winter
jobpostings
gradschool planning Guide
graduate debt free is post-grad education right for me how to survive grad school cool programs you’ve never heard of
Grad school can be a rough ride, so before you pack your bags, know where you’re going.
8 Wherefore Art Thou, Post-Grad? Before you spend copious amounts of time and money, it’s best to make sure grad school is what you want.
Image: © iStockphoto.com/Aldo Murillo
12 College vs. University
24 Oh The Places You’ll Go!
40 School Directory
From courses on horses to becoming a brewmaster, Canada’s schools offer something for everyone.
A list of schools and their new programs, conveniently alphabetized with start dates. Enjoy!
28 Law School Lane
A few tips on buying your first set of wheels.
It doesn’t matter whether you have a fine arts, music or engineering degree, law school could be for you. But read this first.
32 Accepted by More Than One School?
By strategically planning, you’ll avoid major reversals down the road.
Well, aren’t you the popular one. It’s not about the prettiest school, but the whole package.
22 Grad School Abroad
36 Hitting it Outta the Park
We bust some grad school abroad myths (it’s not as impossible as you think).
How to turn your love of the game into an all-star career.
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
42 Dude, I need a car.
46 Fast Track Worried about spending your 20’s locked up studying? Here’s how you can save time.
48 Graduate Debt-Free Well, almost. While you’ve already determined that your post-grad will pay off in the end, it doesn’t hurt to start managing your money now.
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showcases 4 Queens University, Graduate Studies 6 Ross University, School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine 10 Dalhousie University, MBA 14 Concordia University, John Molson School of Business 16 Humber, The Business School, Postgraduate 26 University of Saskatchewan, Edwards School of Business 34 Niagara College, Graduate Programs
Albany Law in New York’s Capital. Knowledge Empowers.
school
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SCHOOL INDEX IFC 2 3 9 13 13 18 21 21 23 25 25 25 29 29 30 30 31 33 33 33 37 37 38 38 43 44 IBC
D’Youville College Albany Law School University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry Brock University University of Tasmania Ithaca College Ross University Medaille College Carleton University Conestoga College Marine Institute of Memorial University Seattle University Centennial College Seneca College Ithaca College Centennial College, Journalism National University of Health Sciences University of Ontario Institute of Technology CTS Canadian Career College Anglo-European College of Chiropractic Harris Institute University of Ottawa Toronto Institute of Pharmaceuticals Seton Hall University, School of Law Sheridan College University of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Lethbridge Humber College, School of Media Studies and Information Technology
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Graduate Studies LOOKING FOR A CAREER IN MEDICAL RESEARCH? Get your graduate degree at Western’s Schulich School ofMedicine &Dentistry • Full-tuition scholarship for eligible students with 80+ averages • Unique training in 11 MSc and PhD programs • Work with world-class scientists at • Students accepted from a variety of academic backgrounds For application deadlines and details, visit:
www.schulich.uwo.ca/gradstudies Learn how you can help shape the future of health care through research
Are you looking for a place to put yourself and your ideas to the test?
With more than 50 graduate programs, small class sizes, and opportunities to work closely with peers and faculty, Queen’s is a place where world-class students put their ideas to the test. Graduates of Queen’s post-grad programs make an impact every day in boardrooms, courtrooms, classrooms, laboratories, libraries, galleries, governments and workplaces across Canada and around the globe. From part-time studies to traditional programs and professional degrees, graduate studies at Queen’s prepare students to make a difference in society.
A Bright Idea
Queen’s now offers a Masters of Public Health program. Students of this new program develop the skills needed to organize, analyze, interpret, and communicate public health knowledge and how to apply this knowledge to the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health policies and programs.
Dr. Praveen Jain and John Lam, PhD student. Working with his supervisor Dr. Praveen Jain, PhD student John Lam has engineered circuitry to create a more efficient, and dimmable, compact fluorescent light bulb. It’s an invention that will save money and, more importantly, conserve energy.
Professional Programs:
Graduate Programs
Programs that suit a working professional include the Professional Master of Industrial Relations and Professional Master of Public Administration. These unique programs are primarily completed through weekend classes, and are targeted to working professionals.
Other Faculty/Schools • Management • Education • Law • Public Administration • Industrial Relations • Urban & Regional Planning
Interdisciplinary Programs: In the fall of 2009, a number of new graduate programs were introduced at Queen’s, including Global Development Studies, Cultural Studies and Gender Studies. Interdisciplinary in nature, these programs allow students to explore a variety of topics and offer the opportunity to collaborate with faculty across different departments.
Collaborative Programs: Queen’s offers a number of collaborative programs. These are degrees offered jointly by two or more programs. They provide the opportunity for students to explore an area of study broadly and from the specialized perspective of different disciplines and approaches.
Engineering & Applied Science • Chemical Engineering • Civil Engineering • Electrical & Computer Engineering • Mechanical & Materials Engineering • Mining Engineering Arts and Science • Art Conservation • Art History • Biology • Chemistry • Classics • Computing • Cultural Studies • Economics • English • Environmental Studies • French Studies • Gender Studies • Geography • Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering • German Language & Literature • Global Development Studies • History • Kinesiology & Health Studies
• • • • • • •
Mathematics & Statistics Philosophy Physics, Engineering Physics & Astronomy Political Studies Psychology Religious Studies Sociology
Health Sciences • Anatomy & Cell Biology • Biochemistry • Epidemiology • Microbiology & Immunology • Neuroscience • Nursing • Occupational Therapy • Pathology & Molecular Medicine • Pharmacology & Toxicology • Physical Therapy • Physiology • Public Health • Rehabilitation Science Combined Masters and Law (JD) • Economics/Law • Industrial Relations/Law • Public Administration/Law Collaborative Programs • Applied Sustainability • Biomedical Engineering • Biostatistics • Cancer Research • Computational Science & Engineering • Geo Engineering
www.queensu.ca/sgs
Sponsored by Queen’s University, School of Graduate Studies
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
What happens when inspiration strikes?
If you’re in the right place, one idea – your idea – can have a profound impact in far-reaching and unexpected places.
Set your ideas in motion.
Consider graduate studies at Queen’s.
CREATE AN IMPACT
www.queensu.ca/sgs
A Reputation for Excellence Founded in 1978, Ross University is committed to pushing the frontiers of medical and veterinary education and providing our students with the foundation they need to pursue a successful career in human and animal medicine. Overall, the University has graduated over 10,000 successful physicians and veterinarians who are practicing in Canada and the US.
School of Medicine Located in Dominica, the School of Medicine places more graduates into US residencies than any other medical school in the world and has clinical education centers in Miami, Florida; Saginaw, Michigan; and Freeport, Grand Bahama. The School of Medicine is accredited by the Dominica Medical Board and the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions. Ross University School of Medicine is proud to be affiliated with more than 70 teaching hospitals in the United States. This extensive network of affiliations makes it possible for our students to receive superior education while completing their clinical rotations in the United States. Recruited from leading medical institutions around the world, the Ross University School of Medicine faculty has outstanding credentials in teaching and research. Students choose Ross University School of Medicine because of our faculty, curriculum, technologically advanced campus and because of our well-earned reputation for providing the education that enables our students to pass their Canadian and US licensing exams and obtain excellent residencies.
School of Veterinary Medicine Located in St. Kitts, the School of Veterinary Medicine is affiliated with 22 American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited US veterinary schools where students complete their clinical year. Mastering the art and science of veterinary medicine requires the dedicated attention of experienced teachers. That’s exactly what you will find at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. Currently, there are over 65 full-time faculty, virtually all of whom hold a DVM degree. In addition, many also hold a PhD degree in the biological sciences and/or are board certified in one or more clinical specialties. RUSVM offers a variety of opportunities and experiences for students to broaden their education through externships, preceptorships, and hands-on research opportunities. Students who enroll in the program have the opportunity to work with and learn from basic science and clinical faculty recognized for their commitment to student education and advancing veterinary knowledge. Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine is accredited by the St. Christopher & Nevis Accreditation Board, Ministry of Education. Ross University operates on a three-semester schedule, allowing students to start in September, January or May, and has administrative offices in North Brunswick, New Jersey. Canadian students have various options available to them in order to finance their education, and may apply for provincial loans, private loans with US co-signers, and educational lines of credit to fund their studies. All Ross University graduates can obtain licensure in Canada and the US.
To learn more about Ross University, visit RossU.edu Sponsored by Ross University
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Go to Ross, come home to practice. HOMETOWN: Toronto, ON EDUCATED: Ross University
School of Medicine PRACTICING: Toronto, ON Family Practice Physician
HOMETOWN: Montreal, QC EDUCATED: Ross University
School of Veterinary Medicine PRACTICING: Montreal, QC Small Animal Veterinarian
Ross University has graduated over 10,000 successful physicians and veterinarians who have come home to practice in Canada and the US.
Attend our Information Seminar Saturday, January 15, 2011 Medical Seminar 2 pm Veterinary Seminar 10 am The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
Register online at RossU.edu
SC H O O L O F ME D I C I N E S C H O O L O F VE T E R I N A R Y M E D I C I N E
Wherefore Art Thou, Post-Grad? Undergrad is almost over, and if you’re reading this guide you’re probably wondering whether you should continue your education, how – or maybe that you should just get a job. Whether it’s grad school at a university, or a post-grad program at a college, keep your desired result in mind when you make your choice. by Darlene Morales
From theory to practice and back
After years of theory-based learning in undergrad, post-graduate education of any kind allows you to learn how to apply your broad knowledge in a particular field of interest by teaching you to specialize and develop skills specific to the job or field of study you’re interested in. William Hanna, dean of media studies and information technology at Humber College in Toronto, ON, explains that post-grad programs at colleges are all about hands-on work. “Photography students show their pictures, film students go out to film and editing. We’re getting students to go from a pampered environment to an environment where you’re producing.”
