Experts have compared the two options from six aspects:
Studying in Canada for a second undergraduate degree and pursuing a graduate diploma are both excellent choices. The differences between the two are as follows:
Different Study Content
A second undergraduate degree can be pursued in a field different from the original undergraduate major, ultimately resulting in a valid bachelor's degree. Graduate diploma programs offer a deeper level of study beyond the undergraduate major, focusing more on vocational skills.
Target Audience
Pursuing a second degree is suitable for those considering a new major due to interests or skills; international students completing a second degree in Canada can freely apply for a master's program based on their second degree transcript, with application requirements identical to those for Canadian domestic students.
Graduate diploma programs are more suitable for college and undergraduate graduates whose ultimate goal is immigration or for those seeking further education but with limited financial resources.
Differences in School Selection
In Canada, the range of undergraduate schools differs from that of graduate schools. Currently, universities offering second undergraduate degrees in Canada include Algoma University, the University of Windsor, and the University of Waterloo. Different universities have different program offerings. Graduate diploma programs are only available at colleges in Canada, such as Centennial College. There are also graduate diploma programs offered within universities, primarily suitable for applicants with a bachelor's degree or higher, such as the graduate diploma program offered by the University of Windsor.
Differences in Admission Requirements
To apply for a second undergraduate degree in Canada, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 70% and an IELTS score of 6.5. International students without language scores can receive conditional admission (dual admission).
Graduate diploma programs only require students to have graduated from a recognized college with a score of 75% or higher to apply.
Differences in Study Duration
A second degree program typically takes four semesters to complete, while a graduate diploma program generally requires only one year, with some programs available in eight months (two semesters).
Different Recognition Levels
A second undergraduate degree certificate obtained from a recognized university in Canada is recognized by the Ministry of Education of China, leading to higher recognition for employment upon returning to China.
Graduate diploma programs are fully recognized by the Canadian government, making employment in Canada very easy; however, these programs only issue a diploma upon graduation, not a degree certificate, resulting in slightly lower recognition upon returning to China.
