phd in canadian studies

• Peterborough

Trent's Frost Centre for Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies is celebrated for its role in developing the field of Canadian Studies.  It serves as the base for students and faculty in the Canadian Studies Ph.D. Program.  Located at Trent's historic Traill College, close to downtown Peterborough, the College has recently been converted to a graduate college.  It also serves as the home for three other graduate programs in the humanities and the social sciences.  Here Canadian Studies Ph.D. students are afforded excellent office and social space.

The Ph.D. program is structured around five fields of research focii:

• Culture, Heritage, and the Arts;
• Environment and Place
• Policy, Economy and the State;
• Identities and Social Movements; and
• Feminist, Gender & Women's Studies

Over the decades of the program thematic concentrations have evolved as a result of established faculty research profiles and supervisory strengths. For details of these see the comprehensives page. Doctoral student research projects are not limited to these themes but rather cover an enormous breadth of subject matter and approaches within the field of Canadian Studies. The program, drawing upon faculty from across the university, encompasses course requirements, comprehensive examinations, and a dissertation.

The Ph.D. program in Canadian Studies normally will be undertaken on a full-time basis. However, in cases of exceptional merit, the Frost Centre will accept a few candidates for the degree on a part-time basis.

“Canadian Studies at Trent provides a truly interdisciplinary PhD program that gives students the flexibility to pursue their own interests along one of five broad theme areas. As a student with an environmental studies background, the Frost Centre provided me with an opportunity to pursue research on sustainable community development in Canada and internationally.” Rebecca Pollock, Trudeau Fellow

Degree Requirements

Doctoral candidates must successfully complete the equivalent of 10.0 credits. Candidates who have deficiencies in certain areas may be admitted to the Ph.D. program, but will normally be required to complete additional work. The specific requirements are as follows:

• 1.0 credit for successful completion of the mandatory core seminar, CAST 6000Y.
• 1.0 credit for successful completion of two half-credit courses at the graduate level. A GPA of 9.0 (B+) or better must be obtained at the end of course work in order to remain in the program.
• 1.0 credit for successful completion of two half-credit comprehensive examinations. Students will be examined in two fields. Normally, students will be expected to complete their comprehensives within 24 months of entering the program.
• Satisfactory demonstration of an understanding of a language other than English. Although French is the preferred second language, students may be permitted to substitute an Indigenous language or another language if it is demonstrably relevant to their research interests.
• A defence, in English, of a written dissertation proposal. Following the completion of their comprehensives, students will be expected to defend a proposal of the research and analysis they plan to undertake in completing their Ph.D. dissertation. The dissertation proposal defence should normally occur within three months after the completion of a student's comprehensive examinations. The dissertation committee will be composed of three faculty.
• A 7.0 credit dissertation, which must be successfully defended in English at an oral examination.

Academic Standing

Students must obtain at least a B+ standing or better in each course counted towards the degree to remain in the programme. Comprehensive examinations (which will be graded on a Satisfactory, Unsatisfactory or Pass with Distinction basis) are exempted from this required standing.

"What initially attracted me to the Canadian Studies doctoral program was the unique opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment.  The ability to draw insights, theories and methods from numerous disciplines has challenged me and allowed me to push my research in directions that are not possible in a traditional disciplinary program.  The real strength of the program, however, is the professors and fellow graduate students.  Their diverse interests, research and scholarship make the Frost Centre an exciting and dynamic place to study." Meg Beaton

Canadian Studies Program

Welcome to the canadian studies program.

The Canadian Studies Program is a nationally-ranked research  center dedicated to promoting knowledge of Canada, its people, and the Canada-US relationship.  Founded in 1982, Canadian Studies is celebrating 40 years as the intellectual hub for all things Canadian at Berkeley and the wider San Francisco Bay Area.

You made a big difference! Thanks to you, Canadian Studies raised over $44,000 for Big Give!

Hidetaka hirota appointed new program director.

The Canadian Studies Program is delighted to announce that Dr. Hidetaka Hirota , an associate professor in the Department of History, has been appointed as the program's new... Read more about Hidetaka Hirota Appointed New Program Director

Former Hildebrand Fellow Caylee Hong Appointed Professor at University of Alberta Law School

Canadian Studies is proud to announce that former Hildebrand Fellow Caylee Hong has been appointed an assistant professor at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Law, effective July 1, 2025.

... Read more about Former Hildebrand Fellow Caylee Hong Appointed Professor at University of Alberta Law School

New Hildbrand Fellow Andrew Zhao explores role of Chinatown family associations in immigrant integration

The Canadian Studies Program is pleased to announce Andrew Zhao as a recipient of an Edward Hildebrand Graduate Research Fellowship for Summer 2024.

Andrew Zhao is a PhD student in the Department of Political Science studying identity politics and immigration. His Hildebrand... Read more about New Hildbrand Fellow Andrew Zhao explores role of Chinatown family associations in immigrant integration

Join Our Newsletter

Donate to canadian studies.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"
• Departments

Language selection

• Search and menus

Canada Graduate Scholarships — Doctoral program

Description

Agency-specific doctoral awards, eligibility, program of study, application procedures, application deadlines, selection process, indigenous student researchers, black student researchers, selection criteria, san francisco declaration on research assessment, notification of results, conditions of the award, official languages, related opportunities.

The objective of the Canada Graduate Scholarships — Doctoral (CGS D) program is to promote continued excellence in Canadian research by rewarding and retaining high-calibre doctoral students at Canadian institutions. By providing support for a high-quality research training experience to awardees, the CGS D program strives to foster impacts within and beyond the research environment.

The Canada Graduate Scholarships — Doctoral (CGS D) program is a federal program of scholarships administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). Scholarships are awarded through national competitions by these three granting agencies.

The CGS D program supports and promotes research excellence in a wide variety of disciplines and broad fields of natural sciences and engineering, health and social sciences and humanities, including interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research. This support allows scholars to concentrate on their doctoral studies more fully, to seek out the best research mentors in their chosen fields and to contribute to the Canadian research ecosystem during and beyond the tenure of their awards.

In addition to the CGS D, each agency has its own doctoral awards.

For all three agencies, only one application must be completed and submitted to be considered for both a CGS D award and either an agency-specific doctoral award (for NSERC/SSHRC applications) or any available doctoral Priority Announcements (for CIHR applications). CGS D awards are then offered for the top-ranked eligible applications in each agency’s competition.

CIHR applicants who intend to hold their doctoral award abroad need to apply to the Doctoral Foreign Study Award (DFSA ) program.

Some eligibility requirements for CGS D differ from those of the agency-specific doctoral awards. Refer to the appropriate literature for NSERC , CIHR and SSHRC for further details as well as information on doctoral awards tenable at foreign institutions.

Consult the eligibility flowchart to confirm your eligibility.

To be eligible to apply, you must

• be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or a Protected Person under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) as of the application deadline
• have completed no more than 24 months of full-time study in your doctoral program or the PhD portion of your joint professional undergraduate/PhD program (such as MD/PhD, JD/PhD, DVM/PhD) by December 31 of the calendar year of application if previously enrolled in a graduate program
• direct-entry applicants who are not enrolled in their doctoral program should contact the appropriate agency for further guidance.
• if you have not previously completed or enrolled in another graduate program, you must be enrolled in your joint MD/PhD program at the time of application
• if you fall into this category, you have access to the 36-month window whether or not you were previously enrolled in a master’s program

Note: If you are eligible to apply to the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS M) program, you may be able to maximize your potential period of funding by applying to the CGS M program for your first year of doctoral funding instead of the CGS D program. You are responsible for choosing the type of award for which you apply. See Other restrictions below for more information.

