Is it possible to get a tourist visa to Canada on the sole purpose of?
Yes, notwithstanding potential temporary travel restrictions owing to the current sanitary situation, that should not be a problem - as long as you fulfill the conditions for obtaining a tourist visa. While visiting, you are perfectly entitled to visit academic institutions, inquire about programs, talk to faculty and students etc. Only once you register for a specific program in an university will you need to apply for a student visa on the basis of this academic project.