Students searching for that second degree will converge today at Education Xtravaganza, the first ever post-undergraduate education fair.

Organizers hope “a couple thousand” students will browse the exhibits displayed by 35 schools from Canada and abroad, said Amy Kszyston, special events co-ordinator with the Career Planning and Employment Centre (CPEC).

School representatives will be on hand to promote their programs at the mezzanine level of the Ivor Wynne Centre from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Kszyston, who graduated from the University last spring, is enthusiastic about the endeavour.

“We're really excited,” she said. “Students have been asking for this type of fair for years. We are proud to say that in keeping with McMaster's reputation for innovation, we are the first in the province to offer a fair of this type.”

According to various surveys, up to 40 per cent of students enrolled in social sciences, arts and sciences, humanities and life sciences programs continue studying once they complete their first degree.

Students come into CPEC everyday distressed because they are unsure what they are going to do after they graduate, Kszyston said.

Many know they would like to continue their education but are unsure about what field, what level and for how long.

The participating schools are promoting programs that students may enter after completion of an undergraduate degree.

Universities showcasing their graduate and professional programs, certificates and diplomas and community colleges sharing information about more than 150 post-graduate diploma programs will be attending the fair.

The range of study offered includes programs in advertising to teaching physical therapy.

The Education Xtravaganza website is available at http://careers.mcmaster.ca.
The site offers a full listing of all schools that will be in attendance.

The site also allows users to access a programs-offered list for the schools, in addition to some helpful tips about what students can do to make this a successful event for their future.