Number of months

Eligibility for CGS D is based on the number of months of full-time study, including summer months, toward the degree for which you are requesting funding by December 31 of the calendar year of application . Two terms of part-time study count as one term of full-time study.

Note: The agencies count all studies toward the doctoral degree for which funding is requested, whether or not they were completed in the same program or at the degree-granting institution.

Fast-track and joint programs

Fast-track: If you were registered in a master’s program and subsequently transferred to a doctoral program (fast-track), the months of study completed are calculated starting from the date on which you transferred into the doctoral program.

Joint programs: If you are registered in a joint program and a master’s degree is obtained as part of the program (for example, MA/PhD, MSc/PhD), the months of study are calculated starting from the date on which you officially registered in either portion of the joint program (including the master’s portion of the program).

If you are registered in a joint professional undergraduate/PhD program (such as MD/PhD, JD/PhD, DVM/PhD), only the months of study in the PhD portion will be counted.

Other restrictions

• You can submit a maximum of one scholarship or fellowship application per academic year to either NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC. Should more than one application be submitted, the eligible application submitted first chronologically will be retained. Nominations to the Vanier CGS program and applications to the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program do not count toward this limit (other exceptions may apply to CIHR internships)
• You cannot have already received a doctoral-level scholarship from NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC (does not apply to CIHR Fellowships)
• You cannot hold a tenure or tenure-track appointment or be on leave from such an appointment concurrently with your CGS D award

An eligible doctoral program must include a significant research component that leads to the completion of a thesis, major research project, dissertation, scholarly publication, performance, recital and/or exhibit that is merit/expert-reviewed at the institutional level as a requirement for completion of the program.

Joint programs with a professional degree (for example, MD/PhD, DVM/PhD, JD/PhD, MBA/PhD), as well as clinically oriented programs of study , including clinical psychology, are eligible if they have a significant autonomous research component as described above.

For programs that include arrangements with universities abroad (for example, exchanges or cotutelles), your primary institution must be an eligible Canadian institution.

Selecting the appropriate agency

You should complete the agency application that is best aligned with your research subject matter to ensure that it is reviewed by experts in disciplines closest to your field(s) of study. For more information, refer to  Selecting the appropriate federal granting agency . If you are still unsure after consulting this resource, contact the relevant agencies.

To complete the application process, refer to the appropriate agency’s application website and instructions.

NSERC: Online system and instructions CIHR: ResearchNET and instructions SSHRC: Online system and instructions

Your application must be complete to advance in the competition.

Where to submit an application

You must apply either through a Canadian institution or directly to the appropriate agency, depending on your registration status on the application deadline date and/or your registration status during the calendar year of application. Where you intend to hold the award has no impact on the channel through which you must apply. Failure to submit an application through the correct channel will result in your application being rejected .

To determine the correct channel, you must

• determine your registration status for the calendar year of application
• determine if that institution has a  quota  for your selected agency
• refer to the chart and supporting information in the three-page document,  Where should I submit my application?  

If you are unsure of your registration status in the calendar year of application, contact your faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent).

The term “quota” refers to the maximum number of applications an institution can forward to each agency’s national competition. Institutions receive separate quotas from each agency ( NSERC , CIHR and SSHRC ).

Late applications will not be accepted.

Institution deadlines

If you are applying through an institution, you must submit your application by the deadline set by the institution, which may be well in advance of the agency deadline.

For more information about institutional deadlines, you should contact your faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent).

Agency deadlines

If you are eligible to apply directly to one of the agencies (consult the three-page document: Where should I submit my application? ), you must submit your application using the appropriate agency application portal before 8:00 p.m. (ET) on October 17. If the deadline falls on a weekend, applications can be submitted the following business day before 8:00 p.m. (ET).

Institutional review

The faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent) at each Canadian institution is responsible for coordinating the institutional evaluation of CGS D applications. Institutions then submit applications according to their  quotas  to each agency for consideration.

Agency review

Agency review committees evaluate applications (whether sent directly to the agencies or via the institutions).

Institutions may recommend applications from self-identified Indigenous student researchers to the doctoral awards competition beyond their application quota. Self-identified Indigenous student researchers must agree to their personal information being used for this purpose by making the appropriate selection in the application form.

The Government of Canada has deployed additional funds to  increase direct support for Black student researchers . CGS D applicants who self-identify as Black and provide consent to be considered for funds targeted toward specific groups may be selected to receive this funding. Each agency has a limited number of additional CGS D awards reserved for this initiative.

For more information, consult the Frequently asked questions about the new Black scholars funding .

The evaluation of CGS D applications, whether by institutions or the agencies, is based on the following criteria:

In 2019, NSERC, CIHR and SSHRC, along with other Canadian research funding agencies, signed the  San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) . The agencies are committed to meaningful assessment of excellence in research funding and to ensuring that a wide range of research results and outcomes are considered and valued as part of the assessment process. They will continue to work to ensure that their strategies, policies and guidance align with DORA.

You will be notified of the results by April 30 if your application was submitted to the agencies directly or via your institution.

The agencies will publish the names (and other basic award information) of scholarship recipients on their respective websites.

For more information, see the Access to Information Act and the Privacy Act .

Award holders must comply with the policies and guidelines set out in the Tri-agency research training award holder’s guide and in any other documents related to scholarship applications and awards.

The agencies reserve the right to interpret and enforce the policies and guidelines for their funding opportunities set out in their published materials.

Award holders may be eligible to hold their awards part time. Refer to the Tri-agency research training award holder’s guide for further information.

You may submit your application in the official language of your choice; institutions must have mechanisms in place to review both English and French applications. For concerns about the review of applications in the official languages, applicants and institutions may contact the agencies.

CGS D holders may be eligible for:

• Canada Graduate Scholarships—Michael Smith Foreign Study supplements
• Canada Graduate Scholarships to Honour Nelson Mandela
• SSHRC supplements and related initiatives
• NSERC supplements
• CIHR related initiatives

For further information, contact the appropriate agency:

NSERC [email protected]

CIHR contact centre [email protected]

SSHRC [email protected]

Programs and courses

• Future students
• Support uOttawa
• Brightspace

Doctorate in Philosophy Translation Studies and Specialization Canadian Studies

The School of Translation and Interpretation (STI) offers graduate programs leading to the degrees of Master of Arts in Translation Studies (MA), Master in Conference Interpreting (MCI) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Translation Studies.

Doctoral Program

The primary objective of the doctoral program in translation studies is to produce qualified scholars in the field for academic teaching and research.

The doctoral program will focus on:

• Theories, history and pedagogy of translation as inter-lingual and intercultural communication.
• Lexicology, terminology, and technologies as applied to translation.

Since translation is interdisciplinary, the doctoral program may collaborate with disciplines in other units such as Law, English, Canadian Studies, French, Modern Languages and Literatures, Linguistics, Philosophy, as well as the School of Information Technology and Engineering (SITE). However, the administration of the program is the sole responsibility of the School of Translation and Interpretation.

This full-time program consists of four courses, a comprehensive exam, and a thesis.

The department participates in a collaborative program in Canadian Studies at the PhD level. For more information on this program, see “Admission Requirements.”

Because of its strength in relevant areas, its bilingual character and its location in the national capital, the University of Ottawa is uniquely positioned to offer a collaborative program leading to a specialization in Canadian Studies at the doctoral level. The program is especially designed for doctoral students in selected programs in the humanities and the social sciences who wish to enrich their training in a particular discipline by including an interdisciplinary component. 

