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 study (i.e. 60 credit units)
  • a four-year honours degree, or equivalent, from a recognized college or university 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
  • dissertation defence
  • doctoral candidacy assessment

A minimum of 12 credit units at the 800-level, including:

  • VACC 801.3
  • VACC 990.0
  • VACC 996.0