Admission Requirements

With the recommendation of the unit, direct entry Ph.D. admission is available to exceptionally strong students, who show great promise in terms of academic accomplishments and potential for research.  

  • Language Proficiency Requirements: Proof of English proficiency may be required for international applicants and for applicants whose first language is not English.
  • a cumulative weighted average of at least a 80% (U of S grade system equivalent) in the last two years of full-time undergraduate study (i.e. 60 credit units of course work)
  • a four-year honours, or equivalent, from a recognized university in a relevant academic discipline in an academic discipline relevant to the proposed field of study

For more information on language proficiency requirements, see the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Academic Policies.

Degree Requirements

Students must maintain continuous registration in the 996 course.

  • GPS 960.0
  • GPS 961.0, if research involves human subjects
  • GPS 962.0, if research involves animal subjects
  • At least 9 credit units of course work at the graduate level must be successfully completed in the first year of the program.
  • A minimum of 12 credit units at the 800-level
  • FDSC 990.0
  • FDSC 996.0
  • doctoral candidacy assessment
  • write and successfully defend a dssertation based on original investigation

Work-Integrated Learning Concentration

Students may choose to pursue a concentration in a professional work experience setting, while continuing work toward their thesis. Students must maintain continuous registration in the 994/996 course and complete the following course:

  • AGRC 800.0