ubc phd in education

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Contact HDLC Graduate Program Support, Tino Chabudapasi , 604.822.5351.

HDLC Graduate Programs

The Human Development, Learning, and Culture (HDLC) program at UBC advances research and practice in education through the application of theoretical models and concepts to real world educational issues. Investigations of learning and developing, including the unique contributions of culture to these processes, are applied widely to classroom, afterschool, work, and digital contexts. This work is interpreted through a variety of theoretical lenses (e.g., sociocultural, social and emotional, cognitive). Coursework emphasizes three primary areas: a) learning and developing, b) culture and diversity, and c) research methods. HDLC graduates have found careers in a variety of settings including university teaching and research, social policy analysis, curriculum and program evaluation, schools and community organizations, and corporate learning communities.

Mission and Vision

Hdlc offers three degree programs, m.ed. program.

The M.Ed. program is appropriate for students with an undergraduate degree in an area related to HDLC. The M.Ed. program is a course-based 30-credit program that is normally completed over two years. It is usually a terminal degree appropriate for those with an interest in advancing their knowledge in the area of HDLC, but who are not interested in conducting research. A teaching certificate is not a requirement. There is no thesis requirement.

M.A. program

The M.A. program is appropriate for students with an undergraduate degree in an area related to HDLC. The M.A. program is a 30-credit program that involves completion of coursework and a research-based thesis, and is normally completed over two to three years. The program is appropriate for those with an interest in research and the possibility of continuing on to advanced work in a doctoral program. A teaching certificate is not a requirement. A thesis is required.

Ph.D. program

The Ph.D. program is appropriate for students who already hold a Masters degree in HDLC or a related area, and have completed a thesis. The Ph.D. program is normally completed over four to five years and involves the completion of coursework, a comprehensive exam, and a research-based dissertation. The program is of interest to students who want to obtain an advanced degree in their subject area. A teaching certificate is not a requirement.

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Requirements

Our graduate programs in Mathematics Education offer students opportunities to pursue a wide range of research and professional interests in the areas of mathematics education, including teacher education, learning and teaching at elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels and in diverse contexts such as community gardens, cultural spaces, artist performances, and family settings.

The Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy offers a PhD specialization in Curriculum Studies with a concentration in Mathematics Education, and MA and MEd specializations in Mathematics Education, along with a secondary Teacher Education (BEd) major, Diploma, and Certificate in Mathematics Education.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Master of Arts (MA)

Master of Education (MEd)

Master of Education (MEd) Online Cohort

Bachelor of Education (BEd)

Diploma & Certificate

All graduate program applicants in the Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy (EDCP) must meet the minimum entry requirements established by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies , which oversees graduate work at UBC. Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements will be considered for admission only in exceptional circumstances.

Doctor of Philosophy

In addition to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies requirements , the Curriculum Studies graduate program requires a master’s degree with high standing in a relevant educational discipline and evidence of potential to carry out research.

• a Master’s degree with high standing in a relevant educational discipline,
• a sample of work demonstrating scholarly writing,
• a letter of intent describing the focus of the proposed research,
• The support of three referees, one of which must be from a member of your thesis supervisory committee.
• For students possessing a thesis-based Master’s degree from other than a relevant educational discipline, it may be possible to proceed into the Ph.D. after taking the core course requirements of an appropriate Master’s degree in education at UBC.

Applicants to the doctoral program are encouraged to connect with and consult an MAED faculty member before an application is submitted.

Master of Arts (Specialization in Mathematics Education)

Designed for those with interest and potential in doing academic research .

In addition to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies requirements, the program normally requires:

• One-two year/s of teacher experience in an educational context; or a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Education. In special circumstances teacher education may be waived for those applicants who have a university degree with sufficient standing and experience related to their proposed field of study.
• Normally 18 credits of senior course work or a professional concentration in the area of interest.
• Normally two years’ teaching experience or other relevant professional experience.

Master of Education (Specialization in Mathematics Education)

Designed for the professional interested in connecting theory and practice .

Same as for the MA. However, applicants for MEd must be inclined to focusing their studies on application of educational theory in their professional practice.

Please see link for information

Doctor of Philosophy (in Curriculum Studies with a Concentration in Mathematics Education)

The PhD in Curriculum Studies is a flexible, research-oriented doctoral program designed for students interested in the organization of learning within educational settings. If you are admitted, you will take your first doctoral seminar in the first term and second doctoral seminar in the second term of the first year. In addition to these six credits, you will need two research methodology and two specialization courses (18 credits total). You will select your courses in consultation with your supervisor(s) or program coordinator, based on your prior academic work and research interests. Students in the PhD program typically reach candidacy by the end of the second year of their studies. In exceptional circumstances, students are allowed to take additional year to reach candidacy. Normally, students devote two to three years of developing, carrying out research, and writing dissertation to make an original contribution to knowledge in the area of specialization.

