10 Best Canadian Universities for Physics
Physics is an exciting field with many opportunities in Canada. You can study physics at top universities across the country. From undergraduate programs to PhD degrees, there are plenty of options.
Canada offers excellent research in areas like quantum computing and astrophysics. Its universities are globally recognized for excellence in research. Many universities also offer scholarships to help with tuition fees. The country has a strong record of Nobel Prize winners in physics.
This article will guide you through the best Canadian universities for physics. It will include rankings and details about programs.
Why Canada Is the Perfect Destination for Physics Enthusiasts
Canada is a top destination for physics, mainly because of its investments in research and development. According to Statistics Canada, in 2022/2023, the country spent $18.1 billion on research in the higher education sector. About $13.6 billion supported projects in the science and engineering fields
The nation is also famous for its Nobel laureates in physics. Notably, Dr. Arthur B. McDonald was awarded the Nobel in Physics in 2015 for his discovery of neutrino oscillations. More recently, in 2024, Professor Geoffrey Hinton, a professor at the University of Toronto, won the Nobel in Physics for his pioneering work in AI and machine learning.
New fields like quantum computing and aerospace are growing fast in Canada. Students have many opportunities to work in these emerging fields. Furthermore, the Canadian government actively supports researchers and students. For instance, in 2024, they allocated over $1.7 billion in funding to researchers and projects, helping over 7,700 researchers across the country.
Canada is also a great place to live. It’s multicultural, welcoming, and safe.
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Canadian University for Physics
Choosing the right university for physics is important. You need to think about many factors. For example,
Faculty Expertise and Research Output
The quality of professors matters a lot. Check if they publish research in top journals. High-impact research shows that professors are active in their fields. Many Canadian universities have faculty who work with global labs. Also, consider if professors are accessible.
Laboratory and Campus Facilities
Labs and equipment are key for physics students. Check if the university has modern tools. Particle accelerators, observatories, and supercomputers can enhance your learning.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition costs can vary. Compare the fees for each program. Also, look into scholarships, bursaries, and grants. Most of the Canadian universities offer merit-based and need-based financial aid.
Location and Student Life
It matters where your university is located. Canada has a welcoming environment, but each city is different. Some universities are close to research hubs or industries. Think about living costs and cultural fit.

Top 10 Best Canadian Universities for Physics
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto (U of T) is one of the world’s leading research institutions and the best Canadian university for physics. It constantly ranks among the top 20 universities globally.
The Department of Physics at U of T is part of the Faculty of Arts & Science. It’s in the McLennan Physical Laboratories on the St. George campus in downtown Toronto. It features the iconic sixteen-story Burton Tower. Students can easily enter through St. George, Huron, or Ursula Franklin Streets.
The McLennan Physical Laboratories houses modern research labs and advanced technology, including facilities for astrophysics, quantum computing, and high-energy physics. The Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA) is also based here. Students have access to groundbreaking projects in areas like particle physics and cosmology.
Programs Offerings
- Physics Specialist
- Physics Major
- Physics Minor
- Biological Physics Specialist
- Physics and Philosophy Specialist
- Joint Specialist Programs with other departments
University of British Columbia
UBC is another top Canadian university for physics, globally recognized for its excellence in physics education and research. It currently ranks 73rd in Physics. UBC programs cover theoretical and applied areas and include combined honours in different subjects.
Their Faculty of Science provides a Bachelor of Science in Physics with honours and co-op options. The campus is home to TRIUMF, Canada’s National Laboratory for Particle and Nuclear Physics. The Department of Physics and Astronomy is in the historic Hennings Building.
Graduates here thrive in careers like medical physics, education, and high technology. Many pursue advanced degrees, with alumni studying at institutions like the University of Tokyo and Caltech.
UBC also hosts popular outreach events like the UBC Physics Olympics and the Canadian Physics Olympiad.
Programs Offerings
- Physics Major
- Physics Honors
- Combined Honors in Physics and Astronomy
- Combined Honors in Chemical Physics
- Combined Honors in Physics and Mathematics
McGill University
McGill University ranks 139th globally in Physics, showcasing its strong academic reputation. The Department of Physics offers diverse programs. The Honors program is highly specialized. It prepares students for graduate studies or professional careers in physics. There are also joint honours programs in Mathematics and Physics or Physics and Chemistry.
The Major program offers a broader physics education. After the first year, students can transfer from the Major to the Honors program. A concentration in Biological Physics is also available in both Honors and Major programs.
For students aiming to teach science at the high school level, a concurrent B.Sc. and B.Ed. is also an option. In addition, McGill offers an Internship Year in Science (IYS).
