Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Canada

25 January 2023

Canada is home to some of the most prestigious and historic research universities in North America, making it an increasingly popular destination for international students. In Canada, you can work with leading experts and benefit from the high-tech infrastructure. Above all, a generous post-study work visa scheme awaits you once you earn your doctorate. You’ll learn everything you need to know about Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Canada in this post. A typical Canadian doctoral program is described in detail, along with fees, funding, and visa requirements.

Pursuing a PhD in Canada can be a valuable and rewarding experience for students from around the world. Canada is home to a number of highly-respected universities, many of which offer fully-funded PhD programs in a variety of fields. Some of the benefits of pursuing a PhD in Canada include:

  • High-quality education: Canada is home to a number of highly-respected universities, many of which have a strong tradition of research excellence. Students can expect to receive a high-quality education in their field of study.
  • Fully-funded programs: Many universities in Canada offer fully-funded PhD programs, which provide students with a full salary and benefits package. This can help to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing a PhD.
  • Multicultural society: Canada is a multicultural society with a diversity of languages, customs, and traditions. This can provide students with a unique cultural experience and an opportunity to learn from different perspectives.
  • Research opportunities: Canada is home to a number of research institutions and centers of excellence, which provide students with ample opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research in their field of study.
  • Support services: Universities in Canada typically provide a range of support services for PhD students, including career services, counseling and mental health services, and financial aid.
  • Quality of life: Canada is well known for its high quality of life, natural beauty, safety, and its healthcare system.

Why Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Canada?

Here are the top reasons to do PhD in Canada:

  • Canada has six universities in the top major global rankings.
  • The fees for international students are generally cheaper in Canada than in the USA, with some universities waiving or reducing them.
  • After completing a doctorate in Canada, you may qualify for permanent residency or citizenship.
  • There are plenty of amazing places to explore during your PhD, from the Great Lakes to the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Statistics about the education system in Canada

  • 98 Universities
  • more than 270 thousand international students
  • Fees from 2500 starting from Canadian dollars

Canadian universities

The size of Canada is the same as its neighbor. Canada has a relatively small population compared to the US. For PhDs, Canadian universities are pretty straightforward.

Universities for PhD study

Canada has about 100 research universities (other institutions like liberal arts colleges and community colleges don’t offer PhDs). They usually have all the facilities and expertise needed to support advanced postgraduate students toward their PhD.

Most public universities are funded by their local governments and offer more comprehensive study options, like doctorates. Private universities are smaller, more specialized, and funded by third parties (like religious groups).

Ranking of University in Canada

Canadian universities are world-leading in a variety of fields, which is reflected in their international rankings.

  1. University of Toronto
  2. University of British Columbia
  3. McGill University
  4. University of Montreal
  5. University of Alberta
  6. University of Ottawa

Doctorate Degree (PhD) structure in Canada

As in other countries, a doctorate in Canada is generally awarded as a final ‘terminal degree’ following a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.

Professional doctorates like the Doctor of Education (EdD) and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) are available alongside the familiar academic PhD.

PhD length

The average course takes three years to complete, but some students study for longer, usually up to six years.

To be admitted to a standard Canadian PhD program, you usually need a Masters’s degree. However, some universities offer doctoral stream Masters’s routes starting with an MA or MSc. These are suitable for undergraduates, but take longer to complete.

PhD process in Canada

In Canada, PhD study is more like that in the UK. The US PhD usually begins with one or two years of classes and examinations before a student defines their thesis topic, but the Canadian PhD begins with research. Universities are increasingly offering PhDs within dedicated doctoral programs, as in the UK.

Graduate schools usually run these programs where academic cohorts of students receive collective training and teaching as well as more independent research.

In addition to practical research techniques and methodological principles, courses may also focus on teaching, presentation, and publication skills. Internships and placements are also available in some doctoral programs. First-year PhD students complete these courses before focusing on their doctoral research and writing.

Some universities require Ph.D. students to sit comprehensive exams in their first or second years. Before advancing to much more specific research, a student is tested on their general knowledge. In UK universities, it is called a ‘confirmation review’.

