Graduate diplomas, certificates and various master’s degrees are course-based. This type of program is suitable for you if your goal is to advance your career and develop a specific set of skills. Course-based programs enable you to apply knowledge directly through courses in a wide range of topics in your field of interest.

Note: Several master’s course-based degrees include a research component, which will allow you to pursue a PhD.

Master’s thesis-based programs and the PhD may appeal to you if you would like to prepare for a career in a research role or academia. Students enrolled in these degrees are expected to develop a research proposal and complete a thesis under the supervision of a faculty member who is an expert in the area of research. Choose a thesis-based master’s or pursue a PhD if you want to explore a specific topic in depth and produce original research.

Selecting a supervisor is a crucial step in your journey as a PhD or thesis-based master’s student. Before reaching out to potential supervisors, it is important to find a research topic that interests you. This will narrow your search and match you with a faculty member who shares similar interests.

The student/supervisor relationship is particularly important in your graduate education. Your supervisor will guide your professional knowledge and skill development in pursuit of your academic and professional goals. Under their mentorship they will encourage you, challenge you and steer you towards successfully submitting your thesis.

Some programs require students to identify a supervisor prior to admission. Determine if you need to identify a thesis supervisor before you apply.