Admission

1.  What is the program admissions process?

All complete application files are reviewed by academic faculty members in GDER.  The academic Admissions Committee, chaired by the Associate Dean of GDER, with membership composed of the Graduate Coordinator of GDER and the Specialization Coordinators, meets and makes recommendations for admission to thesis-based programs (PhD, EdD, MA, MSc) to the Faculty of Graduate Studies, and admits to course-based programs (MEd, Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate). 

2.  How are the decisions made?

Admission to GDER programs is highly competitive. Selection is based not only on Grade Point Average (GPA), but also on factors such as the ability to match students' research interests with faculty members', faculty members capacity to supervise, strength of references of the applicant, and the applicant's personal statement and experience.

3.  When and how will I be notified if I have been accepted into the program?

All applicants will be notified by e-mail regarding the results of the program application. Normally, you can expect the decision on admission for July or September program start by early April.

4.  Do I need to approach a faculty member in order to secure a supervisor before entering program?

Prospective students in thesis-based program may seek advice from faculty members whose research interests align with their own.  Thesis-based students who are recommended to program are assigned an interim advisor by the Specialization Coordinator, as part of the admissions process. Upon admission, the interim advisor, in consultation with the student, plans the first stages of their respective programs and is responsible for approving program requirements. 

Prospective students in course-based programs are assigned to a supervisor at the time of admission by the Specialization Coordinator. The student may consult with their supervisor to plan their program, following the course-based program plan.