Op/Ed: Sometimes Different Post-Grad Routes Lead to the Same Destination

Sometimes my students ask me: “Given the job I want, should I do a more academic master’s degree? Or should I do a more practical post-graduate certificate at a college? Or should I get entry-level experience in the sector first?”

The uncomfortable, but honest answer is: “It depends.”

And furthermore: “I don’t quite know.”

As a Career Development Advisor, there is a lot I do know.  I know the questions to ask and where to find reliable information.  And using that knowledge I’m able to guide students in next steps on how to research roles, labour market information and education requirements to support their decision making.

But when it comes to education requirements, at times, it is more than requiring your undergraduate degree.

Take, for example, psychotherapy.  Many social sciences students are interested in this career path, but psychotherapy is a regulated profession, meaning individuals cannot simply call themselves psychotherapists.  The profession is governed by law and requires specific qualifications, such as a master’s degree from an approved program.  Admission requirements for these programs vary by institution and may include minimum grades, prerequisite courses, relevant experience, references, and personal statements.  Each school sets its own criteria for entry.

Similarly, careers in public relations and human resources can be accessed through a variety of educational pathways, including an undergraduate degree, a graduate certificate or a master’s degree.  The most appropriate route depends on factors such as career objectives, experience, and individual circumstances, making it impossible to recommend a single path that fits everyone.

The best advice I can give is:

1. Reach out to established folks in the field and do an informational interview. This is the best way to find out accurate, up-to-date world of work knowledge.  The best way to find out what is happening in a field is to talk to those who are currently working in the role.
2. Take the time to research post-grad programs.  As previously outlined, every school is different, so it is important to know all admission details in each program of interest so that you can apply to multiple programs.
3. Ask tough questions to your prospective post-grad programs. Describe your career goals and press them to share whether and how they share those outcome goals for their students. Don’t forget, though — they’d love to recruit you.

So yes, my answer is often, “It depends.”  Career decisions are rarely about finding the perfect path.  They’re about gathering the right information, weighing your options, and choosing the next step with confidence.