Job outlooks for Post-secondary teaching and research assistants

Discover the employment prospects for your dream job across Canada, or compare different occupations.

Occupation

teaching assistant - university (41201)

Location

All regions across Canada

Did you know? You can visit the Open Government Portal to search through and download our Employment Outlooks data all in one place. There, you will find current and previous versions of our 3-Year Employment Outlooks reports for the periods of 2013-2015 to 2025-2027. View the dataset on the Open Government Portal.

These outlooks were updated on December 10, 2025.

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  • Newfoundland and LabradorModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    Labour needs will stem primarily from positions vacated by teaching and research assistants at the post-secondary level who complete their studies and move on to other occupations. Job opportunities will be accessible essentially to students who have a bachelor's degree and who are enrolled in a master's or doctoral program in a relevant field of specialization. Candidates are selected based on their academic results and their communication skills. Recent budget cuts from Memorial University may worsen job opportunities.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Newfoundland and Labrador:

    • Approximately 950 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 90%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 60% compared to 83% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 40% compared to 17% for all occupations
    • 45% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 55% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 37 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 40% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 60% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 15% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 9% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 34% compared to 14% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 41% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Avalon Peninsula Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Avalon Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of a few positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Avalon Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 870 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

  • Prince Edward IslandModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    Post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Prince Edward Island remain in demand, with job openings largely driven by turnover as graduate or senior-level students complete their studies and move into other careers. Employment prospects are tied closely to student enrolment, government investments, and research funding, but recent federal policy changes capping international student permits have sharply reduced enrolment at local institutions. This has created financial strain which may be a limiting factor for assistant positions. Candidates are typically selected based on academic performance and communication skills, and positions often provide valuable experience for those pursuing academic or research careers. For new graduates or those seeking work while studying, this occupation offers flexible, short-term employment with strong experiential benefits, though future availability may depend on how institutions adapt to reduced international enrolment and funding pressures. 

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Prince Edward Island:

    • Approximately 300 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 88%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 8%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 74% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 26% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 41% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 59% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 37 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 42% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 57% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 25% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: less than 5% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 40% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 31% compared to 8% for all occupations

  • Nova ScotiaLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Nova Scotia:

    • Approximately 2,250 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 92%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 60% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 40% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 42% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 57% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 39% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 61% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 17% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 43% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 33% compared to 10% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Annapolis Valley Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Annapolis Valley region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Annapolis Valley region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Cape Breton Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Cape Breton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Cape Breton region:

      • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Halifax Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Halifax region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Halifax region:

      • Approximately 1,570 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 93%

    • North Shore Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the North Shore region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the North Shore region:

      • Approximately 330 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Southern Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Southern region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Southern region:

      • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

  • New BrunswickModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it easy to find work.
    • Teaching and research assistant positions are typically part-time, spanning a term or the academic year, and filled by students. Candidates are often chosen based on their academic performance and communication skills.
    • Employment in this occupation is dependent on government investments in education, as well as private and public funding for university research.
    • With the exception of smaller satellite campuses, all universities are located in the southern portion of the province and demand is expected to be highest within the province's larger urban centres of Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in New Brunswick:

    • Approximately 1,250 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 90%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 7%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 62% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 38% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 43% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 56% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 35 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 40% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 60% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 22% compared to 30% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 40% compared to 16% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 30% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Fredericton–Oromocto Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Fredericton - Oromocto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it easy to find work.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Fredericton - Oromocto region:

      • Approximately 620 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 94%

    • Moncton–Richibucto Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Moncton - Richibucto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it easy to find work.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Moncton - Richibucto region:

      • Approximately 410 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Saint John–St. Stephen Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Recent graduates from fields of study related to this occupation have found it easy to find work.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

      • Approximately 240 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

  • QuebecModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

    The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

    Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

    Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Quebec:

    • Approximately 17,450 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 80%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 12%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 60% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 40% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 53% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 47% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 44% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 56% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 14% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 28% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 52% compared to 11% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region:

      • Approximately 90 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Bas-Saint-Laurent Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region:

      • Approximately 260 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Capitale-Nationale Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Capitale-Nationale region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Capitale-Nationale region:

      • Approximately 2,700 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 93%

    • Centre-du-Québec Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Centre-du-Québec region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Centre-du-Québec region:

      • Approximately 200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Chaudière-Appalaches Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Chaudière - Appalaches region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Chaudière - Appalaches region:

      • Approximately 520 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 92%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

    • Estrie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Estrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Estrie region:

      • Approximately 1,200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 94%

    • Lanaudière Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Lanaudière region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Lanaudière region:

      • Approximately 280 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 85%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 6%

    • Laurentides Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Laurentides region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Laurentides region:

      • Approximately 400 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 87%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 13%

    • Laval Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region, for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region,:

      • Approximately 14,390 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Mauricie Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Mauricie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Mauricie region:

      • Approximately 450 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Montréal Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

      • Approximately 14,390 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Montérégie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Montérégie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Montérégie region:

      • Approximately 2,070 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 87%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

    • Outaouais Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Outaouais region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Outaouais region:

      • Approximately 780 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 94%

    • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation depends on government investment in education, and public and private funding of university research, and the number of students in colleges and universities.

