Calgary city view

Earn your degree in one of North America's most liveable cities

Limitless opportunities await you in Calgary, Canada

Calgary is Western Canada's leading corporate and tech hub

Calgary is a city built for opportunity and exploration. Home to more than 1.8 million people1, the Calgary CMA (Census Metropolitan Area) is Canada's fastest-growing major urban centre, and a leading hub for business, innovation and entrepreneurship. As Canada's leader in corporate head offices per capita2 and one of North America's fastest-growing tech talent ecosystems, students benefit from strong industry connections and diverse career opportunities.  

Beyond the classroom, Calgary offers an exceptional quality of life, including a lower overall tax burden with no provincial sales tax, North America’s longest urban pathway network3 and year-round access to the Canadian Rockies. 

Startup ecosystem

Calgary’s $7-billion tech ecosystem is creating new opportunities, with the city recognized as Canada’s fastest-growing technology hub and one of the world's Top 50 emerging startup ecosystems.4 

Business community

Home to more corporate headquarters per capita than any other Canadian city, Calgary combines energy expertise with growing strengths in technology, finance and entrepreneurship.2 

Private tech companies

Calgary is home to the majority of Alberta’s technology companies, with more than 1,300 core technology companies driving innovation across the region.3 

Cultural diversity

Calgary ranks as Canada’s third most diverse major city, with more than 240 ethnic backgrounds and 165 languages spoken, making it a truly inclusive community.5 

Consistent growth

Canada’s third-largest urban centre, Calgary has led population growth among major cities over the last decade, creating strong career and business opportunities.1 

A young, thriving city

With an average age of 38, Calgary has a young, active population, supporting a forward-focused community and vibrant urban life.3 

1 Statistics Canada, 2026 | 2 FP500 Database, 2024 | 3 City of Calgary | 4 2026 Global Startup Ecosystem Report | 5 Calgary Economic Development

Industry

Glass Skyscrapers Street in Calgary

Calgary’s diverse economy gives students access to valuable career experience before they graduate. The city combines Canada’s highest concentration of corporate headquarters per capita¹ with North America’s fastest-growing tech talent workforce². Together, these strengths connect students with established employers, growing startups and organizations across industries including energy, technology, finance and professional services. 

1 FP500 Database, 2024 
2 CBRE Tech Talent Report, 2025 

Calgary’s key sectors

Aerospace

Agribusiness

Digital media and entertainment

Energy and environment

Financial services

Life Science

Technology

Transportation and logistics

Source: Calgary Economic Development - sectors

Life in Calgary

Affordability

Affordability

Calgary is consistently ranked as one of the most liveable cities in North America. In Alberta, provincial tax, personal income taxes and inheritance taxes are among the lowest in the country. Furthermore, Alberta is the only province without a provincial sales tax. This means you can maximize your income, affording you greater flexibility and a higher quality of life as you pursue your degree.

Teepee in Calgary downtown

Diversity

Calgary is a vibrant, multicultural hub and the third most diverse major city in Canada, where more than 240 ethnic origins are represented and 165-plus languages are spoken.1 This dynamic mix of cultures makes it a place where newcomers quickly feel at home. For Haskayne students, it’s a city that offers both global perspectives and a close-knit, inclusive community — perfect for networking, professional growth and unforgettable experiences. 

1 Calgary Economic Development

Two international students talk to an advisor.

International student resources

From study permits and housing to health insurance and settling into life in Calgary, international students receive dedicated support before and throughout their studies.

Prepare to study in Canada

Leisure

Lakes and mountains in Banff

Mountains

Must-see mountain destinations include Banff National Park, Jasper National Park and Canmore. In warmer months, you can canoe or kayak across the many beautiful lakes, hike and camp in the tall forests, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. In the winter, be sure to take advantage of our world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Calgary Stampede

Activities and events 

Life in Calgary extends well beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, students can experience internationally recognized events including the Calgary Stampede, Calgary Folk Music Festival, Calgary International Film Festival and GlobalFest, as well as concerts, theatre productions, museums, galleries and cultural celebrations. With events taking place in every season, it's easy to explore new interests, meet people and experience the city's diverse communities.