Professional Insights on Post Graduate Studies in New Zealand and the Challenges After Graduation

Introduction

Post graduate studies in New Zealand can be a significant investment in both time and money, with the promise of professional growth and residency pathways. However, the reality for many international students faces significant challenges. This article delves into the experiences of post graduate studies in New Zealand and the subsequent job market and residency visa issues.

Challenges in the New Zealand Job Market for International Students

The job market in New Zealand, particularly for those with post graduate qualifications, can be daunting. The post graduate job market is even more challenging for international students due to the domestic job market's preference for local graduates who have completed Level-7 and above degrees.

According to the author, New Zealand employers are reluctant to hire international post graduate students unless they are graduates of local universities who have spent 3 years of fees studying in New Zealand. This attitude is seen as unfair, given that it is often the local universities that are offering less value for money and preparation for the workforce.

Local vs. International Students

A noteworthy observation is that most local students do not pursue post graduate studies, satisfied with their bachelor's degrees. This indirectly reflects on the lower quality of bachelor's degrees in New Zealand, which often do not fully equip students with the necessary skills to enter the job market.

Post graduate studies in New Zealand are predominantly pursued by international students, leading to a significant gap between domestic and international qualifications. The job market favors bachelor's degrees over post graduate studies, indicating a value skew towards local qualifications.

Research Output and Its Impact

New Zealand's research output is low, attributed to a system where most local students do not fully utilize their bachelor's degrees. This results in a workforce that is unprepared for the job market, leading to a focus on skill-based training over pure research. As a result, post graduate students must prove that they have improved their skill sets, which is an arduous task.

Local universities like Unitec and Whitireia are criticized for not guaranteeing the ability to choose specializations, as they do not offer all available courses. This makes post graduate degrees from such institutions less valuable, as specialization is crucial to career advancement and job suitability.

Top Universities and Their Role

The top-tier universities in New Zealand, such as the University of Auckland, Massey University, University of Canterbury, University of Otago, and University of Waikato, are recognized for their efforts. However, they too face challenges in training students adequately for the workforce.

Conclusion

While the top universities in New Zealand may offer more structured and potentially better post graduate programs, they still suffer from a system that values coursework over research. For international students, the path to a successful career in New Zealand is fraught with challenges, including job market biases, lack of research opportunities, and limited specialization options.

Final Thought

The author concludes by advising potential students to carefully consider their options and thoroughly research the specific programs and institutions they are interested in. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of understanding local job market expectations and the value of the qualifications being pursued.