A meeting of minds
Post-graduate programs are also good places to make connections. There are many professors, course directors, and alumni you can meet who are already working in fields that might interest you. These people can also mentor you or even connect you to job opportunities. Some programs require students to complete an internship in order to graduate. Whether you’re at a job for six weeks or three
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months, it’s a good way for students to see first-hand what the environment is like while gaining valuable experience. It could even lead to a job offer. Hanna says that more than 90 percent of the students at Humber get job offers after their internships. “University gives you a general idea about a field and when you have that, plus the skill set that you get at the post-grad level, it gives you the opportunity to come in the door functioning,” Hanna says. And if an internship doesn’t get you a job right away, at least you still have a good reference or a gatekeeper who can connect you to another opportunity.
For love, or money?
There’s no mistaking that graduate school really does require a lot of commitment. There’s a lot of extra work and a lot less time socializing but it does pay off when it comes time to enter the working world.
“By doing a grad degree, whatever you do, you are likely to be more advanced since you can always apply your education,” encourages professor Susan Pfeiffer, PhD, dean of graduate studies at the University of Toronto. Higher level positions in fields like engineering and business management usually require post-graduate education. Not only are you going to have access to higher positions, there’s also the possibility of moving upwards in the company. And the higher the position, the better the salary. Still, Pfeiffer encourages students to pursue something they’re passionate about. “A person might undertake this program as a means to a higher salary, but if you don’t like what you do, don’t do it,” professor Pfeiffer says. “It’s so important that you do what you love. If you do that then going to grad school is definitely worth it.”
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Images Top-Bottom: iStockphoto/Thinkstock; Hemera/Thinkstock
Why you continue your education is just as important as where you choose to do it
Your Degree + Dalhousie’s Corporate Residency MBA Get there faster You’ve followed your passion and earned a degree in engineering, sciences, the humanities, social sciences, the arts, or business. Now you want to launch your career and make a difference in the world. There is a better way to accelerate your career. It’s a smarter, faster way to build on the strengths of your undergrad degree (Honours degree not required). Dalhousie University’s Corporate Residency MBA can be your route to success. Canada’s first Corporate Residency MBA program offers you a way to fast-track your career by combining the best of your undergrad potential with access to the best employers, the best faculty, and the best classmates. This is a program that is designed to meet the needs of students and employer partners. Students, faculty, and employers collaborate within this model to develop the next generation of leaders.
Top Five Reasons to be a student in the Corporate Residency MBA • • • • •
Exceptional, paid work experience Personalized leadership development Curriculum relevant to employer needs Access to leading employers and award winning faculty Best students from every field of study
Profile of a Dalhousie MBA Candidate: We are looking for students who want to manage with integrity and make things happen. Ideal candidates want a fast track to career success but not an easy way out. Our students are: • Collaborative • Ambitious
• Hard working • Confident without being arrogant • Active volunteers in their communities The Corporate Residency MBA Program focuses on developing you professionally and linking you to organizations that provide a relevant and challenging work experience. This is achieved by integrating top employers into the academic process, providing students with exceptional, paid work experience for eight months, delivering an innovative curriculum, and by enhancing each student’s employability through a 22-month Personal and Professional Effectiveness program. It is far more than an integrated worklearning experience; it is a partnership with the university, the student and the employer. This means your MBA can be customized to meet your needs and the needs of your employer. Corporate Residencies are available to you through our employer partners in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors in locations across Canada.
“The Dal CR-MBA has provided me with the confidence and ability to operate in a foreign culture. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to impart knowledge and provide guidance from a management level and see the day-to-day impact that my work is having on South African entrepreneurs.” Katie Gallagher, BBA, Bishop’s University Corporate Residency: The Business Place Network, South Africa “The residency has been a true eyeopener for me. The level of independent, fast paced and challenging work has been amazing. Everyone at Scotia Capital has been welcoming and really helped me not just “do” the work, but “learn” the work.” Evan Carrigan, BComm, Dalhousie University Corporate Residency: Scotia Capital, Credit Analytics Department, Toronto
Admission Requirements: • GPA of 3.0 in last two years of study (B average) • GMAT score of 550 • Successful personal interview to determine employability Note: Early application is encouraged as admissions are done on a rolling basis. Qualified applicants are offered acceptance upon successful completion of the process. Early application will also give you greater access to scholarship opportunities. The Corporate Residency MBA program starts a new class in July of each year. We invite you to join the best and advance your career options through our program. For more details or to RSVP for an information session, visit dalmba.ca or contact us at:
Corporate Residency MBA office Faculty of Management, Dalhousie University Suite 5063, Kenneth C. Rowe Management Building 6100 University Ave Halifax, NS, Canada B3H 3J5 Phone: 902.494.2707 Email: mbacr@dal.ca
Sponsored by Dalhousie University
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Corporate Residency MBA
Get there faster. Personalized leadership development Exceptional, paid work experience Innovative curriculum
Seeking the best from every ďŹ eld of study. Prior work experience not required. Motivation is mandatory. Apply now.
dalmba.ca
College (or) You’ve decided to continue your education after you graduate, but you’re not sure where. No wonder – the number of programs out there is enough to make anyone lose focus. If your chosen field requires you to obtain a graduate degree in order to continue, your decision is fairly straightforward and comes down to comparing university programs. But if you don’t necessarily need to have a post-graduate education to get work in your field, you should be asking yourself some tough questions before starting your application process.
where do you want to go to school? The first thing you need to figure out is where you want to live while you study. Factor in family obligations, cost, and the sacrifices you’re willing to make to pursue your area of interest. Narrowing down the geographical areas you’re willing and able to live in will reduce the number of programs you’ll have to choose from.
what interests you the most? Unlike undergrads, post-graduate students aim to specialize. Business undergrads may want to focus on marketing in grad school, for example; political science majors might want to study the Middle East in depth. Determine your area of specific interest, then compile a list of programs within your chosen geographical areas that fit the bill. By looking at program specifics, as well as the experts available on faculty, your choice should be narrowed down even more.
what degree do you want to earn? When it comes to post-graduate degrees, there are a lot of options. Universities usually offer both master’s and doctorates. A master’s degree is often more practical in nature, often research-based. A doctorate is more intellectual in nature, and allows students to delve into the theory and philosophy behind their field of study. These two types of degrees also provide different career opportuni-
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ties, depending on the field of study and your desired end-result career. When it comes to deciding which degree to earn, knowing what you want to do with it makes all the difference. Researching your options takes time, but it’s better to do it now than find out later you’ve made decisions that don’t take your fundamental needs and goals into account. By strategically planning your education, you’ll avoid major reversals down the road.
college or university learning? University can help you get master’s and doctorates essential for fields like law, engineering, medicine, science, and even business management. Programs generally range in length from three to five years, but medical studies can last a decade. Universities provide theory-based learning, so students should be prepared to write research papers, exams, and possibly complete a thesis. Colleges offer one and two year programs and tend to be more hands-on in learning style. Many college programs will expose you to a work environment immediately via an internship or co-op placement, or by reproducing the work environment in the classroom. Courses range in length from two months to two years, resulting in certificates or diplomas. At some industry-specific schools, however, you may be able to earn a master’s degree.
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Image: © iStockphoto.com/Izabela Habur
Consider carefully…
by Ingrid Phaneuf
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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John Molson School of Business Located in Montreal’s downtown core, and neighbored by dozens of other high rise structures, stands the Molson Building —15 stories tall and home to Concordia University’s affiliate school, the John Molson School of Business (JMSB). Priding itself on world class business academia, JMSB is dedicated to empowering students and sculpting them into strong, decisive, and globally-minded business leaders. JMSB’s faculty hails from 31 different countries, and its 300 -plus members each possess unique academic genealogies. By combining their disciplines they have created a multi-faceted and well-rounded learning experience. Along with JMSB’s expansive business curriculum, it hosts a spectrum of degree programs, from undergraduate to graduate accreditation. Included in the roster is a specialized Masters degree dedicated to the science of Administration (MSc). Like a Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA), the program is valuable to students committed to a career in business; by comparison however, the curriculum is much more tailored, explains Dr. Harjeet Bhabra, Associate Dean of Research and Director of the MSc and PhD programs at JMSB. “Students must pursue one of three specialty areas: Finance, Management, or Marketing,” a feature intentionally incorporated to refine avenues of study, says Bhabra. With a marketing focus, for example, students might choose to analyze consumer behaviors and environmental stimuli, while those in management or finance may critically examine leadership or become experts in Mergers & Acquisitions. “The MSc program aims to provide [students] with the skills to work in a very specific area of business, unlike the MBA which imparts expertise for general management.” In contrast to other masters programs, which are often limited to one year of study, the MSc is two years long. The longer duration enables students to lend greater focus to their research and thesis. “By writing a thesis, I’m becoming an expert in my field,” says Jameson Jones-Doyle, second year MSc student, and president of the Commerce Graduate Student Association at Concordia University. The thesis component, he explains, is where students can explore the science and philosophy behind their discipline(s). This novel perspective “is what will make us extremely qualified consultants in our area of study.” The program also features an exclusive conference — the Annual Graduate Research Exposition, a colloquy held exclusively for JMSB’s
Masters of Science in Administration (MSc) and Doctoral (PhD) students. The exposition gives graduates the unique opportunity to showcase their academic research and demonstrate their thesis findings. The conference is frequented by JMSB students and faculty, as well as those belonging to the surrounding Montreal universities. It’s an opportune time for students to network, and establish new and meaningful connections for that will last throughout their careers. For students who are unable to study full time, the curriculum can be distributed over four years. Courses are offered midday and in the evening to accommodate part time applicants. There is also plenty of funding made available to distinguishable students. Says Bhabra, “Many scholarships and grants are accessible to our students,” and impressive applicants “can be awarded up to two thousand dollars from the faculty toward their research and analysis.” In addition to its elite faculty and course content, the business school has made international headlines for its revolutionary faculty building. The MB Building, which opened its doors in 2009, is an engineering feat boasting state of the art design and technology. The structure uses low flow, recycled plumbing water (often referred to as “grey water”), biodegradable supplies, and a motion sensitive lighting system, in an effort to reduce energy expenditures and maximize efficiency. Its crowning feature is a 300 square meter solar panel which generates up to 100KW of energy, and is used to source the building’s thermal and electrical systems. The distinct facility is also a popular meeting place for students, explains JMSB’s communications officer Mai-Gee Hum. “It enables students to feel at home which makes a huge difference in their learning experience.” “Studying at the John Molson School of Business, especially in its new building, has been an exceptionally positive experience” says JonesDoyle. “I’m confident that my degree will set me apart from other applicants.” And while JSMB students are adequately prepared for any future business endeavors, they have not severed any alternative routes. “The other door which has been left wide open,” explains Jones-Doyle, “is the option to pursue a PhD.”
