university of toronto philosophy phd

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program

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When you join the PhD program, you will perform research in your supervisor’s laboratory.   

It will take approximately 5 - 6 years to complete a PhD. 

Your PhD project will be guided by your thesis advisory committee comprised of your supervisor and two University of Toronto faculty members.   

The data that you generate during your program will be approximately equivalent to the amount of data in two peer-reviewed journal articles.   

Your required coursework will depend on whether you joined the PhD program after completing: 

• An MSc degree (or equivalent)  
• A BSc (direct entry) or an MSc-to-PhD transfer exam.   

1. If you enter with an MSc or equivalent degree 

You will take a two-year student seminar series course, LMP1003H .   

In the first year of this course, you will attend seminars and learn about the research that is being carried out by your peers.   

In the second year, you will attend seminars and give a presentation of your own research.   

In addition to the seminar course, you will take 0.5 full course equivalent (FCE) elective course(s) during the program. This means that you will take either one 0.5 FCE course (24 hours of class time) or two 0.25 FCE courses (12 hours of class time per course).  

Requirements (if you are a PhD student holding a MSc degree or equivalent) 

• LMP1003H Student Seminar Series III (0.5 FCE)  
• Elective courses (0.5 FCE) – students may take either one 0.5 FCE or two 0.25 FCE LMP courses (courses offered by other departments may be substituted with the permission of the graduate office)  
• RST9999Y - Thesis  

2. If you enter with a BSc or MSc-to-PhD transfer 

If you join the PhD program directly after receiving a BSc or if you passed the MSc-to-PhD transfer exam, you will: 

• take the courses required for the MSc program (listed above), and 
• the courses required for the PhD program (listed below). 

Requirements (if you have a BSc or MSc-to-PhD transfer) 

• LMP1001H – Student Seminar Series I (0.5 FCE)  
• LMP1002H – Student Seminar Series II (0.5 FCE)  
• LMP1005H - Fundamentals of Research Practice (0.5 FCE)  

Eligibility

There are two routes of entry available to a PhD.

• You have an MSc degree (or equivalent)  
• You are a talented undergraduate with a BSc (direct entry) or you complete an MSc-to-PhD transfer exam.   

1. You have an MSc degree

If you have a MSc, MD, DDS, DVM (or equivalent) degree. 

You also need to have:

• a minimum A- average in your graduate courses, or in senior-level BSc coursework if MSc course requirements were minimal or absent
• evidence of research competence, based on scientific publications, abstracts, or conference presentations. 

2. You are a talented undergraduate with a BSc (direct entry) or you complete an MSc-to-PhD transfer exam

You can apply directly to the PhD program if you are a highly qualified BSc graduate meeting the following requirements: 

• An appropriate bachelor's degree in the Life Sciences from a recognized university 
• A minimum A average in the third and fourth years 
• Evidence of strong research experience 

If you are completing an MSc at LMP and are showing excellence, the graduate advisory committee can recommend you for transfer into the PhD program. 

Transfer exams are held within 18 months after the start of the MSc program.   

How to apply

See Application process for the research stream  (MSc and Phd).

To be fully accepted into the MSc program, you will need to secure a supervisor. See  Finding a supervisor .

School of Graduate Studies

Program overview.

Graduate training in psychology stresses training in general experimental psychology, leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree. Areas of specialization include the following:

• behavioural neuroscience;
• perception, cognition, and cognitive neuroscience;
• developmental;
• social and personality.

For 2021-2022 admission cycle students will be considered for admission to PhD and direct-entry PhD programs only. Students will not be considered for admission to the MA program. 

Students may also be interested in:

• the Counselling Psychology​  program​;
• Clinical and Counselling ​Psychology  (OISE)​​​
• Clinical Psychology (UTSC)

Quick Facts

Note: admissions to the Master of Arts program have been administratively suspended.

Master of Arts

Program description.

The MA program is designed to provide students with rigorous scientific training in experimental psychology. The program is one year in duration, during which time students obtain instruction in statistics and research design, and carry out a research project that culminates in a written thesis and oral examination. Students admitted to the MA program are expected to continue to the PhD program.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Psychology's additional admission requirements stated below.

Appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a minimum A– average (or first-class standing) in the last two undergraduate years, and the equivalent of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) in psychology including statistics and adequate research performance.

It is assumed that all students entering the MA program intend to continue in the PhD program.

Program Requirements

Courses and individual research training leading to a thesis.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 2.0 FCEs as follows:

PSY1000H Directed Studies to prepare for the MA thesis research (0.5 FCE)

PSY2001H Statistics I , experimental design and statistics (0.5 FCE)

two half-course Psychology electives (1.0 FCE total).

It is expected that following the MA year, students will proceed to the PhD program. To be eligible for admission, adequate research performance and at least an A– average are required.

Program Length

3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S)

3 years full-time

Doctor of Philosophy

The principal aim of the PhD program is to equip students with the skills to carry out advanced research within experimental psychology, and to become independent research scientists. Students work closely with a faculty adviser to develop and conduct a specialized (often multidisciplinary) program of research that ultimately culminates in a written dissertation and final oral examination. Through additional coursework and research opportunities, students gain breadth in their knowledge base and skill set in experimental psychology. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, or a variety of non-academic careers where rigorous and in-depth research training is required.

PhD Program

Appropriate University of Toronto master's degree, or its equivalent from a recognized university, with a minimum A– average and adequate research performance.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

0.5 FCE: an advanced statistics course chosen from a list provided by the department (typically PSY2002H Statistics II , taken in Year 1).

0.5 FCE: PSY3000H 0 External Research Project , a research project course supervised by a faculty member other than the student's PhD supervisor, completed during Years 1 and 2.

0.5 FCE: PSY3001H 0 Professional Psychology (Credit/No Credit), taken in two modules in Years 1 and 3.

1.0 FCE in Psychology course electives. Of this requirement, 0.5 FCE can be achieved through two 0.25 FCE Psychology module electives (PSY3100H Psychological Science Skills ).

0.5 FCE: PSY4000H 0 Doctoral Research Project , thesis proposal, and oral exam (examination in the student's area of research).

PhD thesis.

Students may take other courses, but it is expected that the requirements will be completed in the first two years of the PhD program. Students admitted with a master's degree from another university will normally be required to fulfil the PhD course requirements; however, exemptions may be granted by the Graduate Director of the Department of Psychology.

4 years full-time

6 years full-time

0 Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Appropriate University of Toronto bachelor's degree, or its equivalent from a recognized university, with a minimum A– average and adequate research performance.

Applicants with a master’s degree in Psychology or a cognate discipline will likely be admitted to the four-year PhD program, whereas students with a master’s degree in an unrelated discipline will be admitted to the direct-entry PhD option. Such admission decisions will be made by the Graduate Director.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

0.5 FCE: PSY1100H Foundational Research Project , a research project course supervised by the student's supervisor plus two other faculty members, completed during Years 1 and 2.

0.5 FCE: PSY2001H Statistics I , an introductory statistics course taken in Year 1.

0.5 FCE: PSY3000H 0 External Research Project , a research project course supervised by a faculty member other than the student's PhD supervisor, completed during Years 2 and 3.

2.0 FCEs in Psychology course electives. Of this requirement, 0.5 FCE can be achieved through two 0.25 FCE Psychology module electives (PSY3100H Psychological Science Skills ).

Students may take other courses, but it is expected that the requirements will be completed in the first three years of the PhD program. Students admitted with a master's degree from another university will normally be required to fulfil the PhD course requirements; however, exemptions may be granted by the Graduate Director of the Department of Psychology.

5 years full-time

7 years full-time

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Length of study, admission requirements.

Application p rocedures

Tuition fees

Research & centres

Funding, scholarships, awards

Program requirements and optional emphasis

Course descriptions

Student life

Frequently Asked Questions

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research-based program leading to the production of a research thesis. Doctoral research at UTIAS is expected to be internationally recognized for its originality, rigour, and importance. Supervised by a faculty member, students select a research topic, develop a plan to address the topic, and implement this plan, leading to a major research thesis and contributions to the academic literature. This is the pinnacle of academic achievement, and holders of the PhD are well prepared for academic positions and leadership roles in industrial research and development.

UTIAS researchers collaborate extensively with all the major companies in the Canadian aerospace industry, and UTIAS PhD students frequently interact with industrial partners.

All PhD students at UTIAS are provided with a stipend to support living expenses, tuition and fees, and are eligible for a range of additional scholarship support .

Applicants may enter the PhD program via one of two routes: 1) following completion of an MASc degree in engineering, mathematics, physics, or chemistry; or 2) transfer from the University of Toronto MASc program.

Four years (defined as the period of time for an academically well-prepared student to complete all program requirements while registered full-time).

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies . For international students, degree and grade equivalencies can be found at the  International Degree Equivalencies directory .
• An MASc degree in engineering, mathematics, physics, or chemistry and demonstrated ability to perform advanced research. Applicants require a minimum average grade of B+ in their Master’s program, but most admitted applicants have average grades higher than this.
• Proof of English-language proficiency is required for all applicants educated outside of Canada whose native language is not English. See the  School of Graduate Studies  for additional information.

Application Procedures

Please ensure that you meet our minimum admission requirements as stated above.

Before applying, you should learn about the  UTIAS course offerings , and read the FAQs about admissions and FAQs about studying at UTIAS .

