About PhD Program,
PhD students produce a thesis of original work with the support of world-renowned researchers and facilities
This program is designed for individuals interested in a rewarding career in fundamental or applied research. The PhD program involves advanced courses and an intensive research program culminating in a thesis, supervised by a CivMin faculty member.
Students entering the PhD program typically have a Master’s degree, however outstanding applicants who are completing a bachelor’s degree can apply for direct entry into the PhD program.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
Completion of a master’s degree and an undergraduate degree. GPA for the entire master’s degree must be equivalent to a B+ (3.3/4.0 or 78%).
In addition to the thesis, students complete a minimum of 2.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) (four half courses) before completing their comprehensive exam*.
Students with an MASc degree (or equivalent in the same area of study) must complete a minimum of 2.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) (four half courses).
Students enrolled in the MASc degree program who transfer to the PhD program must complete a total of 4.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) (nine half courses)
Students with an MEng degree must complete a minimum of 4.5 FCEs (nine half courses). Up to 3.0 FCEs (six graduate half courses) may be used from the MEng program towards the PhD course requirements.
For direct-entry students, more FCEs may be required depending on the student’s background preparation. It is normally expected that at least one of the half courses will be taken outside of the student’s principal area of research.
Students must participate in the non-credit seminar course JDE 1000H Ethics in Research during their first or second session of registration.
The academic program must be approved by the department’s Examination and Degree Committee during the student’s first session.
PhD Funding Coverage,
Applicants and current students are encouraged to apply for scholarships that are applicable to them. Common scholarships can be found on the following sites:
Employment as a Teaching Assistant (TA) is a way to earn additional income and develop professional skills. TA income does not affect an MASc or PhD student’s funding package; it is income separate from, and in addition to, the funding package.
- PhD students: $20,000 plus tuition and fees per year, for up to 4 years beyond the master’s degree
- PhD Direct Entry (Fast track Bachelor’s to PhD) – 5 years of guaranteed funding beyond the bachelor’s degree
- Flexible-Time PhD students do not normally receive financial support from the department
Application Requirement,
- Two references, requested and received directly through the online application system. Note that we will only review two references, even if more than two are provided. The following are acceptable referees:
- Academic: an instructor or professor for a course/s you completed and can assess your ability and suitability for your proposed program of study, or program coordinator or director who is familiar with your academic performance
- Research: a professor or “principal investigator” who supervised your research and can comment on your research skills and abilities
- Professional: a supervisor who oversaw your work during an internship or work experience related to your proposed program of study, and can comment on your strengths and the relevance of your proposed program to your career goals
- Scanned copy of transcripts, that can be from a student information system. We will ask for official transcripts from those who are admitted to one of our programs.
- Research Statement (MASc, PhD), two pages in length, describing your research interests, and how completing a research-based graduate program will further your career and personal goals.
- English Language Proficiency (ELP) scoresmay be required, depending on your academic background. If required, enter your scores into the application system. Please review our admission requirements to determine if you are required to submit an official ELP score to be considered for admission. You do not need to submit official scores to the University at the time of application.
- Application Fee, $125, paid by the application deadline.
GRE scores are not required for admission to our programs.
Application Deadline,
Feb 01, 2025
Application Fee,
- Application Fee, $125, paid by the application deadline.