The university allows doctoral students up to six years to complete program requirements.

Please browse our admissions page for more information and applications to the Department.

Doctoral Seminars

The EDCP 601 and 602 doctoral seminars are core academic experiences for students and foster a collaborative environment for learning and research. All students are required to successfully complete both EDCP 601 and EDCP 602. EDCP 601 examines the emergence of contemporary conceptions of curriculum and pedagogy, looking across various historical and theoretical influences. Emphasis is placed on analysis of varied conceptual, philosophical, and political perspectives, explicit and tacit rationales for formal education, and consequent principles that infuse conceptions and enactments of curriculum and pedagogy. EDCP 602 unpacks the epistemological and ontological positions of various paradigms used in contemporary studies of curriculum and pedagogy. These include hermeneutic, critical, feminist, and post-structuralist thought. The course examines how scholars of curriculum and pedagogy interpret educational events, focusing on how methods and claims are informed by notions of truth, reality, and subjectivity.

Coursework and Specialization

In consultation with a supervisor(s) or program coordinator, students in the PhD program are expected to take minimum six credits of courses in their specialization so that they are familiar with current theory and research. Most of the courses in the student’s specialization are completed prior to reaching candidacy. PhD students typically take additional courses to give them the breadth and depth of understanding of contemporary theories, issues and debates expected of those pursuing the highest degree awarded by the university. These courses are recommended when they are considered a necessary contribution to the student’s scholarship.

Research Methods

PhD students are expected to be familiar with the various methods used in contemporary educational research and to become expert in the particular methods they use in their own research. Developing proficiency in research methods—including the strengths and weaknesses of each approach—normally requires enrolling in available courses and reading widely in the research methods literature. Before research proposals are approved, students are expected to demonstrate that they have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully carry out their research plan. Students are required to complete a minimum of six credits in research methods courses at 500 – 600 level (excluding EDUC 500 or equivalent.)

Comprehensive Examination

All students in the PhD program are required to successfully complete a comprehensive examination after most of their coursework is completed and before they present their research proposal. The examination is prepared in consultation with the student’s research supervisory committee or program advisory, depending on when it is taken. Details about the comprehensive examination and choices that students make related to the format of the examination can be found at https://edcp-educ.sites.olt.ubc.ca/files/2013/08/EDCP_Guidelines_Comp_Exam_Dec2010.pdf.

Research Proposal

Students develop research proposals which must be presented to and approved by a research supervisory committee. The committee comprises of a research supervisor and at least two other committee members.

Students are recommended to be admitted to candidacy upon completing the required courses, successful completion of comprehensive examination, and successfully defending their research proposal.

PhD Dissertation

The PhD dissertation is an original piece of research that contributes to knowledge in the student’s area of specialization. Research supervisory committees provide direction to the student, read and critique drafts of the dissertation, and, when the dissertation is complete, participate in the final oral examination.

PhD Registration and Residency

All doctoral students are full-time students and are expected to engage in their studies on a full-time basis. All students must register when they begin their studies. Students must remain continuously registered until the degree is completed, except for periods of time for which the student is away on anapproved leave of absence. Failure to register for two consecutive terms may result in the student being required to withdraw. Each student’s program of study must be approved by the home graduate program. All doctoral students are assessed fees according to Schedule A. Programs are paid for on a per-degree rather than a per-course basis, and there is no limit on the number of courses taken or audited during a program. Students have six years to graduate from the doctoral program, with extensions granted only under exceptional circumstances. A one-year parental leave from the program is available, and requests made for other special circumstances are considered.

For more information on requirements, see the doctoral program guides: PhD Program Guidelines

For questions, please email the Graduate Program Assistant .

Master of Arts in Mathematics Education

The program consists of a minimum of 30 credits: 21 credits of coursework plus 9 credits of thesis. A maximum of 6 credits may be taken at the 300-400 level.

Program Schedule

Sample Program of 30 credits (* denotes required course)

1. Winter 1 (September) | EDCP 550   (3) Mathematics Education Origins and Issues*

2. Winter 2 (January) | EDCP 552 (3) Mathematics Education the Early Years*

3. Summer 1 (April – May) | EDUC 500 (3) Research Methodologies in Education*

4. Summer 2 (June – August) | EDCP 562 (3) ) Introduction to Curriculum Issues and Theories*

5. Summer 2 (June – August) | Elective 1 (3) Elective option #1

6. Winter 1 (September) | EDCP 551 (3) Advanced Seminar in Mathematics Education*

7. Winter 2 (January) | EDCP 553   (3) Mathematics Education Beyond the Early Years*

8. Summer 1 (April – May) | EDCP 599 (3) Master’s Thesis

9. Summer 2 (June – August) | EDCP 599 (3) Master’s Thesis

10. Summer 2 (June – August) | EDCP 599 (3) Master’s Thesis

• A maximum of 6 credits may be taken at the 300-400 level.
• A maximum of 6 credits of EDCP 585 courses may count towards the MA degree.
• A minimum of 12 credits of Mathematics Education courses at the 500 level is required for the MA degree.