Step 1.   Submit an application on SGS Admissions Management and pay the $125 application fee (non-refundable/transferable, regardless of the circumstance). Applications will not be processed until the application fee is received. You will be prompted for your payment information after you click “submit.” Please note that there is no way to edit your application once it has been submitted.

On the SGS Admissions Management site please submit:

• Your SGS application  (personal information, academic history, etc.), and,
• Scans of complete (or most up-to-date) academic transcript(s) . Applicants must scan and upload each post-secondary institutional transcript as a PDF file. In lieu of a scanned copy of a paper transcript, applicants may upload a PDF file of their academic history from their university’s student web service. Every transcript must include its respective grading scale. You are not required to submit official (paper) transcripts until requested by the graduate office.

Step 2 .  Submit a detailed application on UTIAS Application System .

This is the most important part of the application process. If you do not complete the application on UTIAS Application System, your application will not be reviewed.

Please note:

• Applicants should monitor their PhD application progress on UTIAS Application System.

Your UTIAS Graduate Admission includes:

• Personal/general Information
• Statement of intent
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic history and detailed grades*
• Referee contact information**

Once you submit your application on UTIAS Application System you will not be able to modify it.

* You must include all marks from all years and all institutions that you have attended. If you do not provide these grades on UTIAS Application System, the review of your application will be delayed until you provide these and hence you may miss the review period.

Transcripts: The review process will take place using the scanned/electronic transcripts uploaded to SGS Admissions Management Application and grades submitted to UTIAS Application System. You will be contacted with instructions if you are required to submit official paper transcripts.

** Two reference letters are required . In general, letters of reference from academic sources are preferred. Your referees must submit their letters of reference electronically on the UTIAS Application System. Do not submit more than two referees. Only two letters will be considered. Instructions on how to submit letters of reference will be sent automatically to referees by the UTIAS Application System.

An application is not complete until both letters of reference have been submitted. It is highly recommended that applicants (1) submit their applications well in advance of the deadline and (2) confirm that their letters of reference have been submitted by logging on to the UTIAS Application System. The application status will read “received” when the application is complete including two letters of reference. Please do not forward hard copies of letters of reference to the UTIAS Graduate Office.

Indicate research preference: Applicants must classify their research interest. The UTIAS Application System will permit applicants to indicate a maximum of three areas of interest from a drop-down menu. Visit our Research & Centres  page for detailed information.

Tuition Fees

Current Fall-Winter Fees (scroll to bottom of the page and click on Graduate Studies, School of - All Graduate Programs)

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree requirements:.

• Between three and eight approved technical graduate courses
• JDE1000H ‘Ethics in Research Seminar’
• Attendance at the DLS is mandatory for all PhD students.
• PhD Background Statement
• PhD Qualifying Examination
• PhD Thesis Proposal
• Annual Meetings of PhD Supervisory Committee
• Department Oral Examination (DOE) of PhD Thesis
• Final Oral Examination (FOE) of PhD Thesis

Schedule for Timely Completion

ECE’s expectations for the timely completion of the PhD degree requirements are outlined below. Timely completion is a condition of financial support and continued registration.

SGS policy requires that the supervisory committee be formed and meet within the first 16 months of registration; in ECE this requirement is met through the thesis proposal (i.e. the thesis proposal presentation is the 1st annual supervisory committee meeting).

Thereafter, the student must meet with their supervisory committee at least once per year. As per Section 7.5.2 of the SGS General Regulations :

• “A student is expected to meet with this committee at least once a year, and more often if the committee so requires. At each meeting, the supervisory committee will assess the student’s progress in the program and provide advice on future work.”
• “A student who, through their own neglect, fails to meet with the supervisory committee in a given year will be considered to have received an unsatisfactory progress report from the committee.”

The Department Oral Examination (DOE) is the student’s final annual supervisory committee meeting. The DOE can replace the requirement of a supervisory committee meeting in the student’s final year if the DOE takes place within 12 months of the student’s previous supervisory committee meeting.

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Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Research-based 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.

Explore our   research themes to see what areas you could pursue in your studies

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.

Fees, Awards and Funding

Students admitted to the PhD program are provided a funding package for up to 4 years Information on fees, awards, funding and Teaching Assistantships can be found here .

Program Length and Time Limit

The PhD is offered on a full-time basis only.

Program Length

4 years full-time; 5 years transfer-from-master's; 5 years direct-entry

6 years full-time; 7 years transfer-from-master's; 7 years direct-entry

PhD Milestones

• Comprehensive Exam
• PhD Supervisory Committee
• Departmental Exam
• Final Oral Examination

Program Requirements

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.

Flexible-Time PhD Option

The flexible-time PhD program is a full-time PhD program that a student competes while continuing professional practice in areas related to the student’s field of research. Because the option involves continued professional practice, it allows a student to complete the program over a longer period of time. The typical program length is 6 years, and the time limit is 8 years.

The School of Graduate Studies guidelines for the Flexible-Time PhD option require that applicants demonstrate that the research and proposed program of study are related to the applicant’s professional career, and that they will continue their professional activities while registered in the program.

Typically, students will complete 2.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

• Year 1-2: 2.0 FCE and the non-credit seminar JDE1000 Ethics in Research, and form a Supervisory Committee
• Year 2: Prepare a research proposal and pass the Comprehensive Exam
• Year 3-5: Research and writing
• Year 6: Defend the thesis at the Final Oral Examination by August 30

Students in the Flexible-Time option are registered full-time during the first four years and part-time during subsequent years in the program. Candidacy is achieved upon successful completion of course work and the Comprehensive Exam, normally by the end of Year 2. Throughout the program students are expected to maintain a schedule of regular meetings with their supervisors and with the Supervisory Committees.

Those interested in the Flexible-Time PhD program should reach out to the departmental admissions office at: [email protected]

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Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD in Biomedical Engineering is a research-intensive program that immerses students in the application of biomedical sciences and engineering principles to advance solutions for challenges in human health. Students can be admitted to the PhD program through direct entry after completion of a bachelor’s degree or, alternatively, after the completion of a master’s degree. PhD students receive a guaranteed minimum stipend for four years.

Length of study

Four years (defined as the period for an academically well-prepared student to complete all program requirements while registered full-time).

Admission requirements

• Entry into PhD program after completion of a bachelor’s degree (i.e., direct entry) : A four-year bachelor’s degree in engineering, medicine, dentistry, physical sciences, or biological sciences, or its equivalent , with an average of at least 3.7 on a 4.0 grade point average scale (i.e., A minus) in the final two years of study from a recognized university ; or
• Entry into PhD program after completion of a master’s degree : A master’s degree in engineering, medicine, dentistry, physical sciences, or biological sciences, or its equivalent , with a cumulative average of at least 3.3 on a 4.0 grade point average scale (i.e., B plus) from a recognized university .
• Proof of English-language proficiency is required for all applicants educated outside of Canada whose native language is not English. View the BME English-language requirement policy to determine whether you are required to take a language test and for a list of accepted testing agencies and their minimum scores required for admission.
• Applicants must find a BME faculty supervisor. ( NB : You do not need a supervisor at the time of application. However, admission is competitive and only candidates who have found and secured a research supervisor will be admitted to begin graduate studies.)
• MD/PhD candidates must apply through the MD program
• Possession of the minimum requirements for entry does not guarantee admission
• GRE score is not required

Application procedures

• Complete the online application (see requirements ) and pay the application fee
• Arrange for your English test score to be reported electronically to the University of Toronto by the testing agency if applicable. The institution code for U of T is 0982-00 (there is no need to specify a department)
• Contact the BME Graduate Office to identify your BME faculty supervisor

Rolling admission; multiple rounds with different enrollment capacity in each cycle

Tuition fees

Last updated: January, 2022

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School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Calendar

Philosophy: introduction, faculty affiliation.

Arts and Science

Degree Programs

Concentration: philosophy of science, combined degree programs.

STG, Law, Juris Doctor / Philosophy, PhD

Collaborative Specializations

The following collaborative specializations are available to students in participating degree programs as listed below:

• Philosophy, PhD
• Philosophy, MA, PhD

Philosophy has been taught at the University of Toronto since 1843. Much has changed in that time, but the department remains Canada’s preeminent philosophy department. It is an international leader in the history of philosophy — especially ancient and medieval philosophy — as well as ethics, philosophy of science, and philosophy of mind. In all of these areas, department members take contemporary philosophical problems and their historical antecedents to illuminate one another.

The department’s most distinctive strength is its broad coverage of the history of philosophy. While peer departments usually have one or two experts in a few historical periods, U of T has specialists in every area of the history of Western philosophy, as well as in aspects of the history of non-Western philosophy. This historical focus engages with other areas of strength: ethics, philosophy of science, and philosophy of mind.

Many U of T faculty working in these areas also study their history; they use that study to inform their contributions to contemporary debates. At the same time, these historians of philosophy benefit from and contribute to ground-breaking work in systematic philosophy. This integration of historical and systematic philosophy sets this department apart from other top philosophy departments where the history of philosophy is often segregated from the rest of the discipline.

Contact and Address

Web: philosophy.utoronto.ca Email: [email protected] Telephone: (416) 978-3312 Fax: (416) 978-8703

Department of Philosophy University of Toronto Jackman Humanities Building (JHB) Room 410, 170 St. George Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2M8 Canada

Philosophy: Graduate Faculty

Full members, members emeriti, associate members, philosophy: philosophy ma, master of arts, program description.

The MA may be taken on a full-time or part-time basis.

