A graduate qualification is often seen as necessary for career advancement in any industry, as employers often tend to favour candidates with advanced education. However, obtaining a graduate qualification doesn’t necessarily mean completing a master’s or PhD. Professionals with undergraduate degrees can pursue graduate qualifications through postgraduate certificates or diplomas. These programs offer industry-specific training and advanced concepts, making them an attractive option for those looking to further their education and career prospects.

What makes a postgraduate diploma or certificate an excellent option for students?

Less time to complete. A postgraduate certificate or diploma, which takes one or two years to finish, is an educational credential focused on providing skills needed for a specific field or industry. A postgraduate diploma takes more units than a postgraduate certificate, but both essentially equip the student with better qualifications or eligibility to practise a profession. 

Practical and affordable. For someone needing only a few units to settle into their career choice but doesn’t need to complete a graduate degree, earning a postgraduate certificate or diploma could be the most practical option. In most universities or colleges in North America, having a postgraduate diploma or certificate offers eligibility for a one-year post-study work permit.

Flexible and convenient. A postgraduate certificate or diploma need not be on the same path as the student’s previous degree. There is relatively wide freedom of choice for a postgraduate certificate or diploma program. Some universities even allow students to take postgraduate courses while working part-time.

To earn a postgraduate certificate or diploma, a student only needs to complete a few courses which target a particular topic or develop specific skill sets. Many postgraduate diploma or certificate curricula have internship opportunities related to the field of industry studied. 

There is an increase in demand for earning postgraduate certificates or diplomas in North America among international students. 

In the US, more than 3,000 universities are offering postgraduate diploma courses. The most popular of all courses offered is the postgraduate diploma in Management. Other sought-after courses in the country are human resource, marketing, banking and finance, operations and supply chain management, workplace safety, accounting, international hotel and tourism management, and more. 

Some of the requirements needed to apply for a postgraduate diploma course in the country include an English proficiency score(TOEFL/IELTS), a standardised test score (GRE/GMAT), a transcript of academic records, a CV or resume declaring the applicant’s professional and extracurricular accomplishments, letters of recommendation if required, and the corresponding application forms and application fees if so required. 

GSP partner institutions in the US offering postgraduate certificate or diploma courses. 

• The University of California Extension ($7,900 to $10,300 USD per year)
• Westcliff University ($9,120 to $18, 210 USD per year)
• Weber State University ($6,632 US per year)
• Montana State University ($9,257 USD per year)

In Canada, more than 15,000 programs from over 100 public and private universities are offered in various fields of study, making it globally recognised as a global centre for postgraduate courses. Popularly referred to as graduate diploma courses, these courses cover several disciplines, such as engineering, computer science, hospitality and tourism management, and supply chain management, among others. 

Some of the requirements to study a postgraduate course in Canada include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a valid passport, current passport-size photographs, SOP, a resume, and proof of finance. 

GSP partner institutions in Canada are offering postgraduate certificate or diploma courses. 

• Conestoga College ($15,383 CAD per year)
• Sault College ($15,899 CAD per year)
• University of the Fraser Valley ($14,400 CAD per year)
• Cambrian College ($11,881 CAD per year)
• Canadore College ($14,210 CAD per year)

The GSP platform has numerous partner universities and colleges in North America that offer postgraduate certificates and diplomas, providing students with more options to find a program that meets their needs and interests. Additionally, the application process for postgraduate certificates or diplomas is generally shorter than the traditional master’s degrees, so they can begin learning and advancing their career sooner than expected. Contact gspna@upgradgsp.com to find out more.

Pursuing a postgraduate certificate or diploma in North America can be a valuable investment in one’s future. It provides an attractive option through affordable, flexible, and practical training to help international students advance their careers and achieve their professional goals. But what comes next after getting these graduate qualifications?

Postgraduate certificates can be a great opportunity to progress one’s career or increase the likelihood of finding a job in new industries. 

What qualifications do students acquire after getting a postgraduate certificate or diploma?

• A graduate certificate can equip students with a valuable education credential, qualifying them for positions with increased responsibilities and higher pay.
• By earning a graduate certificate, students can use this as an opportunity to transition to employment in a field outside of their undergraduate degree.
• Holding a graduate certificate showcases a commitment to continuing education and the ability to acquire in-demand skills, which can make an applicant attractive to potential employers.

