Jodi-Ann Francis, MA Candidate (2015- present)

Nova Scotia is the only province with a negative population growth rate. To further exacerbate this issue, Nova Scotia welcomes approximately 6,000 international students, but up to 90% of this demographic leave the province of Nova Scotia upon graduation, according to studies done on the mobility of students.

This Master of Arts research is aimed at examining the socioeconomic and political factors that influence why international students have chosen to remain in or leave the province, and reasons for where they would choose settle upon completion of their program.

What are the main determinant that influence students’ decision to remain or leave? What are the possible solutions to this issue of high outmigration of international students? What are the push and pull factors involved in the decision-making process?