Applicants should consult the department's web page for complete details on graduate programs, course offerings, short academic profiles of graduate faculty, and application procedures.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Philosophy's additional admission requirements stated below.

Admission requires an appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Applicants must have a strong background in philosophy (roughly equivalent to an undergraduate major), with an average grade of at least a mid-B in the applicant's overall program and at least an A– in the applicant's philosophy courses.

Applicants whose primary language is not English and who graduated from a university where the language of instruction and examination was not English must complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with the following minimum scores:

Paper-based TOEFL exam: 600 and 5 on the Test of Written English (TWE).

Internet-based TOEFL exam: 100/120 and 22/30 on the writing and speaking sections.

Equivalent results in some other recognized test of English-language proficiency are acceptable.

Program Requirements

Coursework. Students must successfully complete 3.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) in philosophy as follows:

At least 1.0 FCE in the history of philosophy.

At least 1.0 FCE in the problems of philosophy.

1.0 FCE designated courses only for MA students. One 0.5 FCE in the broad area of ethics/politics and the other 0.5 FCE in the broad area of metaphysics and epistemology. Either could be historical. The timing of the course requirement is:

PHL2222H MA Proseminar I (0.5 FCE), taken in the first session.

PHL2223H MA Proseminar II (0.5 FCE), taken in the second session.

PHL3000H MA Professional Development Workshop (0.5 FCE).

Each MA student is assigned an advisor who will recommend a suitable program of philosophy courses. The student's choice of courses must be approved by the department.

It is possible for a full-time student to complete all requirements for the MA degree in the Fall and Winter sessions; however, the department encourages students to take no more than 3.0 FCEs during the Fall and Winter sessions and to complete the last course during the Summer session.

Program Length

3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S); 5 years part-time

3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

The Philosophy of Science concentration will provide students with a background in general philosophy of science and with specific topics in philosophy of science. Students will be prepared for academic work at the PhD level in philosophy and for non-academic career tracks that require strong critical thinking skills, as well as an understanding of science and its role in knowledge and society.

Admission requires an appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Applicants must have a strong interest in:

Philosophy (evidenced in a strong writing sample, personal statement, and letters of reference).

A strong academic background in either philosophy or, typically, a subject in the natural and social sciences, with minimum average grades of A–.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete 3.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including:

PHL2198H Advanced Introduction to the Philosophy of Science (0.5 FCE)

1.5 FCE in graduate seminars in philosophy of science or cognate areas of philosophy such as logic, philosophy of language, epistemology, metaphysics, or philosophy of mind.

1.0 FCE in graduate courses in the history and philosophy of science and technology (HPS) such as HPS1000H, HPS2009H, HPS 2010H, HPS3004H, HPS3010H, HPS4001H. A list of recommended HPS courses will be prepared and shared annually on the Department of Philosophy's graduate courses web page . Students will have the opportunity to request other HPS electives that reflect their specific research interests.

Philosophy: Philosophy PhD

Doctor of philosophy.

The PhD program has two options: a five-year option and a four-year option. The five-year option is the most common and is the only direct-entry option for students with a bachelor's degree. The five-year option provides five years of funding and requires two years of coursework, while the four-year option provides four years of funding and requires one year of coursework. The program requirements are summarized below.

Students enrolled in graduate programs in philosophy in other universities are welcome to apply to spend a year studying at the University of Toronto. Please direct any inquiries to the Director of Graduate Studies.

Students who wish to take, for credit, one or more of the courses offered by the department as non-degree students, should apply for admission as Special Students. The application procedures and deadlines are the same as those for the MA program.

PhD Program

Applicants approved by the department are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies.

Applicants should have a master's degree in philosophy from a recognized university with an average grade of at least an A– in the applicant's overall program. Applicants must satisfy the department that they are capable of independent research in philosophy at an advanced level.

Applicants whose primary language is not English and who are not graduates of a university whose language of instruction is English must complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with the following minimum scores:

Course Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 3.0 FCEs in philosophy, with a minimum A– average by the end of Year 1 including:

At least 1.0 FCE which must comprise courses from philosophical traditions from different geographical regions and/or different historical periods.

At least 1.0 FCE which must comprise problems of philosophy courses.

The proseminar in philosophy (PHL1111H) worth 0.5 FCE during the Fall session of Year 1.

With the department's permission, a student may replace up to 1.0 FCE in philosophy with graduate courses offered by another department, provided that the courses are required for the student's planned research.

Breadth Requirement . A student must demonstrate competence in at least six areas of philosophy, including the following:

Each of the following three areas in the problems of philosophy:

Contemporary issues in metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of science.

Contemporary issues in values (ethics, politics, aesthetics, and philosophy of religion).

Contemporary issues in mind, language, and logic.

The remaining three areas must be chosen from philosophical traditions from different geographical regions such as South Asian or East Asian philosophy, and/or different historical periods such as Medieval or Twentieth-Century philosophy.

Competence in any area is normally established by successful completion of a graduate 0.5 FCE in that area.

A student must also demonstrate competence in logic (defined as proficiency in first-order symbolic logic with identity). This competence is expected of all students prior to beginning doctoral studies. Where this is not the case, competence must be acquired as a supplement to the required number of courses and be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the department by the time the qualifying requirement is met.

Revision Paper Requirement. To be satisfied either sometime during coursework or in the summer immediately following coursework. Students will designate a particular paper typically written during coursework as their revision paper and will solicit supervision on the revision of the paper from a faculty member. Students will receive verbal and written feedback on their paper from their faculty supervisor and will revise their paper in light of this feedback. A second round of feedback and revision may be sought by the student or the faculty supervisor, after which time the student will again revise and submit. Students should plan to complete the requirement over one or two months depending on whether one or two rounds of revision are undertaken.

Qualifying Requirement . After completing all course requirements, the student selects a thesis committee that will oversee his or her academic progress through the final thesis defence. The student meets with the committee to discuss a tentative thesis topic, construct an appropriate research reading list, and receive guidance on writing a qualifying paper. After submitting the qualifying paper and making any required adjustments to the reading list, the student takes a two-part (written and oral) qualifying examination based on the paper and the reading list. The paper will be submitted and written and oral exams taken four to six weeks later, during the Winter session of Year 2.

Dissertation Prospectus Requirement. To be satisfied at the September meeting of the student and their dissertation committee. The prospectus can take many forms and could, for example, proceed by indicating chapters, problems, and literature, and/or theses that will organize, be discussed, or be argued for in the dissertation. Committees will then give feedback on the overall plan. The length of the prospectus will vary from committee to committee but as a rough guideline, the prospectus may comprise a document of three to five pages.

Research Tools Requirement . Each PhD student must demonstrate competence in at least one research tool. A research tool may be one of the following:

Reading knowledge of a language other than English.

Familiarity with a discipline other than philosophy (e.g., linguistics, psychology, or mathematics).

Mastery of research methods not typical in philosophy (e.g., statistical methods).

The research tool will be determined by the Graduate Coordinator in consultation with the student's thesis committee.

Thesis . A candidate must submit a thesis on an approved subject and defend the thesis at a Doctoral Final Oral Examination. The department is not obligated to provide supervision in areas falling outside the competency, interest, or availability of its graduate faculty.

Residence . Students must be registered as full-time, on-campus students and must reside in sufficient geographical proximity to enable them to fulfil the course, breadth, qualifying, and language requirements set by the department in a smooth and timely fashion. They are also expected to participate fully in departmental activities. While writing the thesis, candidates are expected to be in residence, with the exception of absence for research.

Normal Timeline Through the Program . By the end of Year 1 of registration, students should have completed all the course requirements for the degree. By the end of the following year of registration, all students should have satisfied any remaining breadth requirements, selected a thesis committee, and passed the qualifying examination. (These are general deadlines; consult the department's web page for specific dates and further details.) Thereafter, the candidate selects a member of the thesis committee to be the thesis supervisor and begins work on the thesis, which he or she is expected to finish within two years.

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Applicants should have an appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university; a strong background in philosophy (roughly equivalent to an undergraduate major); and an average grade of at least a B+ in the overall program and at least an A– in philosophy courses.

Students must take a minimum of 6.0 FCEs in philosophy, with an average grade of at least an A– including:

At least 2.0 FCEs which must comprise courses from philosophical traditions from different geographical regions such as South Asian or East Asian philosophy, and/or different historical periods such as Medieval or Twentieth-Century philosophy.

At least 2.0 FCEs which must comprise problems of philosophy courses.

To remain in good standing, students must complete 3.0 FCEs with an A– average by the end of Year 1, and 6.0 FCEs with an A– average by the end of Year 2.

The remaining three required areas must be chosen from philosophical traditions from different geographical regions such as South Asian or East Asian philosophy, and/or different historical periods such as Medieval or Twentieth-Century philosophy.

Qualifying Requirement . After completing all course requirements, the student selects a thesis committee that will oversee his or her academic progress through the final thesis defence. The student meets with the committee to discuss a tentative thesis topic, construct an appropriate research reading list, and receive guidance on writing a qualifying paper. After submitting the qualifying paper and making any required adjustments to the reading list, the student takes a two-part (written and oral) qualifying examination based on the paper and the reading list. The paper will be submitted and written and oral exams taken four to six weeks later, during the Winter session of Year 3.