Electives Options:

• Approved electives may be taken at other universities, subject to the terms of the Western Deans’ Agreement. http://wcdgs.ca/ WCDA Form   and Graduate Exchange Agreement (McGill University, University of Toronto and University of Montréal). GREX Form
• There are wide variety of on-campus (UBC-Vancouver or Okanagan) and on-line courses which are acceptable as electives and vary in the offering from year to year. See PDCE Courses.

For more information on requirements, see the master’s program guides: Master’s Program Guidelines

Master of Education in Mathematics Education

30 Credits – Suggested Program (* denotes required course)

1. Winter 1 (September) | EDCP 550 (3) Mathematics Education Origins and Issues*

4. Summer 2 (June – August) | EDCP 562 (3) ) Introduction to Curriculum Issues and Theories*

7. Winter 2 (January) | EDCP 533 (3) Mathematics Education Beyond the Early Years*

8. Summer 1 (April – May) | Elective 2   (3) Elective option #2

9. Summer 2 (June – August) | Elective 3   (3) Elective option #2

Year 2 + 1 term

10. Final Term Winter 1 (September) | EDCP 590   (3) Graduating Paper

• For B.C. teachers: Teacher Qualification Service requires a capstone experience (EDCP 590 (3) Graduating Paper).
• Graduating students who do not need to satisfy the BC Teacher Qualification Services requirement of completing an MEd capstone experience graduating paper (EDCP 590) may instead complete an elective for 3 credits with consultation of their program supervisor.
• A maximum of 6 credits of EDCP 585 courses may count towards the MEd degree.
• A minimum of 12 credits of Mathematics Education courses at the 500 level is required for the MEd degree.

Apply Online

Find and approach a potential supervisor.

The most important first step in applying for admission to our graduate program is finding and approaching a potential supervisor in the department. This gives you an opportunity to discuss the research you are interested in completing as a graduate student. We make every effort to match an applicant with a supervisor. However, if there are no supervisors available, we will not be able to offer an admission to an applicant. Anyone interested in applying for admission to graduate program in our department is advised to visit the Curriculum and Pedagogy website via the Faculty page to find faculty whose research aligns with their interests. There is a space in the application form for you to list your preferred supervisors.

Apply online

Submit your application online

Complete the online application. To be considered for admission, submit your completed application including all supporting documents, by the deadlines noted below. Note: the online application will be open October 1.

For detailed application process and requirements, click here .

Please follow the instructions on the online application portal.

Early submissions are encouraged.

* The department deadline for receipt of completed, master program applications is December 1. * References are due December 12.

* The department deadline for receipt of completed, doctoral program applications is December 1. * References are due December 7.

Supporting Documents Checklist

Document type

• Scanned copies of all official transcripts and degree certificates (if any). Submit | Online.
• Three letters of recommendation (one of which for doctoral applicant must be from a member of the thesis supervisory committee). Submit | Online.
• CV/resume. Submit | Online.
• Evidence of English language proficiency. Submit | Online.
• Sample of Writing for doctoral applicants (no more than ten pages). Submit | Online.
• Any additional information. Submit | by email attachment to [email protected] .

Upload supporting documents online

Transcripts & Degree Certificates

Applicants will be asked to upload transcripts with their grade key (usually located on the back of the transcript). Even if the applicant does not yet have final marks on the transcript, we still require a copy as evidence of registration and academic progress (we do not accept printed student’s records).

Upload scanned transcripts and degree certificates (if any) online. Please be advised that if you are admitted you will be required to submit original transcripts and degree certificates (if any) in the SEALED and ENDORSED envelopes as soon as possible after admission is offered. Students are not allowed to register in courses until this requirement is met.

Statement of Intent for MA and PhD Applicants

In the application portal, you will be given the opportunity to add a Statement of Intent (maximum 2 pages) describing why you choose to pursue graduate studies at UBC and in which area of research you want to concentrate your work. For more information, click here .

Statement of Intent for MEd Applicants

Please write a summary of your reasons for wishing to enroll in the program of your choice, and what it is that you hope to achieve in completing this program.

Letters of Recommendation

We require three letters of recommendation (one of which for doctoral applicant must be from a member of the thesis supervisory committee). See detailed requirements .

Referees will be able to upload their letters once you have submitted your application, so please ensure that they are able to submit by the deadlines noted above and that you provide them with appropriate timelines.