Most seminars are bilingual, that is, they may be conducted in French or English. The student's research may be conducted not only on French and English, but also on a third language, subject to the conditions stipulated under "Additional Requirements".

The programs are governed by the  general regulations  in effect for graduate studies.

For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the  specific requirements  webpage.

MA in Translation Studies or equivalent, with a minimum average of B+ (75%). Applicants are required to submit a one- or two-page summary of their proposed research project. Applicants are also required to respond to a questionnaire concerning their background preparation.

Students with a master's containing a translation component but which is not equivalent to a master's in translation studies may be considered for admission at the master's level, with the possibility of transferring into the doctoral program after four courses, if they obtain an average of A- (80%).

Students enrolled in the master's program in Translation Studies at the University of Ottawa who have obtained excellent results may exceptionally be admitted into the doctoral program without a master's thesis. Please note that the minimal admission average requirements for the doctoral program must also be met. To take advantage of this option, they must: a) obtain A- average in six master's courses, and b) submit a major research paper of about 30 pages ( TRA 7998 ). A committee will evaluate the research potential of the paper. Admission will be dependent on the availability of a thesis supervisor in the applicant's area of research interest.

Transfer from Master's to PhD

In exceptional circumstances, it is possible to transfer from the MA program at the School of Translation and Interpretation (STI) directly into the PhD program under the following conditions:

• Completion of the 3 mandatory MA courses, plus one more MA course, with a grade of A (85%) in each course;
• Completion of a 40-page research paper ( TRA 7998 ) under the supervision of a professor who is the potential PhD thesis supervisor;
• Written recommendation for transfer from the supervisor of the paper and from the Graduate Studies Committee.

The transfer must take place within sixteen months of initial enrollment in the master’s. Students permitted to transfer will complete a total of 8 courses (24 units), 6 courses while enrolled in the master’s and 2 while enrolled in the PhD. Following transfer, the following requirements must be met: 2 courses (6 units), the comprehensive exam, the thesis proposal and the thesis.

Language Requirements

Students must meet one of the following requirements:

• Proficiency in English and French. Knowledge of a third language will be an asset. or
• Proficiency in English and another language. In this case, a good passive knowledge of French is required. or
• Proficiency in French and another language. In this case, a good passive knowledge of English is required.

The School of Translation and Interpretation (STI) reserves the right to test the linguistic knowledge of applicants.

Admission Procedure

Applications for admission are reviewed by the Graduate Studies Committee of the School of Translation and Interpretation, and must also meet the general requirements in effect for graduate studies. In addition to completing our on-line application and paying the application fee to the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre, students must also assemble all relevant documentation and forward the complete application package to the director of the School of Translation and Interpretation. Applications will not be processed without the application fee and the complete file.

To find the application deadline, please check the “program-specific requirements” under  Application Procedures and Information  at the following address:  www.grad.uottawa.ca/apply .

Collaborative Program

The School of Translation and Interpretation is a participating unit in the collaborative program in Canadian Studies (PhD level only). This program has been established for students wishing to enrich their training in Translation by including an interdisciplinary component in Canadian Studies. The seminar ( CDN 6520 or  CDN 6910 ) fits into the departmental course requirements and does not add to the number of courses required for the PhD in Translation Studies.

To be admitted to the program, students must be enrolled in or have successfully completed at least one graduate course in history with Canadian content. The mention "Specialization in Canadian Studies" will be added to the diploma of students who pass the seminar ( CDN 6520 or CDN 6910 ) and successfully defend a thesis on a Canadian topic in Translation.

Requirements for this program have been modified. Please consult the  2017-2018 calendars  for the previous requirements.

Doctoral Program in Translation Studies

These courses, chosen in consultation with the student's faculty advisor, may be taken in Translation and/or in other related fields.

Upon admission, one or two additional or substitute courses at the 5000 or 6000 level may, at the discretion of the STI, be added to complete the student's background.

Collaborative Program in Canadian Studies

Students enrolled in the collaborative program will be asked to meet both the requirements of their primary program and those of the collaborative program. The requirements of the collaborative program will serve as partial fulfillment of the requirements of their primary program.

Submission and successful defence of a thesis on a Canadian topic in the participating unit.

The proposed topic must be approved by both the participating unit and the Canadian Studies Graduate Committee. At least one of the examiners of the thesis must be a person chosen in consultation with the executive committee of the Institute of Canadian and Aboriginal Studies.

Before enrolling in  CDN 6520 , students must check to see whether this course can replace a 3-unit course in their primary program.  CDN 6520  is offered only in French.

The transfer must take place within 16 months of initial enrollment in the master’s. Students permitted to transfer will complete a total of 8 courses (24 units): 6 courses while enrolled in the master’s and 2 while enrolled in the PhD. Following transfer, the following requirements must be met: 2 courses (6 units), the comprehensive exam, the thesis proposal and the thesis.

Minimum Standards

The passing grade in all courses is C+. Students who fail two courses (equivalent to 6 units), the thesis proposal, or whose research progress is deemed unsatisfactory are required to withdraw.

Duration of the Program

Students are expected to complete all requirements within four years. The maximum time permitted is six years from the date of initial enrollment in the program.

Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC)

During the first term of the program, a thesis advisory committee (TAC) is formed for the candidate. The Committee’s membership will be determined by the specific interests of the candidate. It will be composed of the supervisor and 2-3 additional professors. At least one member of the thesis committee, in addition to the supervisor, must be form the Faculty of Arts. The TAC is responsible for guiding the student throughout the program, including course selection, the comprehensive examination, thesis proposal, and thesis defense.

A meeting between the student and the Thesis Advisory Committee will take place at least once per term. The thesis examining board may include members who are not part of the TAC.

Research at the University of Ottawa

Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, a few steps away from Parliament Hill, the University of Ottawa ranks among Canada’s top 10 research universities. Our research is founded on excellence, relevance and impact and is conducted in a spirit of equity, diversity and inclusion.

Our research community thrives in four strategic areas:

• Creating a sustainable environment
• Advancing just societies
• Shaping the digital world
• Enabling lifelong health and wellness

From advancing healthcare solutions to tackling global challenges like climate change, the University of Ottawa’s researchers are at the forefront of innovation, making significant contributions to society and beyond.

Research at the Faculty of Arts

The Faculty of Arts is proud of the state of the art research conducted by its professors. In the spirit of showcasing its research to the university community as well as to the general public, the Faculty has created three activities: Dean's Lecture Series, Treasures of the Library, and Excellence Lectures.

Facilities, Research Centres and Institutes at the Faculty of Arts

• Centre de recherche en civilisation canadienne-française
• Institute of Indigenous Research and Studies
• Institute for Science, Society and Policy
• Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI)
• Morisset Library

For more information, refer to the list of faculty members and their research fields on Uniweb . 

IMPORTANT: Candidates and students looking for professors to supervise their thesis or research project can also consult the website of the faculty or department of their program of choice. Uniweb does not list all professors authorized to supervise research projects at the University of Ottawa.

TRA 5102 Translation Theory (3 units)

A critical and comparative survey of the many theoretical approaches to understanding translation. Structuralist, descriptive, functionalist models, cultural, postcolonial, feminist and sociological approaches, and an overview of systems theory perspectives.