Sponsored by Concordia University, the John Molson School of Business
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Job Ready The Business School at Humber helps develop your professional specialty in less than a year. The thought of postgraduate business studies can be daunting. An MBA will require years of schooling. And it may still lack exposure to the skills that are required for a specific career. The School of Business at Humber offers you the chance to develop a professional specialty in a fraction of the time. Humber’s Postgraduate Certificates have all been created to build upon the academic foundation of an existing undergraduate degree. Most of the programs are delivered in less than a year, and all emphasize the value of applied learning. It means that Humber can make you “job ready” as soon as possible. Postgraduate studies at The Business School at Humber include: International Marketing. The International Marketing Program develops professionals who will focus on international business opportunities. And it incorporates a three-week work placement program that gives students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience with international companies that are located throughout the Greater Toronto area. Marketing Management. The Marketing Management Program provides the practical tools that will make marketing strategies a reality. Students will prepare for management positions in the roles of assistant brand manager, account executive, or marketing manager that are found in the exciting world of advertising, promotion, public relations and international distribution. Public Administration. Humber’s Public Administration Program offers advanced training for those who want to pursue careers in the challenging and rewarding environment of the public service. Students will learn the practical skills that are required to work in a government ministry, municipality or an organization such as a hospital, in roles as diverse as policy advisors and managers. These studies are anchored by an eight-week work placement program. International Development. This program is designed for people who want to see the world and make a difference within it. International Development will give students the skills that are required to coordinate and manage international development projects and disaster relief initiatives –
and the eight-week work placement often takes place overseas. This initiative has also earned an award for international excellence from the Association of Canadian Community Colleges, as well as an honour for international program management from the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE). Human Resources Management. Humber introduced the first Human Resources Management program to be fully accredited by the Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA). And it prepares graduates for careers that link organizations to their most important assets — their people. This training opportunity includes exposure to some of the largest Human Resources departments in the country, through a massive HRPA trade show. Many of the program’s instructors hold postgraduate degrees in industrial relations, and many of the faculty’s experts are recognized as Certified Human Resources Professionals. Financial Planning. This program provides a pathway to the lucrative careers of financial planning, as it prepares students for the exam that is required for accreditation as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). Become licensed to sell stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and a variety of insurance products, and connect with the financial heart of Canada through four-week work placements. New - 2-Year Global Business Management. Besides providing you with knowledge and skills in many of the major functional areas of business, this program covers skills every business wants in every manager: leadership, communications, numeracy, creativity, analytic ability, problem-solving, teamwork, and strategic planning. The first year covers a breadth of fundamental business knowledge and skill areas; the second year expands on that base with a variety of more sophisticated and strategic courses that have equal application in both domestic and international businesses. Plus, two flexible work placements - one in each year - give you the hands-on practical experience employers desire. Humber’s postgraduate programs are offered in the intimate setting of the Lakeshore Campus, which is a study in contrasts. The surroundings have retained the Old World charm of 19th Century buildings, but they have also been updated to boast the latest advances in electronic classrooms and computer labs. There are also a fitness centre, student centre, cafeteria, coffee shops and performance spaces that will further enhance your experience. In addition to holding postgraduate degrees, The Business School’s instructors are actively working in the fields that are associated with their classes, bringing a real-world relevance to your studies. They all know the business skills that graduates will require in the workplace. Humber graduates know the value of the skills that are developed through The Business School. After all, they use them every day.
Sponsored by The Business School at Humber
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
E T A U D A R G T S O P R O F S E T A C I F CERTI S R E E R A C G N I REWARD FINANCIAL PLANNING GLOBAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT INTERNATIONAL MARKETING MARKETING MANAGEMENT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Apply now!
business.humber.ca
• • • •
We place more graduates into U.S. residencies annually than any other medical school in the world All clinical rotations are completed in the U.S. at nearly 70 top teaching hospitals Students spend 16 months at our technologically advanced campus in Dominica Alumni network of over 7,700 successful physicians practicing throughout Canada and the U.S.
For details visit RossU.edu or call 877-ROSS-EDU.
Attend our Information Seminar Saturday, January 15, 2011 Medical Seminar 2pm Veterinary Seminar 10am The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
Register online at RossU.edu
School of Me dicine
It’s worth it, we promise
Image: © iStockphoto.com/Aldo Murillo
You came to a crossroads, but there was no Good Witch of the North to point you in the right direction and you couldn’t see yellow bricks leading anywhere. Still, you held your head high and made your choice: follow the post-graduate education road. Now while most of your undergrad classmates are off working jobs, earning money, and starting families, you’re up until the wee hours of the morning clutching an espresso and a research paper.
by Darlene Morales jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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That’s okay. Everyone’s choices are different and
you’ve ultimately decided to take the path and program that’s best for you. And now that you’ve made your choice, you’ll be spending the next few years here, so you’ll need to learn to cope with a notoriously intense rite of passage.
Know what to expect Before you go off to battle you have to know what you’re dealing with. Make sure you review your program requirements and curriculum. Is your program research, project, or course-based? All three have at least one thing in common – they require your time, dedication, and patience.
You won’t necessarily live under a rock (at least not all the time), but more focus on school work equals less friends and family time, says Marilyn Rose, dean of graduate studies at Brock. “Graduate programs expect their students to work hard and spend a great deal of time mastering the discipline they have chosen to study,” Rose says. “Students have to be prepared to have little time left over for idleness or play.” Expect to deliver better quality. Since graduate education programs are more specialized and you’ll be focused on a particular area, supervisors are going to ask that you deliver in-depth reports, says Jenny Phelps, assistant dean and director of graduate enrollment services at the University of British Columbia. “The expectations are higher here. Students are expected to be more connected with the faculty since there are less lectures here and course sizes are smaller,” Phelps says. “The nature of the work at the graduate level is more focused, it’s somewhat more independent, and there’s more responsibility for [students] to choose their career paths. They become managers of their own learning experiences.”
Grad school may require extra effort up front, but rest assured your effort will pay off in the end. “Survey research shows that the higher the degree level you have, the higher your earnings are,” Phelps says. “This higher degree will even give you better job opportunities and this credential really puts you at an advantage over other people who don’t have it.”
Get involved Graduate studies can mean more alone time for you and your work, so get ready to sharpen your time management skills, because you shouldn’t be alone all the time. “We know that students can learn how to manage their time and thereby make sufficient time for socializing, exercising, and otherwise taking care of themselves. And we encourage this, we even offer workshops on time management and related skills,” Rose says. Socializing (or networking) can play an important role in your career, adds Phelps. “Research shows that the more engaged students are in their programs, the better their outcomes are—the better the connections and the more experience they’ll have. If you know and impress a lot of people, that’ll just widen the opportunities for you to meet people who could help connect you to other people or a job later on.” Tays got involved by becoming a teaching assistant, joining the school senate and helping out on several conferences and committees. “My regular grad work takes up a great deal of my time, but I’ve benefited from working outside my microcosm,” Tays says. “I have a unique relationship with many academic and administrative personnel around the university and I feel like I’m part of a real community rather than just a student in a program.”
Earnings aside, grad school also prepares you for the working world by teaching you discipline, says Demetres Tryphonopoulos, acting associate dean for the school of graduate studies at the University of New Brunswick. “Graduate students are not only better prepared for the market place but they also possess the kind of independence and discipline that employers value.” The contacts you make can also help you land a job. “There is no doubt that graduate studies offer many benefits in the area of social contacts that will pay off in the future,” Rose says. “Professors themselves are wellconnected and can provide introductions or letters of reference (in fact it is part of their jobs to do so) for students who do well in their courses.” Grad students also learn professionalism, adds Tays. “I think that grad school offers a considerable opportunity for personal and professional development. I’ve learned dedication, engagement, ambition, creativity, critical thinking, ingenuity and professional citizenship,” he says. “I believe post-graduate programs are an incubator for generating the people that will make the next breakthroughs in industry, science, health, social justice and the arts.” So Yellow Brick Road or no, there’s no tiny wizard making false promises at the end of your grad school journey. Instead, you’ll develop the genuine professionalism, contacts and knowledge to help you achieve your career goals.
Image: © iStockphoto.com/Aldo Murillo
William Tays, a PhD student at Brock University, suspected his graduate education experience was going to be different from undergrad, but that’s what he wanted. “I knew grad studies would be challenging, especially since my field of specialty was inter-disciplinary. I assumed that I would have more autonomy in my own work, which is a very welcome change to merely taking classes as an undergraduate,” Tays says. “Overall, I was hoping that it would be a very different experience from my undergrad career, and that turned out to be exactly the case.”
