Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Psychology, Specialization in School and Applied Child Psychology

The deadline for the submission of complete applications is available on the Future Students website: https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/explore-programs/school-and-applied-psychology-phd.

In addition to the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Education requirements, entry requirements include:

a) A completed thesis-based master’s degree in School and Applied Child Psychology or equivalent from an approved university, with a minimum grade point average of 3.50 in the Master’s degree.

Note: If coursework from an applicant’s Master’s degree is not equivalent to courses from the Master of Science in School and Applied Child Psychology at the University of Calgary, the student may be admitted as a qualifying student (see G.A.3 Admission Categories). A qualifying student is required to take additional courses within the doctoral program to ensure equivalent training. A qualifying student may take up to 12 units to meet equivalency requirements during the qualifying year. Qualifying status will not be granted for a period exceeding one year.

b) Two senior undergraduate courses or one graduate course (3 units each) with a minimum grade of B- in (i) biological bases of behaviour, (ii) cognitive-affective bases of behaviour, (iii) social bases of behaviour, and (iv) individual behaviour.

c) One senior undergraduate or one graduate course (3 units each) with a minimum grade of B- in the historical and scientific foundations of general psychology.

Note: Students may be considered for admission if up to 12 units of prerequisite courses have not been completed at the time of application. Prerequisite coursework must be completed before the doctoral candidacy examination.

d) Curriculum Vitae.

e) Three references, including two academic references, one of which is normally from the former thesis advisor.

f) For applicants required to present proficiency in English, a minimum TOEFL (Internet-based) score of 97 (5.0 for tests taken after January 21, 2026), an IELTS (academic version) overall band score of 7.0 or a CAEL overall score of 70 (with no section less than 70). This requirement can also be met by completing the Academic Communication Certificate with a minimum grade of A- in each course.

The test must have been taken within the last two years. When requesting that official TOEFL test scores are forwarded to the University of Calgary, please indicate institution code 0813.

g) A concise rationale (500 words or less) for the application including statements about your research and professional interests in school psychology, your previous research experience and the research you would like to pursue in this degree, and specification of a prospective research supervisor from among current faculty.

Note: A completed Pre-Admissions Checklist is required as part of the admissions process.