How to Build a Successful Academic Career as a University Professor in Canada

Building a career as a University Professor or Lecturer in Canada offers a prestigious and fulfilling path. However, being a professor or lecturer, one requires more than a degree to thrive in this dynamic and competitive environment!

The universities in Canada are renowned for their outstanding academic programs, cutting edge research, and stimulating intellectual environments. As an aspiring professional, you must have subject expertise, teaching excellence, and contribute to research advancements. Additionally, networking, dedication to lifelong learning and adhering to university guidelines for tenure and promotion are essential. Therefore, you must plan strategically to blend these and know how to turn your academic aspirations into a thriving career in top education institutions in Canada. Let us discuss all these aspects and the migration journey in detail.

Three Pathways for University Professors and Lecturers to Migrate to Canada

University professors and lecturers have three primary routes to migrate to Canada.

1. Express Entry system: which allows eligible candidates to apply directly for permanent residency
2. Valid job offer: Securing a valid job offer from a Canadian institution strengthens your application.
3. Provincial Nomination: You must be nominated through the Provincial Nominee Program, tailored to meet regional academic needs.

What qualifications are required to immigrate to Canada as a university professor or lecturer?

Depending on the university, the specific documentation and prerequisites may vary. However, they will always align with the educational standards the NOC list sets for university professors and lecturers.

In order to migrate as a university professor or lecturer, you must meet specific qualifications under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code. Your educational credentials must also be certified in Canada to ensure they align with national standards.

Here are the list of qualifications and requirements needed for an applicant:

Educational Requirement

• University Professors: A doctorate (PhD) in your field of study is required.
• University Lecturers: A master's degree in the relevant area of expertise is necessary.

Professional Certification

• For some specialized roles, such as planners, you may need to be a member of professional bodies like the Institute of Planners in Canada.

Work Experience

•  You must have at least one year of continuous, full-time work experience (or 1,560 hours overall) within the last ten years. However, more experience may be required depending on your age and specific circumstances.

Roles and Responsibilities for University Professors and Lecturers In Canada

As a university professor or lecturer immigrating to Canada, you will be responsible for teaching undergraduate and graduate students across various academic courses.

In addition to delivering lectures, you may lead lab sessions and discussion groups. You will design, administer, and grade exams, lab work, and reports while mentoring students in making well-informed academic and career decisions.

Professors also guide students in making informed academic and career decisions, supervise graduate research projects, and provide research-related advice.

Professors are expected to conduct research, publish findings in academic journals or books, participate in committees focused on curriculum design and degree requirements, and take on guest lecturer or speaker roles. In some cases, managing urban planning specialists may also be part of your duties.

How to Immigrate as a University Professor or Lecturer in Canada?

Creating an Express Entry profile

1. As a first step in the immigration process for university professors and lecturers, you must create an Express entry profile. Build a solid profile to earn maximum CRS points. You can get a free eligibility and immigration options check.
2. After registration, wait for an Invitation-to-Apply (ITA) from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
3. Applying for Canadian pr is possible after you receive an ITA.
4. If your Express Entry profile is online, strengthen it with the proper supporting documents to ensure success. Simply having an Express Entry profile is not enough; proper documentation is crucial for achieving real progress in the immigration process.

The process may seem complex, but you can rely on ImmiLaw Global to create a robust Express Entry profile and handle the rest of your immigration journey.

What are the required documents for your Express Entry Profile?

1. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Verify your qualifications to claim education points.
2. Language Proficiency Test Results: Official scores from recognized international English or French tests
3. Proof of Fund: Financial documents showing you have enough money to settle in Canada.
4. Passport or Travel Documents: A valid passport and identification documents are required.
5. Medical Examination and Police Certificates: You must provide health and background checks for yourself and your family members (if accompanying).
6. Job offer: If necessary, a legitimate job offer from a Canadian firm.

ImmiLaw Global will guide you through the entire documentation process, ensuring your Express Entry profile meets all requirements for a successful application. You may contact us for the finest services available.