Course Component: Seminar

TRA 5103 Computers and Translation (3 units)

Overview of advanced computational aids for human translation, with some hands-on practice (e.g. terminology management, desk-top publishing, grammar checking). Survey of machine and machine-aided translation. Analysis of machine translation output.

TRA 5106 Language and Translation (3 units)

A historical and more contemporary survey of the linguistic concepts that are of use in translation studies and related fields.

TRA 5116 Translation Workshop (Chinese-English) (3 units)

An intensive advanced course in the translation of pragmatic texts from Chinese to English. Focus is on producing excellent English, the student second language.

TRA 5514 Terminologie transsystémique et documentation - bijuridisme et bilinguisme (3 crédits)

Volet : Séminaire

TRA 5515 Traduction législative et réglementaire de l'anglais vers le français I (3 crédits)

TRA 5524 Traduction judiciaire de l'anglais vers le français I - cours fédérales (3 crédits)

TRA 5534 Traduction juridique spécialisée de l'anglais vers le français I - valeurs mobilières (3 crédits)

TRA 5901 Histoire de la traduction / History of Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

Volet / Course Component: Séminaire / Seminar

TRA 5902 Théorie de la traduction / Translation Theory (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5903 Informatique et traduction / Computers and Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5904 Interprétation practice I / Interpretation Pactice I

Volet / Course Component: Théorie et laboratoire / Theory and Laboratory

TRA 5905 Lexicologie et terminologie et documentation / Lexicology, Terminology and Documentation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5906 Langue et traduction / Language and Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5908 Interpretation Practice II / Interprétation Practice II

TRA 5908S Formation pratique en interprétation II / Interpretation Practice II (2 crédits / 2 units)

TRA 5909 Pédagogie de la traduction / Didacting of Translator training (3 crédits / 3 units)

Volet / Course Component: Cours magistral / Lecture

TRA 5911 Interprétation judiciaire / Court Interpretation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5912 Traduction littéraire / Literary Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5913 Adaptation / Adaptation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5914 Terminologie juridique bilingue / Bilingual Legal Terminology (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5916 Atelier de traduction I / Translation Workshop I (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5917 Atelier de traduction II / Translation Workshop II (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5918 Atelier de traduction III / Translation Workshop III (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5919 Atelier de traduction IV / Translation Workshop IV (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5920 Études dirigées I / Guided Research I (3 crédits / 3 units)

Volet / Course Component: Recherche / Research

TRA 5921 Documentation de conférence I / Conference Documentation I (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5930 Études dirigées II / Guided Research (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5941 Advanced translation from Spanish into English (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5942 Traduction avancée de l'espagnol vers le français (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5951 Interprétation consécutive de l'anglais vers le français / Consecutive Interpretation from English to French (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5952 Interprétation consécutive du français vers l'anglais / Consecutive Interpretation from French to English (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5955 Documentation and Terminology for Spanish translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5970 Atelier d'interprétation consécutive de l'anglais vers le français / Consecutive Interpretation Workshop from English to French (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5971 Atelier d'interprétation consécutive de français vers l'anglais / Consecutive Interpretation Workshop from French to English (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5972 L'interprétation en français / Interpretation Into French (3 crédits / 3 units)

36 heures de formation pratique en laboratoire d'interprétation. Les candidats interprètent des discours prononcés au Parlement canadien ou à l'occasion de congrès ou réunions de l'administration fédérale et d'autres instances. L'enseignant fournit une rétroaction et des conseils sur les prestations des étudiants en prévision de l'examen final. Les discours choisis portent sur de nombreux thèmes, car une fois sur le marché du travail, les candidats seront appelés à interpréter dans une diversité de domaines. / 36 hours of practical training in a laboratory setting. Candidates interpret actual speeches delivered in Parliament and during federal government and other conferences/meetings, with the instructor providing feedback and advice individually and to the group in preparation for the final (diploma) examination. Many subject areas are covered, since candidates will be expected to interpret in a variety of fields once they are in the labour market.

TRA 5973 L'interprétation en anglais / Interpretation Into English (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 5998 Promotion examination / Promotion Examination

TRA 6102 Discourse and Translation (3 units)

A survey of conceptual models for the production, interpretation and reception of discourse as applied to translation. Enunciation, narration, argumentation. Pragmatics and sociocultural aspects of discourse.

TRA 6106 Technical and Other Specialized Translation (3 units)

This is an advanced course in technical and specialized translation into students' first language - from English to Chinese. It hones skills in translation, terminology, information-mining. (English-Chinese)

TRA 6111 Research Methods in Translation Studies (3 units)

Course covers research methods in translation studies

TRA 61111 Research Methods in Translation Studies (Part 1 of 2)

Course covers research methods in translation studies (Part 1 of 2)

TRA 61112 Research Methods in Translation Studies (Part 2 of 2) (3 units)

Course covers research methods in translation studies. (Part 2 of 2)

Prerequisite: TRA 61111

TRA 6515 Traduction législative et réglementaire de l'anglais vers le français II (3 crédits)

TRA 6516 Traduction et révision juridique et parajuridique de l'anglais vers le français (3 crédits)

TRA 6524 Traduction judiciaire de l'anglais vers le français II - cour suprême (3 crédits)

TRA 6534 Traduction juridique spécialisée de l'anglais vers le français II - prospectus (3 crédits)

TRA 6535 Traduction juridique spécialisée de l'anglais vers le français III - fusions et acquisitions (3 crédits)

TRA 6902 Discours et traduction / Discourse and Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

Panorama des notions de linguistique pertinentes pour l'étude de la traduction, ainsi que de concepts et modèles permettant la production, l'interprétation et la réception du discours dans l'optique de la traduction. Énonciation, narration, argumentation. Pragmatique et sociocritique du discours. / A survey of relevant linguistic notions for the study of translation, as well as conceptual models for the production, interpretation and reception of discourse as applied to translation. Enunciation, narration, argumentation. Pragmatics and sociocultural aspects of discourse.

TRA 6903 Traduction automatique / Machine Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

Prerequisite: TRA 5903

TRA 6905 Lexicologie, terminologie appliquée / Applied Lexicology and Terminology (3 crédits / 3 units)

Préalable: TRA 5905 / Prerequisite: TRA 5905 or permission of the professor.

TRA 6906 Traduction technique et spécialisée / Technical and Other Specialized Translation (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6907 Théorie de l'interprétation / Interpretation Theory (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6908 Lectures dirigées I / Guided Readings I (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6910 Stage / Practicum (3 crédits / 3 units)

Volet / Course Component: Stage / Work Term

TRA 6911 Méthodologie de la recherche traductologique / Research Methods in Translation Studies (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 69111 Méthodologie de la recherche traductologique (Partie 1 de 2) / Research Methods in Translation Studies (Part 1 of 2)

TRA 69112 Méthodologie de la recherche traductologique (Partie 2 de 2) / Research Methods in Translation Studies (Part 2 of 2) (3 crédits / 3 units)

Prerequisite: TRA 69111 .

TRA 6912 Stage / Practicum (3 crédits / 3 units)

Intégration et application des acquis théoriques et méthodologiques à une expérience pratique dans un milieu professionnel où l'espagnol est l'une des langues de travail. Le stage, d'une durée de 25 jours ouvrables, se déroule sous la direction d'un professionnel de la traduction et doit être approuvé par l'ÉTI. Pour les modalités du stage, s'adresser à l'ÉTI. / Integration and application of theoretical and methodological knowledge to practical work in a professional environment where Spanish is one of the working languages. The practicum, which consists of 25 working days, is supervised by a translation professional and must be approved by the STI.

