| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location:
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Institution Type:
Private, non-profit (U.S.-based); Canadian campus for graduate programs
Programs Offered (Primarily):
Master of Counselling (MC)
CACREP-aligned
Meets academic requirements for registration with Canadian counselling associations (e.g., CCPA)
Designed for individuals pursuing careers as registered clinical counsellors or therapists
Bachelor of Arts in Management (in limited offerings)
Offered through CityU’s Canadian partnerships (less common at Calgary campus)
Regulatory Approval: Programs at the Calgary campus are approved by Alberta Advanced Education.
Working Professional Focus: Programs are designed for working adults, with flexible schedules including evening and weekend classes.
Small Class Sizes: Emphasis on personalized attention and applied learning.
Career-Oriented: Especially strong in counselling psychology and mental health training.
Faculty: Experienced professionals with backgrounds in clinical practice, education, and psychology.
Study Permit Eligible: Yes, students can apply for a Canadian study permit.
PGWP Eligibility: Generally not eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), as CityU is a private institution, and eligibility may vary by program. It's important to verify current PGWP status with IRCC or the institution.
Modest campus located in downtown Calgary
Access to classrooms, counselling labs, and faculty offices
Professional and academic support services tailored for mature and graduate students
No on-campus housing (students arrange accommodation independently)
Program Type: Graduate (Master’s degree)
Duration: 3 years (part-time, designed for working professionals)
Delivery Format: In-person and hybrid (evenings and weekends)
Focus Areas:
Clinical Mental Health Counselling
Marriage and Family Therapy
Trauma and Addictions
Child and Adolescent Counselling
Accreditation/Recognition:
Approved by Alberta Advanced Education
Aligned with Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) standards
Career Paths: Registered Clinical Counsellor, Mental Health Therapist, School Counsellor, Private Practitioner
Program Type: Undergraduate (Degree-completion)
Eligibility: Requires prior college/university credits or diploma for transfer
Focus Areas: Leadership, Strategic Management, Organizational Behaviour
Note: Less commonly offered at Calgary campus compared to Vancouver or U.S. locations
Practicum/Internship: Mandatory for Master of Counselling students (typically 600 hours)
Workshops & Continuing Education: Occasional non-credit workshops on ethics, trauma, or practice skills
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Arts in Management |
2 – 2.5 years (degree-completion, transfer-based) |
~$13,000 – $15,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Counselling |
3 years (part-time) |
~$14,000 – $16,000 |
1. Main Program Offered:
The primary program available to international students is the Master of Counselling, which is designed for individuals seeking careers in clinical counselling, therapy, or mental health services.
2. Study Permit Eligible:
International students are eligible to apply for a Canadian Study Permit while studying in Calgary. However, the eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) may be limited, as the university is a private institution. It is essential to confirm current PGWP eligibility directly with IRCC or CityU.
3. Admission Requirements:
A recognized bachelor’s degree (preferably in psychology, social work, education, or a related field)
English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
Letters of recommendation, resume/CV, and a statement of intent
Possible interview as part of the selection process
4. Learning Environment:
Small class sizes and flexible schedules (evening and weekend classes) tailored for mature or working professionals
Emphasis on applied learning, with 600 hours of supervised practicum in a counselling setting
5. Campus Life:
Located in downtown Calgary, with easy access to public transport, housing, and amenities
CityU Calgary does not offer on-campus housing; international students typically arrange off-campus accommodation independently
Student services are focused on academic advising, career counselling, and practicum placement support
6. Multicultural and Inclusive:
The campus welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and promotes inclusive learning with faculty experienced in multicultural counselling and professional ethics.
7. Career Pathways:
Graduates often pursue roles as Registered Clinical Counsellors, Mental Health Therapists, or Private Practice Counsellors, especially in Canada’s growing mental health field.
Main option: Master of Counselling (graduate-level, part-time over 3 years)
Confirm eligibility if you're applying as an international student
Academic Requirements:
A recognized bachelor’s degree (preferably in psychology, education, social work, or a related field)
Minimum GPA of 2.5 – 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 88+
Duolingo: 110+ (subject to acceptance)
Exemption possible if prior education was in English
Additional Requirements:
Statement of intent or personal essay
Resume/CV
Two or more academic or professional references
Interview (may be required as part of the admissions process)
Apply online via the City University of Seattle Canadian admissions portal
Upload all required documents
Pay the application fee (approx. $75–$100 CAD)
The admissions committee will review your academic background, professional experience, and readiness for graduate study
You may be invited to a virtual or in-person interview
If accepted, you will receive an Offer of Admission
Review and formally accept the offer
Use the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) to apply for a Canadian study permit through IRCC
Submit required documents: passport, proof of funds, LOA, biometrics, etc.
Pay tuition deposit (if required)
Register for your courses
Attend orientation and begin your program (usually starts in September or January)
Intake |
Start Months |
Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
September |
Main intake (most common) |
|
Winter Intake |
January |
Offered based on program capacity |
|
Spring Intake |
May (occasionally) |
Limited or program-specific |
Intakes may vary slightly by year; it's best to apply at least 6 months in advance, especially as an international student.
A recognized bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Preferably in a related field (e.g., psychology, education, human services, social work)
Minimum GPA of 2.5 – 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Accepted test scores include:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
88+ |
|
Duolingo |
110+ |
|
CAEL |
70+ |
Note: If your undergraduate education was in English, you may request a waiver.