Dissertation Prospectus Requirement. To be satisfied at the September meeting of the student and her dissertation committee. The prospectus can take many forms and could, for example, proceed by indicating chapters, problems, and literature, and/or theses that will organize, be discussed, or be argued for in the dissertation. Committees will then give feedback on the overall plan. The length of the prospectus will vary from committee to committee but as a rough guideline, the prospectus may comprise a document of three to five pages.

Normal Timeline Through the Program . By the end of Year 2 of registration, students should have completed all course requirements for the degree. By the end of the following year of registration, all students should have satisfied any remaining breadth requirements, selected a thesis committee, and passed the qualifying examination. (These are general deadlines; consult the department's web page for specific dates and further details.) Thereafter, the candidate selects a member of the thesis committee to be the thesis supervisor and begins work on the thesis, which he or she is expected to finish within two years.

Philosophy: Philosophy MA, PhD Courses

Not all courses are offered every year. Please consult the department's website, which lists the courses the department will offer this year as well as those offered by other departments that may be taken for philosophy credit.

Required Courses

Reading courses, history of philosophy, classical greek and roman philosophy, east asian philosophy, south asian philosophy, medieval philosophy, early modern philosophy, feminist philosophy, nineteenth- and twentieth-century philosophy, history and philosophy of science and technology.

For MA students in the Philosophy of Science concentration.

Problems of Philosophy

Metaphysics and epistemology, logic and the philosophy of language, value theory, philosophy of science, miscellaneous.

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Department of Materials Science & Engineering

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is the most advanced research degree in the Faculty. Working under the direction of a supervisor, PhD students engage in original research that contributes to their field of study. Advanced course work accompanies the pursuit of the thesis.

As a PhD student, you’ll receive guaranteed base support funding for up to four years of study. Current graduate scholarship funding tables can be viewed here .

Admission Requirements

Successful completion of a research master's degree in engineering, with an overall average of at least B+ (78%+), from an accredited institution. Current MASc students within our department can apply to fast-track into the PhD program before completing the MASc degree requirements

View the  full graduate studies admission requirements here .

Program Requirements & Time for Completion

The program of study normally includes 2.0 FCE (four half-courses), including the weekly Graduate Research Seminar, the Graduate Ethics Seminar, and a thesis.

In the PhD program, the departmental seminar comprises a minimum of two seminars presented to the academic staff/students of MSE.

Within 12 months of initial enrollment, all PhD students must pass a general Qualifying Examination based on the course material taken within the Department and on the background knowledge in the student's field of specialization.

The required thesis is based upon research work carried out in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering.

PhD candidates typically take between two and six years to complete the requirements of the degree. Only full-time study is available.

See all program requirements here: MSE Graduate Student Handbook

Research Areas & Affiliated Core Professors

Additive & advanced manufacturing.

• Zou, Yu  – Extreme mechanics & Advanced Manufacturing
• Naguib, Hani E.  (MIE/MSE) – Smart & Functional Materials
• Hibbard, Glenn D.  – Cellular Hybrid Materials
• Coyle, Thomas W.  – Advanced Coating Technologies
• Thorpe, Steven J.  – Surface Engineering & Electrochemistry

Advanced Characterization & Forensics

• Perovic, Doug D.  – Electron Microscopy,  Microelectronics & Forensics
• Howe, Jane  – In situ  & correlative microscopy group

Biomaterials

• Sone, Eli D.  (BME/MSE) – Composite Biological Materials
• Hatton, Ben  – Functional & Adaptive Surfaces
• Matsuura, Naomi   (BME/MSE) – Nanotechnology, Molecular Imaging & Systems Biology

Coatings & Surfaces

• Nogami, Jun  – Nanostructured Growth & Characterization
• Ruda, Harry E.  – Advanced Nanotechnology & Semiconductors
• Lian, Keryn K.  – Flexible Energy & Electronics

Computational Material & Data Analytics

• Singh, Chandra Veer   – Computational Materials Engineering
• Zou, Yu   - Laboratory for Extreme Mechanics & Additive Manufacturing
• Hattrick-SImpers, Jason  – AUTOnomous DIscovery of ALloys (AUTODIAL)
• von Lilienfeld, Anatole  –  Professor & Clark Chair of Advanced Materials at the Vector Institute

Electronics, Photonics & Sensors

• Kherani, Nazir P.  (ECE/MSE) – Advanced Photovoltaics & Devices
• Ruda, Harry E.  – Advanced Nanotechnology / Semiconductors
• Lu, Zheng-Hong  – Organic Optoelectronics

Energy Generation & Storage

• Barati, Mansoor   – Sustainable Materials Processing
• Azimi, Gisele   – Strategic Materials

Nano, 2D & Composite Materials

• Singh, Chandra Veer  – Computational Materials Engineering
• Perovic, Doug D.  – Electron Microscopy , Microelectronics & Forensics

Smart Materials & Devices

Sustainable materials processing.

• Barati, Mansoor  – Sustainable Materials Processing

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Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Pedagogy

Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Pedagogy Overview

The Curriculum & Pedagogy Program (C&P) is a forum for systematic reflection on curriculum, viewed in the broadest sense as educational experiences that occur in both formal and informal settings.  This includes a critical examination of the substance (subject matter, courses, programs of study), purposes, and practices used for bringing about learning in educational settings.

The PhD in Curriculum & Pedagogy program offers the degree both full-time and flexible-time.  Full-time PhD students have a maximum time of six years to complete their degree (although most complete in 4 years), while flexible-time PhD students have a maximum time to complete their degree within eight years (most complete well before then as well). Students in both cases are required to complete:

• 3.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs, or 7 half-courses)
• A comprehensive examination - Download the comprehensive exam guideline
• A thesis embodying the results of an original investigation 
• A final oral examination on the content and implications of the thesis

Curriculum & Pedagogy Program Emphases

The Curriculum & Pedagogy program (C&P) offers the following six optional program Emphases to all students admitted to the program:

• Arts in Education
• Critical Studies in Curriculum and Pedagogy
• Digital Technologies in Education
• Indigenous Education and Decolonization
• Science, Mathematics and Technology in Education

Students interested in completing a C&P Emphasis must take 3 courses from a list of courses affiliated with the Emphasis. Students who successfully complete Emphasis coursework as part of their C&P degree requirements may request a notation of the Emphasis on their transcript.

For detailed information about the program, please consult the  School of Graduate Studies Calendar .

At a Glance

Study Options Full-time (6 years - maximum) Flexible-time (8 years - maximum) Requires: 7 half courses, comprehensive examination, thesis

Funding and Tuition For current information about tuition fees, funding, and financial support, visit  Tuition & Financial Support .  

Deadlines Application status for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Flexible-Time) in Curriculum & Pedagogy - open
• Doctor of Philosophy (Full-Time) in Curriculum & Pedagogy - closed

To view updated program deadlines, visit the OISE application deadlines and closing dates page.

Ready to join one of the world’s top universities? Take the next step in your academic journey and start your application to graduate studies at OISE.

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Have questions about our program, admissions, financial support or career options after graduation? Our team has the answer you’re looking for. Contact us for one-on-one support.

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We host information sessions, open houses and tours throughout the year. Come discover what it's like to study at OISE. Explore campus and meet our community.

C&P Admissions Drop-In

Have a question about admissions requirements?  Drop-in (online) and speak to program staff. 

Every Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (EST) 

Why I Chose Curriculum, Teaching & Learning

Themis Aravossitas (Master of Arts 2010, Doctor of Philosophy 2016)

Lecturer Curriculum & Pedagogy

"I was admitted into the Master of Education program… an internationally educated teacher who needed to gain experience in the Canadian context. CTL's faculty, staff and fellow students gave me a sense of belonging within an inclusive and supportive academic community. I worked with and got inspired by world class scholars, and participated in the organization of conferences and symposia, book publications, grant submissions and educational collaboration involving new technologies. Through OISE and particularly CTL, I built a professional network and became confident about my studies and potential career."

Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Pedagogy Admission Requirements

General admission requirements.

Please visit the   OISE Admissions website   for detailed information about the application process, including general minimum admission requirements and supporting documents. 

Program-Specific Information (Minimum Admission Requirements)

Minimum admission requirements for this program are:

• An appropriate masters degree with an academic standing equivalent to at least B+ from a recognized university. The School of Graduate Studies establishes the  minimum academic requirements for admission . 
• ​ English Language Proficiency  (if required)
• Please see the  SGS calendar  for more details.

We encourage equity-seeking groups to identify themselves in their application.

Required Supporting Documents

All applicants must submit: 

• Online Application
• Transcript(s) from each post-secondary institution attended
• Two letters of reference from two separate people (one academic and one professional)
• A résumé that provides clear and complete information about the applicant's work or field experience related to their proposed studies
• In 1,000-1,500 words, describe why you wish to undertake a research-oriented program of study. Discuss your academic interests, experience and professional concerns.
• Please review the CTL faculty research information . If you identify Curriculum & Pedagogy faculty members whose research interests align with yours, you will be asked to list only their first and last names.
• Based on your described program of study, list 3-5 keywords to let us know what are your research interests.
• If you are interested in a Program Emphasis, you will be asked to indicate them.
• If you will have funding from your home government, international organization or funding agencies, you will be asked to provide details (Name of funding agency, value and duration). If this does not apply, this section will remain blank.
• Is there any additional information you would like to share with the Admissions Committee that will inform their review of your application?
• An academic writing sample
• View FAQ for other important application notes.