Préalable : avoir réussi tous les cours obligatoires du programme. / Prerequisite: successful completion of all the compulsory courses in the program.

TRA 6913 Thèmes choisis / Special Topics (3 crédits / 3 units)

Lectures et analyse critique sur un thème choisi en collaboration avec le professeur responsable. / Readings and critical analysis on a topic chosen in collaboration with the professor.

TRA 6920 Études dirigées III / Guided Research III (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6930 Études dirigées IV / Guided Research IV (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6941 Advanced Translation from English Into Spanish (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6942 Traduction avancée du français vers l'espagnol (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6950 Interprétation simultanée de l'anglais vers le français / Simultaneous Interpretation from English to French (3 crédits / 3 units)

Préalables: TRA 5951 , TRA 5970 / Prerequisites: TRA 5951 , TRA 5970

TRA 6951 Interprétation simultanée du français vers l'anglais / Simultaneous Interpretation from French to English (3 crédits / 3 units)

Préalables: TRA 5952 , TRA 5971 / Prerequisites: TRA 5952 , TRA 5971

TRA 6952 Documentation de conférence II / Conference Documentation II (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6961 Specialized Translation from Spanish to English (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6962 Specialized Translation from English to Spanish (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6963 Traduction spécialisée de l'espagnol vers le français (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6964 Traduction spécialisée du français vers l'espagnol (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6970 Atelier d'interprétation simultanée de l'anglais vers le français / Simultaneous Interpretation Workshop from English to French II (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6971 Atelier d'interprétation simultanée de français vers l'anglais / Simultaneous Interpretation Workshop from French to English (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6980 Séminaire de recherche I / Research Seminar I (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6981 Séminaire de recherche II / Research Seminar II (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6982 Séminaire de recherche III / Research Seminar III (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6983 Séminaire de recherche IV / Research Seminar IV (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 6984 Courants actuels en traductologie I / Developments in Translation Studies I (3 crédits / 3 units)

Exploration des plus récents développements en traductologie dans la double optique des sciences humaines et des études interculturelles. / An intercultural and humanities-based perspective on contemporary trends in Translation Studies.

TRA 6985 Courants actuels en traductologie II / Developments in Translation Studies II (3 crédits / 3 units)

Perspectives actuelles en études traductologiques : aspects terminologiques, lexicologiques, technologiques et domaines connexes. / Trends in Translation Studies, with a focus on developments in terminology, lexicology, technology and related fields.

TRA 6998 Examen final / Final Exam

TRA 7011 Stage / Practicum (6 crédits / 6 units)

TRA 7012 Traduction dirigée / Supervised Translation (6 crédits / 6 units)

TRA 7013 Stage / Practicum (6 crédits / 6 units)

Stage supervisé en traduction ou terminologie espagnole d'une durée équivalente à 40 jours ouvrables dans un service de traduction ou de terminologie approuvé par l'ÉTI. Pour le détail des modalités, voir la feuille d'instructions distribuée par l'ÉTI. N.B. l'étudiant qui choisit ce stage ne pourra pas s'inscrire au stage de 3 cr. prévu parmi les cours au choix. Dans des cas très exceptionnels, l'équivalence pourra être accordée sur présentation d'un dossier de traductions (pour plus de détails, s'adresser à l'ÉTI. / Supervised practicum in Spanish translation or Spanish terminology lasting 40 working days in a translation or terminology service approved by the STI. For more details, please see the instruction sheet provided by the STI. N.B: The student who opts for this practicum cannot register for the 3 credit-practicum from among the optional courses. In highly exceptional cases, advanced standing can be granted upon presentation of a translation portfolio (for more details, please consult the STI).

Préalable : Réussir tous les cours ou obtenir la permission de l'ÉTI.

TRA 7195 Commented Translation (6 units)

A commented translation of not less than 5000 words, the exact length to be stipulated by the STI depending on the nature and difficulty of the text. The translation must be preceded by an introduction describing the text, the motivation for translating it and the translation approach used. It must be accompanied by a commentary demonstrating that the student has acquired the relevant theoretical and methodological background knowledge.Graded S (Satisfactory) or NS (Not satisfactory).

Course Component: Research

TRA 7196 Commented Terminology or Lexicography File (6 units)

Compilation of a term, lexeme or phrase file in two or more languages. The file must cover at least 15 concepts or 20 vocabulary items. It must be preceded by an introduction describing the motivation for the work, the methodology used and the subject field of the concepts or the vocabulary. It must be accompanied by a commentary demonstrating that the student has acquired the relevant theoretical and methodological background knowledge. Graded S (Satisfactory) or NS (Not satisfactory).

TRA 7197 Research Paper (6 units)

Research paper approximately 40 pages in length, focusing on a Translation Studies question chosen in consultation with the supervisor. Graded S (Satisfactory) or NS (Not satisfactory) by the supervisor and another professor in the program.

TRA 7911 Stage traduc. et termino. juri. / Stage traduc. et termino. juri. (6 crédits / 6 units)

TRA 7991 Traduction / Translation (9 crédits / 9 units)

TRA 7995 Traduction commentée / Commented Translation (6 crédits / 6 units)

Une traduction d'au moins 5 000 mots, dont la longueur exacte sera établie par l'ÉTI en fonction de la nature et du degré de difficulté du texte choisi. La traduction est précédée d'une introduction dans laquelle le candidat présente le texte ainsi que ses objectifs et sa méthode. Elle est accompagnée de commentaires qui doivent manifester des connaissances théoriques et méthodologiques pertinentes. Noté S (satisfaisant) ou NS (non satisfaisant). / A commented translation of not less than 5000 words, the exact length to be stipulated by the STI depending on the nature and difficulty of the text. The translation must be preceded by an introduction describing the text, the motivation for translating it and the translation approach used. It must be accompanied by a commentary demonstrating that the student has acquired the relevant theoretical and methodological background knowledge. Graded S (Satisfactory) or NS (Not satisfactory).

TRA 7996 Fichier terminologique ou lexicographique commenté / Commented Terminology or Lexicography File (6 crédits / 6 units)

Constitution d'un fichier terminologique, lexicographique ou phraséologique bilingue ou multilingue et commenté. Ce fichier, comportant au moins 15 notions ou 20 entrées, est précédé d'une introduction dans laquelle le candidat présente ses objectifs, sa méthode et le domaine d'application. Il est accompagné de commentaires qui doivent s'appuyer sur des connaissances théoriques et méthodologiques pertinentes. Noté S (satisfaisant) ou NS (non satisfaisant). / Compilation of a term, lexeme or phrase file in two or more languages. The file must cover at least 15 concepts or 20 vocabulary items. It must be preceded by an introduction describing the motivation for the work, the methodology used and the subject field of the concepts or the vocabulary. It must be accompanied by a commentary demonstrating that the student has acquired the relevant theoretical and methodological background knowledge. Graded S (Satisfactory) or NS (Not satisfactory).

TRA 7997 Mémoire / Research Paper (6 crédits / 6 units)

Mémoire d'environ 40 pages portant sur une question choisie en consultation avec le directeur. Noté S (satisfaisant) ou NS (non satisfaisant) par le directeur et un autre professeur du programme. / Research paper approximately 40 pages in length, focusing on a Translation Studies question chosen in consultation with the supervisor. Graded S (Satisfactory) or NS (Not satisfactory) by the supervisor and another professor in the program.