Keep your eye on the prize
Your opportunity to Move Up is just over the border… Medaille College in Buffalo, NY has been educating students from Ontario for over 20 years Our School of Adult and Graduate Education offers programs in the following areas: Teacher Education Programs: - Master of Science in Elementary Education (certification to teach grades 1-6) - Master of Science in Adolescent/Secondary Education (certification to teach grades 7-12)
Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling Master of Arts in Psychology Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
All our programs are offered on convenient schedules that allow students to commute to campus from their homes while continuing to work. For more information, or to speak with an admissions counselor, call 1-888-252-2235 or email SageAdmissions@medaille.edu
Medaille College Amherst Campus 30 Wilson Road Williamsville, NY 14221
A M H E R S T
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WITH 100+ GRADUATE PROGRAMS,
CARLETON HAS A PROGRAM THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU Carleton University offers more than 100 graduate programs for you to choose from: 28 engineering and design programs including industrial design,
electrical, computer, aerospace and biomedical engineering 22 public affairs programs including international affairs, journalism,
public administration, and political science 32 science programs including computer science, biology, mathematics,
chemistry, physics and earth sciences 29 arts and social sciences programs including anthropology, French,
Canadian studies, geography, linguistics, philosophy and psychology MBA and PhD in Management programs Interdisciplinary programs in such areas as infrastructure protection
and international security, sustainable energy, and biomedical engineering Benefit from our convenient location in the heart of Canada’s capital, the option to study full- or part-time, and over $45M in financial support.
carleton.ca/graduate jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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Post-grad abroad myths: by Michelle Ryan
Thinking about getting your MA, PhD, or other graduate degree while living abroad? Always wanted to spend a semester overseas but never got around to it? Think that graduate degrees are only for people smarter or richer than you? A little investigation may change your mind. We bust the top five myths about educating yourself in a foreign country.
busted!
Myth One: “I have to learn a foreign language in order to study abroad.”
Myth Two: “I can’t afford to study abroad.” Many graduate programs abroad are actually inexpensive, by North American standards at least. Education is sometimes even free to foreigners. As a result, many public and private schools have tuition structures that are equivalent to half the price North American students are used to paying for the same education, often with no residency requirement. In addition, many foreign schools, including American institutions, are approved for Canadian financial aid.
Myth Three: “I’m not smart enough to compete.” North America has some of the best higher education in the world. If you have a bachelor’s degree from a Canadian school, you’re most likely at just the same level as the students in your host country.
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Interestingly enough, many foreign students believe that they actually have an inferior education to that of Canadian grads. Check out each individual school’s website for entrance requirements, accreditation, and more details.
Myth Four: “It will take too long if I spend time abroad.” In reality, many graduate programs abroad are shorter and more concentrated than the ones here at home. One reason is that their undergraduate programs are often longer. Master’s-level programs are frequently condensed to one year. For example, in France the first degree may take five years but will be followed by a one year graduate degree. So you can join a degree program for the last year and receive your master’s degree in just a year. In the UK, many research PhD programs do not require an MA and can be completed in three years.
Myth Five: “My foreign degree won’t be recognized at home.” You will need to investigate the school’s accreditation to put this fear to rest. Many countries have multiple accrediting levels. In most cases the highest foreign level will be recognized by North American standards. In Europe, the common accreditation bodies include the EQUIS and AACSB. Review the international rankings as published by the London Financial Times for more information about global accreditations.
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Image: Hemera/Thinkstock
Nothing could be further from the truth! English is the world’s language for the 21st century, not to mention the first language of our neighbors to the south. In fact, foreign schools now offer graduate degrees designed so their local students can compete in a global economy. Many European business schools, for example, have entire programs taught in English. Expand your search beyond the obvious destinations like England or Australia. Many countries speak English as a strong and popular second language, including India, Singapore, Sweden, Laos, and Ghana. And don’t forget about the rest of Europe. France, for one, has several international schools that teach entirely in English.
Oh The Places You’ll Go! Unique College Courses Take You Off the Beaten Career Path
Words and Letters
Creative class clowns might be interested in the comedy writing and performance diploma program at Humber College in Toronto, ON, where your coursework includes weekly student shows and instruction from established comics. Font geeks will be looking closely at the Advanced Typography continuing education program at Langara College in Vancouver, BC – the only one of its kind in North America. Or, bring your love of language into step with your team spirit at Loyalist College in Belleville, ON or Centennial College in Toronto, ON, where they offer a graduate certificate in sports journalism.
Wine, Beer, and Song
Niagara College, located in Ontario’s very own wine country, offers two programs to tempt the tipsiest of us. Wine lovers can enroll in the winery and viticulture technician program and earn either a diploma or certificate with courses like ‘Sensory Evaluation of Wines’ and ‘History of Wine’, along with lots of biology, chemistry, and horticultural education. The program is conducted at the school’s own teaching winery. Beer barons find their own place at Niagara College in the two-year brewmaster and brewery
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operations manager diploma program, which is backed by the Ontario Craft Brewers Industry and taught at Canada’s only teaching brewery. The program covers everything from beer making to marketing to brew pub operations. With the drinks taken care of, we’ll need some live music. Keyano College in Fort McMurray, AB offers a truly unique diploma program in musical instrument repair — the only one of its kind in all of North America. Which is good, because between the wine and the beer, some guitars are bound to get smashed.
Planes, Trains, and…
Ever wanted to yell out “All aboard!” and really mean it? Railway conductor certificate programs are available at both SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary, AB and Red River College in Winnepeg, MA, and run only 15 weeks. Not bad, considering the amazing hat you’ll get to wear. Councilman Doug would be proud. If the sky is your limit, look east to Moncton Flight College in Moncton, NB. While tons of colleges coast to coast offer courses in aircraft maintenance and repair, this school is completely dedicated to getting you in the air. Your days of living vicariously through Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper could finally come to an end at Grande Prairie Regional College in Fairview, AB. Their Harley-Davidson technician certificate program is the only authorized training centre in Canada for the iconic choppers.
Under the Sea!
Swim with the fishes as an aquaculture technician at New Brunswick Community College’s one-year certificate program in St. Andrews.
Not as Piscean but no less wet and wild, the underwater skills certificate at Seneca College in Toronto, ON and Holland College’s commercial diving program in Summerside, PEI both equip you for construction and salvage operations, offshore drilling, search and rescue operations, and more.
Green is the Word
The urban arboriculture certificate from Humber College in Toronto, ON prepares you for a life in the treetops, with emphasis placed on climbing, aerial rescue, rigging, and other squirrely arts. And if you’re not so good with heights, the urban forestry certificate program at Fleming College in Lindsay, ON focuses on all the “non-climbing” aspects of tree-hugging. The sustainable energy sector is poised to explode (in a totally carbon-neutral manner of course) so get gone with the wind sooner rather than later. Wind turbine technician programs are newly available at Lethbridge College in Lethbridge, AB, St. Lawrence College in Kingston, ON, and Holland College in Summerside, PEI.
Courses on Horses
If you’d like your home to be on the range, consider cowboy training at Lakeland College in Vermilion, AB. At their Western ranch and cow horse program you’ll spend part of every day working on your horsemanship skills; once you earn your certificate, strut your stuff at the school’s annual working cowboy competition. More horseplay is afoot (ahoof?) at Olds College in Olds, AB, where you can train to become a racetrack groom or exercise rider, a jockey, or a ferrier — that’s the guy who shoes horses, FYI.
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Images: © iStockphoto.com/Sean Locke
You finish high school, you go to university or college for a while, you try to find a job in your field. New grads these days have been there, done that, and want more — so Canadian colleges are offering it. There’s an amazing array of courses and post-grad programs available across the country, and we’ve picked a few favorites for your perusal. Go out and explore, and don’t forget to send us a postcard when you get there!
by Emily Minthorn
WORK, WORK, WORK.
Or, better yet, get a career you’ll love. Centennial College will give you the education you need for the career you want. Start here with programs in general arts and science, business, hospitality, creative communications, engineering technologies, community and health studies, and transportation – and don’t look back. Learn more at centennialcollege.ca or call 416-289-5300 | The Future of Learning.
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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The Edwards School of Business The Edwards School of Business has a long-standing history of business education excellence. Our continual evolution means we believe we’re one of the most innovative Master of Business Administration programs in the country. The Edwards MBA can be completed in 12 months, from September to August, if taken full-time or up to three years (36 months) if taken part-time. Its intensive and highly integrated format will develop your management ability in an applied and useful way. More than that, you will learn the people skills of management: how to manage yourself; how to communicate effectively; how to lead. A decidedly unique aspect of this innovative MBA program is the focused learning and integration of business concepts. Each course is offered consecutively in a modular format. Courses are scheduled for one, two, or three weeks, creating an intensive learning environment that immerses students in the subject area, while allowing flexibility in scheduling your MBA education. As well, our students learn how business concepts are integrated to make business decisions through a combination of applied courses, exercises, case studies and projects, incorporating each functional business area.
Key Features Professional Development Program. This program introduces students to various aspects of business processes and professional skill areas. It will also link students with the business community through utilizing guest speakers currently practicing and faculty members researching within the respective areas. Executive Dialogue Series. We host Edwards MBA alumni and other distinguished members of the business community who present and disGary Mearns: Vice President of Human Resources, Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) After earning his MBA designation in 1995, Mearns is now the Vice-President of Human Resources at FCL. “I have the responsibility for providing leadership in the development and implementation of HR programs that will contribute to the overall success of both FCL and the 250+ retail co-operatives that are part of the Cooperative Retailing System in Western Canada.” Mearns says one benefit of achieving an Edwards MBA is that it prepares you for the business world. “The broad nature of the program is great for providing students with a good grasp of the various aspects of business operations. For those with aspirations of employment in the business field, it is invaluable. The Edwards MBA has helped me achieve my career goals and provided me with an opportunity to meet people with whom I have maintained friendships and who have also assisted me in solving business problems over the years.” The Edwards MBA has provided Mearns with the useful background to assist in the knowledge needed for business decisions. “It has also opened up various career opportunities that would likely not have been available to me if I did not have an MBA. I believe my MBA has assisted me in moving from functional roles in the HR field to positions in senior management” When asked what the future holds for him, Mearns says, “Due to the complexity and diversity of my organization, there will be more than enough challenges to keep me busy and interested for the foreseeable future.” Mearns recommends the Edwards MBA program to prospective students, saying, “It was a great learning experience - not just what I learned in the classroom, but what I learned about myself. It is a difficult program but by completing it, you realize that, through hard work and perseverance, you can accomplish almost anything.”
cuss topics of interest to our MBA students as well as discussing their career path and how an MBA has contributed to their professional and/ or personal endeavours. International Study Tour. Each year the tour will be to a selected country and involve a variety of initiatives, such as business meetings with local executives and Canadian trade commissioners, company visits, factory tours, cultural excursions, networking opportunities and more. Integrative Modules. Scheduled at various points throughout the program, these modules provide opportunities to integrate and apply the knowledge gained in functional areas. The course will be a blend of short lectures, in-class case analysis and discussion as well as both group and individual case analysis. Specialized Electives. Tailor your learning to best suit your educational needs, interests and career aspirations! Choose electives from areas representing vital sectors of growth and opportunity in today’s economy: Finance, Marketing; Human Resources, Technology Management; Health Services Management; International Business and International Trade. Management Consulting Project. Partnering with industry, this project will lead students through the management consulting process, including developing the proposal, carrying out the work plan, analyzing the results, drawing conclusions, formulating recommendations, drafting the final consulting report, and liaising with the business client throughout each stage ensures students gain experience in project management and developing and cultivating a business relationship.