Additional Degree Information

We are looking for applicants who have a sound academic background and a deep interest in education. The degree is designed to provide opportunities for advanced study, original research, and theoretical analysis.  Applicants should have demonstrated commitment to education prior to applying. Please note, the C&P program is not a teacher certification program. For more information on our teacher certification programs please visit:  OISE Teacher Education Degrees .

The C&P program offers both a full-time and a flexible-time PhD program option. Full-time PhD students must complete their degree within six years, while flexible-time PhD students must complete their degree within eight years. Degree requirements for both programs are the same. The program details are as follows:

• The C&P Ph.D. degree normally requires seven completed courses, a completed Comprehensives exam and a Doctoral thesis. Additional courses may be required of some candidates.
• Students are required to successfully complete CTL1000H (Foundations of Curriculum) and a course in research methods from the Curriculum & Pedagogy Approved Research Methods course list .
• Ph.D. students are required to complete CTL1899H, the doctoral proseminar course.
• At least five of the courses must be Curriculum & Pedagogy courses. C&P courses are identified with CTL1000-level course codes (i.e CTL1000H to CTL1999H) and Special Topics courses in C&P are identified as CTL5000H to CTL5299H (Masters Level) and CTL6000H to CTL6299H (Doctoral Level).
• The remaining 2 courses can be electives
• Non-C&P courses (if you choose to take them) can include Masters or Doctoral level courses from the  Languages and Literacies Education program  or from any other OISE department:  Social Justice Education ,  Applied Psychology & Human Development , and  Leadership, Higher, and Adult Education .

Note : For the flexible-time PhD program option, a minimum residency of four years of full-time registration is required at the beginning of the program. Candidates may apply for part-time status after this four year-residency.

The Doctor of Philosophy program can be taken on a full-time or flex-time basis. Full-time Ph.D. students must complete their degree within six years. Flexible-time Ph.D. students must complete their degree within eight years. Degree requirements for both programs are the same. Doctoral students usually take two or three courses per session. A typical course involves 12 classes. During the fall and winter session, a class will meet once each week. The summer session has a first term (May to June) and a second term (July to August), during which time if you choose to take courses, classes meet twice a week for six weeks per term. Classes are normally scheduled for the early evening (e.g., 5pm to 8pm) or the early afternoon (e.g., 1pm to 4pm), Monday through Thursday. We also offer a large selection of online courses, which allow you to participate from home.

• Comprehensive exam guidelines for C&P students
• OISE guidelines for thesis and oral examinations
• Annual review form
• Finding a supervisor
• SGS Guide to Supervision
• The Role of the Literature Review
• The Qualitative Dissertation Proposal  (Article by Professor Emeritus Brent Kilbourn)
• Student to Scholar Research Modules

Thesis-track students routinely meet with their supervisor and thesis committee to discuss their progress in the program. Once a year, this progress is documented in an annual review meeting. 

At this meeting, students report on their progress, and their committee provides guidance, advice, and recommendations. The committee also determines whether the student's progress is satisfactory or requiring additional support. 

Students are required to bring the  annual review form with pages 1-2 completed, to the annual review meeting. Supervisors will complete relevant sections of the form, documenting what was discussed at the meeting, and evaluating progress.

Both the student and the thesis supervisor must sign the form. The signed form must be submitted to CTL Student Forms at [email protected]  (Along with your email subject, including your name, degree, program in the subject header is much appreciated).

Given the diverse academic and research interests of our faculty, the program is organized into seven constituent but optional program Emphases.

The Curriculum & Pedagogy program offers the following six program Emphases:

Students in the C&P program interested in a C&P Emphasis are required to take 3 courses from a list of courses affiliated with the Emphasis. Students who successfully complete Emphasis coursework as part of their C&P degree requirements may contact a department administrator, prior to graduation, to request a notation of the Emphasis on their transcript.

Interested in interdisciplinary study?

UofT offers collaborative specializations which involve the cooperation of two or more graduate units (i.e Departments, programs, or centres). Students admitted to C&P have the opportunity to discover the research possibilities available with the following collaborative programs: 

• Comparative, International & Development Education
• Education, Francophonies and Diversity
• Engineering Education
• Knowledge Media Design
• Sexual Diversity Studies
• Women and Gender Studies

Full-time doctoral students (but not Flex-time doctoral students) receive a  graduate funding package  equal to the cost of academic tuition and fees, plus support as a Graduate Assistant or Teaching Assistant, in each of the first four years of their program. Some limited funding may also be available in year 5. The average time to completion is 5.70 years. 

There are admission awards available for International applicants who are applying to doctoral programs. Visit the  SGS International Awards web page for more details. 

International applicants are students who are neither a Canadian citizen nor a permanent resident of Canada.  Admission to the PhD full-time funded program is highly competitive. We recommend that applicants make contact with a faculty member whose research interests coincide with their own, before applying to the program. For more on international student admissions please review  International Applicants  on the OISE Registrar's office website.

At this time, the Department of Curriculum, Teaching & Learning admits one (1) funded international applicant to its full-time Ph.D. programs each year - alternate years for the Language & Literacies Education (LLE) program and the Curriculum & Pedagogy (C&P) program. In doing so, C&P will admit one international student in odd years (i.e. 2021, 2023, etc.) and LLE will admit one international Ph.D. student in even years (i.e. 2022, 2024, etc.).

In any given year, the Department may also consider applications to either program from international applicants where home governments, international organizations or funding agencies can provide them with funding. The funding must minimally have the value and duration of the graduate funding package that is offered and should be indicated on the application. Please review the  Graduate Funding Package website . 

The following is the result of a question and answer (Q&A) discussion which took place following a C&P Open House presentation.

Can i switch from the full-time option to the flexible-time option for this program? No, students may not transfer from the full-time to the flexible-time PhD or vice versa.

How do students find a thesis supervisor? At the point of admission successful applicants to the C&P PhD are assigned a Faculty Advisor whom you can speak with if you have questions regarding program requirements, course selection etc. Your Faculty Advisor will often become your Thesis Supervisor, however if you find that your academic interests necessitate that you work with a different faculty member as thesis supervisor, your faculty advisor will help you to find an appropriate faculty member to take on that role.

If unable to provide an academic reference, would two professional ones work instead?  While a minimum of two letters of reference – one academic and one professional – should be included in your application, sometimes applicants experience difficulty obtaining a letter of reference. For example, if you graduated many years ago and have since not been active in an academic setting you may be unable to call upon a university instructor with whom you studied. You're strongly encouraged to obtain one academic and one professional letter of reference, but you may submit an alternative combination such as two reference letters from a professional source. Tip: for two professional letters direct the most suitable referee to include comments pertaining to your intellectual abilities and potential. 

What is an Academic Writing Sample? A typical sample is about 5,000 words (for example, an excerpt from a master's thesis).  Acceptable formats are MA Word (.docx) and PDF (.pdf) files.

Criteria for the writing sample:

• It must be single-authored
• It must demonstrate quality writing - i.e., logical, clear and well-written
• It must be academically rigorous
• It must be a theoretical or empirical study
• It must demonstrate the ability to analyze and synthesize concepts, ideads and/or data
• It must contact a solid bibliography

The following samples are acceptable:

• Master's thesis
• Major paper
• Refereed article
• Refereed conference paper
• Conference proceedings publication
• Book chapter
• Research paper

What are collaborative specializations? Collaborative Specialization programs are created by participating graduate units to explore a novel interdisciplinary area or special development that crosses a number of disciplines.  If you are admitted into a graduate program that participates in a collaborative specialization; many of which are actually University of Toronto wide specializations to which CTL is very closely connected; you can apply to a collaborative specialization, but you need to apply to them directly.  If you review our website, and websites of affiliated collaborative specializations, you’ll see C&P participates in a number of collaborative specializations. 

I have a question about language proficiency.  I’ve been working as an occasional teacher for four years here, but finished education outside of Canada.  Do I still need to prove language proficiency? As English is the primary language of instruction and communication at the University of Toronto, applicants must demonstrate an adequate level of proficiency in English, regardless of their citizenship status or country of origin. It is important that these students follow School of Graduate Studies (SGS) policies on English Language Proficiency (ELP) testing requirements and take one of the required tests for admission to a graduate program.  Applicants from universities outside Canada where English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of their application.

The determination of whether an English language proficiency test is required is determined by the admissions division of the OISE Registrar's Office & Student Experience, but only after the application has been submitted.  Visit the SGS webpage on English language proficiency for more information.

What happens after I submit my applications? Once you've completed your application, understand what happens next by visiting  After Submitting Your Application . 

I was offered admission, what are my next steps? Applicants who receive an official "Offer of Admission" result letter can view the  Newly Admitted Students webpage  for information on next steps.

Ready to join one of the world’s top universities?

Take the next step in your academic journey and start your application to graduate studies at OISE.

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• Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
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Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PhD)

Earn your phd in the heart of canada’s innovation and health research ecosystem.

PhD students at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy have the opportunity to further their research in collaboration with a vibrant community of world-leading professionals and researchers from a variety of disciplines and background. Our faculty is a diverse and multidisciplinary community exploring some of the world’s most pressing health sciences challenges, and breaking new ground on solutions.

Located in Toronto’s discovery district at the historic University of Toronto St. George campus, our graduate students have the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of faculties and departments at U of T and nearby world-class teaching hospitals and research institutes.  

Degree Timeline

[1] Doctoral students are subject to the School’s policy on “Timely Completion of Graduate Program Requirements”.  To achieve candidacy, a PhD student is expected to have completed all program requirements exclusive of thesis and seminar courses.  