Statement of intent or personal essay (why you're pursuing counselling)
Updated CV or resume
Two or more reference letters (academic/professional)
Academic transcripts
May include an interview for shortlisted applicants
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Value (USD Equivalent) |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarship |
New students with strong academic background and leadership |
~$1,000 – $2,000 (one-time) |
Awarded at admission; automatic or application-based |
|
Financial Need Bursary |
Demonstrated financial hardship (domestic or international students) |
~$500 – $1,500 |
Application required; includes income/expense documentation |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Students from underrepresented or marginalized groups |
~$1,000 – $2,000 |
May require essay and supporting documents |
|
Community Engagement Award |
Involvement in volunteer or social impact work |
~$1,000 |
Open to continuing students; limited availability |
|
Academic Excellence Award |
Top-performing students (GPA 3.7+) during the program |
~$500 – $1,000 |
Usually offered in later years of study |
Facility/Option |
Details |
Approx. Cost (USD/Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Downtown Calgary, Alberta; small professional campus with classrooms and faculty offices |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Not available; CityU Calgary does not offer on-campus accommodation |
N/A |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Shared) |
Room in shared apartment or house near downtown or transit routes |
$5,500 – $7,500 |
|
Private Apartment (1-bedroom) |
Independent rental unit; utilities extra |
$9,000 – $12,000 |
|
Temporary/Short-Term Housing |
Hotels or Airbnb (used during arrival period) |
$60 – $100 per night |
|
Homestay (optional) |
Private room in a Canadian family home; includes meals |
$8,000 – $10,000 |
|
Meal Costs |
Grocery and dining (self-managed, no meal plan) |
$2,500 – $4,000 |
|
Transit/Commuting |
Calgary Transit monthly pass or U-Pass equivalent |
~$900 – $1,000 |
|
Campus Facilities |
Classrooms, meeting rooms, faculty support, counselling labs |
Included in tuition |
Student life at City University’s Calgary campus is centered around professional development, community engagement, and a supportive academic environment. Since the campus primarily serves graduate students—especially those enrolled in the Master of Counselling program—student life is more focused and career-oriented than traditional undergraduate campuses.
Classes are small, interactive, and designed for mature students or working professionals. Students benefit from close interaction with instructors who are also experienced clinicians. The cohort model encourages collaboration and peer support throughout the program.
While CityU Calgary does not have a large campus or residential facilities, students enjoy access to:
Academic advising and practicum placement support
Workshops on counselling techniques, ethics, and professional licensing
Peer networking and study groups within their cohort
Occasional guest speakers and alumni panels related to mental health practice
The Calgary campus is located in a central urban setting, close to public transit, coffee shops, and community services. The learning environment is calm, inclusive, and designed to accommodate those balancing studies with work or family responsibilities.
Though not a traditional university with clubs and sports, CityU encourages:
Volunteer opportunities in mental health or nonprofit organizations
Participation in local and national conferences (e.g., Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association events)
Student involvement in social justice, diversity, and inclusion initiatives within the counselling profession
Given the focus on counselling, mental health and self-care are prioritized. Students often support one another in processing the demands of practicum and academic life. Faculty and staff promote wellness and balance as part of the learning journey.
City University (Calgary Campus) does not offer direct job placements like traditional career services at larger institutions. However, it provides strong professional preparation and practicum support, particularly through its Master of Counselling program, which is structured to lead into employment in mental health, counselling, and related fields.
1. Practicum Experience (600 hours)
A mandatory part of the Master of Counselling program
Students work in approved counselling settings, such as mental health clinics, schools, community organizations, and private practices
Practicum placements are often a gateway to employment, as students build real-world experience and professional networks
2. Career Outcomes
Graduates of the program commonly pursue roles such as:
Registered Clinical Counsellor
Mental Health Therapist
School Counsellor
Addictions Counsellor
Family and Youth Support Worker
3. Licensing Support
The program is aligned with Canadian counselling standards (e.g., CCPA), and graduates are eligible to apply for registration or licensing through:
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)
College of Alberta Psychologists (with additional requirements)
4. Job Market Advantage
Mental health professionals are in high demand in Canada, especially in Alberta
Many graduates find employment within 6–12 months of graduation, often in the same organizations where they completed practicum
Typical starting salaries for entry-level counsellors in Alberta: $45,000–$60,000 USD/year (equivalent)
5. Career Development Resources
While CityU Calgary does not have a full-fledged career center, students receive:
Practicum coordination and site matching
Guidance from faculty on employment and licensing pathways
Support for building a professional resume, cover letter, and interview preparation
The acceptance rate of City University (Calgary Campus), Canada is estimated to be moderate to selective, typically ranging from 50% to 70% for the Master of Counselling program.
Academic Background
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required (preferably in psychology, education, social work, or a related field).
GPA requirements usually fall between 2.5 and 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
English Proficiency
International applicants must meet minimum English language test scores (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 88+, etc.).
Supporting Documents
Strong personal statement, resume, and reference letters are essential.
An interview may be required, and performance can significantly impact acceptance.
Program Capacity
CityU uses a cohort model with limited seats per intake, meaning that even qualified applicants can be waitlisted if the program is full.
City University in Canada – Calgary Campus
Suite 104, 800 5th Avenue SW
Calgary, Alberta, T2P 3T6
Canada