Career Services A critical component of an MBA program is the attention to career opportunities. The Edwards MBA is proud of our Goodspeed Career Services, which works with our MBA students, graduates, and alumni in their career development and management processes. We provide advice, resources, information, counselling, recruiting services and access to employment opportunities - all designed to empower students to manage their career and to assist employers through the process of hiring and employing Edwards MBA graduates and alumni.
Deadlines for Application: Candidates commence studies at the end of August each year. Applications for August 2011 program are now being accepted. Space permitting, applications will be accepted until May 31, 2011. International Applicants: The deadline to submit completed applications for the August 2011 program is March 31, 2011. International applicants must apply by this date to accommodate the visa process. If you already have your visa documents in order, International Applicants will still be accepted until May 31, 2011.
Sponsored by the University of Saskatchewan, Edwards School of Business
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Law by Caroline George
Hours spent pouring over cases, chapters of endless legal jargon to muddle through and hallways littered with eager students dressed in suits ready to take on any court. Are you up for the challenge – then law school may be for you.
T
he most important question on many student’s minds: What does it actually take to get into law school? “Don’t be intimidated about not having a traditional law background,” affirms Kaila Mikkelsen, assistant dean to students at the University of British Columbia Law School student ser background, including music, fine arts and engineering. There is not a single category of (particular) student situated for law school, but there are many similar characteristics students that enter have,” she says. “Students attracted to law school want to see both sides of an argument and are fascinated on why laws are governed.” Don’t be intimidated by the prospect of going, instead focus on why you want to go, seriously study the applications process for each school you are considering says Hoang. “School’s vary their weightings on everything from the personal essay to grade point average and the LSAT,” she says of the standardized test law schools require candidates to take to complete the application process. “You need to show you’re interested and need to be honest about why you’re applying.” “It isn’t just about the numbers,” says David Townsend, interim Dean of Law at the University of New Brunswick about the ratio of applicants to admitted students. “Many law schools require a personal statement and they have a discretionary category. There is a quite a bit of discretion in the admissions committee as to whether they make an offer [of acceptance].” “Do your homework and accept this as a serious challenge,” says Townsend about the application process. “We still see lots of students whose application arrives on the last day of deadline and the application appears hurried. To have a competitive package of material, start early, investigate the law school programs and especially the admissions policies,” he says which differ markedly across Canada. The value of extracur-
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ricular activities, grades, and even “false starts” because of poor grades during your undergraduate career, can impact your acceptance as well, explains Townsend. The challenge of getting in, he says, is often reliant on the application package and the presentation of a candidate’s material. “Approach somebody early and think if they are a good candidate that will write a worthy reference… there are very small differences between the numbers in files of those admitted or on the waiting list.”
Reality versus Fiction
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didn’t know what to expect going in,” says Vivien Hoang, a law student at York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School. She says the reality of law school is far different from what you picture in the movies. “You see horror stories of sabotage and overzealous competitive students, but it’s not like that at all,” she says. “In fact it’s the opposite. There is a very strong sense of mentorship.” There is always someone available for guidance, explains Hoang who notes first-year students at Osgoode are placed with a mentor and also sorted into groups of classmates which they continue to work and study with throughout the year. However, “there is a lot of reading…it can be a lot to take in,” she says about the rigorous homework which includes reading the equivalent of a John Grisham novel nightly and mandatory extracurricular activities. “There is a big emphasis on participating in social events. You want to maintain a good balance between your personal life and the classroom,” she says of the varied public interest courses and volunteering hours Osgoode requires students take to graduate. “The workload is heavier than an undergraduate degree, but not unmanageable,” says Mikkelsen. “Students become immersed in the experience and are in class almost daily, but there are many opportunities to participate in social activities.” However, there are times of stress. “It can be very difficult and stressful and you need something to sustain you,” notes Townsend. “I remember what I didn’t know and what I needed to know as a student,” says Townsend. “I had to adjust to the amount of work and the difficulty…[now] as a teacher I try to get my students to think and bring some levity into my teaching.” From the admissions process to your first year, law school can be an exciting challenge. Deciding to attend is not an easy decision to make, but the chance to succeed is there says Mikkelsen. “No matter what your background you have the opportunity for success in law school.”
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Images: Both iStockphoto/ Thinkstock;
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GRADUAT A E PROGRAMS (2 OR 3 SEMESTERS) AT GRADUATE • Financial Services Compliance Administration • Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting • Financial Services Practitioner • Real Property Administration — Accelerated T chnology • Accounting & Information Te Technology • Professional Accounting Practice • Accounting Tec T hniques Techniques
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Three Innovative Programs: PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT SUSTAINABILITY LEADERSHIP
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Take your education to the next level √
UOIT graduate studies in 2011 While studying at UOIT, you will follow a modern curriculum designed to arm you with the skills and experience needed to succeed in advanced roles in high-demand fields. To help prepare you for your future career, you will: :: Have access to state-of-the-art research and computing facilities that house the most advanced and current technology;
:: Be mentored by award-winning faculty, including globally experienced academic and industry leaders; and :: Engage in leading-edge research that impacts society by addressing issues of regional, national and global importance. UOIT offers more than 20 graduate programs that are both innovative and market-driven. Explore our program offerings today by visiting www.gradstudies.uoit.ca/explore
UOIT Applied Bioscience graduate student Katherine Bygarski (right) examines damaged windshield for forensic evidence with Dr. Helene LeBlanc, assistant professor, Forensic Science, UOIT Faculty of Science.
2000 Simcoe Street North Oshawa, Ontario L1H 7K4 E: gradstudies@uoit.ca
Leaving familiar soils is exactly what Daniels decided to do. She opted for a Master’s of Women’s Studies at York University, embracing the new surroundings and change of pace. “I am really happy to be in the new environment. I think for people in women’s studies, or the arts in general, it’s really important to gain a new perspective, and going to York has done that.”
Program and professor compatibility Since master’s programs are more tapered in focus, you should determine whether a program’s particular direction is compatible with your area of interest. Karen Carrel Rice, team facilitator and career counsellor at the University of Toronto, says it’s important to analyze before you come to a conclusion. “I tell students to create some sort of criteria as to what they are looking for from their graduate program,” she says. “They need to decide if the particular program is speaking to what their looking for and make sure they’re finding the best fit.” In addition to researching program curriculum, you have to research its professors. In most cases, master’s students will be working one-on-one with their thesis/ research advisor, and so identifying a professor whose area of expertise compliments yours is pivotal. This doesn’t just mean attending the interview; you need to do a little more investigating.
Eeny Meeny Miny Moe, To Which Grad School Do I Go?
“You can’t know if you’re truly compatible with an advisor until you actually start working with him/her so speak to grad students who have already,” Rice advises “to get a better sense of his/her style.” This, she stresses, could not be more crucial, since a poor student-advisor relationship could stand to hinder your research, and your experience as a graduate student.
Camp grounds
Campus environment should also be carefully considered during the decision making process. If you’re tempted to stay up late partying instead of doing work, then you should probably veer away from those schools known for their reckless social scenes.
Having nearly completed her bachelor’s degree in women’s studies and psychology from The University of Western Ontario, Marissa Daniels was determined to stay in academia after her spring convocation. She planned on pursuing a master’s program, but was faced with too many options. “I’d been accepted by several schools in Canada, as well as in England, and I didn’t know which one to choose.” When it comes to decision time, sorting through your options can get pretty stressful. A good ‘ol game of eeny, meeny, miny, moe could work, but you wouldn’t be doing yourself any justice.
For starters… One aspect that should play a role in your decision is education diversity, explains Linda Cicuta, a career advisor at McGill University. “It’s recommended to change schools so you can diversify your learning experience. Our professors tell undergrads to go to another school to get their next degree(s) because each student has different goals and there are programs that could match them better at other institutions,” says Cicuta.
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Class size is also key, since some people respond better to intimate settings and smaller numbers, while others will prefer the bigger lecture halls. “I am really happy with the smaller class sizes,” says Daniels. “They are discussion based, rather than lecture based, which gave me a better opportunity to learn from my peers, and to really be noticed by my professors.”
When in doubt… If the decision isn’t clear enough, don’t hesitate to seek the help of campus career advisors. “If for no other reason,” Rice says,“students can see an advisor because they are an objective perspective, which is great when students are really feeling the opinions and pressures of their family, and people with vested interests.” Since going to York, Daniels has been able to further refine her focus, and develop relationships with various faculty members. “Ultimately it was the right decision. I really enjoy the people, and my professors, and that is key for me in completing this degree.”
