Duration of PhD in Canadian Universities

In summary: UBC allows direct entry to PhD in exceptional cases.In summary, Canadian universities typically require a Master's degree before admitting students into a Ph.D program. It can take 4-5 years to complete a Ph.D at a Canadian university.
  • #1
iorfus
68
0
Hi!
How long would it take to attend a Physics PhD at a Canadian university?
I mean, a PhD without a Master. 4-5-6 years? I am not able to figure out from the web!

Thanks :-)
 
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  • #2
I don't know of any schools that allow entry straight to PhD. There are requirements you must fulfill to get your PhD including course-work, a comprehensive exam, and a thesis. That thesis typically requires 3 published papers within it. The expected time to completion is 4 years, plus 1 for a Masters if you transfer directly from Masters to PhD, or 2 if you complete the Masters. This is the expected time though so it could be more or less.
 
  • #3
Thanks!
UBC allows straight entry to PhD.
UoT also provides for it, but it strongly recommends to spend two terms as a Master student.
 
  • #4
UBC might allow direct entry in exceptional cases (apparently) but it also requires that you complete the same amount of coursework as you would for the Masters program. So tack on an extra year to the expected 4 years.
 
  • #5
Interesting. So 5 yrs is the standard timeframe.
ok thanks :-)
Are you a grad student in Canada?
 
  • #6
Entering 4th year undergrad. I'm working on my grad school applications.
 
  • #7
I see.
Good luck!
 
  • #8
Clever-Name said:
I don't know of any schools that allow entry straight to PhD. There are requirements you must fulfill to get your PhD including course-work, a comprehensive exam, and a thesis. That thesis typically requires 3 published papers within it. The expected time to completion is 4 years, plus 1 for a Masters if you transfer directly from Masters to PhD, or 2 if you complete the Masters. This is the expected time though so it could be more or less.

In Canada (I'm not sure about the United States), it's reasonably common in some disciplines to be admitted straight into a Ph.D program with the expectation being that the students will earn their Master's "along the way". Some schools won't even admit students who plan to stop at a Master's.
 
  • #9
OK very kind of you!
 
  • #10
Number Nine said:
In Canada (I'm not sure about the United States), it's reasonably common in some disciplines to be admitted straight into a Ph.D program with the expectation being that the students will earn their Master's "along the way". Some schools won't even admit students who plan to stop at a Master's.

I have never heard of this being the case at any of the Universities I have inquired about or discussed among my professors (in Physics). The standard is that students apply for a Masters program and have the option of transferring directly into their PhD without obtaining their Masters if they show excellence in their grades and have the permission of their advisor/grad committee.
 
  • #11
UBC and UoT state it is possible clearly on their website. Maybe, however, these are exceptional cases and/or student already with a Master degree.
 
  • #12
iorfus said:
UBC and UoT state it is possible clearly on their website. Maybe, however, these are exceptional cases and/or student already with a Master degree.

As I recall during my days at U of T, at least in the sciences, those students with an undergraduate degree under certain exceptional circumstances can apply directly to a PhD program.

However, this is relatively uncommon -- the more standard process would be to apply to a Msc program (duration is either 1 or 2 years, depending on the program -- I believe it is 1 year for physics -- and is typically at least partially funded), then proceed directly to a PhD program without further application (PhD programs are usually fully funded).
 
  • #13
Thanks.
If I apply I will hold a Master degree, so I think I could apply for the direct entry to the PhD, from what I gather.
 
  • #14
It's different if you already have a (recognized) master's degree. In that case, most Canadian schools will look at you for direct entry into a PhD program.
 
  • #15
Good to know, thanks. Now I am starting to understand it better.
I am going to enrol to obtain a Master degree from a major UK university so it could be fine, I hope.

In this case, it would take 4-5 years?
 

1. How long does it take to complete a PhD in a Canadian university?

The duration of a PhD program in Canada varies depending on the field of study and the university. On average, it takes between 4-6 years to complete a PhD in Canada. However, some programs can take up to 8 years to finish. It is important to research the specific program and university you are interested in to determine the average length of the program.

2. Are there any factors that can affect the duration of a PhD program in Canada?

Yes, there are several factors that can impact the duration of a PhD program in Canada. These can include the research topic and methodology, availability of funding and resources, and the student's own progress and dedication to their studies. It is important for students to communicate regularly with their supervisor and department to ensure they are on track to complete their program within the expected timeframe.

3. Can a PhD program be completed in less than 4 years in Canada?

While it is possible for a PhD program to be completed in less than 4 years in Canada, it is not very common. This would require a student to have a very well-defined research topic and methodology, as well as a high level of dedication and efficiency. It is important to note that many funding opportunities for PhD students are based on a 4-year timeline, so completing a program in less time may limit access to these resources.

4. Is it possible to extend the duration of a PhD program in Canada?

In some cases, it is possible to extend the duration of a PhD program in Canada. This may occur if a student's research takes longer than expected, or if they experience personal or health-related challenges during their studies. Students should communicate with their supervisor and department as soon as possible if they anticipate needing an extension, as there may be specific guidelines and procedures to follow.

5. Are there any options for part-time PhD programs in Canadian universities?

Yes, some Canadian universities offer part-time PhD programs for students who are unable to commit to full-time studies. These programs typically take longer to complete, and the specific duration will depend on the individual student's schedule and progress. It is important to note that part-time PhD students may have different funding opportunities and requirements compared to full-time students.

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