Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Transdisciplinary Research

Application deadline is available on the Future Students website.

In addition to Faculty of Graduate Studies requirements for Admission the PhD in Transdisciplinary Research program requires:

• Normally, a master’s degree with a minimum grade point average of 3.30 or an honours four-year baccalaureate degree with a GPA of 3.70. The degree must be from a recognized institution, with GPA calculated according to G.A.1 Graduate Qualifications regulations.

• Letter of support from proposed supervisor and co-supervisor (if applicable).

• Applicants to the transdisciplinary research graduate program must provide a vision statement (maximum 1000 words) indicating their proposed area of research, how their background has led them to this research interest, and why the research best fits within a transdisciplinary program rather than a discipline-based graduate program. This statement should include a description of potential ways to engage with the communities relevant to their project and the importance of knowledge mobilization in their research project.

• Two reference letters, from academic or professional contacts who are knowledgeable about the applicant’s career and scholarly potential. At least one letter should be from an academic; the second letter may be from a professional. One of the references should speak to research experience.

• A CV or description of prior experience as relevant to the proposed graduate project.

• An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement for academic purposes as follows: minimum TOEFL score of 97 (5.0 for tests taken after January 21, 2026) (Internet-based test), an IELTS score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5, or a CAEL score of 70 with no section less than 60, a PTE score of 68, a Cambridge C1 Advanced or Cambridge C2 Proficiency score of 191 or by taking the Duolingo English Test and obtaining a minimum score of 125 (with no sub-score below 105). This requirement can also be met by completing the Academic Communication Certificate with a minimum grade of B+ in each course.

Note: In exceptional circumstances, individuals who do not meet formal academic requirements but who have significant life achievements may be considered for admission to some graduate programs. The candidate must provide the relevant graduate program with evidence demonstrating a potential to undertake successfully the proposed program of studies. Such candidates are advised to make early contact with the graduate program. In all such cases, the decision whether or not to admit rests with the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.