Post-Degree Programs an attractive choice for international students 

By: Nicole Laidler

Mohan brings more than a decade of recruitment know-how and his own experience as an international student to the role.

“Western University is known not just in Canada but all over the world,” he says. “There are tremendous opportunities to grow the programs already in place at Western Continuing Studies as part of the university’s internationalization strategy.”

Western Continuing Studies has seen an organic uptick in international students over the past few years, notes Katrina McIntosh, Directory (Acting) and Academic Program Manager at Western Continuing Studies. “Last year, we had 49 international students without any targeted marketing or recruitment,” she says. “That told us that there is considerable interest in this space.” 

Mohan will be reaching out to international students who may be interested in pursuing a Post-Degree Diploma at the Western Continuing Studies campus in London, Ontario. The school offers seven career-focused diploma programs that can be completed in 12 months, as well as a new 24-month diploma launching this fall. 

“Continuing education offers people the chance to upskill or reskill without having to do a graduate degree,” Mohan explains. “It’s an opportunity that international students and working professionals may not be aware of.” 

Prospective students must have completed a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university and meet English proficiency requirements for Western University. “My role is to make sure that applicants have an understanding of the programs on offer and what the application process looks like,” says Mohan. “I can also advise students on where they can find support for the visa process and housing.” 

Why London Ontario?

With a diverse population of just over 400,000 people, London offers all the benefits of an urban centre without the housing and transportation challenges of Toronto and the GTA. 

“London is growing, but there is still a sense of community,” says Mohan. “The housing situation is better than in the GTA, and you can get from one point to the other in a decent amount of time using public transportation. These are small things, but they can make a big difference for someone who may be leaving their home country for the first time.”  

Why Western?

“Students coming here can be confident that they are part of a prestigious university,” says McIntosh. As the continuing education department of Western University, students at Western Continuing Studies learn from instructors and guest-speakers who are leaders in their industry and working full-time in their field. 

“Our students earn academic credits and graduate with a Western diploma,” notes McIntosh. International students are eligible for post-graduation work permits after the completion of their Post-Degree Diploma program, she adds. 

In addition to earning a diploma from an internationally-recognized institution, Western Continuing Studies post-degree diploma students have access to all of the supports available to Western University undergraduate students. “Our students actually have more career supports than undergrads, as we have a registered career counsellor on our staff specifically for our students,” she says. 

Why a Post-Degree Program?

Western Continuing Studies offers one-year Post-Degree Diplomas in Clinical Trials Management, Human Resources, Marketing, Public Relations, Not-For-Profit Management, Occupational Health & Safety Management, or Pedorthics. Starting in September 2024, the school will also be offering a two-year Post-Degree Diploma in Safety Management & Human Resources. 

“Our programs are very specifically in fields with high labour market demand,” McIntosh says. 

In addition to classroom learning, students can take part in a workplace practicum where they gain valuable hands-on experience, improve their professionalism, and build their network. “This is a very important component for international students,” says Mohan. “It gives our students an opportunity to understand what the industry looks like and to work alongside some of the best in the business, even before they start looking for full-time employment.”

A partner in your success

While the post-degree programs at Western Continuing Studies provide the academic credentials and practical experience to help graduates launch a career in their chosen field, Mohan says international students need to be proactive about making the most of their time at Western.   

“Coming to a new country to study can be overwhelming,” he says. “You may need to leave your comfort zone to meet new people. See if there is a community in the city that you can engage with, get into volunteer work, and reach out to students in your class. Meet as many people as you can because your network will define how you are going to grow.”  

Learn more about Post-Degree Diploma programs at Western Continuing Studies