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Images: Martin Poole/Photodisc/Thinkstock
by Amanda Chajes
At the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic Bournemouth, United Kingdom The Anglo-European College of Chiropractic (AECC) is the oldest and largest chiropractic college in Europe with over 45 years experience in the fields of education, research and healthcare. The AECC offers a five year course leading to a Master ’s degree in Chiropractic (MSc Chiro). This is an internationally recognised qualification.
anglo-european college of chiropractic For more information on the AECC Visit: www.aecc.ac.uk/educationandtraining/chiropractic Email: admissions@aecc.ac.uk or Call +44 1202 436502
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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Niagara College In the last 40 years, Niagara College has become a leader in education and training and is widely regarded as one of the most enterprising colleges in Canada. A leader in student satisfaction, Niagara College has ranked number one among all Ontario colleges in student satisfaction for an unprecedented six consecutive years. Niagara College offers more than 90 post-secondary diploma and postgraduate certificate programs, skills and apprenticeship training programs and two bachelor’s degree programs: International Commerce and Global Development and Hospitality Operations Management. Niagara College is undergoing a massive $90 million campus redevelopment, expanding capacity and providing new and renovated state-of-the-art learning environments. New facilities and technology will create over 2,000 new spaces in existing and new programs where labour is in high demand in Niagara: skilled trades and technology, applied health, community services, hospitality, culinary and tourism. The project is set for completion in 2011. Niagara College operates from two main campuses: Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. The Welland Campus, set on 100 acres of green space, is home to programs in technology, skilled trades, automotive, media, health and community, policing and public safety. The Niagara-on-theLake Campus is located at the base of the Niagara Escarpment — a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve – and features ecological lagoons, wetlands, landscaped gardens and a 40-acre teaching vineyard. This environment serves as a “living lab” for the environmental, horticulture, food & wine, hospitality & tourism, and business programs.
Niagara College Graduate Certificate Programs College and university graduates from across Canada, and around the world, are enrolling at Niagara College in its short and intensive graduate certificate programs, designed to add practical and hands-on skills necessary to compete in today’s tough job market. These advanced studies programs narrow an educational focus, building a portfolio that emphasises marketable skills — some programs also offer an internship or work placement component. The programs are condensed into one year, allowing the maximum educational experience in a timeframe that will not interfere with the ultimate goal of beginning a career. Bursaries are available to eligible students who enrol in a full-time graduate certificate program. Public Relations Niagara College’s Public Relations Graduate Certificate is an eightmonth intensive course that focuses on industry relevant writing, presenting, research, and strategy. A four-week internship at the end of second term arranged by program’s internship development officers will enhance the in-class learning with relevant job experience. Students who graduate from this program have career opportunities in areas such as Liaison, communications, community relations, information, development, newsletter editor/writer, special events and promotions co-ordinator, media relations assistant and publicity officer. International Business Management International Business Management offers a curriculum that is designed to give students the applied knowledge and skills for key international business functions. Students will find the internship very beneficial when tying together both in class concepts and their pertinent field relevant experience. Niagara’s border frontier is one of the busiest international crossing points in the world. Niagara is dynamic player in the international commerce arena. Incoming students will find that the faculty members have a diverse academic background and professional expertise in international business.
Wine Business Management Wine Business Management provides students’ with expertise in the business, retail, marketing and export aspects of the growing wine industry, while studying in Canada’s leading wine region. Students benefit from 40-acres of campus vineyards, and gain valuable applied experience through the Niagara College Teaching Winery – Canada’s first commercial teaching winery. The program is 8 months in length with a major focus on a thesis project that students are given the entire year to complete. The thesis is based on issues presented by industry partners. Some of these partners include; The Wine Council of Ontario, Niagara Research, the Department of External Affairs and the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre. Students who have graduated from this program are equipped with the skills necessary to be successful in job areas such as wine operations, agricultural tourism development, marketing and public relations, event management and export operations. Wine Business Management is great for the student looking to work in a dynamic industry and has a passion for wine. Advanced Lasers Advanced lasers is the study photonics—the science of generating and harnessing light. This eight-month certificate program is one of only two in Ontario, and the job-placement rate is 100 percent. Photonics touches almost every sector of business and industry, and students will have the opportunity to work in areas such as Biotech and medical research, Entertainment, Fibre optics, Holographic technology, Imaging, Laser technology, Optical coatings, Optical hardware design and Space technology. Photonics students are heavily involved in many major applied projects throughout the year in the Niagara Research Department. Environmental Studies Experience all the Niagara Region has to offer by studying Environmental Management and Assessment or Ecosystem Restoration at Niagara College. These 8 month intensive programs are designed to give the students many opportunities to study both in and out of the classroom. The Programs are located on our unique ecological campus, which includes the Wetland Ridge Trail and part of the Niagara Escarpment. Students will have the opportunity to gain employment in a variety of different fields which include; Ecologist, Habitat biologist, Natural heritage specialist, Restoration technician, Watershed stewardship coordinator, Corporate greening, Environmental management, protection and waste reduction, Environmental research and site assessment, Pollution prevention and control Recycling co-ordination.
Contact: Telephone: 905-735-2211, ext. 7784 | Email: recruitment@niagaracollege.ca | www.niagaracollege.ca Sponsored by Niagara College
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
What’s extraordinary about being “Number One in Student Satisfaction” for six straight years is that every year Niagara College (NC) welcomes new students and every year a new student body puts Niagara at the top. The College has its own theory about this record — it’s simple: NC is committed to our students’ success and it’s in all the words we use.
Finishing university or college and looking for a competitive edge? NC’s one-year graduate programs will set you apart from the rest. Practical experience provided by these programs will give you specialized skills, build your portfolio and help you to make all-important contacts in your field. At NC, it’s all about Student Success — your success.
Graduate Programs Advanced Lasers
Hospitality and Tourism Management
Early Childhood Education–Resource Teacher
Human Resources Management
Ecosystem Restoration
International Business Management
Environmental Management and Assessment
Professional Chef Management
NiagaraCollege.ca/graduate
Event Management
Public Relations
Geographic Information Systems –Geospatial Management
Wine Business Management
#1 IN STUDENT SATISFACTION FOR SIX CONSECUTIVE YEARS
Hitting it Outta the Park by Emily Minthorn
//
How do you translate your love of the game into an all-star career?
Batter Up! Ann Pegoraro, director of the school of sports administration at Laurentian University in Sudbury, ON, calls hers “the best job in the world.” She describes her students in two categories: people like her, who started out as athletes and got interested in the business side of sport; and people who loved sport but who were always more interested in management, administration, or marketing. As an ex-athlete and lifelong sport enthusiast, working within sports administration allows her to combine her passion with her career – and her students feel the same way. With participation in a number of hands-on programs, co-ops, internships, and yearly field trips, they graduate with a skill-set that’s in demand, knowledge of multiple disciplines, and direct industry experience, all of which allow them to work at what they love. These jobs are definitely out there, Pegoraro says. “In Canada in particular, this enthusiasm and spirit we’re seeing will transfer into more consumption of sport by regular, everyday consumers. The industry as a whole is ready for an upswing,” she forecasts, citing the coming PanAm games in Toronto in 2015 as just one of the many opportunities her students are looking forward to. There are three main career paths a grad can take in sports admin and management. Perhaps the most obvious, and the most popular, is the management of sports teams and organizations, and of individual athletes. Or, you could apply your skills to support amateur sport and sport-
is exciting work that takes both a good head for business and an understanding and passion for sport. And of course, like in any academic field, you might choose to continue on to a PhD, in which case there are always opportunities to research and teach within one of the many extremely popular programs at institutions all around Canada. Kwame Agyemang, a doctoral student and North American Society for Sport Management student president, thinks that the future is bright for sports administration and management grads, not just because the industry is ready for a boom, but because of the necessary passion of the people it attracts. “Students who absolutely know they want to work in this field are going to be the most successful. These students are usually the ones who have something to contribute to the field. They are critical thinkers… This will separate them from the others,” he says of fellow students who might find success in his field of choice.
The Switch Hitter So where does your love of sport end and the business begin? “Working in the sports industry is business,” says Agyemang. But both he and Pegoraro agree that being a fan, or an athlete yourself, is definitely part of the game. When you’re doing what you love, you’re driven to excel – a truism in both business and sport. “A degree in business is the leg up into the sport industry,” Pegoraro agrees. Simply put, the two are inextricable, and a healthy balance of both sides of the field is necessary for success. Sport is universal and ever-present, with another playoff season or international tournament always looming, across Canada and around the world. The same fans willing to paint their faces (or chests) red and white out of national pride are the ones who are poised to excel, because the work demands the same passion they already have. If you’ve won your
“Students who absolutely know they want to work in this field are going to be the most successful.” ing events, within organizations like Athletes Canada. Pegoraro tells me that one grad she knows is currently the head of marketing for the Canadian Olympic Committee. Then there’s the money side of things; Sidney Crosby didn’t sign himself to Nike, and he isn’t the only one making money off the deal. Matching a product with an athlete, team, or event
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fantasy football pool four years running, or if managing your kid sister’s Little League team is the most rewarding thing you’ve ever done, maybe it’s time to join in the game for real. To find out more about a day in the life of a sports admin student, you can visit the Laurentian students’ blog, at spadblog.com Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Image: © iStockphoto.com/ Xavi Arnau
Sport is business, and business is booming. With a range of undergraduate and graduate programs available at colleges and universities all over the country, continuing your education with a degree in sport administration or sports management could easily become your ticket to the big leagues.
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sheridancollege.ca 38
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
New Grad
Program Directory While we would love to provide you with a gloriously fat book detailing every new grad program in North America, we can’t justify pulping an entire forest to make your grad school planning easier. Sorry. But we did decide to devote a few pages to a list of schools and programs you may not have considered. And don’t be mistaken: these schools are looking for bright, unique students like you to fill their programs, graduate, land wicked jobs then change the world.
Image: Digital Vision/Thinkstock
We’ve given you the school, the program, and contact information (where available). Call or email them. Ask questions. It’s your future and these people are willing to help (Psst! Try to get a scholarship out of it!).