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the PhD Pharmaceutical Sciences must have:

• Completed (or be in the final year of) a four-year BSc or BA degree or a two-year MSc (or its equivalent) in the Natural/Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, or Health Profession such as Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing or Pharmacy from a recognized university.
• A minimum B+ (77%) average , or its equivalent, in a Masters degree program OR
• A minimum of A- (80%) average , or its equivalent, in senior level courses relevant to the program in a four-year undergraduate program. The applicant is expected to have completed an undergraduate research project.
• Secured a potential supervisor within the department of pharmaceutical sciences at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy. Applicants are encouraged to contact  prospective supervisors in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences . The supervisor must hold a Graduate Appointment at the Faculty as well as at the School of Graduate Studies.
• Applicants to the flex-time PhD program  must also provide a completed Letter of Support from Employer .

Additionally:

• The Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Admissions Committee considers the applicant's background and accomplishments, academic standing, and financial support from the potential supervisor.
• ​​​paper-based TOEFL: 600 and 5 on the Test of Written English (TWE)
• Internet-based TOEFL: 100/120 and 22/30 on the writing and speaking sections.
• If the undergraduate degree was not obtained from a recognized Canadian or US university, the applicant must write and achieve scores at the 50th percentile ranking or better on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE; General Test).

International Student?

Learn more about admission requirements for international students here

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Faces of PharmSci: Luis Armando Pérez Dávalos

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• JD/PhD (Philosophy)

Director: Assistant Dean Sara Faherty ( sara.faherty@utoronto.ca )

Requirements

The Combined JD/PhD (Philosophy) Program enables students to pursue a profound investigation of the complex issues that lie at the intersection between law and philosophy.

The program allows students to complete the two degrees one year faster than if they were pursued separately. At the end of that period, the student will have completed the JD degree and reached the dissertation stage of the PhD in philosophy.

Admission to the PhD program requires either a four-year bachelor's degree or a Master's degree in philosophy, from a recognized university. A student seeking admission on the basis of a four-year bachelor's degree must have completed at least six full courses in philosophy (twelve semester courses), with minimum average grades of B+ in the applicants' overall program and A- in the philosophy courses. A student seeking admission on the basis of a master's degree in philosophy must have an average grade of at least an A- in that program. 

• In the first year of the program students complete all the first year courses at the Faculty of Law.
• In the second and third years of the program, the Director must approve all courses* with the following minimum requirements.
• Successfully complete 48** credits at the Faculty of Law AND
• Successfully complete 4 half-courses in philosophy at 2 credits each AND
• Satisfy the compulsory requirements of the upper years of the JD including the moot, a perspective course, and an International/Comparative/Transnational Perspective (ICT) course - see JD Degree Requirements in the Academic Handbook for details.
• Courses taken during the second and third year count towards the credit requirement at the Faculty of Law.

 * In order to complete the requirements of the 3 year JD program, the student must have a minimum of 48 law credits in the second and third year of the program PLUS the 4 half-courses in Philosophy. ** Students who intend to complete their JD one year later (i.e. year 4) must do a minimum of 38 law credits in years 2 and 3 and the remaining 10 law credits in year 4. This may apply to students who decide to do more philosophy graduate courses in Year 2 and Year 3 than the required four half courses.

3.    In the fourth year of the program:

• Students must complete qualifying year requirements in philosophy and meet the research tool requirement. 
• Dissertation as required by the Department of Philosophy and the School of Graduate Studies.

Note: Notwithstanding the Department of Philosophy's course selection process, students must meet the Faculty of Law course selection deadline. Students must submit their proposed course selections for years two and three of the program to the Director prior to the applicable course selection deadlines in each year and in each Faculty. Any changes must also be approved by the Director.

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Those interested in the combined program must obtain separate admission to both the PhD program in philosophy and the JD program. The program is designed for students who are already qualified to enter the PhD in philosophy as well as the JD program, but in limited cases candidates who have completed a master's program in another discipline may be considered.

To apply to the JD Program at the Faculty of Law, see Application Procedure for the JD Program  on this Web site. For more information about this combined program, contact the: 

Admissions Office Faculty of Law University of Toronto 84 Queen's Park Toronto, Ontario Canada M5S 2C5 Telephone: (416) 978-3716 E-mail: admissions.law@utoronto.ca  

Admission applications for the PhD program in philosophy may be obtained from:

Graduate Department of Philosophy Jackman Humanities Building 170 St. George Street, Room 410 University of Toronto Toronto, Ontario M5R 2M8 Tel: (416) 978-3312 Fax: (416) 978-8703 For more information: http://philosophy.utoronto.ca/st-george/graduate/admission/

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Academic Programs

• JD/MBA Program
• JD/MA (Criminology)
• JD/PhD (Criminology and Sociolegal Studies)
• JD/MA (Economics)
• JD/PhD (Economics)
• JD/MA (English)
• JD/MA (European and Russian Affairs)
• JD/MGA (Master of Global Affairs)
• JD/MI (Information)
• JD/PhD (Political Science)
• JD/MPP (Public Policy)
• JD/MSW (Social Work)
• JD/Certificate in Aboriginal Legal Studies
• JD/Certificate in Environmental Studies
• JD/Collaborative Program in Jewish Studies
• JD/Certificate in Sexual Diversity and Gender Studies
• Graduate Programs
• Schedules and Timetables
• JD Academic Handbook

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

MIE PhD students produce a thesis of original work with the support of world-renowned researchers and facilities.

MIE Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students work with world renowned faculty members to gain the knowledge and competencies needed for a career in research or industry leadership. The keystone of the doctoral program is a thesis of original work, supervised by a professor.

Students entering the PhD program typically have a Master’s degree. Outstanding applicants coming directly from a bachelor-level program can also apply for direct entry into the PhD program. Full-time PhD students receive funding during the program and can apply for various scholarships.

Admission Requirements

Direct entry phd, flex-time phd, tuition fees, program requirements, specializations, qualifying exam, annual progress review meetings, thesis & final oral examination, phd funding, teaching assistantships, helpful links.

Please note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission . The Graduate Office cannot provide assessments of credentials prior to application.

• A master's degree with high academic standing from a recognized university (see Alternate Paths to PhD below)
• Minimum GPA requirement of 3.3 (B+; 77-79%) in the previous two years of graduate study. View U of T's Grade Scale for reference. International students should use the International Degree Equivalencies Tool to see which international credentials are required
• Evidence of exceptional research ability
• To be considered for admission, all applicants that require proof of ELP must meet the minimum score requirement for every component of the English language proficiency exam including reading, writing, speaking and listening
• All test components must be completed and passed at the same time (applicants cannot combine scores from different exams)
• For more information, including approved test centres, visit the School of Graduate Studies website

Alternate Paths to PhD:

• Direct Entry PhD: Exceptionally strong applicants (GPA: A- or higher) with a bachelor's degree may be nominated by an MIE professor for direct entry to the PhD program. Learn more about Direct Entry PhD below.
• MASc Fast-Track and Retroactive Transfer to PhD: Exceptional MASc students (GPA: A- or higher and no grade lower than B+) may request to transfer to the PhD program before completing all of the MASc program requirements. Learn more about transferring from MASc to PhD

Exceptionally strong applicants with a bachelor's degree may apply directly to the PhD program.

Additional admissions requirements:

• GPA: A- or higher
• An MIE professor must nominate the student for the Direct Entry PhD program by submitting a one page summary outlining the reasons for the nomination and indicating whether they are able to supervise the student to the Graduate Coordinator: gradchair@mie.utoronto.ca

The Flex-time PhD program offers the flexibility for professionals who want to continue to work while pursuing their PhD part-time.

The program requirements for the Flex-time PhD are the same as the full-time program with the following exceptions:

• The qualifying exam must be taken within 16 months of registration rather than 12 months
• PhD candidacy is achieved if all requirements have been met by end of 3rd year rather than end of 2nd year

Please note:

• the Flex-time PhD program is not eligible for funding support
• Transfers between the full-time and flex-time PhD programs are not permitted

View a the PhD Flex-time Program Requirements checklist

Those interested in applying to the Flex-time PhD program must:

• a thesis topic
• the extent to which the employer will provide time and resources for the student to work on their Ph.D.
• a proposal on how the IP policies of the University will be respected.
• If the Committee is satisfied that the prospective student, his/her employer and an MIE professor are all committed to the success of the student’s program, the student will be invited to submit a formal application

The information below is for reference only and is subject to change annually. Registered students should check their fee balance on their ACORN account . View the U of T Student Accounts website for more information about fees.

Pay annually:

• Domestic students: $8,489.52/year
• International students: $9,113.52/year

Pay per session:

• Domestic students: $4,272.26/session
• International students: $4,896.26/session

Applicants to MIE's PhD program must complete the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Online Admissions Application  by the deadline indicated below.

• Application window: October 1 - January 1 (application fee deadline)
• Document deadline January 15
• Application window:- June 1 - October 1 (application fee deadline)
• Document deadline October15

Same application deadlines for Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents and International Students.

PhD Application Instructions

Students are not required to submit paper copies of their documents unless requested by the Graduate Office.

• Create an  SGS applicant profile and pay the application fee (non-refundable/transferable, regardless of the circumstance). See application deadlines above.