Provincial Nomination for University Professors and Lecturers

Once your express entry profile, educational verification, and language proficiency are complete, our Immigration lawyer at ImmiLaw Global will start preparing your application for provincial nomination.

If you are fortunate enough to secure a provincial nomination, it can increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score by 600 points. This will significantly enhance your chances of immigrating to Canada.

It is also essential to note that some provinces may require a job offer for nomination, depending on their specific criteria.

After two years of living and working in the nominating province, through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) you will be eligible to obtain a Canadian permanent residency. Our knowledgeable staff at ImmiLaw Global can assist you with every step of the immigration procedure.

Invitation to Apply for a University Professor or Lecturer Position in Canada

You can get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through the Express Entry lottery based on your Express Entry profile. Whether your profile is strong enough to qualify for direct federal selection, selection through provincial nomination, or acceptance of a formal job offer in Canada will depend on your profile.

The selection criteria will be as follows:

If your profile is competitive enough, you could receive an ITA through:

• Direct Federal Selection: Your profile might be strong enough to be directly selected by federal immigration authorities.
• Provincial Nomination: Alternatively, you might receive an ITA due to being nominated by a Canadian province, which significantly boosts your CRS score.
• Job Offer: You may also receive an invitation if you receive a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, which automatically enhances your profile's strength.

It is crucial to receive an ITA, as it formally allows you to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

What is the National Occupational Classification and NOC code for university professors and lecturers?

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) code is a unique system developed by the federal government to categorize all jobs based on skills and duties. It helps an aspiring professional to identify the qualifications, responsibilities, and skill levels required for every occupation in Canada.

The NOC code is crucial for immigration purposes, as it determines whether an individual's job experience and qualifications meet specific visa or residency program requirements.

The NOC code for university professors and lecturers is 4011. This code outlines the educational qualifications, work experience, and other criteria needed to immigrate to Canada in these roles.

Some job roles that university professors or lecturers may hold include:

• Food Sciences Department Chair – University
• Agriculture Professor – University
• Asian Studies Professor – University
• Astronomy Professor – University
• Anatomy Professor – University
• Civil Engineering Professor – University
• Biology Professor – University
• Anthropology Professor – University
• Dentistry Professor – University
• Drama Professor – University
• Education Professor – University
• Engineering and Architecture Professor – University
• Economics Professor – University
• Chemistry Professor – University

What are the benefits available to Canadian Permanent Residents?

• The ability to reside, work, and study wherever in Canada
• Admission to Canadian universities at citizen-level tuition
• Healthcare coverage under Canada's public system
• Eligibility for social security benefits
• Unlimited entry and exit without visas
• The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms provides legal protection.
• Citizenship eligibility after four years, with dual nationality option

The Canadian Job Market for University Lecturers and Professors

Over the next five years, it is predicted that the job market for university professors and lecturers in Canada will remain stable. This demonstrates the rising need for higher learning and research.

Employment levels for qualified university lecturers and professors are higher than the national average, reflecting a consistent demand for their expertise and contributions to academia.

However, the demand for university faculty may vary depending on province, region and institution. Major universities in urban centers have more openings, while smaller institutions or those in remote areas may offer opportunities in specialized fields.

Professors with specialized research expertise or who contribute to research projects often find lucrative opportunities, as Canadian universities encourage research and innovation.

Average Salaries for University Professors and Lecturers

In Canada, the average salaries for university professors and lecturers vary significantly based on experience.

Entry-level positions with less than five years of experience generally offer an annual salary of around CAD 73,500. Mid-level professors who have more experience can earn approximately CAD 99,600 per year.

Career progression in academia can lead to roles with greater responsibilities, such as department heads or research directors, often accompanied by higher salaries and additional benefits.

For those with 10 to 20 years of experience, salaries may rise significantly to an average of CAD 220,990 annually. However, late-career professionals earn averaging about CAD 208,788 annually, comparatively slightly less.

Overall, the robust demand and competitive salaries make Canada an attractive destination for academic professionals seeking a rewarding career in higher education.

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Read more: Canada Targets Quality Over Quantity: 437,000 Study Permits for International Students in 2025