Submit other supporting documents

Evidence of English Language Proficiency

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must present evidence of competency to pursue studies in the English language prior to the application deadline in December. Test scores must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application, and official test scores ordered from the testing agency is required.

TOEFL minimum scores

Test Format | Minimum Score Internet-based | 92 (minimum 22 on each component) Computer-based | 237 Paper | 580

TOEFL Institution Code: 0965 TOEFL Department Code: 85

Detailed language requirements and other acceptable English proficiency tests

Permanent Residents

Permanent Residents are required to provide proof of immigration status and date of landing by submitting a copy of the Record of Landing Form or a copy of both the front and back of their Permanent Resident card.

Additional Information

You are welcome to submit additional information, regarding professional employment experience, publications, or awards, which you feel should be taken into account in considering your application. These can be sent by email attachment to [email protected] .

Mailing Address

Department of Curriculum & Pedagogy Faculty of Education University of British Columbia Scarfe Building 2125 Main Mall Vancouver BC V6T 1Z4 Canada

Important Numbers

Apply for graduate programs: Alan Jay 604.822.5367 Email: [email protected]

Apply for undergraduate programs: Contact the Teacher Education Office

Area Coordinator

Cynthia Nicol

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Susan Gerofsky

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Graduate Program

The doctoral (PhD) program provides a candidate, with demonstrated academic and research ability, an opportunity to develop and strengthen his/her research capabilities and knowledge to a more advanced level. The doctoral thesis involves intensive research resulting in an original and scholarly contribution to knowledge in a field of study. The candidate is expected to initiate and conduct the research program under the general direction of a supervisor and supported by a graduate supervisory committee. The program, because of its comprehensive nature, normally requires 4 to 5 years for completion.

Timeline for completion of an RES PhD program.

Required Doctoral (PhD) Coursework

• This is your thesis course. You must be registered in RES 699 for every term of your program, including summer terms.
• RES 602 (3 cr)
• An approved methods course (3cr) to be selected in consultation with your supervisor.

Your supervisor(s) and/or supervisory committee may assign other courses.

Beyond these courses, we expect our doctoral students to attend advanced courses deepening their expertise in their chosen field of research.  We also expect them to hone their advanced methods skills with guidance from their supervisor(s).

UBC Academic Calendar – RES Program

For RES Doctoral students who have completed an RMES/RES Masters degree prior to Sept 2018:

RES doctoral students who have completed an RMES/RES Masters degree must complete the credit equivalencies of the RES doctoral course requirements (i.e., six credits of coursework at the graduate level). Course selection will typically emphasize methods, and may also include enrolling in an RES 502-like if the RES doctoral student’s research areas are significantly different from their RMES/RES Masters research areas. Courses must be selected in consultation with the RES doctoral student’s supervisor and should also be reviewed by the RES Graduate Advisor.

For RES Doctoral students who have completed an RMES/RES Masters degree after Sept 2018:

All RES Doctoral students must register in RES 602 and a methods course.

Additional course options to consider:

• Popular Non-RES courses: https://ires.ubc.ca/graduate-courses/popular-non-rmes-courses/
• Methods Courses: https://ires.ubc.ca/graduate-courses/methods-courses/
• Under the Western Dean’s Agreement (WDA), graduate students of the member institutions may take courses at another member institution without having to pay the host university’s tuition fees. Students may be required to pay student, activity, application, or other ancillary fees to the host institution, according to general policies in effect at the host institution. Wherever possible, these fees will also be waived. Note: Courses taken by UBC PhD students under the Western Deans’ Agreement will not be credited to their degree programs.
• Under the Graduate Exchange Agreement , graduate students in good standing at UBC, McGill University, University of Toronto and University of Montréal may take courses at another member institution without having to pay the host university’s tuition fees. Note: Courses taken by UBC PhD students under the Graduate Exchange Agreement will not be credited to their degree programs.

By the end of an RES PhD program, a student should have:

• Mastery of the domain of their research comparable to a specialist.
• Mastery of advanced qualitative or quantitative methods (whichever is appropriate to their research methods).
• More than a passing familiarity with the complementary methods to those above.

For RES PhD students with IOF supervisors admitted in Sept 2016, Sept 2017 and Sept 2018

You are eligible to follow the alternative RES PhD program requirements for IOF students, if you so choose. This option is only open to RES PhD students with an IOF supervisor admitted Sept 2016-Sept 2018.

RES PhD students admitted in Sept 2019 or future years are required to take the regular RES program requirements (above).

The Alternative RES PhD Program Requirements for IOF students

For the Alternative Program Requirements for RES Masters students with IOF supervisors admitted between Sept 2016-Sept 2018 , please see here .

For student admitted to the RMES program in Sept 2015 or earlier

You have the ability to complete your degree and graduate under the previous RMES PhD program requirements or the new RES PhD program requirements. Students admitted to the RES program for Sept 2016 and later will be subject to the RES doctoral program requirements or the Alternative RES PhD program requirements (if you have an IOF supervisor, see above section for details).

