What's the Key Difference Between 1-Year and 2-Year Master's Programs?
| Feature | 1-Year Master’s Program | 2-Year Master’s Program |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8–12 months | 16–24 months |
| Common Type | Coursework or accelerated program | Thesis, research, or co-op |
| Cost | Lower tuition + living costs | Higher total expenses |
| Visa Implication | Shorter post-study work permit | Longer work visa + PR advantage |
| Ideal For | Working professionals, quick upskilling | Research-oriented or PR-seeking students |
Your program duration can affect Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) length and PR pathway eligibility.
What Is a 1-Year Master's Program in Canada?
These are intensive and fast-track degrees, usually coursework-based with no or limited research.
- Suitable for students with prior academic background or work experience
- Often used for upgrading skills or career switching
- Tuition: CAD $18,000–$35,000
- PGWP eligibility: Up to 1 year only
Read: Top 1-Year Courses in Canada for International Students
What Is a 2-Year Master's Program in Canada?
These programs offer a balanced structure with coursework, research, internships, and thesis options.
- Better for international students aiming for PR
- Higher chances of PGWP for 3 years
- Tuition: CAD $25,000–$45,000
- More recognized by employers and immigration systems
Many PR pathways (like Canadian Experience Class or PNPs) prefer candidates who completed 2-year programs.
Which One Is Better for PR in Canada?
| Criteria | 1-Year Master’s | 2-Year Master’s |
|---|---|---|
| PGWP Length | Up to 1 year | Up to 3 years |
| Express Entry CRS Points | Lower (shorter duration) | Higher (more study points) |
| Provincial Nominee Support | Limited | Widely accepted |
| Job Search Time | Limited (visa expires faster) | Longer, flexible |
A 2-year program gives you more time to find a job, gain experience, and apply for PR.
What Are the Admission Requirements?
| Requirement | 1-Year Program | 2-Year Program |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required | Required |
| IELTS / PTE | 6.5 overall preferred | 6.5+ with no band <6.0 |
| SOP & LORs | Strong SOP needed | SOP + academic LORs |
| Work Experience | Sometimes preferred | Optional (but useful) |
| GMAT/GRE | Mostly waived | May be required for some |
Need help with SOPs? Check: How to Write SOP for Canada
Tuition and Cost Comparison (2025)
| Program Type | Tuition Range (CAD) | Living Costs (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Year Master’s | $18,000 – $35,000 | $10,000 – $12,000 |
| 2-Year Master’s | $25,000 – $45,000 | $20,000 – $25,000 |
Final Thought: Which Master's Should You Choose?
Choose a 1-year program if:
- You have strong work experience
- You're upgrading qualifications quickly
- You plan to return home or switch careers soon
Choose a 2-year program if:
- You want PR in Canada
- You need time to build work experience
- You want access to co-ops and research
AECC helps students:
- Choose the right Master's program
- Apply to PGWP-eligible institutions
- Plan PR and work visa strategy after graduation
Talk to our expert counsellors today and make the right choice for your Canada study plan.
FAQs – 1-Year vs 2-Year Master's in Canada
Will a 2-year degree give me a 3-year work permit?
Yes — most 2-year programs qualify for the maximum 3-year PGWP.
Can I extend a 1-year program to 2 years for visa?
Not directly. You must enroll in a second full program to extend PGWP eligibility.
Which is cheaper — 1-year or 2-year Master's?
1-year is cheaper overall but offers less time for job search and PR processing.