TRA 7998 Travail de recherche / Research Paper (6 crédits / 6 units)

TRA 8901 Séminaire de recherche en traduction / Translation Studies Seminar (3 crédits / 3 units)

TRA 8902 Études dirigées (PhD) / Guided Research (PhD) (3 crédits / 3 units)

Permission du Département est requise. / Permission of the Department is required.

TRA 9996 Examen de synthèse / Comprehensive Examination

Lecture et analyse d'une liste de lectures fondamentales en traductologie et domaines connexes. Examen écrit. / Reading and analysis of a list of fundamental readings in TS and related domains. Written exam.

TRA 9997 Soutenance de projet de thèse / Defence of Thesis Project

Préparation d'un projet de thèse présentant les éléments de base (objectifs, littérature, méthodologie) de la recherche proposée. Examen oral. / Preparation of a thesis proposal outlining the basic elements (objectives, literature, methodology) of the proposed research. Oral exam.

CDN 6520 Séminaire sur la francophonie canadienne (3 crédits)

Séminaire sur des thèmes se rapportant à la francophonie canadienne, particulièrement les francophones vivant en situation minoritaire.

CDN 6910 Séminaire en études canadiennes / Seminar in Canadian Studies (3 crédits / 3 units)

Séminaire interdisciplinaire bilingue sur des sujets se rapportant au Canada. Les thèmes seront choisis en consultation avec les unités participantes, en tenant compte du nombre d'étudiants, de l'orientation de leur recherches et celles des unités participantes. / Bilingual interdisciplinary seminar on issues related to the study of Canada. Tipics to be selected in consultation with participating units, taking into consideration the number of students, their research interests and those of the participating units.

Undergraduate Studies

For more information about undergraduate studies at the University of Ottawa, please refer to your faculty .

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

For more information about graduate studies at the University of Ottawa, please refer to your academic unit .

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

• Enquire Now
• About SI-Canada
• Toronto Office
• All Global Offices
• Program Search
• Free Service
• Top Universities Service
• Visa Service
• Canada Application Process
• Canadian Education System
• Canada University Rankings 2024
• All Canada Study Information
• University and College Profiles
• University and College Subjects
• Canada Study Options
• Study English

Book your Free Consultation

A member of the SI-Canada team will be in touch within 24 hours to arrange your initial consultation with one of our education experts.

PhD Courses in Canada

• Canada Study Levels
• PhD Degrees

PhD Degrees in Canada

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. Study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Canada are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Canadian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment to remain in study and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Canada?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. Candidates can cost between $5,000-$20,000 per year, although this is still considerably cheaper than US or UK equivalents. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

Study a PhD in Canada

If you are interested in studying a research degree in Canada, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Canada specializes in selecting the right Canadian university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Canada.

16 July 2024

08 july 2024, 24 june 2024, 28 september 2024, 5 october 2024, 7 october 2024, study in canada blog, studying in canada, why study in vancouver as an international student.

• Canadian Culture, Customs, Traditions, and Facts for International Students
• 10 Reasons To Study in Canada as an International Student
• The Advantages of Studying in Canada vs Studying at Home

Canadian Degrees

Studying ai at the university of alberta.

• Why Study a Master's in Canada?
• What Exams Are Required to Study in Canada?
• Canada Degrees with the Best Job Prospects

Canadian Universities

Why study at the university of alberta.

• Five Reasons to Study at Toronto Metropolitan University
• Why Choose Acadia University as an International Student?
• Six Reasons to Choose Fanshawe College in Canada

" Everything was explained well to me by Vidushi. There was a 100% transparency in everything and Vidushi was highly responsive throughout the process making it smooth and hassle free for me. Rahul from the Visa team also was really patient in the entire process and made sure I understood and get things done timely. "

Amanpreet Kaur International Business Management (May 2024 intake)

Popular Institutions Across Canada

©2024 SI-Canada | All rights reserved | Privacy Policy

• PhD Study in Canada – 2024

Canada is home to some of North America's most historic and globally renowned research universities. Its cosmopolitan society also make it a popular home for thousands of international PhD students.

The number of people studying abroad in Canada has risen by almost 30% in recent years. It's not hard to see why! Students are attracted by Canada's liberal society which celebrates its acclaimed universities. Not to mention the chance to explore the country's diverse range of stunning natural landscapes and habitats.

Why study a PhD in Canada?

• Internationally renowned universities - Canada's oldest universities date back to the seventeenth century. But, their research continues to be world-leading. Five institutions feature in the top 150 of all three major global rankings. You can be confident that a PhD from Canada is well-respected.
• Attractive international fees - PhD study in Canada is generally cheaper than in the USA. Some universities actually reduce - or even waive - international fees.
• Post-study opportunities – Completing your doctorate will entitle you to live and work in Canada for up to three years. This could lead to a pathway of permanent residency, or even citizenship.
• The great outdoors –From the Great Lakes of Ontario and Québec to the unspoilt wilderness of the vast Northwest Territories, there's plenty to explore (and even research) during your PhD.

Where can you study a PhD in Canada?

These are the top five universities for studying a PhD in Canada according to three popular world rankings.

Length of a PhD in Canada

Most courses require at least three years of full-time study and research. Some students may study for longer. You can usually register for up to six years.

In most cases you'll need to hold a Masters degree to apply for a standard Canadian PhD programme. However, some universities offer doctoral stream Masters routes that start with one or two years of MA or MSc study. These are suitable for students coming straight from an undergraduate degree but take longer to complete.

The Canadian PhD process

PhD study in Canada has more in common with the UK than the neighbouring USA. The US PhD normally begins with taught classes and examinations. However, like in the UK, a Canadian PhD is more research-focused from the outset.

However, it is also common for universities to offer structured courses within PhD programmes . Academic cohorts of students undergo collective training alongside their more independent research activities.

Courses often focus on key skills such as research techniques and methodological principles. You might have additional training in areas such as teaching, presentation or publication. Some doctoral programmes also arrange internships and professional placements.

Generally, students complete these courses in the first year of their PhD, before moving on to focus on their doctoral thesis.

In some cases you may need to sit a comprehensive exam at the end of your first or second year. This tests your general knowledge of the field before you can proceed onto more specific research. It is similar to the MPhil upgrade or 'confirmation review' used in UK universities.

Supervision and research during a PhD in Canada

You'll complete your PhD under the guidance of at least one academic supervisor. They'll be an expert in your general subject and field, though they won't have researched on your specific topic before (it wouldn't be a PhD, otherwise).

The main criteria for your degree will be the completion of a doctoral thesis. As in other countries, this must make a substantial new contribution to knowledge.

If your qualification is a professional doctorate , such as a DBA or EdD, you'll focus mainly on practical work and case studies. You'll still be required to submit a thesis, but this may be shorter and supplemented by other materials.

PhD Assessment and examination in Canada

The main criteria for a Canadian PhD is the originality and quality of your doctoral thesis . You'll normally begin drafting this during the middle part of your PhD. Then, write up a final version based on feedback from your supervisor.

Once you submit your dissertation a committee of examiners will be appointed to read and consider it. Your PhD will then proceed to an oral defence.

This process may be slightly more involved than the viva voce used in the UK and elsewhere. You may be expected to offer a presentation on your research before being questioned on the content and significance of your thesis.

The examiners will then meet to decide if your examination performance was satisfactory. If it was, you will be awarded your PhD!

Some Canadian PhD programmes also include coursework and examinations. However, these will normally be to check your progress, and won't count towards your final result.

Cotutelle programmes

Some Canadian universities work with international institutions to offer a collaborative route to a PhD. This is known as a 'cotutelle' (French for 'co-tutored').