For international students, an added benefit could be obtaining a postgraduate work permit after graduation. For example, Canada offers career-focused programs to address skill shortages, so a certificate can be an opportunity for students to gain practical experience and stay on for work after their studies.

Career opportunities in Canada

Canada offers a wealth of work opportunities for students who have completed a postgraduate certificate and diploma, thanks to various government initiatives. According to Payscale, international students with these qualifications can earn an average of $55K CAD annually, with programs in Accommodation and food services, retail trade, manufacturing, and professional, scientific, and technical services being in high demand.

To meet its specific economic and demographic needs, each Canadian province and territory operates its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which international students can take advantage of. Additionally, the Canadian government has recently announced an 18-month extension for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders who wish to stay longer and an option to extend their work permit, allowing Canada to retain high-skilled talent.

Students who have completed their program of study are allowed to work while they are waiting for a decision on their PGWP application, provided they meet the following specific criteria:

• they are or were holders of a valid study permit at the time of the PGWP application
• they were a full-time student enrolled at a Destination Learning Institute in a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program (at least eight months in duration, leading to a diploma)
• they were authorised to work off campus without a work permit
• they did not exceed the allowable hours of work.

Career opportunities in the United States

In the US, students with postgraduate certificates and diplomas can also find wide employment opportunities, with an average annual salary of $75K USD. Many of these programs have embedded work placement opportunities and qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) which allows F-1 students to remain in the US for up to a year after completing their studies and engage in temporary employment related to their major field of study. OPT can be granted for up to 12 months before and/or after completing academic studies. However, any pre-completion OPT time will be subtracted from the available post-completion OPT period.

To apply for an OPT extension, the following requirements must be met:

1. Be employed by an employer enrolled in E-Verify, as demonstrated by a valid E-Verify company identification number or a valid E-Verify client company identification number used by the employer’s agent to create E-Verify cases.
2. Have received initial Post-Completion OPT employment authorisation based on STEM degree.

It’s important to note that students must apply for an OPT extension within one year of graduation and provide a STEM degree from a university authorised by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP).

With numerous world-renowned universities, the United States undeniably offers exceptional opportunities for students. And the best part? There’s no need to break the bank or go through a gruelling application process to do it.

Tailored specifically for students and professionals with an undergraduate degree, a postgraduate certificate, also known as a graduate certificate, provides advanced concepts, best practices, and industry-specific training aligned with current industry trends. Not only do they give a competitive edge in the job market, but they also pave the way for career advancement and promotion.

It is worth noting that some universities in the US offer postgraduate certificates or graduate certificates rather than postgraduate diplomas. The University of California, for instance, offers a range of postgraduate programs through its educational arm, UC Extension. These programs are designed to be flexible, with students able to choose from in-person, online, webcast, or hybrid learning arrangements. Additionally, students can learn at their own pace or on a set schedule allowing them to juggle studying with other commitments.

Why send your student to UC extension schools?

The University of California Extension system offers thousands of graduate certificates for students seeking to advance their careers or change fields. For $12,000 to $18,000, students can complete one academic year of study and receive a one-year Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa. In addition, most certificates offered by UC Extensions include the option for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), allowing students to gain real-world experience while earning their certificate.

To be eligible for OPT, students must complete a minimum of one academic year, which includes three quarters or two semesters of study. Courses are taught by professionals in their respective fields, ensuring students receive a quality education that is relevant to their desired career paths.

GSP has formed strategic partnerships with four of the eight UC extensions: UC Riverside Extension, UC San Diego Extended Studies, UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Extension Studies, and UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education. The opportunity to complete one of these certificates in locations close to some of the biggest and innovative businesses offers an exciting combination that many international students are drawn to.

.

The University of California Riverside Extension

With an impressive 75% employment rate after graduation, UCR Extension postgraduate certificate and diploma programs provide students with a winning combination of in-depth knowledge and practical on-the-job experience.

Through expert instructors in various fields, students can gain work experience at leading companies, further boosting their skills and giving them valuable connections in the industry. Students will leave UCR with a gold-standard UC diploma, a highly respected credential that will open doors to exciting job opportunities.

Certificate and diploma programs include:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and International Relations
• Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Management
• Postgraduate Certificate in Management
• Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Management

University of California Irvine (Division of Continuing Education)

At UCI Division of Continuing Education (DCE), students can choose from over 80 industry-relevant certificates and specialised studies programs, both on campus and online, designed to help them advance in their careers. These programs provide opportunities for internship experiences in Orange County and Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States.

