American PhD vs. Canadian PhD

[Jonathan Livingston]

Hey guys, 

 

I have two good and almost identical offers from an American school and from a Canadian school. I'm wondering if there's anyone out there who has better insight into the pros and cons of an American PhD vs. a Canadian PhD. Although I don't necessarily plan to work in Canada, I also don't have precise future plans in the U.S., either. I already know some of the basics, like Canada = only 4 years but no MA degree en route, perhaps some difficulties being an American in Canada navigating research funding, etc. Basically, in the long term, what is the real difference? 

 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[anthropologygeek]

If you want to teach go to the American school unless its Toronto or Albany.

[cafeaulait13]

hi, i'm at a canadian school (as a u.s. citizen) and i have to say one major difference is funding opportunities... in the u.s. outside funding is primarily open to anyone (regardless of citizenship) who is at a u.s. school, but in canada funding opportunities tend to by for canadian citizens only. this applies to the main funding agency, SSHRC which is how lots of canadian students get funded... that's not to say programs don't offer financial packages to u.s. students- they do! and many programs have TAs who get paid very well.

[Jonathan Livingston]

cafeaulait, i've already got guaranteed tuition + good stipend (i.e. enough to support myself on) for four years...are you talking about summer research funding? is it more difficult to get as an american in canada? any other issues you've encountered, particularly in terms of TAing...not sure how much I am allowed to work as an international student.

 

anthropologygeek, my choice is between an Ivy and Toronto, which is what is making this so tough...I really don't know in what ways Toronto would affect my future job prospects. Will it be difficult to get hired outside of Canada if I have a Canadian PhD? Or does it not really matter much? Any thoughts?

[cafeaulait13]

it depends on who you ask. typically, i have heard within my own dept., that U.S. phds are preferred for hiring at U.S. and Canadian schools. some people say otherwise... but i would ask people you trust who aren't in either department but know your field- like do you have an undergrad advisor to ask? they can probably tell you more honestly. also, talk to recent phds from the program- usually if you ask your prospective advisor they can point you to someone.