Young Quebec Graduates Face Rising Joblessness Amid Economic Shift

A recent study reveals that young men with university degrees in Quebec are experiencing significant difficulties in securing employment. Research from the Institut du Québec indicates that the unemployment rate among these graduates is currently higher than that of their peers who do not hold a degree. Specifically, in the first seven months of 2025, the unemployment rate for men aged 22 to 26 with a university degree stood at 11.4 percent, compared to 9.9 percent for all men in that age group. Moreover, the rate for male graduates is 1.7 times higher than the 6.6 percent unemployment rate for their female counterparts.

Unpacking the Employment Landscape

The study highlights a troubling trend: since 2022, the unemployment rate among young male university graduates has not only risen sharply but has also outpaced that of female graduates. Three years ago, the rates were comparably low for both genders. Emna Braham, executive director of the Institut du Québec, attributes this disparity to the types of jobs being created in recent years, noting that most new positions have emerged in the health and education sectors.

“These sectors overwhelmingly recruit women,” Braham explained. “Over 70 percent of those employed in these fields are women, and they also recruit a significant number of university graduates.” In contrast, the construction and transportation sectors, which are predominantly male, have not generated as many jobs for university graduates in the past three years.

Economic Factors and Future Implications

Fabian Lange, a labour economist at McGill University, warns that the ongoing trade crisis could lead to a recession, further complicating job prospects for recent graduates. “Individuals graduating into these recessions face diminished career outcomes, often struggling to secure high-paying jobs for years,” Lange said. He emphasized that these barriers can hinder their ability to start their careers on strong footing.

Despite the current challenges, Braham remains optimistic about the long-term value of a university education. She notes that while the immediate job market for graduates may seem bleak, data suggests that demand for university-educated professionals continues to grow. “In 1990, there were approximately 25 percent more men than women graduating from university. Now, the gap has reversed, indicating there is potential for improvement,” she remarked.

Braham highlighted the importance of ensuring that young men continue to pursue higher education despite the current job market signals. “When the labour market suggests that obtaining a degree may not pay off, it is imperative that we double our efforts to provide young men with the best educational experiences possible.”

This situation raises critical questions about the effectiveness of the current educational and hiring systems in Quebec. As the landscape evolves, it remains essential for stakeholders to adapt strategies that ensure equitable opportunities for all graduates.