These programmes involve a student spending time at two different universities. Both are involved in supervising, examining and awarding the PhD project.

In this sense a cotutelle is a bit like a joint PhD. However, a cotutelle is usually specific to the student's project rather than an ongoing partnership between a pair of universities. It's helpful to think of a cotutelle as a specific kind of joint PhD.

The availability of this option varies between individual Canadian universities. Check with your institution for more information.

Find a PhD in Canada

Ready to start looking for your idea project? Browse PhDs in Canada in our database.

This guide tells you all about everything you need to apply for a PhD programme in Germany.

Canada is a popular and surprisingly affordable destination for PhD study, with comparatively low fees and a range of fellowships, graduate assistantships and other funding options.

Want to study a PhD in Canada? This guide gives a detailed introduction to the kind of visa you need to study in Canada and how to apply for it.

What's it like to live in Canada during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

FindAPhD. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

Unknown    ( change )

Have you got time to answer some quick questions about PhD study?

Select your nearest city

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

• Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
• The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox
• Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
• Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and much more
• Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Do you want hassle-free information and advice?

Create your FindAPhD account and sign up to our newsletter:

• Find out about funding opportunities and application tips
• Receive weekly advice, student stories and the latest PhD news
• Hear about our upcoming study fairs
• Save your favourite projects, track enquiries and get personalised subject updates

Create your account

Looking to list your PhD opportunities? Log in here .

The Differences Between PhD Studies in the U.S. and Canada

North America is often seen as the epicenter of education, research, and innovation. This lures many prospective PhD students from all around the world. In fact, international student enrollment in Canada increased 11 percent in the last year, mainly as a result of the 2016 elections in the U.S. But despite the sociopolitical climate in the U.S., universities in the U.S. are still attracting international students. This is evidenced by the 2016-2017 data from the 2017 Open Doors Report , which revealed a total of almost 291,000 international students in the U.S.

According to the report, most international students chose the same top two areas of study, regardless of whether they studied in Canada or the U.S. The top subject areas were business and engineering.

Which country should you choose for your PhD? The best way to make a decision is to analyze the pros and cons of each country. In this blog post, we will help you arrive at a decision by describing the major differences between PhD studies in the U.S. and Canada.

Requirements for Admission to a PhD Program in the U.S. Versus Canada

The general admission requirements for a PhD in the U.S. and Canada are similar. Both countries usually require the following:

• High score on a graduate admissions tests, such as the GMAT or GRE
• Language certificates (English for the U.S., and English or French for Canada)
• Statement of purpose
• Research proposal
• Letters of recommendation
• Writing sample

Although most differences between pursuing a PhD in Canada or the U.S. will be visible during the program itself, there are two key differences that might make you favor one country over the other:

• To apply for a doctoral degree in the U.S. , a master’s degree is not necessary, whereas in Canada it is. U.S. universities accept students who have only a bachelor’s degree because the structure of PhD programs is typically longer and is designed to include part of the curriculum from master’s programs. Whereas in Canada, it is rare that students without a master’s degree can pursue a PhD. The main exception is when you enroll in a Master of Science degree program, you can switch to a PhD after the first year.
• Although the research proposal is an important admissions component in the U.S., PhD students are expected to develop their theses and research during their second or third year. In contrast, in Canada, PhD students are expected to begin working on their theses as soon as they start their PhD program.

What to Expect as a PhD Student in Canada

In Canadian PhD programs, you will be expected to participate in small group seminars and you will likely spend about 20 hours per week reading. Additionally, you will be required to do research on your thesis from the start, publish several peer-reviewed articles, and proactively apply for fellowships and scholarships to further fund your research.

Moreover, it is likely you will also participate in Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs), which might take up to 20 hours per week of your time. Although 40 hours per week is the average time you are expected to invest in your doctoral studies, depending on the program, you might find yourself working even more.

Although PhD programs in Canada are typically designed to last about four years, it is more realistic to expect that you will finish your doctorate in five or more years. This is important to remember because some programs do not allow for extended funding, so you might have to pay tuition for the extra years you take to complete your studies.

What to Expect as a PhD Student in the U.S.

Things are a bit different in U.S. PhD programs. In the U.S., there is no time pressure to complete your PhD program. The timeline to complete a PhD is typically five to six years. If it takes you longer, it is not a problem because you can keep your funding until you complete your program. The system is so flexible that some students finish their program in three years with extensive amounts of research, while others can take up to eight or even 10 years.

As in Canada, the PhD curriculum in the U.S. includes seminars, but more of them, and naturally, a lot of reading and research. Additionally, you will be asked to publish peer-reviewed articles, but they do not count as much in the U.S. as in Canada.

Although the average 40 hours’ work per week is also the norm in the U.S., the main difference with Canada is that teaching and grading responsibilities often take more of students’ time. This is tricky because it might mean that you do not have as much time as you would like to invest in your own research thesis.

The Financial Costs of a PhD in Canada Versus the U.S.

The financial aspects of doctoral programs are one of the most important issues students face, whether they are an international, U.S., or Canadian student. The average cost of a PhD program is a lot cheaper in Canada than in the U.S. However, if you are an international student, you should expect higher fees in both countries. Below are the average tuition rates that international students pay for PhD studies in each country:

• Average tuition in the U.S.: $28,000 – $40,000 USD per year
• Average tuition in Canada: $8,000 – $20,000 CAD per year

The advantage the U.S. has over Canada in this respect is that you are more likely to find a fully funded doctorate in the U.S. than in Canada. Plus, in the U.S., by securing a TA or RA position, you automatically receive a tuition waiver.

In Canada, students typically have to apply for scholarships based on academic merit. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, cost of research, and occasionally living costs. Sometimes TAs and RAs can further cover the cost of studies, either partially or totally.

Living costs vary in both countries, but on average, living in Canada is still cheaper than living in the U.S. To get an idea about what to expect in terms of living costs, below are some median figures:

• Average student living costs in the U.S.: $1,200 – $2,500 USD per month
• Average student living costs in the Canada: $1,000 – $1,500 CAD per month

Employment Options After a PhD in Canada Versus the U.S.

If you are looking to obtain a PhD, you probably know that a doctoral program is more about passion for research and teaching than anything else. Numerous reports show that most industries are just as happy with employees that hold only a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. Furthermore, many statistics show that PhD graduates do not earn more immediately after their studies and that the financial benefits of doing doctoral studies are more visible in the long run.

That being said, in our comparison, PhD studies in the U.S. have more favorable outcomes than in Canada. Recent data shows that the demand for employees with a doctoral degree in Canada is lower than the number of doctoral graduates. But this should not necessarily discourage you. It simply means that you will have to make a name for yourself in a more competitive market, given that most jobs in Canada for PhD graduates are available in the academic and research sectors.

The U.S. business sector is more educated about the added value a PhD graduate can bring to a company, and consequently, there are more jobs (outside of the academic and research sectors) available for holders of a doctoral degree.

Common Ground Between Canada and the U.S.

In both the U.S. and Canada, you will be required to put in a lot of hard work in your PhD program. If you imagine a PhD is going to be like a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you may be in for a lot of surprises (and challenges). Fortunately, both the U.S. and Canada have strong international student organizations and associations that can help you better integrate with your PhD program, adjust to life as a PhD student, and make connections. In fact, in both countries, you are actively encouraged to join such networks and partake in their activities.

