When considering whether to go back to school or pay for a training program, it's natural to ask: Is it worth it? In Canada, evidence consistently shows that investing in your education or skills pays off in the long run. The "return on investment" (ROI) of upskilling can be measured in higher earnings, better job opportunities, and greater job security.
Education has a direct impact on income. According to the latest Canadian census data, individuals with higher education credentials earn significantly more than those without. For example, Canadians with a bachelor's degree or higher had a median income of about $61,600 in 2021 – that's 44% higher than the overall median income. Even a non-degree post-secondary education yields a median income 51% above that of high school graduates.
Beyond the raw numbers, investing in new skills or credentials opens doors. Many professions in Canada have "glass ceilings" if you lack certain credentials. Upskilling can make you eligible for promotions or new job opportunities that were previously out of reach. It also allows you to pivot into growing industries.
In an economy that's constantly evolving, having higher or more diverse skills acts as career insurance. Workers with more education tend to have lower unemployment rates and recover faster from layoffs. The Bank of Canada noted that workers with a university degree in education-intensive jobs earned 74% more than those with no higher education.
Real-life examples illustrate the payoff of upskilling. A microloan program for newcomer professionals reports that its clients achieved over 3 times income growth on average after getting the necessary training. Their unemployment rate dropped from 42% to just 8% once they upgraded their credentials.
Of course, upskilling often requires upfront costs – tuition, time out of the workforce, etc. It's important to see these costs as an investment rather than mere expenses. Many programs have flexible options like evening classes or online learning to allow you to work while studying.
Canada offers various financing options:
The ROI of upskilling in Canada is generally very favorable. Higher education correlates with higher income and better employment outcomes. It can elevate you from a stagnant position to a thriving career. In a knowledge-driven economy like Canada's, continuous learning isn't just a personal growth strategy – it's often a financial imperative for staying ahead.
If you're on the fence about going back to school or taking that professional course, remember that education is an investment in yourself – one that can yield dividends in the form of a better job, higher salary, and a more secure future.