University of Toronto was just ranked Canada’s best in yet another category

There are plenty of Canadian universities to choose from, but which one will give you the best chance at landing a job?

A new report by education marketplace CourseCompare has named the best universities in Canada for 2025.

“Today, those universities are facing headwinds: budgets under pressure due to inflation; enrolment numbers affected by the federal government’s changes to international permits and the resulting cooling of interest from prospective students abroad; course curriculum and program offerings needing to be updated at an increasingly breakneck pace, to keep up with speed of change in industry,” reads the ranking.

The organization says now more than ever, universities are under pressure to demonstrate return on investment for their students by equipping them not only with knowledge but with networks, hands-on experience and a job offer that will kick-start their career.

That’s why CourseCompare’s ranking of the best Canadian universities focuses on how well the institution readies its students for their careers.

“We believe that it is the role of these institutions to prepare students for the future of work – and how effectively they do so determines their ranking,” reads the report.

The ranking also evaluated each school’s funding, teaching, student reputation and campus life, industry reputation and connections, and employment networks.

“The result is a list of the top 20 schools in the country best equipped to give students the education and opportunities that will translate to resilient careers, even in the face of an uncertain job market or economy,” reads the report.

The University of Toronto took the top spot, rated 4.25 out of five stars. CourseCompare says what sets U of T apart from other Canadian universities is its breadth of programs and wide-ranging connections across academia and industry.

The institution boasts connections with companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and the Toronto Stock Exchange, which helps students nab coveted co-ops, internships, and project placements.

“Teachers and professors are among the best in the world with in-depth knowledge and 21st-century skills and experience,” reads one review from a student in applied computing. “Teaching approach and methodology very pragmatic, hands-on and up-to-date.”

In second place is McGill University, which the ranking has named one of the more pricey post-secondary institutions in the country.

CourseCompare says McGill’s partnerships with leading industries in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and finance are sure to help students in the job market.

It collaborates with companies like Bombardier, Pfizer, and IBM to connect students with co-ops, internships, and research opportunities.

“In a labour market riddled with sector-wide job losses, McGill boasts an impressive 80 per cent placement within six months for its bachelor of commerce graduates,” reads the report.

Rounding out the top three spots is the University of British Columbia with a five-star rating.

CourseCompare says it’s best known for its business program, which is offered through the Sauder School of Business. Its mentorship programs and partnerships with industries in the tech, healthcare, and environmental sectors set it apart from other schools.

“UBC has a stellar reputation that will help on your resume. This is a great uni and program for anyone seriously interested in this career,” reads a review from a film production student.

The University of Alberta took the fourth spot, excelling in allowing students to study remotely or part-time in various fields, including business, healthcare, and technology.

In fourth place is the University of Calgary with five-star reviews. CourseCompare says its support of startups and academic research sets it apart from other institutions.

Here are the top 20:

1. University of Toronto
2. McGill University
3. University of British Columbia
4. University of Alberta
5. University of Calgary
6. Université de Montréal
7. McMaster University
8. Western University
9. Queen’s University
10. University of Ottawa
11. University of Waterloo
12. Dalhousie University
13. University of Saskatchewan
14. University of Manitoba
15. Simon Fraser University
16. University of Victoria
17. University of Guelph
18. York University
19. Wilfrid Laurier University
20. Concordia University