Industry Goals? Why a Course-Based Master’s May Be Better Than a PhD

Many international students dream big when it comes to their studies in Canada—and rightfully so. But if your primary goal is to get into industry, your pathway to success may not require a PhD.

At Go 2 Canada Education Services, we connected with a student who spent years studying a doctorate only to discover they were not industry-ready. The student, shared he was frustrated that his professors lacked real-world industry knowledge—and he didn’t feel prepared to enter the job market.

This is more common than you might think.

🎓 PhD vs. Course-Based Master’s: Which One Leads to Industry Jobs

🤔 So When Is a PhD Right for Industry?

A PhD can open doors if you're targeting:

• Advanced R&D in pharmaceuticals, AI, biotech

• Specialist roles in national labs or think tanks

• Long-term innovation leadership roles

But even in these fields, employers prefer candidates with practical experience and a course-based or applied master’s.

💡 Our Advice

If you're an international student looking to build a career in Canada’s workforce, a course-based master’s will:

• Equip you with workplace-ready skills

• Get you job-market ready faster

• Offer more industry exposure

At Go 2 Canada Education Services, we help students choose programs that align with their career goals—not just academic ones.

👉 Contact us today to find out which Canadian programs will give you the best shot at your dream career.

Photo by George Pak