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Fall 2009
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School of Planning

Programs

Doctor of Philosophy (Planning)
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Admission Requirements

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is awarded by the Faculty of Environmental Studies to candidates for conducting independent and original research and reporting thereon in a thesis.

Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Planning) program is normally in September and is open to students who have:

  • a master's degree with excellent standing (minimum 80%) from a recognized university. Evidence of ability to pursue independent research is essential;
  • three letters of reference, at least two of which must be from academic sources;
  • two official academic transcript from each post-secondary institution;
  • a 1/2 page statement of interest in the graduate program which describes the aspects of planning offered in our School in which you are particularly interested;
  • a one-page proposal of the statement of research interest for the research you wish to undertake;
  • at least one substantial example of work completed during the last two years of academic study.  Students with professional experience may submit a professional report of which they were sole or senior author.
  • proof of English Language Competency: a score of at least 600 is required in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and 4.0 on the TWE. A score of 250 is required on the computerized version of the TOEFL. (See Academic Regulations - English Language Proficiency Certification for other acceptable tests of English.)

Degree Requirements

Degree Program Degree Requirements Program Duration

PhD

  • two 700-level obligatory one-term courses: 700, 710 for a total of 1.0 units
  • two 800-level elective one-term courses: 801, 802 for a total of 1.0 units
  • student's advisory committee may require up to two additional one-term graduate level courses if necessary for research area
  • thesis (2.0 unit weight)
  • In addition, students must complete two  program milestones:
    • comprehensive examination
    • research plan - oral presentation April of 2nd year

 

4 years - 12 terms of full-time enrollment

6 years - 18 terms part-time







The comprehensive exam is normally taken between the 13th and 16th month of the program. The examination focuses on three issues:

  1. knowledge of fundamental concepts and theories of planning and of the specific research topic area;
  2. broad knowledge of relevant research methods; and
  3. the capacity to generate an important research question and to apply appropriate theories and methods to it. 

Further information regarding university regulations see Minimum Requirements for the PhD Degree


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