DCE is in Irvine, California, and has consistently ranked the safest city of its size in the United States since 2005.

Certificate and diploma programs include:

• Construction Management Certificate
• Human Resources Management Certificate
• Facilities Management Certificate
• Clinical Trials: Medical Device and Drug Development Certificate
• Data Science Certificate
• Web Intelligence Certificate
• Digital Marketing & Communications Certificate
• E-Learning Instructional Design Certificate
• Esports Management Certificate
• Project Management Certificate
• Real Estate Licensure Certificate

University of California Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Extension

UC Santa Cruz is the only accredited institution in the area that provides the University of California-quality courses led by experienced instructors. Its professional curriculum is designed in collaboration with industry leaders to address the evolving needs of the workforce. With its close proximity to Silicon Valley, students are provided with an exceptional learning experience, which includes practical, hands-on training from industry experts. Additionally, a vast majority of international students who finish a professional certificate program become eligible for unpaid internships and paid work experiences through the federally administered Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.

Certificate and diploma programs include:

• Certificate Program in Clinical Trials Design and Management
• Certificate Program in Regulatory Affairs
• Certificate Program in Linux Programming and Administration
• Certificate Program in Human Resource Management
• Certificate Program in User Experience and Web Design
• Certificate Program in Marketing Management
• Certificate Program in TESOL

The University of California, San Diego Extended Studies

UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies offers continuing and professional education with over 100,000 enrolments annually in over 4,400 courses, panels, and events delivered in-person, online, and even in 3D virtual reality classrooms.

As an integral part of UC San Diego, the Division of Extended Studies offers a diverse range of certificate programs, including lean six sigma, copyediting, medical coding, and more. These programs are designed with guidance from advisory boards and taught by professionals who maintain the same level of rigour and excellence as the university. Additionally, the division collaborates with almost 1,500 industry advisors to create innovative and contemporary programs in various fields, such as foreign languages and 5G technology.

• Business Administration
• Leadership and Management
• Digital Marketing
• Business Intelligence Analysis
• Business Management
• Project Management
• TEFL

Fun Fact: UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies manage the dynamic new downtown centre for UC San Diego in the heart of East Village, which opened in 2021. It is also home to two award-winning academic television stations, University of California Television (UCTV) and University of California San Diego Television (UCSD-TV), dedicated to sharing the vast knowledge of faculty throughout the University of California system.

While not all courses offered by UC Extensions can articulate into a degree, many offer this option. Student support services are also available to help ensure a smooth transition into the program and to support students throughout their studies. These services include career preparation and networking opportunities, housing assistance, SEVIS (I20) advising, and wellness programs.

Finally, UC Extensions offer one-on-one academic and immigration advising to ensure students have the support they need to achieve their goals. With a focus on career advancement and practical experience, the University of California Extension system provides a unique and valuable opportunity for students seeking to further their education and advance their careers.

For those considering postgraduate education in the US, there are a variety of options available at reputable universities like the University of California. With flexible learning formats and relatively affordable tuition fees, pursuing a postgraduate diploma or graduate certificate can be a valuable investment in one’s education and career. Check out our GSP Platform or contact gspna@upgradgsp.com to learn more.

The University of Louisville College of Business is a premier business school that has been providing quality education to students for over 65 years. Founded in 1953, the College of Business is located in Louisville, Kentucky, and has a strong reputation for its academic rigour, innovative curriculum, and commitment to experiential learning. 

One of the defining features of the College of Business is its emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning. Students have access to a range of real-world learning opportunities, including internships, co-op programs, and study abroad experiences. The College of Business has partnerships with numerous businesses and organisations, providing students with the chance to gain practical experience and make valuable industry connections. 

A key strength of the College of Business is its faculty. The College boasts a team of highly experienced and accomplished professors who are dedicated to helping students succeed. Many of the faculty members have extensive industry experience and are active in research, contributing to the body of knowledge in their respective fields. 

In addition to its experiential learning opportunities, the College of Business offers a range of academic programs that prepare students for successful careers in business. The College offers undergraduate programs in accounting, business administration, economics, finance, international business, management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. At the graduate level, the College offers an MBA program, as well as master’s programs in accountancy, economics, and entrepreneurship. 