Once your profile has been created, the following is required:

• 2 references. Email addresses for referees must be institution-based (not GMail, Hotmail, etc.). Both referees must hold academic appointments and it is required that one or both of the referees be a previous thesis supervisor. References from friends and family will not be accepted. Instructions will be sent to each referee by email via the SGS system on how to submit a reference letter.
• Complete (or most up-to-date) academic record / transcript(s). Upload post-secondary institutional transcripts as PDF files. Every transcript must include its respective grading scale . You are not required to submit official paper transcripts unless requested by the Graduate Office.
• Resume/C.V.
• Letter of Intent: explain why you want to join our program. Describe your research interest, career goals, the courses you intend to take, etc. The letter should be 650 – 1000 words.
• Field of Study:  Students must indicate up to three fields of study.
• If the student’s admitting degree was issued by a country  not listed under Exemptions on the  School of Graduate Studies  website, the student is required to provide English Language Proficiency (ELP) exam results electronically. MIE requires proof of ELP even if their language of instruction and examination was English. Please note that all test components (reading, writing, speaking and listening) must be completed and passed at the same time (applicants cannot combine scores from different exams). For minimum requirements and approved test centres visit the School of Graduate Studies website. Important : If ELP exam results are required, an application is not considered complete until the results are submitted electronically from the testing institution.

Students are not required to submit official paper transcripts unless it is requested by the Graduate Office. The review process will take place using your electronic transcripts.  Please note that a request for an official transcript is for verification purposes and does not mean acceptance into the program.

If you are receive an email request for paper documents, mail to:

PhD Program Graduate Studies Office, MC108 Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering 5 King’s College Road Toronto, ON M5S 3G8 Canada

After application submission

Admission into the PhD programs is extremely competitive: we only offer admission to a small fraction of applicants, because these students must be funded, either by external scholarships or by a professor's research funds. As a result, PhD applicants are strongly encouraged to contact professors with whom they would like to work, either before or after submitting an application. Without funding, we cannot offer admission.

Students can review the status of their application on the SGS Online Admissions Application website .

Documents Pending

Additional documents required. A student's application is not considered complete until all of the required documents have been submitted. Once all documents have been submitted, status will not automatically update to Under Review. Statuses are updated manually on an ongoing basis.

Under Review

Application complete. Faculty members will review applications and may contact students about offering supervision. Students should actively pursue confirming a supervisor as admission can only be granted to students who have secured a supervisor. Students can contact MIE Faculty members directly to inquire about potential supervision.

If the faculty member has confirmed a student's supervision, the student will be notified of next steps including submission of official final transcripts. Confirmation from the supervisor to the Graduate Office is required to proceed in the PhD program.

Students will then be notified of the results of their application and their status will update to Decision Made.

Graduate Research Days

Select applicants will be invited to learn more about research at MIE at Graduate Research Days .  Applicants will be notified if they have been selected to attend.

Winter Orientation was held on December 10, 2024. The presentation is available here .

• Transfer credit may be requested for up to two previously completed Half Credit Equivalent (HCE) courses (grade of at least A-) that were not used for credit towards a degree
• PhD students must remain in good academic standing by
• maintaining an average GPA of A-
• no grade lower than B- (No failure, FZ, is permitted)
• completing yearly requirements (see below)
• progress review meetings (including the Qualifying Exam ) must be held at least every twelve months from the initial date of registration to get feedback on the progress and quality of their work

Note: Failure to remain in good academic standing will result in various sanctions such as student ineligibility for funding and registration in the program.

Yearly requirements

Download Yearly Requirements Checklist

• at least three MIE courses
• at most one APS or TEP course
• at most one 500 level course
• at most one Reading course (assigned by supervisor)

Note: Fast-track students must complete seven graduate HCE courses (at least four MIE courses) in the first two years of their PhD program

• Attend JDE1000H Ethics in Graduate Research seminar
• Attend 70% of MIE's Distinguished Seminar Series (SRD4444Y). Attendance recorded with student's T-card
• Hold Qualifying Exam (within 12 months of PhD registration)
• Preliminary work on thesis under supervision of MIE faculty member
• Complete fifth graduate level HCE course (if not completed in Year 1)
• Hold first PhD Committee meeting (within 24 months of PhD registration)
• Continue work on thesis

Candidacy will be achieved upon completion of Year 1 & 2 requirements. Candidacy status appears on ACORN.

• Hold second PhD Committee meeting (within 36 months of PhD registration)
• Hold third PhD Committee meeting (before end of fourth year of program)
• Hold MIE Departmental exam after thesis submission to committee (may skip this exam and go directly to Final Oral Exam with committee's vote)
• Hold Final Oral Exam (before end of fourth year of program)

View the Program Requirements section above for required courses.

View the  Courses  page to view all offered MIE courses.

PhD students may pursue collaborative specializations in the following areas:

• Engineering Education
• Psychology and Engineering

In MIE, the purpose of the qualifying exam is to assess the prospects that the student will complete a quality PhD thesis and will develop the ability to operate as an independent researcher. The date and time of the qualifying exam is coordinated between the student and their supervisory committee. The committee consists of the student’s supervisor and at least two other professors appointed as SGS Graduate Faculty with expertise relevant to the thesis topic. The majority of committee members should be MIE faculty members.

Requirements : In order to schedule a qualifying exam, the PhD student must meet the following requirements:

• successfully complete at least four Half Credit Equivalent courses (at least five for Fast-Track PhD), with at least an A- average
• obtain one credit on ACORN for attending JDE1000H Ethics in Graduate Research seminar
• obtain one credit on ACORN for attending 70% of MIE's Distinguished Seminar Series  (SRD4444Y). Attendance recorded with student's T-card

A student who does not meet the above requirements may be required to delay the qualifying exam until requirements are met.  A substantial delay (1 term or more) without Grad Office permission will result in a request to SGS to terminate the program.

Program Requirement : To maintain good academic standing, doctoral students are expected to hold their qualifying exam according to the following schedule from time of admission:

• 12 months - PhD students with a completed Master's degree
• 8 months - Fast Track PhD students (after fast-tracking from a Master's degree).
• 16 months - Direct entry from a Bachelor's degree
• 24 months - Flex-time PhD students.

Process before exam: At least 10 business days before the scheduled qualifying exam, the student must:

• book a room for the exam by contacting  reception@mie.utoronto.ca
• Notify the Graduate Office of their qualifying exam via the Graduate Management System (GMS)
• This document is typically double-spaced and no longer than 10 pages (including figures, tables, and a short list of references). Consult with your supervisor for specific expectations. Read about how to write a good qualifying exam research proposal

Procedure during exam:

• The qualifying exam begins with a student presentation of no more than 20 minutes that summarizes their research proposal.
• This is followed by questions from the committee. (note: MIE PhD qualifying exams are open to other students, unless otherwise requested).
• Following the exam, the committee assesses progress to date and suitability for the PhD program.
• the committee decides whether to adjourn the exam and allow the student another opportunity to pass the exam within three months ,
• or to fail the student and recommend termination of the PhD program.

Following a successful qualifying exam, a PhD student must meet his/her supervisory committee for a progress review meeting at least every twelve months . These meetings allow the committee to assess the progress of the student, in order to decide whether the student remains in good academic standing (see Program Requirements ).

At least ten business days before the scheduled PhD committee meeting, the student must:

• book a room for the exam by contacting  reception@mie.utoronto.ca
• no more than 10 double-spaced pages
• summary of recent progress in the research
• major tasks that remain and a timetable for completion of the program
• papers (journal and conference, published and submitted) and presentations that have resulted from the work
• The student may include additional material as appendices to the report (and should refer to this material in the report), however, the committee is not obligated to read any additional material.

Similar to the qualifying exam, a progress review meeting begins with a student presentation of no more than 20 minutes, followed by questions from the committee. Following the meeting, the committee assesses progress since the last exam/meeting. If the assessment is “unsatisfactory”, another meeting must be scheduled within three months, to determine whether to allow the student to remain in the program.

Due to COVID-19 exams maybe conducted remotely via video conferencing, in-person, or a combination.

The PhD program culminates in the presentation of an oral and written thesis.

A student is ready to defend the thesis once:

• The student's course requirements have been met
• or the thesis committee has decided to forgo the Departmental via Ballot on GMS
• Supervisor must trigger the vote to bypass by selecting the Ballot button on the supervisor's student listing on GMS.
• The written thesis has been submitted to their supervisor

Once the thesis is ready for the external examiner's appraisal, a member of the supervisory committee must submit the Examiner Nomination Form .

Examiner Nominations

A member of the supervisory committee must submit an External Nomination Form to the Graduate Studies Office via the nomination form at least eight weeks before the proposed exam date.

The date and time of the oral exam is coordinated between the student and the FOE committee.

SGS will approve the external examiner. Approval criteria can be found in the Guidelines for the Doctoral Final Oral Examination .

Approval of the External Examiner

An external examiner nomination form must be submitted to initiate the approval process.  Form must be accessed with a UofT/MIE email address.

C.V. format: website link or document (word, .pdf).

The external examiner's c.v. must contain the following:

• Examiner's current title (academic position)
• Year current title was attained

If not included on the c.v., a link to the researcher's website must include the following:

• If at UofT, supervisor must be identified.
• A list of current and graduated research students (Masters and PhD).
• A list of publications.

Once the examiner is approved, the written thesis may then be sent to the external examiner.

The candidate may use UTsend , Dropbox , OneDrive , etc to distribute the thesis to the examiner and other members of the committee.