Supervision of PhD students

You will have at least one supervisor during your PhD. Your PhD supervisor will be an expert in your general field and subject, though they won’t have researched on your particular topic before. You may also get supervision and training from other members of your graduate school.

You must complete a substantial doctoral thesis to receive your degree. It must make a substantial contribution to knowledge, as in other countries.

In a professional doctorate, such as a DBA or EdD, you will focus on real-life situations and case studies. There will still be a thesis requirement, but it may be shorter and accompanied by other materials.

PhD Assessment and examination (viva)

Canadian PhDs are assessed based on their originality and quality. Normally, you’ll start drafting this during the middle of your PhD and then finalize it based on feedback from your supervisor. A committee of examiners (including at least one external expert) will read and consider your dissertation. You will then defend your PhD orally.

Fees and funding

Even though universities typically charge higher fees for international students, studying abroad in Canada is more affordable than you might think.

Canadian PhD fees

The average Canadian PhD program costs between CAD $2,500-17,000 per year, but some can reach CAD $25,000. Even though this is more than a domestic student pays, it is still less than in other popular countries.

Applying for a Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Canada

You’ll usually apply to a PhD program run by your graduate school at most Canadian universities. Depending on the university, some will have separate graduate schools for different subjects, while others may have one big school that handles everything.

How to apply for a PhD Scholarship in Canada?

Applying for a PhD scholarship in Canada typically involves a few key steps, including:

  1. Researching potential scholarship opportunities: Begin by researching potential scholarship opportunities that align with your field of study and research interests. Many universities and research institutions in Canada have dedicated scholarship and funding pages on their websites, which can be a good place to start.
  2. Meeting eligibility requirements: Before applying, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the scholarship. These may include requirements such as minimum academic qualifications, language proficiency, and citizenship status.
  3. Preparing application materials: The application process for PhD scholarships in Canada may vary depending on the scholarship and institution, but typically requires submission of materials such as a CV, transcripts, research proposal, reference letters, and test scores (if required).
  4. Submitting your application: Once your application materials are complete, submit them to the scholarship provider by the deadline. Be sure to double check that all required materials have been submitted and that your application is complete.
  5. Interviews and selection process: After the deadline for application, shortlisted candidates may be required to attend an interview or presentation. This will be followed by a selection process, during which the scholarship provider will review the applications and select the successful candidates.

It’s important to note that application processes and requirements may vary depending on the scholarship and institution.

What are the requirements of a Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Canada?

To obtain a PhD in Canada, you typically need to have completed a master’s degree in a related field and have a strong academic record. You will also need to find a supervisor or thesis committee who is willing to work with you and approve your research proposal. In addition, you will need to complete coursework, pass comprehensive exams, and conduct original research leading to the submission and defense of a dissertation. The specific requirements may vary depending on the university and program you are applying to.

Admission requirements

PhDs in Canada usually require a Masters’s in a related field. In contrast to the UK and the US, it’s rare for undergraduates to go straight to doctoral programs. You can do that at some universities, but it’s usually going to take you longer to finish your PhD.

GPA scores

You’ll usually be asked to give your Grade Point Average (GPA) instead of just your final degree result. In other words, it shows your overall performance over time.

Language requirements

You can do a Canadian PhD in either English or French, depending on where you study. The most common language of instruction is English, but some universities in Québec and New Brunswick teach in French.

Application process

You can apply for a Canadian PhD in two ways:

  • Apply for an advertised project. In many cases, there’s already a scholarship or stipend attached to the project and it’s looking for the right person.
  • You can apply to a university’s doctoral program with your own research idea. Usually, the first step, in this case, is to find a supervisor and/or research group you’re interested in and contact them. Funding may need to be applied for separately.

Application deadline

Graduate schools usually set specific deadlines for PhD applications. Generally, you should apply in the spring for an autumn start or vice versa. Don’t forget to leave yourself enough time to gather all your materials (and get your visa, if you need one).

Would you like to know the salary amount of PhD and postdoc positions in Europe? 

You can find all the available full-funded PhD positions in different countries here.

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