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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New School Directory School
Faculty / Department Program Name contact
Start
Academy of Applied Science and Technology Post-Graduate Diploma in Food Safety and Quality Pharmaceutical Science Acadia University BA Environmental and Sustainability Studies 2-yr MA in Social and Political Thought marc.ramsay@acadiau.ca Fall 2010 Antioch University New England Weekend MS in Resource Management & Conservation antiochne.edu/es/rmc Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis antiochne.edu/ap/aba Athabasca University Grad Certificate in Legislative Drafting gdld.athabascau.ca Brandeis University Graduate School of MA in Science in Biotechnology Arts and Sciences Graduate School of MA in Arts in Computer Science and IT Entrepreneurship Arts and Sciences Brock University Faculty of Graduate Studies PhD in Physics twoodhousegilby@brocku.ca Canisius College Graduate Business Programs MS in Forensic Accounting canisius.edu/mba MS in International Business canisius.edu/mba Carleton University Faculty of Engineering & Design Master of Infrastructure Protection and International Security and Faculty of Public Affairs Centennial College School of Business Sales and Account Management School of Business Research and Analytics Chestnut Hill College M.S. in International Business, Language, and Culture osbornm@chc.edu Clark University Graduate School of Management MBA in Social Change Graduate School of Management MBA/MA in Community Development & Planning Graduate School of Management MBA/MA in Environmental Science & Policy Clarkson University School of Business One-Year Global MBA School of Business Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Concordia University John Molson School of Business Graduate Diploma in Business Administration Fall 2009 John Molson School of Business Graduate Certificate in Business Administration Fall 2009 Concordia University Wisconsin Professional level courses in pharmacy Lesley.luehrs@cuw.edu Fall 2010 Franklin Pierce Law Center LLM in Intellectual Property Fall 2010 LLM in Commerce and Technology Fall 2010 LLM in International Criminal Law and Justice Fall 2010 Master in Intellectual Property Fall 2010 Master in Commerce and Technology Fall 2010 Master in International Criminal Law and Justice Fall 2010 Frostburg State University Master of Recreation and Parks Management (online program) Fall 2010 Master of Science Recreation and Parks Management Laurentian University Part time MBA program Marine Institute of Memorial School of Ocean Technology Diploma of Technology/Bachelor of Technology – Ocean Mapping whereyouwanttobe.ca/oceanmapping University of Newfoundland Master of Technology Management whereyouwanttobe.ca/mtm School of Maritime Studies Master of Maritime Management whereyouwanttobe.ca/mmm Marquette University College of Professional Studies College of Education Memorial University Faculty of Engineering and of Newfoundland Applied Science Mohawk College School of Engineering Technology School of Engineering Technology Moncton Flight College Niagara College Canada Food and Wine Sciences North Dakota State University Northern Michigan University Queen’s University Queen’s School of Business Royal Roads University Centre for Applied Leadership and Management Centre for Applied Leadership and Management Ryerson University Sacred Heart University Saint Michael’s College SAIT School of construction Seneca College of Applied School of Accounting Arts & Technology & Financial Services School of Accounting & Financial Services
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Certificate in Sports Leadership Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master of Engineering Management and GraduateEngineering@mun.ca Master of Applied Science in Oil and Gas Engineering Energy Systems Engineering Technology Fall 2010 – Clean and Renewable Energy Aviation Technician – Aircraft Maintenance Fall 2010 Bachelor in Science of Aviation Professional Chef Management culinary@niagaracollege.ca Fall 2010 Transportation and Urban Systems Software Engineering Online Masters of Business Administration webb.nmu.edu/MBA Fall 2010 Master’s of Business Administration Program MBA@nmu.edu for international graduate students Master of Management - Global Management Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Management Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Community Management Philosophy (MA) Fall 2010 Economics (PhD) Fashion (MA) Professional Communication (MPC) MS in Applied Psychology Peace Corps Master’s International Program (MIP) devans@smcvt.edu BSc in Construction Management marcia.bergman@sait.ca Fall 2012 Accounting Techniques Ontario College Certificate Financial Services - Client Services Ontario College Diploma
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
School
Faculty / Department Program Name contact
Start
Simmons College MBA with concentrations in Marketing, Business Analytics, Financial Fall 2010 Analytics, Principled Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility, Entrepreneurship, Non-Profit Management & Healthcare Administration St. John’s University Peter J. Tobin College of Business M.S. in Enterprise Risk Management School of Risk Management M.S. in Investment Management The College of Saint Rose School of Arts & Humanities MA in Art Computer Information Graduate Certificate in Internet Programming Systems Department School of Math & Science Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology Thomas M. Cooley Law School Self-Directed LL.M. program US Legal Studies for Foreign Lawyers JD/MBA in Insurance Law Joint Degree program Tax Concentration for JD students Intellectual Property Law Concentration for JD students Touro College Jacob D. Bankruptcy and Mortgage Foreclosure Clinic Fuchsberg Law Center Veterans’ and Servicemembers’ Rights Clinic Court Collaboration Program Trent University School of Graduate Studies MSc in Materials Sciences trentu.ca/materialscience Fall 2010 Business Administration Program Master of Arts in Sustainability Studies azohar@trentu.ca Fall 2010 Department of Psychology MA MSc Psychology psychologygrad@trentu.ca Fall 2010 Union Graduate College School of Management MBA with a concentration in Accounting Center for Clinical MS in Bioethics Research Track (on-line program) Leadership and Bioethics University of Baltimore School of Law Master of Laws in Taxation (LL.M. in Taxation) law.ubalt.edu/gradtax School of Law Certificate in Estate Planning law.ubalt.edu/template.cfm?page=1071 School of Law MA of Laws program in the Law of the United States (LL.M. LOTUS) ubalt.edu/lotus University of British Columbia Faculty of Dentistry Master of Science in Craniofacial Sciences Faculty of Dentistry PhD in Craniofacial Sciences College for Interdisciplinary Studies MSc / PhD in Genome Science and Technology Faculty of Land and Food Systems Master of Food and Resource Economics University of Guelph Office of Graduate Studies Food Safety and Quality Assurance Fall 2010 University of Toronto School of Global Affairs Master of Global Affairs (MGA) Faculty of Law and Combined Juris Doctor / Master of Global Affairs School of Global Affairs Department of Computer Science MSc in Applied Computing University of Waterloo Master of Arts in English – Experimental Digital Media Fall 2010 Master of Public Service Fall 2010 Master of Mathematics for Teachers Fall 2010 University of Windsor Faculty of Graduate Studies MA in Social Data Analysis uwindsor.ca/grad Fall 2011 University of Winnipeg Global College Joint Master’s Program in Peace and Conflict Studies m.mcphedran@uwinnipeg.ca Fall 2010 Faculty of Arts Master of Arts in Cultural Studies k.ready@uwinnipeg.ca Fall 2009 UOIT School of Justice Mediation – Alternative Dispute Resolution virginia.harwood@durhamcollege.ca Fall 2010 & Emergency Services Faculty of Education Master of Arts in Education edugrad@uoit.ca Fall 2010 Vancouver School of Theology Graduate diploma in Theological Studies vst.edu/main/programs/degree-programs /graduate-diploma-ts Wilfrid Laurier University Waterloo Lutheran Seminary Master of Arts in Theology: concentration in Spiritual Care and Counselling Waterloo Lutheran Seminary Master of Arts in Theology: concentration in Christian Studies Waterloo Lutheran Seminary Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Leadership William Paterson University M.A. Professional Communications: Fall 2010 College of Arts & Communication M.S. Exercise and Sports Studies: College of Science & Health Fall 2010 M.B.A. Business Administration: concentrations in accounting, Fall 2010 entrepreneurship, finance, marketing or music management York University Faculty of Graduate Studies Information Systems & Technology (MA) futurestudents.yorku.ca/graduate /programs/information_technology Faculty of Graduate Studies Socio-Legal Studies (PhD) futurestudents.yorku.ca/graduate /programs/socio_legal_studies Faculty of Graduate Studies Health (MA, PhD) futurestudents.yorku.ca/graduate /programs/health Faculty of Graduate Studies Development Studies (MA) futurestudents.yorku.ca/graduate /programs/development_studies Faculty of Graduate Studies Science & Technology Studies (MA, PhD) futurestudents.yorku.ca/graduate /programs/science_and_technology_studies Faculty of Graduate Studies Financial Accountability (MFAc) futurestudents.yorku.ca/graduate /programs/financial_accountability
jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
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Your first car will be ranked up there with your first job, your first home and first love. But like many firsts, there can be a degree of disillusionment that you may not be prepared for, which is why it is important to study and research before you fall head over heels for that shiny new convertible. There are essentially seven categories of vehicles: economy cars, family sedans, coupes, minivans, pickups, sport/utility and sports cars. Each one has variations within that category so it’s important to know what you need. Understand how you’ll be using the vehicle and where you’ll be taking it. If you’re doing some offroading, then you’ll want to look at a sport/utility vehicle, or perhaps a pickup. If you are only going to be booting around the city, then a simple economy car may do the trick. By this point, you should already know what you want to spend. Hopefully you have taken into account all the taxes, maintenance, fuel, insurance and depreciation costs. If you’re really good at numbers, you can break all the costs down to find out what the pocketbook damage will be on a dayto-day basis. When you have picked out a few rides that fit your budget, compare the specs on the various types and models. There are plenty of sources out there, like Car Guide Canada, Consumer Reports,
42
and Canadian Driver to name a few. These sites and magazines are an invaluable resource, and many have calculators to help figure out costs. Read and study these reports like it’s your major. If you’re buying used, then make sure you check out the vehicles history. For a price, carproof.com can give you a detailed account.