Scheduling the Final Oral Exam

A committee member or the student should use a scheduling tool to arrange the meeting date (e.g. Doodle , Calendly , etc) in order to minimize the interactions with the examiner before the exam.

Once the date is set, the student must submit the PhD Final Oral Scheduling Form at least 6 weeks before the exam date.

Once the scheduling form is received, the Graduate Program Administrator will:

• Distribute the examiner's instructions to the approved examiner.
• SGS requires a minimum of 20 business days (excluding weekends, holidays and winter break) to fulfill a chair request.

Due To COVID-19 Restrictions: Until further notice all exams are to be conducted remotely via video conferencing

A member of the supervisory committee must arrange video conferencing details for virtual exams.

The candidate cannot host a virtual final exam.

After the Exam

Following a successful FOE, and once the thesis has been finalized, the PhD student must submit their corrected, final thesis to their supervisor for approval. If the student's supervisor requests a printed copy, visit the SGS website for standard formatting requirements.

I f a printed report is requested by the supervisor:

• the binding of theses should be good quality buckram hard-cover, with gold lettering. Colour of PhD thesis cover must be blue.

SGS does not require a physical copy of the thesis. The student must upload an electronic copy of the supervisor-approved thesis to ProQuest in accordance with the  SGS thesis submission guidelines.

The Graduate Office does not require a physical copy of the thesis.

After submitting their thesis  to ProQuest, the student must:

• Complete the departmental Clearance Form online.

Technical problems accessing the clearance form must be reported to:

Departmental IT Support:   computing@mie.utoronto.ca

Convocation Ceremony

Ceremony details are communicated by SGS and the Office of Convocation .

Final Year Fees

Final year fees are pro-rated by date of final thesis submission .

Stay Connected!

Registered PhD candidates receive enough funding to cover tuition and incidental fees. In addition, PhD candidates receive a minimum of $25,000 per year for up to four years (5 years for PhD direct-entry and fast-track students).

Most students earn more than the minimum as a result of teaching assistantships and scholarships, such as from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada, the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR), and the Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS) program.

View the Scholarships & Funding page for more information.

Doctoral Completion Award

The DCA provides tuition support to full-time PhD students who are beyond the funded cohort (year 5 for PhD and year 6 for PhD direct and fast-track students)

Applicants must be current with PhD committee meetings and demonstrate need.

For more information contact the Grad Office at dca@mie.utoronto.ca

All full-time graduate students are eligible to apply for Teaching Assistant (TA) paid positions at MIE. TAs assist undergraduate and graduate course instructors with supervision of labs, leading tutorials and marking assignments and tests.

Apply for TA positions and view more job and volunteer opportunities on the  Professional Development  page.

AMIGAS is the graduate student association at MIE. They host social, athletic, academic, and professional development events for all MIE graduate students, aiming to enrich their professional and personal leadership experiences.

School of Graduate Studies (SGS)

• SGS homepage
• Sessional Dates
• SGS Grad Hub
• Student Forms & Letter Requests
• Scholarships & Awards
• Graduate Supervision Guidelines

PhD Final Oral Scheduling

• External Examiner Request Form
• PhD Final Oral Scheduling Form
• SGS FOE Guidelines

Student Information Systems

• Student administrative system
• Enrol in courses
• View timetable
• Course materials & info
• Book appointments
• Request transfers
• U of T webmail

Email:  gradoffice@mie.utoronto.ca

MASc & PhD applicants: Email:  grad.admission@mie.utoronto.ca

Office: MC108, 5 King's College Road

Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 am - 4 pm

Mailing address: Graduate Studies Office, MC108 Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering University of Toronto 5 King’s College Road Toronto, ON M5S 3G8 Canada

Professor Tobin Filleter

Associate Chair of Graduate Studies

Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering University of Toronto 5 King’s College Road Toronto, Ontario • M5S 3G8 • Canada Phone: +1-416-978-3040

Traditional Land Acknowledgement

We wish to acknowledge this land on which the University of Toronto operates. For thousands of years it has been the traditional land of the Huron-Wendat, the Seneca, and the Mississaugas of the Credit. Today, this meeting place is still the home to many Indigenous people from across Turtle Island and we are grateful to have the opportunity to work on this land.

© 2024 Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

Applications for Fall 2024 are closed.

Applications for Fall 2025 will open in October 2024.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD program provides advanced depth and breadth of computer science, and culminates in a dissertation that makes a significant and original contribution to computer science research under the guidance of a faculty member.

Admission to the program is either after the completion of a master’s degree equivalent to our MSc program or directly from an undergraduate program (referred to below as "Direct Entry PhD").

  Program Overview

Program requirements:  

Four (if admitted after a Master's degree) or eight (if admitted to the Direct Entry PhD) graduate courses in computer science. These courses must satisfy a breadth requirement to ensure a broad and well-balanced knowledge of computer science. 

A doctoral dissertation that demonstrates original and advanced research in computer science.

Program Length:

4 years for PhD after a recognized Master’s degree 

5 years for Direct Entry PhD after a Bachelor’s degree 

Guaranteed Funding Period:

43 months if master's degree was completed in this department

48 months if master's degree was completed elsewhere 

60 months for Direct Entry PhD 

Research Areas 

Faculty members of the Department of Computer Science offer supervision in a wide range of topics in computer science.

Visit our research interests page for more information . 

All PhD students are assigned a supervisor or research group based on the research interests indicated in their application. Supervisors advise on course and research topic selection and provide continuing help during the student’s research. 

Funding, Awards, and Tuition

We offer a funding package to all of our full-time PhD students. This package includes the cost of tuition, earnings from a guaranteed teaching assistant position, and additional funding for costs of living. Applicants are automatically considered for entrance awards and are encouraged to apply for external awards for which they are eligible.

Visit our funding, tuition fees, and awards page for more information .

Admission Requirements 

Minimum requirements for the phd program: .

Completion of an appropriate master's degree (except for Direct Entry PhD) 

A standing that is equivalent to at least B+ (U of T 77–79% or 3.3/4.0) 

English-language proficiency according to the requirements . 

Minimum Requirements for the Direct Entry PhD: 

Completion of an appropriate bachelor’s degree with a minimum A– equivalent average in relevant courses for consideration 

English-language proficiency according to the requirements .

Applications are evaluated in their totality: grades, statement of purpose, letters of reference, and any supplementary information submitted are all taken into account.

Admission decisions are made in the context of all other applications in the same admission cycle. For this reason, the graduate office and individual faculty cannot respond to requests for evaluation of applications in isolation. Admission to our graduate programs is very competitive and meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission: only 5–10% of applicants receive an offer of admission. 

Non-Canadian Degree Equivalencies 

For information on degree equivalencies, please use the School of Graduate Studies’ International Credentials Equivalencies Tool .

We do not require a third-party credential evaluation assessment, such as WES. 

Applicants without a prior degree in Computer Science 

It is possible to gain admission to our graduate programs with an undergraduate degree in a field other than computer science. All successful applicants, however, must have a background in basic university-level mathematics and substantial experience in computer science. Specifically, we look for: 

second-year courses in calculus, linear algebra, and probability; 

a third- or fourth-year course in algorithm design and analysis; and 

a third- or fourth-year course in computer systems, e.g., operating systems, database systems, computer architecture, or computer networks. 

GRE Test Scores 

Applicants who do not have a Canadian university degree are strongly encouraged, but not required, to submit scores from the GRE General Test . 

GRE institution code: 0982 U of T computer science code: 0402 

Application Process 

Applications will be open for September entry each year. Applications for Fall 2024 are now closed. Applications for Fall 2025 will open in October 2024.

Find more information on the application process here .

Peer-matching program for applicants from underrepresented groups

The Toronto Graduate Application Assistance Program (GAAP) is a student-run, volunteer-led program that provides feedback on application materials to applicants from underrepresented groups applying to our thesis-based programs. In this peer-matching program, prospective students will be matched with a current student (or recent graduate) who will provide feedback on the statement of purpose (SoP) and CV.

For more information, please visit  https://sites.google.com/view/torontogaap .

Questions? 

Visit the frequently asked questions (FAQ) page to get answers to common questions . For questions not answered in the FAQ, contact the Graduate Office by email at [email protected] . 

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Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry

Doctor of Philosophy

Students in the PhD program complete a thesis under the supervision of one of our faculty members, as well a number of courses.  The program can be completed on a full-time or flexible-time basis.

Students should familiarize themselves with the information provided in the links below. Students are responsible for ensuring they meet the degree requirements, appropriate deadlines, and any other regulations throughout the duration of their program.

• PhD Degree Requirements
• PhD Timeline
• Individual Development Plan
• Changing Supervisor Policy
• Qualifying Examination
• PhD Reading Committee (CHE3010Y)
• PhD Departmental Oral Examination
• Final Oral Examination
• Chair’s Discovery Award
• Prospective Professors in Training (PPIT)
• Finishing Up

Collaborative Specializations (optional):

Students in the MASc or PhD program may choose to concurrently complete a collaborative specialization:

Emphasis (optional):

Students in the MASc or PhD program may choose to complete their program with an Emphasis in Sustainable Energy .

Students in a Collaborative specialization or Emphasis must satisfy the requirements of the Collaborative specialization of Emphasis in addition to this Department’s requirements.  A course/courses may count simultaneously towards both a student’s MASc or PhD degree and a Collaborative specialization or Emphasis.  Careful course planning and consultation with both the ChemE Graduate Administrator and the Collaborative specialization or Emphasis Advisor is recommended.

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