personalized approach. With 11 specific art programs, you can flexibly work across disciplines and expand your skill set. 

Type of University Public
Year of Establishment 1926
Average Tuition Fees $7,286 - the fee will vary depending on your citizenship and chosen course.
Study Benefits
  • Modern facilities
  • Practicing artists as faculty
  • Student travel programs
  • Visiting artist program, bringing top creative minds under one roof for the benefit of students
  • Academic support
  • Writing assistance
  • Professional counseling
  • Health care
Popular Programs
  • MFA Program in Craft Media
  • Ceramics - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Fine Arts
  • Drawing - Bachelor of Fine Arts
  • Fiber - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Fine Arts
  • Jewelry and Metals - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Fine Arts
  • Media Arts - Bachelor of Fine Arts
  • Photography - Bachelor of Design
  • Visual Communication Design - Bachelor of Design

Ambrose University

Being one of the esteemed universities in Calgary, this higher education institution focuses on developing personal and professional goals. The limited number of students in every classroom allows professors to connect with you and address your concerns individually. The location of Ambrose University is easily accessible from any part of Calgary. The suburban neighborhood of the campus offers a serene environment. 

The university dedicates Tuesdays and Thursdays of every week to focus on spiritual living. This ensures students are able to build essential life skills along with intellectual growth. 

Type of University Private 
Year of Establishment 2007
Average Range of Annual Tuition Fees $14,541.75 - $22,664.50 (the course fee depends on your chosen program)
Study Benefits
  • Personalized learning environment
  • Affiliation with esteemed institutions
  • Student clubs
  • Chapel services
  • Leadership opportunities
  • Sports activities
  • Awards and scholarships
  • Small classroom size
  • Extended learning opportunities
Popular Programs
  • Bachelor of Music
  • Diploma in Acting
  • Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies
  • University Studies Diploma
  • Bachelor of Arts in Behavioural Science
  • Bachelor of Education (After Degree)
  • Associate in Ministry Diploma
  • Bachelor of Theology in Children & Family Ministry
  • Bachelor of Theology in Intercultural Ministry
  • Bachelor of Theology in Youth Ministry
  • Several certification programs, like Certificate in Leadership, Certificate in Spiritual Care, Master in Leadership & Ministry, and so on.

These in-depth details of the top 5 universities in Calgary will provide you with a better picture of higher education institutions there. Considering your course, budget, and extracurricular preferences, you can choose a suitable university based on the provided information. Another important aspect of studying in Calgary is knowing the finances you will need so that you are better prepared for all situations. Read our article on the cost of living in Calgary to know the city’s living expenses and build an estimated budget to embark on your journey in Calgary.

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FAQs

Are there opportunities for international students at the universities in Calgary?

Yes, the universities in Calgary promote anti-racism and are open to a diverse student populace, provided you are academically a suitable candidate. With various support services, cultural involvements, and exchange programs, it allows international students to mingle and connect better with their peers.

Which is Calgary's top-ranked university?

The University of Calgary is one of the top Canadian universities in the country’s most entrepreneurial city. Ranked 182 globally per QS World University Ranking 2024, it boasts over 80 research institutes and centers, rightly ranking it among Canada's top ten research universities.

What is the average salary structure in Calgary?

The average salary of people living in Calgary, Canada, is around $71,000 per Pay Scale 2024. Depending upon your job role and responsibilities, the salary will vary. 

Did you find this article helpful?

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience. She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.

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