The University of British Columbia

The Doctoral (Ph.D.) program is designed to develop the candidates ability for independent research. Applicants to the program must have a high scholastic standing and demonstrated an aptitude for research to be admitted to the Ph.D. program. A minimum of 24 credits of approved courses is required for adequate completion. For those holding a Master's degree or transferring from a Master's program, appropriate credit will be given for courses completed. Courses are intended to provide both a general intellectual proficiency and specialization in a selected area.

Advising inquiries can be directed to the Ph.D Program Advisor at phd-advising [at] ece [dot] ubc [dot] ca.

Supervisory Committee:

Students in the Ph.D. program must have a thesis supervisor upon being admitted to the program. The supervisory committee, comprised of two additional members, should be established by the end of the first year in the program.

Please click here for further information regarding the supervisory committee.

Program Length:

Doctoral students are expected to study full time, and will normally be required to spend a minimum of two consecutive years of full time study at the University.  Substantial completion of the Ph.D. requirements is expected within 3 years for students with a Master’s degree and within 4 years for those students who have transferred from the M.A.Sc.

Students must maintain continuous registration throughout all years until graduation and keep up with tuition fee payments. If a degree is not awarded within 6 years of initial registration, the student’s eligibility for the degree will end without completion. Under exceptional circumstances, extensions may be granted by the Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. Students who, for health or personal reasons, including childbirth and having primary responsibility for the care of a child, must interrupt their studies, should apply for leave (see Leaves and Extensions).

Minimum Grades:

A minimum of 68% must be achieved in all coursework. Where less than 68% is obtained, and on the recommendation of the graduate program and approval of the Dean of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, the student may repeat the course for higher standing or take an alternate course. When repeating a failed required course, a minimum mark of 74% must be obtained.  Higher minimum grades may be required. 

See Unsatisfactory Academic Progress under Academic Progress for information on failed course procedures.