      The increase in registrations is mainly due to the volume of students from the school system in Québec, as the contribution of international students is decreasing because of lower intake caps. In addition, the freeze on government investments is forcing post-secondary institutions to contend with limited financial resources.

      Meanwhile, the growing demand for skilled labour and the automation of some university jobs through artificial intelligence could deter some young people from pursuing university studies and push them towards shorter vocational or technical training, which is better adapted to employer needs. In addition, the higher cost of living is forcing some people to enter the labour market before they receive their diploma, which could curb post-secondary registrations. However, this trend could be mitigated by economic uncertainty and rising youth unemployment, which encourage students to extend their studies.

      Despite these challenges, satellite campuses are expanding rapidly, facilitating access to post-secondary education outside major centers. However, while distance teaching is strengthening its strategic role in integrating digital tools and teacher support, this occupation could be among the first to be affected by budget cuts.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

      • Approximately 380 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 93%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

  • OntarioUndetermined

    An employment outlook for this occupation was not assessed in this region.

    Regional outlooks

  • ManitobaLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Manitoba:

    • Approximately 2,900 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 84%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 8%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 62% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 38% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 48% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 52% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 38 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 40% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 60% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 19% compared to 31% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 8% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 39% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 31% compared to 8% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • North Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • Southwest Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Southwest region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Winnipeg Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Winnipeg region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Winnipeg region:

      • Approximately 2,510 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 91%

  • SaskatchewanModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Restrictive immigration policy changes at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada are expected to reduce international student enrolments between 2025 and 2027. This decline is leading to revenue shortfalls, budget constraints, and job cuts including an estimated 12,000 job losses across Canada's postsecondary education sector.
    • Increased university research funding including several large-scale, interdisciplinary research grants from provincial and federal funding agencies and industry partners will help soften the impact of the federal international student cap on employment in this occupation.
    • Workers in this occupation are concentrated in the Saskatoon region.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Saskatchewan:

    • Approximately 2,300 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 84%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 10%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 64% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 36% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 53% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 47% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 42% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 57% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 18% compared to 33% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 7% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 34% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 38% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Northern Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Northern region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Northern region:

      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Prince Albert Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Prince Albert region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Prince Albert region:

      • Approximately 130 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Regina–Moose Mountain Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Regina - Moose Mountain region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Regina - Moose Mountain region:

      • Approximately 560 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 95%

    • Saskatoon–Biggar Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Saskatoon - Biggar region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Saskatoon - Biggar region:

      • Approximately 1,760 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Swift Current–Moose Jaw Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region:

      • Approximately 70 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

  • AlbertaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
    • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in Alberta:

    • Approximately 11,550 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 86%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 68% compared to 80% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 32% compared to 20% for all occupations
    • 54% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 46% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 44% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 56% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 15% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 36% compared to 21% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 42% compared to 9% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
      • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region:

      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Banff–Jasper–Rocky Mountain House Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
      • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region:

      • Approximately 180 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Calgary Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Calgary region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
      • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Calgary region:

      • Approximately 4,830 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 91%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 5%

    • Edmonton Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Edmonton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
      • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Edmonton region:

      • Approximately 5,980 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
      • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region:

      • Approximately 440 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 88%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 5%

    • Red Deer Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Red Deer region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • Demand for this occupation is influenced by population growth, student enrollment, provincial government funding, and revenue from international student fees. Federal government reduction in immigration targets may impact population growth and student enrollment.
      • Changes to federal study permit targets may also reduce the number of available teaching positions and intensify competition for academic roles.  

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Red Deer region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 80%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 13%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 7%

  • British ColumbiaLimited

    The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    In 2024, the Government of Canada implemented caps on the number of international student applications that would be available nationally. 

    Many colleges and universities in the province have cut programs and laid off staff because of reduced revenue from international students.

    Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in British Columbia:

    • Approximately 12,250 people work in this occupation.
    • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Universities (NAICS 6113): 84%
      • Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 60% compared to 78% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 40% compared to 22% for all occupations
    • 48% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants work all year, while 52% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • Less than 5% of post-secondary teaching and research assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 42% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 57% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 16% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 39% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 38% compared to 12% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Cariboo Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Cariboo region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Cariboo region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 95%

    • Kootenay Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Kootenay region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Kootenay region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 78%
        • Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 22%

    • Lower Mainland–Southwest Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region:

      • Approximately 9,780 people work in this occupation.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 93%

    • Nechako Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • Thompson–Okanagan Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Thompson - Okanagan region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Thompson - Okanagan region:

      • Approximately 990 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): more than 95%

    • Vancouver Island and Coast Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for post-secondary teaching and research assistants (NOC 41201) in the Vancouver Island and Coast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.

      Here are some key facts about post-secondary teaching and research assistants in the Vancouver Island and Coast region:

      • Approximately 1,700 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 91%

  • Yukon TerritoryUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

  • Northwest TerritoriesUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

  • NunavutUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

Related links

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) - Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

Labour Market Information Survey
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