A student with an MTech in Computer Science from India asked for course suggestions for further study in Canada.
What group members suggested:- Consider a PhD if genuinely interested in research — a natural next step after a completed master's degree.
- A specialized postgraduate diploma (PGD) or another master's was suggested as an alternative, targeted toward a specific skill gap or career pivot rather than general study.
- Applicants raised concern about study permit refusal risk when applying for a program at the same or lower level as an already-completed master's degree — several members claimed high refusal rates in this scenario, viewing it as a red flag to visa officers (since a further, similar-level program can look like it lacks genuine study intent).
Caveat: the specific refusal-rate claims in this thread (e.g. "95% refusal") are anecdotal opinions from group members, not official IRCC statistics — treat them as a signal to write a strong, specific study plan justification rather than a hard rule.
The practical takeaway: if you already hold a master's, lean toward a PhD (if research-focused) or a clearly differentiated postgraduate program, and be ready to justify in your SOP why further study makes sense despite your existing credential.