Three B.C. universities have been named among the top 20 in Canada for giving their grads the best chance to land jobs.
A recent report by education marketplace CourseCompare has ranked the best universities in the country for 2026.
According to CourseCompare, Canadian universities are competing to prove that their institution can “keep up with [the] speed of change in industry.”
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“More than ever, universities are under pressure to demonstrate return on investment for their students, who expect to graduate equipped not just with knowledge but with networks, with hands-on experience under their belt, and with a job offer that will start them off on their career path,” reads the ranking.
CourseCompare’s ranking of the best Canadian universities focuses on how well the institution prepares its students for their careers.
The ranking also evaluated each school’s funding, teaching, student reputation and campus life, industry reputation and connections, and employment networks.
Three B.C. universities made this year’s competitive Best Universities in Canada list.
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The University of British Columbia took third spot in the country. CourseCompare says what sets UBC apart from other Canadian universities is its “range of cutting-edge programs,” including those at the Sauder School of Business.
“Its entrepreneurial perspective encourages over 70,000 students and staff to challenge convention, lead discovery and explore new ways of learning. At UBC, bold thinking is given a place to develop ideas that can change the world,” said CourseCompare.
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Simon Fraser University lands at 15th spot on the ranking, with the institution “consistently ranked as one of Canada’s most innovative universities.”
“One of Canada’s most comprehensive universities, Simon Fraser University excels in programs across disciplines,” explained CourseCompare.
“One of SFU’s standout faculties is its School of Computing Science: SFU’s strengths in data science, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology have led to numerous startup successes and partnerships with industry.”
University of Victoria
The third B.C. post-secondary institution to make the ranking is the University of Victoria in 16th place.
“Hands-on learning is a core tenet of the UVic student experience, with research-enriched experiential programming that includes co-op work terms, international exchanges, community service learning, research opportunities and more,” said CourseCompare about UVic.
“UVic prides itself on fostering a learning environment that encourages innovation, discovery, and creativity among its students and staff.”
The full ranking of Best Universities in Canada of 2026 can be found online.