I’ve seen a lot of posts from international students with master’s degrees stressing over job searches, even after completing their programs. It’s frustrating when you’ve spent years and money on a degree, only to find that the job market doesn’t respond the way you expected. I think we need to talk about how Canadian employment isn’t just about having a degree—it’s about how that degree fits into the actual job landscape.

Even with a master’s, landing a job depends heavily on your field. Tech and healthcare roles often have clearer pathways, but in humanities or social sciences, competition is tough. Location matters too—Toronto and Vancouver have more openings, but so do smaller cities with growing tech hubs. And if you’re not in a co-op or internship program during your studies, you might miss out on the kind of experience employers look for.

Language skills also play a big role, especially if English isn’t your first language. Some employers still prioritize fluency, even if you meet the language test requirements. And let’s not forget work permits—being on a study permit doesn’t automatically mean you can work full-time, and some jobs require employer-specific work authorization.

So here’s what I’m wondering: Do you think research-based master’s programs are worth it in Canada, or should students lean toward professional/employment-focused ones? And how much do you think your field of study affects your job prospects after graduation? Are you seeing a gap between your expectations and what’s actually available?

If you’re in the middle of or just finished a master’s in Canada, what’s your experience been like? What’s helped—or held you back—when looking for work?