Important:  It is the RMES student’s responsibility to review the RMES and RES program requirements, determine which program you would like to pursue, and confirm this with your supervisor(s). Once you have completed either your RMES or RES program and applied for Graduation, the IRES Graduate Program Manager will confirm which program you wish to graduate under.

RMES PhD Program Requirements (from old website):

The RMES PhD coursework requirements are:

• RMES 501 (3cr)
• RMES 502 (3cr)
• Methods course (to be selected in consultation with your supervisor).

It is also recommended that students take at least 1 of the 3 foundation courses (RMES 507, RMES 510 or RMES 550).

The supervisory committee may assign other courses.

Beyond these courses, we expect our PhD students to attend advanced courses deepening their expertise in their chosen field of research.  We also expect them to hone their advanced methods skills with guidance from their supervisors.

For RMES-Fisheries Stream students , please consult your program requirements found in the RMES – UBC Academic Calendar.

RMES: UBC Academic Calendar

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Master of Education (MEd)

• Requirements

The MEd programs in Educational Studies are situated within the academic programs in the Department of Educational Studies.

A MEd degree can be completed full-time over a two-year period or over a longer period for part-time students, and is excellent preparation for professional practice.

MEd students enroll in one of the programs:

• Adult Learning and Education  (ALE)
• Adult Learning and Global Change (ALGC) – online
• Educational Administration and Leadership  (EDAL)
• Higher Education  (HIED)
• Society, Culture and Politics in Education  (SCPE)
• Ts”Kel Concentration

In addition, we offer an MEd in Curriculum and Leadership (CULE) which is collaborative program between the Educational Administration and Leadership Program (EDAL) and the Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy (EDCP). We have also offered the MEd in Educational (for in Education for Sustainability) through PDCE:

• Curriculum and Leadership (CULE)
• MEd EDST ( Education for Sustainabiilty )

What is the difference between an MA and an MEd program?

The MEd Program is designed for those students whose primary interest is in developing further their professional practice. Students interested in the MEd Program pick one of several program concentrations offered by the department (Adult Learning and Education; Adult Learning and Global Change; Curriculum and Leadership; Educational Administration and Leadership; Higher Education; Society, Culture and Politics in Education; or Ts”Kel) , and complete their course work either full-time or part-time (with the exception of Adult Learning and Global Change, which is full-time only).

MEd students complete their programs by writing a graduating paper (EDST 590) which can take a number of forms, including writing a substantial essay on a particular topic that includes a review of relevant literature, or the creation of a curriculum or policy that is directly relevant to their workplace. Some program concentrations give students the option of completing one or more elective courses as an alternative to writing a graduating paper.

The MEd Program is generally completed over a two-year period for full-time students, and over a longer period for part-time students.

The MA Program is a thesis based program designed for students interested in learning more about conducting research, and who may enter the PhD program at a later date. Students interested in the MA program can complete the degree as a general concentration in Educational Studies, or by choosing one of four program concentrations offered by the department (Adult Learning and Education; Educational Administration and Leadership; Higher Education; or Society, Culture and Politics in Education) .

The core courses for MA students are the same as the core courses for MEd students. Unlike MEd students, MA students must take other required MA courses, find a supervisory committee, prepare a research proposal, conduct their research, write up the results and defend their thesis.

The MA Program is generally completed over a two-year period for full-time students, and over a longer period for part-time students.

Admissions Requirements for Graduate Study

Each MEd Program within the Department Of Educational Studies has its own admission requirements.

In addition to individual program requirements, all graduate program applicants in the Department of Educational Studies (EDST) must meet the minimum entry requirements established by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, which oversees graduate work at UBC. Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements will be considered for admission only in exceptional circumstances.

More Info: http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/graduate-degree-programs/master-of-education-educational-studies

General Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to a master’s degree program at UBC, applicants must hold a four-year bachelor’s degree (apart from applicants from Quebec) with a minimum overall average in the B+ range (at UBC 76%) in third- and fourth-year courses prescribed by the Department concerned as prerequisite to the master’s program.

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies - Minimum Academic Requirements: Canadian or U.S. Credentials http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/minimum-academic-requirements-canadian-or-us-credentials

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies - Minimum Academic Requirements: International Credentials http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/minimum-academic-requirements-international-credentials

English Requirements

English Proficiency Test Score: Applicants whose degrees are from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must present evidence of competency to pursue studies in the English language prior to being extended an offer of admission. Acceptable English language proficiency tests for applicants to graduate studies are:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 600 (paper version), 250 (computer version), 92 with a minimum of 22 in each component (iTB) is required for admission to all programs in Educational Studies. Visit TOEFL’s website
• IELTS (International English Language Testing Service): Minimum overall band score of 6.5 with no other component score less than 6.0.
• MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery): Minimum overall score of 81.

