This process allows a student to enter the PhD program without first completing the MSc degree. The transfer review must be held between 8 and 20 months after entry into the MSc program. To be eligible, the student must have completed all the prescribed graduate courses required for the MSc and must have obtained at least an A- average with no failing grades. The student’s supervisor must recommend the transfer based on a demonstrated high calibre of research. A supervisory committee must be held to assess the progress of the student. If the supervisory committee supports the transfer to PhD, the student’s supervisor will communicate this recommendation to the Program Director or designate.
The student should submit a report to all members of their supervisory committee summarizing his or her research to date and setting out future research plans at least one week before their supervisory committee meeting. At the meeting the student will give a short oral presentation (15 – 20 minutes), followed by questions from the committee. If the committee considers the student’s research to be at a sufficiently high standard for entry to the PhD, the student will be permitted to transfer to the PhD without completing the MSc degree. If not, the student will be required to complete the MSc degree. Transfers to the PhD will take effect at the beginning of the next term.
If a student is permitted to transfer to the PhD program by this route, the research performed to date may become part of the student’s eventual PhD thesis. This transfer option requires students to complete a minimum of two courses at the 700 level beyond those prescribed for the MSc.