Programs Offerings
- Physics Major
- Honours in Physics
- Joint Honors in Physics and Mathematics
- Joint Honors in Physics and Chemistry
- Major in Atmospheric Sciences and Physics
- Major in Physics and Computer Science
- Major in Physics and Geophysics
- Biological Physics Concentration (Honors and Major)
- Minor in Physics
- Liberal Science Program (Physics component)
University of Waterloo
Waterloo’s Department of Physics and Astronomy is ranked #1 in Canada and #38 globally (2024). It is one of the best Canadian universities for physics, and its rise in global rankings over the past decade shows that it is one of the best physics departments worldwide.
The department ranks 4th in North America for undergraduate physics enrolment and 5th in graduate enrolment. Waterloo attracts students from around the world, with many international undergraduates.
Waterloo is a great place to study and research Physics and Astrophysics. The university is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong academic community.
Programs Offerings
- Honours Physics
- Physics & Astronomy
- Mathematical Physics
- Biological and Medical Physics
- Materials and Nanosciences
- Minors in Physics or Biophysics
- MSc or PhD in Physics
- MSc or PhD in Nanotechnology
- MSc or PhD in Quantum Information

University of Alberta
Alberta’s Department of Physics is very popular for its strong research environment. It has a great tradition of excellence. Many of its faculty members have received national and international recognition. The department also focuses on community outreach.
Their Physics department provides courses and research in several areas, including astronomy, biophysics, computational physics, and more. Students here get hands-on experience working directly with researchers.
Undergraduate students gain a solid foundation in physical and mathematical modelling and participate in laboratory and field research. The department’s success is tied to its world-class facilities and faculty. Students often work alongside researchers who are making breakthroughs in physics.
Programs Offerings
- Honours in Astrophysics
- Honours in Geophysics
- Honours in Mathematical Physics
- Honours in Physics
- Major in Astrophysics
- Major in Geophysics
- Major in Mathematical Physics
- Major in Physics
University of Victoria
Another great place to study physics in Canada is the University of Victoria. UVic has a strong focus on lab work and hands-on learning. Its research is full of exciting insights and student experiences in labs and co-op placements.
The physics department is part of a larger community in Victoria. It works with world-class researchers and facilities, creating plenty of opportunities for growth. The department’s partnership with NRC-Herzberg adds value.
UVic’s physics department stands out for its research and strong ties to the community. Students get to learn from leading experts like cosmologist Julio Navarro. His groundbreaking work in cosmology has reshaped our understanding of galaxies.
Programs
- Physics [Major, Honors]
- Astronomy [Major, Honors]
- Combined Physics and Astronomy [Major, Honors]
UVic also offers combined degrees, such as:
- Physics and Mathematics
- Physics and Earth Sciences (Geophysics)
- Physics and Ocean Sciences
- Physics and Computer Science
- Physics and Biochemistry
University of Montreal (UdeM)
UdeM is another popular choice for students interested in physics. It is ranked 266th in Best Universities for Physics and 174th in Best Global Universities.
The Physics Department at UdeM offers a range of programs to give students a solid understanding of the field. With options like a Bachelor’s, Major, and Minor in Physics, students can tailor their studies to their goals. There are also disciplinary programs for those who want to combine interests.
UdeM has a strong research focus and many specialized centers. The Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, for instance.
Programs Offerings
- Bachelor’s in Physics (Baccalauréat en physique)
- Major in Physics (Majeure en physique)
- Minor in Physics (Mineur en physique)
- Bachelor’s in Mathematics and Physics (Baccalauréat en mathématiques et physique)
- Bachelor’s in Physics and Computer Science (Baccalauréat en physique et informatique)
University of Saskatchewan
The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is a great place for students interested in physics. It’s currently ranking 726th for Physics.
At USask, students can study exciting topics like the Big Bang, quantum mechanics, and superconductivity. The Physics and Engineering Physics Department is famous for its facilities and research focus. Students get access to advanced tools, including telescopes, satellites, radar, and particle accelerators.
Their research themes include Plasma Physics, Subatomic Physics, Space and Atmospheric Science, and Condensed Matter & Material Science. The Canadian Light Source synchrotron is one of the department’s highlights.
Programs and Options
USask offers several Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degrees in Physics:
- Four-Year B.Sc. in Physics
- Three-Year B.Sc. in Physics
- B.Sc. Honours in Physics
- Double Honors along with Biochemistry
- Professional Internship Option
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
MUN offers an exciting environment for students passionate about physics. Its Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography combines traditional physics with unique specializations.
This university offers programs in Physics, Environmental Physics, and joint degrees. These options include majors, minors, and honours programs. The department also runs active research programs in Physical Oceanography and Condensed Matter Physics.
