Human Resources in Canada: study and work in the country.

The world is changing very quickly. And now, with the pandemic, we will see some professions become more valued or highlighted for the next few years.

In addition to the area of technology, artificial intelligence and digital communication, for example, some other professions are growing and undergoing transformations, such as psychology and the area of Human Resources. 

Professionals in this area had to adapt a lot during the pandemic at the same time as they needed to keep the company's employees committed to the causes and inspired to work. In addition to the entire bureaucratic and laborious process of payroll, selection processes and everything that involves the routine of the area. So what was already challenging has now become even more so. But Brazilian HR professionals tend to be very good and knowledgeable, competent and interested in new knowledge, which is highly valued here in Canada. 

The good news is that the HR area will be increasingly necessary and full of innovations.

Study, graduate and stay in Canada. 

After graduating in Canada from a higher education course of at least one year, at diploma or postgraduate level, from a public college or university (in government-designated institutions, so-called DLIs), the student becomes eligible to have the so dreamy PGWP, a full-time work visa, allowing you to stay from one to three years the most in the country.

This is what most Brazilians who want to immigrate to Canada are looking for when they study here, because during these post-study visa years people enter the job market and try to stay in the country through the various existing immigration processes.

The Human Resources Area in Canada 

The area of HR is wide and full of opportunities in Canada and is becoming increasingly modern.

There is no age limit and if you already have many years of professional experience in Brazil, even better. This can count a lot when looking for a job after graduating and show companies that you have a good background in the branch. Canada needs immigrants who are in leadership positions and HR needs mature and committed leaders. 

Are you still very young and just starting your studies or career? So set your path early in Canada, this way you will have a better chance of success when building your educational and professional life here from the beginning. 

One of the innovations in the HR area These are “People Analytics”, that is, digital data analysis tools that HR professionals use to match job requirements with job opportunities. skills of candidates and choose who goes to interviews. Other areas within HR are also increasingly required, such as those that work with company culture and employee engagement. One thing is a fact: anyone who knows how to adapt to changes and update themselves to the market will always have a chance of being employed.

Although the HR profession in Canada is not regulated, that is, your diploma and experience in Brazil are valid here, it is an occupation considered very important and the minimum that is required is solid training and good experience in the area. In addition, of course, to administrative and technical skills and a excellent level of English, after all, communication – spoken and written – will be the foundations of your work. 

The average salary of an administrative role at analyst level, according to the Job Bank Canada, is CAD $25.13 per hour. Leadership positions can reach CAD $47.69 per hour. 

WHAT CAN I STUDY IN CANADA TO PUSH UP MY HR CAREER AND GET A GOOD JOB?

It will all depend on your background professional and academic in Brazil, but there are study programs at different levels. Bachelor's degrees, two-year college degrees or even an MBA, specializations or other types of master's degrees.

That's why it's very important to draw up your immigration plan and know where and when you want to arrive and also know your level of English today.

There are colleges that offer programs like certificate (one year) or diploma (two years), for example in Human Resources Management or universities that offer more complex programs such as two- to three-year master's degrees in Human Resources Development, between others. There are hundreds of options across the country. 

How much does it cost to study in this area?

Costs vary depending on the course and institution, but undergraduate programs at colleges average 12,000 to 15,000 CAD per year and master's degrees 18,000 to 22,000 CAD per year. 

A good option also for an experienced HR professional in Brazil who has already graduated, is to do an MBA, which covers several disciplines linked to business and management, bringing a lot of strength and value to the professional's CV.

What are the best cities to take courses in? HR and work in this area in Canada?

In general, it is an area that presents opportunities throughout Canada, with emphasis on large cities, where the largest and best-paying companies are located, such as: Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Mississauga, Québec, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Montreal and Hamilton. 

The good thing is that every company, no matter how small, needs the services of an HR professional, so opportunities will be in every city. 

What professions/fields can you pursue after graduating in HR in Canada or do a postgraduate degree here?

HR Assistant

HR Manager

Chief HR Officer

HR generalist

HR Recruiter

HR labor relations

Training and development

HR information systems (HRIS) professionals

VP of Human Resources (highest position) 

Among others.

Do I need to have other titles or be affiliated with a body?

In some provinces it is important to have the CPHR, which, according to its website, is “a nationally recognized level of experience and accomplishments in the field of human resources. It reflects the conviction that the professional practice of human resources management can safeguard the interests of employers, employees and the business community. The designation represents continued recognition of the bearer's professionalism.

There are many professional benefits to obtaining the CPHR. But the best evidence of the value that CPHRs bring is clear. CPHRs earn more than non-designated HR professionals.” 

As in any profession, the HR executive will need to do a lot networking and always be up to date with topics in your area. As it is a medium in which you deal with people, it is important to check what is required or what will give you a “star” in the city or province where you live. 

Example of requirements required in a vacancy advertisement for HR generalist, in Vancouver, BC:

“Responsibilities

• Employee onboarding to offboarding

• Be the first point of contact for employee inquiries for policies and benefits

• Full cycle recruitment including job posting, interviews, reference checks.

• HR reporting

Job Requirements

• A minimum of 3+ years' experience in HR

• Post-Secondary Education in HR

• Previous recruitment experience

• Excellent time management and organization

• Proficient with MS Word, Excel and Outlook”