The applicants must have an official report of their score on one of these tests sent directly from the testing service to the Graduate Program Assistant, Department of Educational Studies at the address below by the application deadline. Score reports more than two years old will not be accepted.

More Information: http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/english-proficiency-requirements

The EDST MEd is a 30 credit program .

Students have the option of:

(1) completing 27 credits of course work and a three credit graduating paperor

(2) completing all 30 credits through course work.

* In addition to general EDST MEd requirements, each MEd Program has its own program requirements as outlined on each Program’s individual page. The MEd degree provides a rich learning environment for studying educational theories, methodologies, and problems which can then be transferred to work in schools, the workplace, the non-profit sector, and community leadership.

Scholarship funding is not available for MEd students.

Prospective students should apply through the program concentration they are interested in pursuing:

• Adult Learning and Global Chang e (ALGC) – online
• Education for Sustainability (EfS)
• Ts”Kel Program

Note that fees are subject to change by the University.

Tuition for MEd Programs

Tuition fees for EDST Masters Programs are found on the UBC Calendar  website .

Deadlines for applications

Deadlines for EDST programs can be found on the EDST website .

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For more information about this program, the department and admission procedures can be found at  edst.educ.ubc.ca or by contacting:

EDST Graduate Program Assistant Email:  [email protected] Tel: 604.822.6647

Faculty of Education – Department of Educational Studies Education Centre at Ponderosa Commons 6445 University Boulevard Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z2

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Our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in English allows you to structure a course of study that aligns with your specific research interests in English language or literature.

The PhD degree requirements in English at UBC Vancouver are based on residency and coursework, the candidacy process, and a dissertation. We expect students to complete the degree within five to six years.

Program Overview

All PhD students are considered full-time and are not eligible to undertake their degree on a part-time basis.

• Students who enter the PhD program having already earned an MA must remain in residence in the Lower Mainland (Vancouver area) for two winter sessions of PhD study (roughly two years).
• Students who have been permitted to transfer via fast-track from the UBC English MA program to the UBC English PhD program require at least one winter session of residence in the Lower Mainland following the transfer.
• Under normal circumstances, the PhD should be completed in five years, although UBC allows up to six years.

For more information about the program completion time, including rules about leaves of absence, registration, and employment status, please consult the graduate handbook.

Students entering the PhD program with first-class MA degrees in English will normally take 15 credits of coursework at the 500 level.

Students transferring from the MA to the PhD or entering the PhD directly from an honours BA will be asked to take a minimum number of credits determined by the Graduate Committee.

All PhD students are required to take the Research Methods course, ENGL 500B. This pass/fail course introduces students to the forms and protocols of PhD research. It counts towards the 15 credits required for admission to candidacy.

PhD programs are individually planned in consultation with the Chair of the Graduate Program.

For detailed information about coursework such as how to take courses at other western universities under the Western Dean's Agreement, how to sign up for a Directed Reading course (ENGL 547), and rules about taking courses outside the English department, please consult the graduate handbook.

Doctoral candidacy process

In addition to coursework in the first year of the program, the candidacy process includes the field list and oral examination, the candidacy paper, and the prospectus.

Graduate students and supervisors should consult the graduate handbook for a convenient year-by-year summary and detailed step-by-step explanation of the candidacy process for PhD students.

Field list and oral examination

In consultation with the Pro tem committee, the student will prepare a general field list of primary and secondary material designed to ensure that they have sufficient knowledge of their field of interest. The Pro tem committee will examine knowledge of this field list in a two-hour oral examination.

Candidacy paper

After the field examination, the student will begin working with the Pro tem committee to develop an individually focused research topic or question that allows the student to conceptualize the thesis.

The student will then write a 20-25 page paper based on this topic.

With the completion of the field examination and qualifying paper, the Pro tem committee is dissolved. Then the student, in consultation with the graduate chair, invites an appropriate faculty member to supervise their prospectus and thesis.

Together, the student and supervisor establish the full committee, which generally consists of the candidate's supervisor and two other Department of English Language and Literatures members.

The thesis prospectus, prepared in consultation with the supervisory committee, is then submitted to the Graduate Committee for approval.

Candidacy review

Students who achieve a minimum of 85% GPA in their courses at UBC and who pass all stages of their candidacy exams will automatically be recommended for advancement to candidacy. For other students, a conference on their progress may be deemed necessary by the graduate chair in consultation with their supervisor.

For detailed information about the field list and oral examination, candidacy paper, prospectus and candidacy review, please consult the graduate handbook.

Second language requirement

All new PhD students must demonstrate a reading knowledge of a second language relevant to their particular area of research. In consultation with the Pro tem supervisor, the graduate chair will determine whether a student has already met the second-language requirement.