Students explore diverse topics like glacial dynamics, ocean modelling, and material science. The department’s research is supported by prestigious funding from NSERC, CFI, and other organizations.
Memorial’s expertise in Physical Oceanography is noteworthy. It majorly focuses on planetary fluid dynamics, glacial ice dynamics, and global climate modeling. Students also dive into applied physics areas like sensors and photonics.
Programs and Degrees
Memorial offers both undergraduate and graduate programs:
- Undergraduate: Majors, minors, and honours in Physics, Environmental Physics, and joint degree options.
- MSc: A two-year Physics or Physical Oceanography program combining coursework and a thesis.
- PhD: A four-year program with comprehensive exams, advanced coursework, and a thesis.
Carleton University
Carleton University is ranked 276th in Best Universities for Physics and 617th in Best Global Universities. It is located in Ottawa and offers exciting opportunities in Physics.
The Physics Department offers programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. You can choose from options like Applied Physics, Experimental Physics, and Theoretical Physics. There are also joint programs in math, chemistry, and biology.
The university is part of TRIUMF. Students take part in global experiments, including those at CERN in Geneva and the SNO. The department’s research includes Medical Physics projects at local hospitals and labs. These projects connect students to experts through the Ottawa Medical Physics Institute (OMPI).
The Physics Department is in the Herzberg Laboratories for Physics and Computer Science. Labs and workshops here provide students with advanced tools and spaces for research.
Programs and Options
- B.Sc. Honours in Physics and Applied Physics
- Joint programs with Math, Chemistry, and Biology
Comparison Table of the Top 10 Physics Universities in Canada
University | Location | Available Programs | Approx. Tuition (CAD/Year) (Undergrad) |
University of Toronto | Toronto, Ontario | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $6,100 (domestic) $60,490 (international) |
University of British Columbia (UBC) | Vancouver, BC | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $46,296 |
McGill University | Montreal, Quebec | BSc, MSc, PhD | $61,066 (international) |
University of Waterloo | Waterloo, Ontario | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $9,000 (domestic) $52,000 (international) |
University of Alberta | Edmonton, Alberta | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $7,000 |
University of Victoria | Victoria, BC | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $8,708 (domestic) $10,984 (international) |
University of Montreal (UdeM) | Montreal, Quebec | BSc, MSc, PhD | $5,071 (domestic) $14,126 (international) |
University of Saskatchewan | Saskatoon, Saskatchewan | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $10,540 (domestic) $40,949 (international) |
Memorial University of Newfoundland | St. John’s, Newfoundland | Honors BSc, MSc, PhD | $20,790 |
Carleton University | Ottawa, Ontario | BSc, MSc, PhD | $34,335 |

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
In Canada, physics students can access various scholarships. These awards support education and research.
The Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) support master’s and Ph.D. students. The CGS-M provides $17,500 for one year, while the CGS-D offers $35,000 annually for up to three years. Programs like NSERC’s Undergraduate Student Research Awards provide funding of $6,000 for research projects.
Many Canadian universities offer scholarships for physics students. For example, the University of Waterloo offers the Destination Physics Scholarship, valued at up to $3,000. This is for second-year physics undergraduates.
The University of Alberta provides an MSc Scholarship of $17,500 plus tuition and fees for one year. Carleton University also offers the E.P. Hincks Memorial Scholarship in Physics.
External organizations also offer scholarships. The 3M National Student Fellowship, for instance, is a partial funding scholarship open to all nationals. The Society for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education offers this fellowship.
Future Career Outlook for Physics Graduates in Canada
Physics graduates in Canada have diverse career opportunities. According to the Canadian Association of Physicists, 51% of 1997 B.Sc. physics graduates pursued further studies. Meanwhile, 70% of those employed worked in the industry.
Employment income statistics by major field of study indicate that graduates in engineering physics/applied physics have a median employment income of $76,000.
Popular Career Paths
- Data Science in Industry
- Physics Consultant
- Physicists in a Government-Funded Laboratory
- High School Physics Teacher
- Medical or Clinical Physicist
- Faculty Member at Doctoral or Research Institutions
- Faculty Member at Bachelors or Liberal Arts Institutions
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Research and Development in the Private Sector
- Jobs in the Private Sector or Government-Funded Labs.
Conclusion
Canada offers such amazing opportunities for physics students. It’s a great place to study with top universities, exciting research, and plenty of career paths. Whether you’re interested in quantum computing or becoming a physics teacher, you’ll find a program that fits. Scholarships, internships, and hands-on experience make it easier to succeed. So, if you’re passionate about it, there are some of the best Canadian universities for physics waiting for you!