Post Secondary Education in Calgary: Top Universities, Colleges & Career Pathways

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If you’re researching post secondary education in Calgary, you’re likely thinking about more than just degrees; you’re thinking about opportunity, affordability, lifestyle, and long-term career growth.

Calgary is not just a beautiful place to live. It’s a city filled with strong academic institutions, practical career programs, and pathways that connect education directly to industry. Whether your student is university-bound, pursuing trades, or exploring professional diplomas, Calgary offers options that rival larger Canadian cities, often with a lower cost of living.

Let’s walk through what makes post secondary education in Calgary such a strong choice.

Universities in Calgary

1. University of Calgary

One of Canada’s top research institutions, the University of Calgary (UCalgary) is known for:

• Engineering and energy programs
• Business (Haskayne School of Business)
• Health sciences and nursing
• Environmental and sustainability research

Located in northwest Calgary, it offers a vibrant campus lifestyle with strong ties to Calgary’s corporate sector. Many graduates transition directly into local industries including energy, technology, healthcare, and finance. There are several communities near the University of Calgary that are ideal for students.

2. Mount Royal University

Located in southwest Calgary in the Lincoln Park community, Mount Royal University (MRU) offers a strong undergraduate-focused experience with smaller class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities.

Originally established as a college and now a full university, MRU is known for:

• Business and Aviation programs
• Nursing and Health Sciences
• Education
• Criminal Justice
• Communications and Journalism

Many students appreciate the approachable campus culture and strong instructor engagement. Class sizes tend to be smaller than larger research universities, which can be a major benefit for students who thrive in more personalized learning environments.

MRU also has strong community and industry connections, particularly in business, aviation, healthcare and public service sectors. Internship and practicum opportunities are built into many programs, helping students transition smoothly into the workforce after graduation.

3. St. Mary’s University

A smaller, more intimate university experience in south Calgary. Known for:

• Liberal arts education
• Smaller class sizes
• Strong sense of community

For students who thrive in close knit academic environments, this is a wonderful option.

Colleges & Polytechnic Institutions

4. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

SAIT is one of Canada’s leading polytechnic institutions. If your student is career-focused and hands-on, SAIT offers:

• Skilled trades programs
• Information technology
• Business diplomas
• Culinary arts
• Aviation and transportation

Its downtown campus connects directly with Calgary employers, and many programs include practicum placements.

5. Bow Valley College

Located downtown, Bow Valley College is known for:

• Health care aide programs
• Early childhood education
• Business administration
• Foundational and upgrading programs

It’s an excellent pathway for students seeking practical, workforce ready education.

Why Families Choose Post Secondary Education in Calgary

1. Strong Industry Connections

Calgary’s economy is diverse and evolving: energy, tech, finance, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, and creative industries all have a presence here. Students often secure internships and employment locally after graduation.

2. Affordability Compared to Larger Cities

While tuition is comparable to other Canadian institutions, Calgary’s housing costs (particularly compared to Toronto or Vancouver) are often more manageable. Many students can live at home if their family resides in Calgary, reducing overall debt load.

3. Lifestyle & Quality of Life

Calgary offers:

• Access to the Rocky Mountains
• Extensive pathway systems
• Major sports teams and entertainment
• A strong volunteer culture

For students, this balance of academics and lifestyle matters.

Living Arrangements for Students

When considering post secondary education in Calgary, housing options include:

• On campus residence
• Off campus rentals near downtown
• Basement suites in surrounding communities
• Living at home

Communities near UCalgary such as Brentwood, Varsity, and University Heights are popular with students. SAIT and Bow Valley College students often look at inner-city neighbourhoods for convenience.

Living Near Mount Royal University

Students attending MRU often look at communities such as:

• Lincoln Park
• Garrison Green
• Currie
• Glamorgan
• Lakeview

These southwest Calgary neighbourhoods offer a mix of condos, townhomes and detached homes, with good transit access and proximity to major roadways like Crowchild Trail and Glenmore Trail.

Trades & Alternative Pathways

Not every student is pursuing a four-year degree; and Calgary supports that beautifully.

The demand for:

• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Heavy equipment technicians
• Welders
• Health care aides

continues to grow. Programs at SAIT and Bow Valley College are often shorter in duration and lead directly to employment.

For many families relocating from outside Alberta, this can be a significant advantage; Alberta’s economy continues to value and compensate skilled trades.

Is Calgary a Good City for Students?

In short, yes!

Calgary provides:

• Recognized institutions
• Career alignment with industry
• Competitive job market
• Lower overall living costs compared to many major Canadian cities
• A safe, clean, outdoor focused environment

It’s a city where students can build both education and opportunity.

Student Housing Price Breakdown in Calgary

Understanding housing costs is one of the biggest parts of planning for post secondary education in Calgary. Whether your student plans to live on campus, rent nearby, or stay at home, here’s a snapshot of what housing looks like across the city.

All prices are approximate and can vary by neighbourhood, building age, amenities and market conditions. Figures are based on typical rental and housing data in Calgary.

1. On Campus Housing

Many institutions offer residence-style living, especially for first-year students.

Institution	On-Campus Option	Estimated Cost Per Month
University of Calgary	Traditional dorm / shared	$800 – $1,300
Mount Royal University	Apartment-style living	$900 – $1,400
SAIT	Student housing options	$850 – $1,300
Bow Valley College	Limited residence options	Varies / Often none

What’s Included: Utilities, internet, meal plans (sometimes included), and proximity to campus.

Pro Tips:

• Residence can be easier for first-year transition.
• Check deadlines; applications can fill quickly.
• Meal plans vary widely in cost and inclusion.

2. Off-Campus Rentals (Apartments & Shared Housing)

Many students choose rentals near school for greater independence; and often this ends up being more cost effective.

Housing Type	Estimated Cost Per Month
Shared room in house/duplex	$500 – $800
One-bedroom apartment	$1,100 – $1,600
Two-bedroom apartment (split)	$700 – $1,000 per student
Condo rental (modern building)	$1,300 – $2,000

Popular Student Neighbourhoods:

• Near UCalgary: Brentwood, Varsity, University Heights
• Near SAIT: Downtown core, Beltline, Hillhurst
• Near MRU: Lincoln Park, Garrison Green, Currie

What’s Included:
Rent usually doesn’t include utilities unless noted; always check landlord terms.

3. Living at Home

For local families, living at home remains one of the most budget friendly options.

Estimated Monthly Cost:
$250 – $600 (food + utilities contribution)

Why It Works:

• Reduces rent burden
• Allows savings for tuition or travel
• Great for commuter students

Money Saving Tips

1. Split a 2-Bedroom:
Sharing a two-bedroom with a friend can drop per-student rent under $1,000.

2. Choose Transit Friendly Neighbourhoods:
Calgary’s CTrain and bus network makes commuting to UCalgary, SAIT or MRU easier; so you can live slightly farther for less rent.

3. Budget for Utilities:
Some rentals separate utilities; factor in $80–$180/month for electricity and heating.

4. Look Early:
Student rentals fill early, especially in August; start the search in spring/summer.

Thinking About Moving to Calgary for Education?

For many families, post secondary education in Calgary becomes part of a larger relocation decision. If your student is planning to attend university or college here, choosing the right neighbourhood can make daily life significantly easier.

Proximity to transit, commute times, safety, and long-term investment value all matter.

If you’re considering a move to Calgary and want to explore communities that align with your student’s school choice; I’d love to help.

Reach out anytime, and we can talk through options that support both education and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions about Post Secondary Education in Calgary