Is it too difficult to become a professor in Canada now?

Question

what about the students from Queen's university? Could they have a better chance in finding jobs?

Answer 1

Queens is Canada's hardest to get into univ. That suggests getting out of it will also make you a notable choice. There will soon be a lot of openings in North America as baby boomers retire. I have a friend who got his Ph D from Oxford though and started at a small Canadian univ. and hates it. But you have to start somewhere. Just smile, get on committees, and get along.

ps. Find out what the attrition rate is in Queen's grad school. At mine (U of T) it was 50%, mainly due to problemos with one's supervisor. Professions like law, medicine, dentistry, etc. are far better bets (5% attrition.)

Good Luck

Answer 2

To become a professor, you need AT ABSOLUTE BARE MINIMUM a Master's degree. You don't exactly sound like you've finished (or even started) your undergrad work yet, so don't get ahead of yourself. As long as you attend an accredited school, it's not a big deal where you came from. The best way to get a job as a professor is to do the following:

1. Undergrad degree in your field with ultra-high GPA
2. Master's degree in your field with ultra-high GPA
3. Articles published in recognized international journals
4. Teaching experience (for example, experience as a TA)
5. Relevant work experience

Answer 3

A lot of people are concerned with coming out of a prestigous school. For some people that holds a lot of weight, but more and more it has to do with your grades, your references, your specialisation and research that will determine such things.

Indeed there are some universities are known for their expertise in certain areas, and if you fall within that bracket (along with the display of skill and marketability), I'd imagine you'd likely have a better chance than someone who has not.

But just average and nothing special out of Queens probably won't do much for you.