Students who have not met the requirement may do so by completing an approved language or literature course (it may be possible to do this as an auditor), or by passing an examination, provided that an examiner acceptable to the department is available.

While only one language is required, students should, of course, consider the scholarly and professional requirements of their chosen area when developing their language skills.

Doctoral progress report

Each May beginning in the student's second year in the doctoral program, both the student and their supervisor will be asked to write a brief report indicating the nature and extent of work completed on the candidacy process or thesis and any circumstances impeding progress on either.

PhD supervision

The student is assigned a Pro tem supervisor from their point of entry into the program.

By the end of the first year, the full Pro tem committee will be in place.

The committee members will guide the student through the qualifying process, beginning in the first year with the field examination. They also serve as academic mentors on all aspects of the program and the department.

The Pro tem committee is dissolved after the candidacy paper is passed. A new thesis supervisory committee is then constituted, which can (but need not) include members of the Pro tem committee. The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies must approve thesis supervisory committee members from outside UBC.

PhD Co-op (Optional)

What is Co-op?

The Arts Co-op Program offers students enriched educational experiences for personal and professional growth. Co-op is a high-impact educational program that allows you to alternate dissertation-writing terms with work terms, during which you gain meaningful paid work experience. We work with a diverse range of community partners and sectors to provide transformative workplace learning for co-op students.

The Arts PhD Co-op Program allows you to explore different career options, while gaining paid, professional work experience, guided training and reflection on career options, and a network of contacts. Some students are able to secure work terms that are relevant to their dissertation research, while others choose to pursue work experience that diversify their expertise and give them range. Students complete three work terms of 4 months each over the two to three years after achieving candidacy.

To read more about previous and current PhD Co-op students’ experiences, please refer to our ‘success stories’ on Jon Newell (English) , Pavlina Pajot (English) , and Henry John (History) , or see the 2019 update on UBC English’s co-op program for PhD students .  Henry John (History) also published a piece in Inside Higher Education about his experience in the program.

Applying to Arts Co-op

The application window for PhD Co-op is open once per year, and usually closes in the first week of October.

You are eligible to apply to the UBC English PhD Co-op Program if you have achieved candidacy (or are expecting to achieve candidacy by the time you begin your co-op term, typically in January of your third year in the PhD program). You also must have two years of PhD study left, in which to schedule three 4-month work terms. You cannot begin work-terms in the Co-op Program without advancing to candidacy first: that is, Co-op students must be ABD (all but dissertation) before their first Co-op work term.

SSHRC-holders and international students are both eligible to apply and go through the same application process.

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Policies & Procedures

These UBC Policies and Procedures provide the rules and regulations that surround many aspects of graduate study for students, faculty members, and staff at UBC.

Policies have been approved by the UBC Board of Governors or UBC Senate .

Procedures have been approved by the Graduate Council of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

Find information about applying to graduate school, what you need to give you the best chance at a successful application, or any other questions you might have.

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This policy was approved by UBC Senate on November 16, 2016.

The President of the University has the right under the British Columbia University Act, R.S.B.C., c. 468, s. 61, to take whatever disciplinary action is deemed to be warranted by a student’s misconduct. See  Student Conduct and Discipline  for specific provisions as to offences, penalties, and procedures.

Doctoral students must complete their comprehensive exams before they can be admitted to candidacy. Comprehensive exams may or may not be required for master's students. It is required that all doctoral students be admitted to candidacy within 36 months.

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This section provides information about appointing students to teach a course, Student Services appointments, international student employment, and employment after graduation.

It also covers enrolment and course registration information for graduate students appointed as faculty or staff.

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The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies is dedicated to maintaining a rich academic environment for every student in the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies at the University of British Columbia. Among other things, the Faculty oversees the academic quality and integrity of its graduate programs, and ensures that graduate students are provided with training in research and other scholarly activities of the highest standard.

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Graduate student teaching was previously addressed in Board of Governors’ Policy AP7: “Appointment of Graduate Students to Teach a Course Requiring a Board of Governors Appointment” or “Graduate Student Teaching Policy”. The policy required graduate students to meet specific criteria in order to hold teaching appointments, and exceptions to those criteria required the approval of the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

At the request of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, the Board of Governors conducted a review of the policy in 2022. As a result of this review, the policy was repealed effective December 6 2022. The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies no longer needs to be informed or consulted when a student is considered for a teaching appointment.

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Graduate students are entitled to three weeks of vacation (15 working days) from their academic obligations per academic year.

Read more on the vacation policy

University regulations establish a five-year time limit for the completion of a master’s program and a six-year time limit for the completion of a doctoral program. The time that the student is on approved leave does not count in the determination of the time limit.

