Canada has always been one of the top choices for Indians looking to relocate, pursue higher education, or simply explore a new country. As one of the most welcoming countries in the world, Canada has been attracting more young talent every year with its quality education, affordable tuition fees, high standard of living and work opportunities.
The worldwide credibility of Canadian education, excellent opportunities for international students who graduate from its universities, the wide variety of courses available to students, and the overall flexibility in choosing subjects make Canada a preferred destination. Other than degree programs, you also get so many options for graduate and post-graduate diploma courses to choose from, which is why thousands of study abroad aspirants from across the globe are flocking to Canada every year.
When you start planning to apply for courses after you complete your high school education, it is important to understand the difference between graduate and post-graduate diplomas. So let’s explore this some more.
Graduate diplomas focus more on developing your practical skills and making you industry-ready. These programs are around two years long and can be starting points before pursuing further education. They generally involve presentations, discussions, participation, research papers, seminars, etc.
Their skill-focused, hands-on learning approach is best suited for students who want to directly transition into the workforce. Alternatively, it is an intermediate, credit-bearing option for students who want to brush up on their skills before their undergraduate degree.
Entry requirements for a diploma are generally lower than those for a degree. Admission into a diploma course requires you to pass the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC)/tenth standard/equivalent examination.
A two-year graduate diploma is a cost-effective choice, as it is much cheaper than a bachelor’s program and can be completed much faster.
The unbelievable number of options in graduate diplomas is why students are drawn away from lengthier programs available at universities. This can be great for those between careers or those looking to gain a specific skill set in a growing field. Some students pursue unique careers that are achieved directly through a two-year program and can’t be found at the four-year level.
Once you complete the diploma from a Canadian college or university, the graduate starting salary can range from approximately $30,000 to 60,000 CAD in a year, depending on the industry.
With the practical, hands-on, and industry-focused knowledge gained during your two-year graduate diploma program, you will be well prepared for the challenges in the future.
Post-graduate diplomas in Canada are job-oriented courses designed to provide hands-on experience in a chosen field. Students willing to gain professional training and looking to upgrade their skills as per industry requirements can pursue PG Diploma courses in Canada.
Almost all the colleges in Canada offer a wide range of PG Diploma courses in varied areas of study, including Management, Business, Finance, Marketing, Media and Communications, Information Technology, etc.
Although the duration of the post-graduate diploma courses in Canada varies per the course specialization and the chosen institution, the standard period of a PG Diploma in Canada is 1 to 2 years.
Most Canadian colleges offer a one-year PG diploma that comprises 2 to 3 semesters. These courses are job-oriented and provide skills that are helpful in enhancing your employability opportunities.
A two-year PG Diploma comprises 4 to 6 semesters; international students can get up to 3 years of post-study work permit upon graduating.
Compared to the US, UK, and Australia, the tuition fees of PG Diploma courses in Canada are lower. The cost of study depends on the chosen course and the college, but the standard tuition fees range between CAD$15,000 to $16,000 per year.
Most Canadian colleges have a training and placement center for providing overall guidance to international students that help you secure employment. This feature is available to post-graduate diploma students as well. Colleges also organize job fairs from time to time.
A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) in Canada allows students to work in the country after completing their PG diploma. Students completing their two-year PG diploma get a PGWP for up to three years. To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, the minimum duration of the program should be 8 months, and students should have graduated from a recognized Canadian institution.
Being one of the most industrialized countries in the world, Canada offers ample opportunities to international students. If you are confused about which course to take or have financial constraints, diploma courses are a great way to gain the necessary skills for your dream job.
In short, graduate and post-graduate diploma courses prepare students for the cutthroat global job market.
Now that you know the difference between graduate and post-graduate (PG) diploma courses in Canada, you can start thinking about your Canadian higher education journey!
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