Talk to me, Optimus After you have set your budget, done your research and have narrowed down your vehicle choices, it’s time to test drive. “A lot of people don’t test drive their cars,” says David Menzies, editor of Canadian Technician magazine. Test driving the vehicle is critical. You’ll understand how the car handles, how much head room you have, and get a feel for the engine and power. While it’s important to approach buying a car from a practical point of view, keeping emotions out of it, we all know how a cool car make you seem that much cooler. “I’m an emotional buyer,” admits Kelly Williams, Be Car Care Aware spokesperson, and the first woman to win CASCAR. She recommends
asking yourself if the car “talks to you or not.” (I tried it out: my girlfriend’s Mazda doesn’t say ‘boo,’ but an old Chevy S10 truck I used to drive would whisper sweet nothings any time we hit the road.)
Lease or Finance This is tricky, and depends on your personal preferences and tastes. If you think that you’ll want a new vehicle every three to four years, then leasing might be the option for you. It’s often cheaper to lease in the short term but be aware that leasing means you can’t modify the vehicle, like installing a new stereo system. Leasing also comes with a set amount of kilometers, and, when you return the vehicle, there is the cost of any wear and tear on the vehicle. And it’s not just a visible chip in the paint. Menzies once saw a car salesmen lay on his back to look under the bumper to see if there were any scratches.
Financing, on the other hand, is a little more costly up front, but you will be the sole owner of the vehicle. Menzies is an advocate for financing, and is a big believer that with proper maintenance, your car can last a gloriously long time. “I drive a 1992 Prius,” he proudly admits. As it turns out, knowledge of proper maintenance is something our generation lacks. Market research done by Be Car Care Aware found that 22 percent of youth didn’t know when to change the oil or only did it when the oil light came on. When it came to bringing the vehicle in for maintenance, another 22 percent never brought it in, or just waited until it broke down. Maintenance makes all the difference to the lifespan of your car, your safety and the environment.
* dude, I need a car.
a few tips on buying your first car
by Jason Rhyno
Sources we used and so should you: TD Canada Trust Carguide Canada Canadian Driver Be Car Care Aware Consumer Reports Driving.ca
Don’t take this purchase lightly. Understand your own needs and what you can afford. Research like it’s a final exam and you’re sure to come out with a sweet set of wheels.
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Image: iStockphoto/Thinkstock
Know What You Need
University of Medicine and Health Sciences ST. KITTS
LIVE YOUR DREAM...
STUDY MEDICINE
• $50 million state-of-the-art campus and traditional medical school curriculum • the US and Canada • Small student-to-faculty ratio • Clinical program completed in the US • Canadian citizens can apply for elective rotations in Canada • Affordable tuition • Financial aid and scholarships available for those who qualify • Graduates qualify for licensure in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico
Visit us online at www.umhs-sk.org
EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF PHYSICIANS
UMHS
International University of Nursing
ST. KIT TS
Make a Difference… DISCOVER NURSING • Traditional nursing program leading to a bachelor’s degree in nursing • State-of-the-art campus comparable to the best nursing schools in Canada and the US • Low student-to-faculty ratio ensures a personalized education • Final year completed at nursing schools in Canada or the US • Students graduate with a degree from an accredited Canadian or US nursing school • Students are eligible to apply for the CRNE or NCLEX-RN • Over a 90% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN • Financial aid and scholarships available for those who qualify
View us online at: www.iuon.org International University of Nursing, St. Kitts, 460 W. 34th Street, New York, NY 10001 866.868.4720 | admissions@iuon.org jobpostings.ca | winter 2010 | Grad School Planning Guide
43
University of Lethbridge
School of Graduate Studies
Discover your passion Discover your path Discover the real you
Masters Degrees in: Arts, Fine Arts, Music, Sciences, Management, Education, Counselling, Health Sciences
PhD Degrees in: Multidisciplinary areas in the Sciences
sgsinquiries@uleth.ca uleth.ca/graduatestudies
you have one, your mom has one,
even your dog has one now...
&
we do too.
careers. education. ideas. all of it.
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Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
GOODBYE
ONION BREATH
The Fast Track
Save time, money, or both while you complete your education
It’s common knowledge that in most fields, your earning potential rises with your education level. But what if you want to take a year off from school to work, travel, or start a family? The good news is you can fast track your education without necessarily spending the rest of your best years in school. by Darlene Morales
Investigate joint programs
Online education
Work while you specialize
It used to take up to seven years to earn both a college diploma and a university honours degree, but by entering a collaborative or joint program you can earn both in five years or less, and save money on tuition as well. That’s because students who opt for joint programs get to carry over credits from their ‘sending’ institution to the institution that will be receiving them.
The upside of distance, or online, education is that you don’t have to roll out of bed at the crack of dawn to attend class, and you don’t have to worry about the commute. Instead, you can sit yourself down in your PJs at your computer in the dead of night, if you so choose. Just make sure you have the willpower and the self-discipline required to make this kind of learning work for you. After all, the online programs offered by many institutions still require that you meet deadlines in order to accumulate the credits your need to graduate. And even though tests are online, you still have to pass them. Assignments are sent to you by professors and certain schools even have live chats, where everyone can log on and discuss a potential project.
Some school programs give you credit for your work experience, which means you may be able to work and earn credits at the same time. For example, a person with work experience in business management can quite literally cash in on his or her experience by pursuing an MBA in an accelerated program. The pay off can range from a promotion to a major raise.
There are two ways to enter joint programs, explains Thomas. “Some students start out in university and transfer over to college for a diploma. Others start out in a college diploma program and transfer over to university.” Students transferring from college into university should keep in mind, however, that they will have to meet minimum grade requirements. Most universities require at least a B average from students coming out of college. Rest assured your hard work will pay off, says Thomas. That’s because getting both a diploma and a university degree will give you the best of both worlds: a sound education in both practice (college) and theory (university). You won’t just have in-depth knowledge about your area of interest – you’ll also learn the skills you need to rise in your field fast.
46
“Most business schools prefer that you’ve been working in the field for at least two years,
you can sit yourself down in your PJs at your computer in the dead of night, if you so choose.
Online learning is a great way for students with other responsibilities to stay competitive, says Anne-Marie Vaughan, director of distance education and learning technologies (DELT) at Memorial University in St. John’s. “As careers change, labour markets grow and evolve, and individuals seek advancement, there is a growing need for people to be provided opportunities to learn while they earn and live,” says Vaughan. “The end result is providing a supportive environment for our learners so that they can balance their busy schedules with the opportunity to learn and grow academically.”
since it really gives students a perspective of the business and what it takes to manage a successful one before pursuing an MBA,” says Michael Darling, program director for the accelerated MBA program at Queen’s University. As for employers: “They’re just happy the student is pursuing a higher education that can ultimately help their company as well. It’s really a win-win situation,” says Darling. “After the program, our students are promoted sooner and they move into higherthan-expected positions.” Which means that after all that school, your career will be on the fast-track too.
Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Image: iStockphoto/Thinkstock
“University students who transfer over to college (or vice-versa) in pursuit of a degree or diploma are saving time by having their credits transferred,” says Susan Thomas, coordinator of degree and credit transfers at Seneca College inToronto. “They’re also saving money, and that’s a real advantage.”
DO MORE with a CGA designation. Discover the CGA designation and why it could be a great career choice for you. High earning potential Work/life balance
You could WIN a $2,500 Scholarship! Visit cga-domore.org
Graduate
debt-free (or at least minimize your costs)
by Darlene Morales
Post-graduate education can be pricey but you’ve already determined it will pay off down the road. Now it’s up to you to minimize the debt you accrue while you’re studying. Here’s how:
Roll up your sleeves
Hey, look! Free money!
Post-graduate institutions offer a variety of internal scholarships. Requirements for eligibility vary, but most consider your grades, positive contributions you’ve made to your community, experience or talent, and your financial need. External scholarships, ones not offered by the school which you’ll be attending are also available. Many of these, offered by the government, or by companies and/or non-profit organizations, are listed online, along with eligibility requirements. For example, if you’re a student with a disability, you may be eligible for a scholarship specifically created for students with disabilities entering the broadcasting field. A great place to browse for both external and internal awards is scholarshipscanada.com
Become a teaching assistant (TA) Research or teaching assistant positions are sometimes available to students who need help financing their studies. Work may include anything from supervising class exams to helping out with demonstrations. Some assistants even help with marking. Eligibility criteria for these positions vary, as do the time commitments required. The advantage of being a TA isn’t just that you’re getting paid – you’re also getting valuable experience in your field of choice.
Get a student loan (again) If you do opt to apply for a student loan, plan to pay off the debt as soon as possible. Student loans can help you establish personal credit, says Michael Lofquist, marketing and communications manager at Equifax Canada in Toronto, but they can also damage it if you can’t make your payments. “If you manage your finances properly you’ll get established credit,” Lofquist advises.
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Working can help you pay your loan off sooner or even avoid getting a loan in the first place. D’Arcy Pascal worked full time at a petting zoo in summer and part-time as a bartender throughout her business marketing studies at Algonquin College in Ottawa, ON, and still managed to graduate on the dean’s list. “I worked a lot over the summer and saved for the upcoming year in order to avoid loans,” Pascal says. “It is a huge relief graduating without any debt.” Just make sure your job allows you time to write papers and prepare for exams, advises Jeanette Gascho a counsellor and teacher of individual and group study skills at Waterloo University. The last thing you’d want to do is let your grades slip. “If you can get a job on campus it’s better because it’s close and because most people at school are flexible and accommodating. Also, students can study while working if there’s any down time,” Gascho explains.
a few tips to help you balance school and work: Prioritize: Make note of deadlines and complete the most pressing assignments first.
Use an agenda: Usually available in paper format from your career centre, these are also available online, with the added benefit of alarms. Sticky notes are good too. Work flexible hours: When it comes time for exams or an essay deadline, you should be able to request time off to focus on school. Grad School Planning Guide | winter 2010 | jobpostings.ca
Images: Photodisc/Thinkstock
Once you know where you’re going it’s time to look at how your school can help you get there. Some might be enough to cover one year’s tuition and others could be good for longer depending on your grades and other factors. There are two categories of scholarships: internal and external.
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