In a knowledge-based society, where higher education and advanced skills are valued, there are strong links between graduate education, research and economic growth. The role of doctoral graduates in such a society is unique, due to their highly specialized education and extensive training in research. They are a key to the production, application and transmission of knowledge. They contribute to our knowledge by performing research and development work in any sector of the economy. By choosing to work or study in other countries, they can enhance the flow of knowledge and information across i
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In a knowledge-based society, where higher education and advanced skills are valued, there are strong links between graduate education, research and economic growth. The role of doctoral graduates in such a society is unique, due to their highly specialized education and extensive training in research. They are a key to the production, application and transmission of knowledge. They contribute to our knowledge by performing research and development work in any sector of the economy. By choosing to work or study in other countries, they can enhance the flow of knowledge and information across international boundaries. By choosing to teach other students following their graduation, they can make a contribution to future generations by participating in this form of knowledge transfer. Doctoral degree holders help develop knowledge networks, 'grow' research and development capacity and encourage innovation.
Expanding our knowledge of the characteristics and choices of doctoral graduates can be considered a first step in understanding the role doctoral degree holders play in today's society. In 2003, Statistics Canada launched the Survey of Earned Doctorates. This survey was designed to provide previously unavailable data on the labour market plans of graduates, how doctoral candidates fund their graduate studies, how much time was required to complete a doctoral degree as well as basic data on the demographic characteristics of the graduates. Some key findings from the first year of data collection are presented in this paper. The report begins with a discussion of some of the basic characteristics of doctoral graduates, including program of study, age, sex, and the length of time it took graduates to complete their doctoral studies. The second section presents information on how the graduates financed their studies. The final two sections deal with the post-graduation plans of graduates: section four presents data for two groups of graduates - those with firm plans for employment and those with firm plans to pursue further training or study; while the fifth and final section examines the residency plans of graduates.
Published abstract reprinted by permission of the copyright owner.
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