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• UBC Master of Data Science /
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The UBC Master of Data Science is an investment in your future. This intensive 10-month program offers a technical foundation and real-world data experience. It’s a powerful combination that can help you take your professional career to new levels.

What Will it Cost*? 

Tuition for the UBC Master of Data Science is comparable and competitive with other professional Masters programs at top domestic and international universities.  All fees are in Canadian dollars (CAD).

• $35,149.71 CAD for domestic students (Canadian citizens and permanent residents)
• $54,732.57 CAD for international students

*All fees for the year are subject to adjustment and UBC reserves the right to change any fees without notice at any time, including tuition and student fees. Please visit the UBC Vancouver Academic Calendar  and the UBC Okanagan Academic Calendar for the most up to date tuition fees.

• On acceptance into the program, students for all three programs will be required to pay a $3,000 CAD non-refundable deposit.

*Deposit fees are credited towards students' tuition fees in September.

In addition to tuition fees, all students must pay:

• UBC student fees, which include the mandatory transit U-Pass
• AMS/GSS Extended Health Plan fees

All new international students must also pay an annual i-Med fee.

There may be opt-out provisions for students with equivalent personal insurance.

Tuition and student fees are charged in three equal instalments payable in September, January and, May.

You can read more about these fees on the UBC Graduate Students websites for Vancouver and the Okanagan campuses.

Financial Assistance

Student loans.

If you are a domestic student, you can apply for a federal/provincial student loan. Please complete your loan application as soon as possible after you receive your letter of acceptance, as it typically takes four to five weeks for loan applications to be processed. If you need help completing your student loan application, please visit UBC’s Student Services websites on the Vancouver or Okanagan campuses for assistance.

If you are an American student, the MDS Vancouver, MDS Okanagan and MDS Computational Linguistic programs have been approved for US Direct loans to assist students to pay for their post-secondary education. Please visit UBC's Student Services - Finances site for more information.

Domestic students who receive a federal/provincial student loan, may also apply for a MDS program bursary. Bursaries are distributed to students on a needs assessed basis until funds run out. Please visit UBC's Student Services - Finances site for more information.

Scholarships

All scholarships listed below are made on the recommendation of the Master of Data Science Admissions Committee, in consultation with the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. All applicants will automatically be considered for the scholarships they are eligible for, hence there is no separate application. Scholarships will be announced in the offer letter.

Master of Data Science International Scholarship – Entrance scholarships of up to $25,000 CAD are offered annually to an international student in each of the Master of Data Science Vancouver, Okanagan and Computational Linguistics programs. The scholarship recognizes a student who has demonstrated academic and leadership achievements in their undergraduate or graduate program, field or industry.

Master of Data Science Domestic Scholarship  – Entrance scholarships of up to $25,000 CAD are offered annually to a student who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in each of the Master of Data Science Vancouver, Okanagan and Computational Linguistics programs. The scholarship recognizes a student who has demonstrated academic and leadership achievements in their undergraduate or graduate program, field or industry. 

Master of Data Science Scholarship for Indigenous Students - Scholarships of up to the full cost of tuition are offered annually by the Master of Data Science program for outstanding domestic or international students in the Master of Data Science program who identify as Indigenous. This scholarship applies to the Vancouver MDS program only.

Master of Data Science Scholarship for Black Students - Scholarships of up to the full cost of tuition are offered annually by the Master of Data Science program for outstanding domestic or international students in the Master of Data Science program who identify as Black. This scholarship applies to the Vancouver MDS program only.

Master of Data Science Scholarship for Person Of Colour Students - Scholarships of up to the full cost of tuition are offered annually by the Master of Data Science program for outstanding domestic and international students in the Master of Data Science program who identify as a Person of Colour. This scholarship applies to the Vancouver MDS program only.

Master of Data Science Scholarship for Persons of Colour Students from world's 50 least developed countries - Scholarships of up to the full cost of tuition are offered annually by the Master of Data Science program for outstanding international students in the Master of Data Science program who identify as a Person of Colour and whose citizenship is from one of the world's 50 least developed countries, as declared by the United Nations . This scholarship applies to the Vancouver MDS program only

The UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program - The University of British Columbia is pleased to partner with The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to provide comprehensive scholarships to students from Sub-Saharan Africa. The program provides access to education for academically talented, yet economically marginalized young people. Scholars in the program have a demonstrated commitment to giving back to their communities and develop the leadership needed to contribute to social and economic transformation across the continent. Learn more . This scholarship applies to the Vancouver MDS program only.

Application Fee Waivers

The application fee is waived only in the following circumstances:

• For international applicants whose citizenship and correspondence address is located in one of the world's 50 least developed countries, as declared by the United Nations .
• Seniors: BC residents who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents aged 65 years or over at the time of application.

If you are eligible for an application fee waiver under the above conditions, you do not need to apply for it. You will not be asked for a fee when you complete the online application.

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