PhD in Canada or PhD in Australia (degree, reputation, cost)

[Ali Shaeb]

I have been awarded a PhD scholarship that is fully sponsored by my government. I am really confused where I shall apply. It is a Canada Vs Australia debate. I have never been to Canada or Australia. So I am really lost.


I am telecommunication engineer, and I have done my master in UK, Leeds, but never been to Canada or Australia. So I am really lost ..A PhD will take at least 4 years, so I surly need to choose the right place for me, and tick the right choice .....

I have conducted some research about this, but I am still confused. I need more sort of personal experience stories to help me decide.

How long does it usually take you to finish a PhD program in Canada? And can i find a research-based PhD program? I think, just like the UK, Australia universities offer three years research-based PhD programs, right?

It is much easier to have a post study work opportunity in Canada than Australia right? ; Although both countries have a point based immigration system.

When it comes to climate, Australia has a warmer weather than Canada (which would be great for me considering I am coming from a warm country). But the question is, is Canada weather really bad? Is it really hard to cope with it?

Would you please help me find out more details and to have a brief comparison between the two countries?

[Wild Colonial Girl]

All I know about Canada is how cold it is. But, houses are insulated and have central heating, so it might be -20 outside but you are warm inside.

Research vs coursework is field dependant. My advice would be to start looking for a supervisor and choose based on topic and prestige rather than country.

[FW transplant]

In addition to looking at countries, what about the universities, their reputations in your field, the opportunities for mentors at the universities, the cities where they're located, the quality of life in those cities, the people and cost to live there?

Also, how far would you need to travel to visit friends and family during vacations or their illnesses? After you earn the PhD, would you want to stay in Canada, Australia, or return home? Are you taking a spouse and children with you, and what are those considerations? What if you fall in love at university? Would you want to stay in that country, or return home? So many things to consider. Broaden your thinking and analyze the entire situation.

You must be really good in your field to get this opportunity, so congrats on that. Now think about things in addition to your course of study. Enjoy!

[Amelorn]

Generally speaking, both are advanced societies with globally respected university systems. That said, I chose to do my masters (now) in Australia. I am happy with that decision.

[Bettafish]

A PhD student needs to attend a lot of conferences and have some publications.
Canada is close to the US, which is an advantage.

[Ruth4Truth]

Originally Posted by Wild Colonial Girl

All I know about Canada is how cold it is. But, houses are insulated and have central heating, so it might be -20 outside but you are warm inside.

Research vs coursework is field dependant. My advice would be to start looking for a supervisor and choose based on topic and prestige rather than country.

Canada isn't very cold at all in the West. Vancouver weather is mild. Australia is warmer because it's a desert. Short of water, and can get very hot. It depends on what weather you're used to as to which country you'd choose.

OP, I would decide based on which university has the strongest reputation in your field, and provides the best job opportunities and/or contacts for internships. Do your research in that regard. You might also look at which schools have more international students, and which cities have a more diverse population and cosmopolitan feel. Maybe when you're able to narrow down your choices, the forum here will be able to help you with more specific info.

[rational1]

In a Ph.D. program the advisor and group are the most important. Usually there are more options at the better universities. Every country has good ones and not so good ones.

A Ph.D. does not usually run on a schedule. However you can find our the typical duration of a degree program for an advisor. (Best by asking graduated students).

[davebarnes]

The good news.
Both will let you graduate with honours.

[cry_havoc]

If I choosing based on location I would choose Australia, BUT I would choose based off the school and program. The location shouldnt be a factor.

[kinkytoes]

Based on what I have seen, Australians seem to have some issues with foreigners and there have been some violent episodes against foreigners there recently. Canada is more multi-cultural and would be my choice for an enjoyable couple of years in school.

I'd rather have friends and fun during my time in school than be afraid for my safety. Australia does have warm weather, but you can still have fun in the cold. Just be sure to wear natural fabric socks, coats and underwear. Silk long johns, wool socks and down coats. As another foreigner, I can tell you synthetic fabrics are not going to keep you warm especially if you are not used to the cold.


Australian Police Apologise to Korean Assaulted in Melbourne - koreaBANG

Australia must protect foreign students from attacks, say China and India - Telegraph

We must look at Australia's violent culture