FAQs

Q. What can I do to increase my chances of being accepted into the PhD program?

A. Characteristics of successful applicants normally include the following:

1. “A” standing in the master’s program
2. Excellent references attesting to research potential.
3. The applicant’s statement of academic research and career plans is well written, focused, and clearly articulates research plans and career goals.
4. There is an obvious fit between the applicant’s research interests and the potential supervisor’s expertise.
5. The applicant’s CV shows evidence of scholarship and research ability.
6. The applicant has planned ahead, typically beginning the process at least six months in advance of the application deadline. Finding the right supervisor and writing a compelling statement of goals take time.
   
   The Applications Committee, which includes representatives from the three fields of study, makes the decision. Committee deliberations are confidential. The number of applications accepted in any given year varies, depending on the availability of funding for the students, the availability of supervisors, and the size and quality of the applicant pool.