We strive to prioritise students in everything that we do. By joining this year’s B2B agent events focused on more sustainable student-centric recruitment, we guarantee that students are able to thrive in the institutions they study in, while also ensuring higher retention and conversion rates for our partner institutions. 

In the past few months, GSP has been engaged in bringing together university experts and industry professionals from partner institutions to share their experiences, challenges, and best practices towards building a more sustainable student-centric recruitment strategy.

Latin America and Turkey

From February to March, a series of networking events were held in Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Turkey, focusing on the future of student recruitment in the Latin America. The events were attended by over 200 recruitment partners from the region with critical discussions around market reviews for 2022, market briefings, trends and tactics for 2023. The primary emphasis was on prioritising students’ needs to enhance recruitment efforts centred around the theme of “student-centric recruitment strategy.” 

The events provided a platform for recruiters to learn best practices in the international education industry through insights from the distinguished lineup of industry experts and professionals, including representatives from the Government of Canada, the Government of New Zealand, Austrade, Education USA/Fullbright, the Irish Embassy, Study Melbourne, and the Australian consulate. Several GSP partner institutions, such as Conestoga College, TAFE Queensland, University Canada West, and Laurus Education, among others, were also in attendance.

The final leg of the series of events took place in Mexico on 22 March.

Nepal

Our Nepal team, in partnership with several GSP partner institutions, including UP Education, Navitas, KOI, EAG, Oxford International, University of Tasmania, ICMS, UTS College, the University of Canberra, and British Council, hosted a successful Partners Meet & Networking Event at the Hotel Himalaya in Kathmandu, Nepal on 27 February.

The event was aimed to promote networking and collaboration between partners and was attended by a large number of participants. H.E. Felicity Volk, the Australian Ambassador to Nepal, was the special guest at the event, while Alison Anderson, the Regional Manager for the University of Western Sydney, was also in attendance.

Vietnam

On 3 March, representatives from GSP’s  partner institutions and recruitment partners gathered in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for the highly anticipated GSP Recruitment Festival 2023. Important topics such as recruitment strategies, market trends, and the GSP’s student-centric approach were discussed. In attendance at the successful event was Elaine Starkey, GSP’s CEO and Founder.

Bangladesh

The Agent Networking Event was held in Bangladesh on 4 March with a focus  on key topics such as the future of the Edtech platform, international student facilities and services in Australia and the GTE process. The event was sponsored by UTS College, Murdoch, and UP Education.

Notable guests included representatives from various universities such as Ritu Sharma from UP Education, Shreya Das from Murdoch University, Kritisha Karki from The Hotel School, Saimon Rahman from Herzing University (USA), Zakir Hossain from NAPS, and Mr. Anower from ETS-TOEFL.

Pakistan

In Lahore, Pakistan, the Agent Networking Event was recently held on 20 March. The gathering brought together various recruitment partners who came to show their support and discuss important topics about the international education sector. GSP’s Chief Growth Officer, Ali Butt, was also present during the event. 

Overall, the events were successful, with attendees gaining valuable insights into the latest trends and strategies in the evolving international education industry. The “student-centric” recruitment approach proved to be a particularly popular topic, as recruitment partners seek to ensure that they are meeting the evolving needs of students to send them to the best colleges and universities through GSP’s platform.

Looking ahead, preparations are already underway for the second GSP Partners’ Assembly which will take place on 9 May at the Sheraton Hotel in Melbourne, Australia. Get ready to discuss international education smarts with like-minded industry professionals and GSP’s extensive network of partner institutions in Australia on a deeper level. Speak to your Business Development Managers for more details! 

Following the Australian government’s recent announcement on the extension of post-study work visas, a list of eligible programs has been released. The selected fields of study are in areas where verified skill shortages exist which include Medicine, Psychology, Optometry, Pharmacy, Teaching, Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Agriculture, and Food Technology.

 The increased post-study work rights for select degrees are as follows: 

• Bachelor degrees: from two years to four years for select programs 
• Masters degrees: from three years to five years for select programs 
• PhD: from four years to six years for all programs

To support this initiative and assist students in identifying eligible programs, we have compiled a list of our top-rated institution partners, along with a rundown of the programs they offer.

1. Australian National University

The Australian National University (ANU) is a world-renowned public research university located mainly in the inner-city suburb of Acton, Canberra with campuses in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, and New Territory housing extraordinary research facilities such as the Kioloa Coastal Campus, Mount Stromlo Observatory, North Australian Research Unit campus, Siding Spring Observatory. 

• Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) – CDU Sydney Campus
• Master of Science (Advanced) in Agricultural Innovation
• Master of Pharmacy
• Bachelor of Psychological Science
• Bachelor of Paramedicine

2. University of Tasmania

Utilising Tasmania’s unique natural environment and geographical location, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) is proudly centred in sustainability as an opportunity across the island. The public research university has three distinct regions of Tasmania: Hobart in the South, Launceston in the North and Burnie in the North West. UTAS also has a campus in Sydney offering nursing, paramedic and health management education. 

• Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Engineering (Specialisation) with Honours in Engineering
• Bachelor of Pharmacy with Applied Honours
• Bachelor of Education (Primary)
• Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology
• Master of Professional Engineering (Specialisation) 

3. Flinders University

Flinders University is a pioneer in a cross-discipline approach to education. It is settled upon 156 acres of greenery in Bedford Park, south of Adelaide, with campuses in Tonsley, Adelaide Central Business District, Renmark, Alice Springs, and Darwin. Institutes and centres in the university are focused in nano-scale science and technology, medical devices, mental health and wellbeing, disaster preparedness and resilience, and defence engineering. 

• Master of Teaching (Primary)
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)
• Doctor of Medicine
• Bachelor of Computer Science
• Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical) (Honours)

4. University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a top-rated public research university located in Perth. Other campuses include an Albany campus at the heart of the South West and the UWA Health Campus at the Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, along with additional facilities in Claremont and Nedlands.

• Master of Teaching (Secondary)
• Master of Agricultural Science
• Master of Biotechnology
• Bachelor of Agricultural Science and Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Psychology and Bachelor of Commerce

5. University of Canberra

The University of Canberra (UC) is a public university located in Bruce, Canberra with campuses in Sydney and Queensland, and internationally in China, Vietnam, India and Bhutan. UC has four research facilities, namely, Institute for Applied Ecology, Institute for Governance and Policy Analysis, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), and Research Centres across faculties. 

• Bachelor of Secondary Education/Bachelor of Science
• Master of Pharmacy
• Bachelor of Primary Education
• Bachelor of Software Engineering/Bachelor of Business Informatics
• Bachelor of Nursing

6. Deakin University

Deakin University a public university with four campuses across Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool, and an innovative online learning environment offering courses from four faculties: Arts and Education, Business and Law, Health, and Science, Engineering and Built Environment. 

• Doctor of Medicine
• Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) – IFM
• Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing)
• Bachelor of Nursing (Honours)
• Master of Psychology (Clinical)

7. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Located in Sydney, New South Wales, the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is a public research university focused on the fields of health, future industries, sustainability, infrastructure, communities, and transdisciplinary research. 

• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Bachelor of Medical Science
• Bachelor of Technology / Master of Teaching in Secondary Education
• Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Graduate Certificate in Engineering Management
• Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology)

8. Charles Darwin University

Charles Darwin University (CDU) is an Australian public university with a main campus in Darwin and eight satellite campuses. The research-intensive university is well-renowned in indigenous and tropical health, environmental science, and public policy.

• Master of Nursing Practice (Pre-Registration) – CDU Sydney Campus
• Master of Pharmacy
• Bachelor of Education Primary
• Bachelor of Psychological Science
• Master of Teaching Primary

9. Griffith University Queensland

Griffith University is a public research university in South East Queensland on the east coast of Australia. The university research centres develop new knowledge in a range of specialist areas including medicine and healthcare, emerging technologies, social innovations, culture, learning and the arts, the environment, and governance and policy development.

• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Aviation
• Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
• Master of Clinical Psychology
• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Environmental Engineering

10. Swinburne University of Technology

Swinburne University, a public research university, has three campuses located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne — at Hawthorn, Croydon and Wantirna — and a fourth campus in Sarawak, Malaysia. University research is centred on data science, health innovation, manufacturing future, smart cities, social innovation, and space technology. 

• Doctor of Philosophy – Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy – Information Systems
• Doctor of Philosophy – Technology Innovation – Science, Engineering and Technology
• Master of Professional Engineering
• Master of Information and Communication Technologies (Research)

For more partner universities offering eligible programs with opportunities to apply for the extended post-study work visas, visit the  GSP Platform or contact our team today to learn more.