Another aspect in common is that your professional success or work-life balance—basically, your overall satisfaction with the PhD program—will depend on the following factors:

• Field of study
• Supervising professor

These three factors make a world of difference in your level of satisfaction with your PhD program because:

• Your field of study influences your workload and can have a negative impact on your results if you are not 100 percent motivated to research the topic you choose.
• Your department influences your finances and your social relations. It is with people in your department that you will spend the most time. Furthermore, the relationship the department has with the university influences a lot of the administrative issues related to your studies, including the stipends, grants, and scholarships that you are likely to receive. Additionally, the relationships your department has with the industry can influence your career prospects.
• Your  supervising professor is the scholar with whom you will work most closely. It is essential to have someone you can communicate with, who is genuinely interested in your project, and whose knowledge and experience are relevant for your research.

Now all you have to do is decide which country and program are right for you. The PhD Portal is a great resource for finding and comparing PhD programs in Canada and the U.S.

Best of luck in pursuing your PhD studies!

You might also be interested in:

How to Use Your Credential Evaluation to Support Your Job Search

WES Advisor | August 13, 2024

Navigating the job market with an international degree can be challenging. Employers in the United States and Canada might not understand the value of your education. The most objective thing to do this is to obtain a credential evaluation from a reputable credential evaluation provider, like WES.  This article discusses how a credential evaluation can […]

Translation Requirements for a WES Credential Evaluation

WES Advisor | August 2, 2024

In most cases, translation is not necessary for a WES credential evaluation. However, if you have been requested to provide translated documents, you might be an exception.   Keep reading to learn more about document translation requirements for a WES credential evaluation.  Why does WES require translated documents?  Translations support required documents and facilitate the evaluation process, ensuring the accuracy […]

How Asare Discovered and Pursued a Passion for Education

WES Advisor | August 1, 2024

Asare is a teacher in Ghana, but his ambitions to pursue advanced degrees and deepen his professional connections in education may soon be taking him to the United States.  As a child, Asare had hoped to follow his father’s path and become a pastor and address important community issues. He recalls his father’s collaborative efforts […]

What You Need to Know: Answers to Questions About WES Credential Evaluation Reports

WES Advisor | July 16, 2024

Planning to order a WES credential evaluation? If you’re looking to pursue the next chapter in your life in the United States or Canada, a WES credential evaluation report will support your post-secondary school and job applications. Keep reading to get answers to frequently asked questions about WES credential evaluations:   What is a WES reference number? How do I obtain one?  A WES reference number is generated once you submit your application along with full […]

We have updated our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy . By using this website, you accept the new terms.

Olympic Breakdancer Raygun Has PhD in Breakdancing?

Rachael gunn earned a zero in breakdancing at the paris 2024 olympic games., aleksandra wrona, published aug. 13, 2024.

About this rating

Gunn's Ph.D. thesis, titled "Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: a B-girl's Experience of B-boying," did cover the topic of breakdancing. However ...

... Gunn earned her Ph.D. in cultural studies. Moreover, a "PhD in breakdancing" does not exist as an academic discipline.

On Aug. 10, 2024, a rumor spread on social media that Rachael Gunn (also known as "Raygun"), an Australian breakdancer who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, had a Ph.D. in breakdancing. "This australian breakdancer has a PhD in breakdancing and dance culture and was a ballroom dancer before taking up breaking. I don't even know what to say," one X post on the topic read .

"Australian Olympic breakdancer Rachael Gunn has a PhD in breakdancing and dance culture," one X user wrote , while another asked, "Who did we send? Raygun, a 36-year-old full-time lecturer at Sydney's Macquarie University, completed a PhD in breaking culture and is a lecturer in media, creative arts, literature and language," another X user wrote .

The claim also spread on other social media platforms, such as Reddit and Instagram . 

"Is she the best break dancer? No. But I have so much respect for going on an international stage to do something you love even if you're not very skilled at it," one Instagram user commented , adding that, "And, I'm pretty sure she's using this as a research endeavor and will be writing about all our reactions to her performance. Can't wait to read it!"

In short, Gunn's Ph.D. thesis, titled "Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-girl's Experience of B-boying," indeed focused on the topic of breakdancing. However, Gunn earned her Ph.D. in cultural studies, not in breakdancing. Furthermore, it's important to note that a "PhD in breakdancing" does not exist as an academic discipline. 

Since Gunn's research focused on the breakdancing community, but her degree is actually in the broader field of cultural studies, we have rated this claim as a "Mixture" of truths.

Gunn "secured Australia's first ever Olympic spot in the B-Girl competition at Paris 2024 by winning the QMS Oceania Championships in Sydney, NSW, Australia," the Olympics official website informed . 

Gunn earned a zero in breakdancing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and clips of her routine went viral on social media, with numerous users creating memes or mocking dancer's moves. "As well as criticising her attire, social media users mocked the Australian's routine as she bounced around on stage like a kangaroo and stood on her head at times," BBC article on the topic read . 

The website of the Macquarie University informed Gunn "is an interdisciplinary and practice-based researcher interested in the cultural politics of breaking" and holds a Ph.D. in cultural studies, as well as a bachelor of arts degree (Hons) in contemporary music: 

Rachael Gunn is an interdisciplinary and practice-based researcher interested in the cultural politics of breaking. She holds a PhD in Cultural Studies (2017) and a BA (Hons) in Contemporary Music (2009) from Macquarie University. Her work draws on cultural theory, dance studies, popular music studies, media, and ethnography. Rachael is a practising breaker and goes by the name of 'Raygun'. She was the Australian Breaking Association top ranked bgirl in 2020 and 2021, and represented Australia at the World Breaking Championships in Paris in 2021, in Seoul in 2022, and in Leuven (Belgium) in 2023. She won the Oceania Breaking Championships in 2023.

Gunn's biography further revealed that she is a member of the Macquarie University Performance and Expertise Reasearch Centre, and has a range of teaching experience at undergraduate and postgraduate levels "across the areas of media, creative industries, music, dance, cultural studies, and work-integrated learning." 

Moreover, it informed her research interests included, "Breaking, street dance, and hip-hop culture; youth cultures/scenes; constructions of the dancing body; politics of gender and gender performance; ethnography; the methodological dynamics between theory and practice."

Gunn earned her Ph.D. from the Department of Media, Music, Communications, and Cultural Studies within the Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University. Below, you can find the abstract of her paper, shared by the official website of Macquarie University:

This thesis critically interrogates how masculinist practices of breakdancing offers a site for the transgression of gendered norms. Drawing on my own experiences as a female within the male-dominated breakdancing scene in Sydney, first as a spectator, then as an active crew member, this thesis questions why so few female participants engage in this creative space, and how breakdancing might be the space to displace and deterritorialise gender. I use analytic autoetthnography and interviews with scene members in collaboration with theoretical frameworks offered by Deleuze and Guttari, Butler, Bourdieu and other feminist and post-structuralist philosophers, to critically examine how the capacities of bodies are constituted and shaped in Sydney's breakdancing scene, and to also locate the potentiality for moments of transgression. In other words, I conceptualize the breaking body as not a 'body' constituted through regulations and assumptions, but as an assemblage open to new rhizomatic connections. Breaking is a space that embraces difference, whereby the rituals of the dance not only augment its capacity to deterritorialize the body, but also facilitate new possibilities for performativities beyond the confines of dominant modes of thought and normative gender construction. Consequently, this thesis attempts to contribute to what I perceive as a significant gap in scholarship on hip-hop, breakdancing, and autoethnographic explorations of Deleuze-Guattarian theory.

In a response to online criticism of her Olympics performance, Gunn wrote on her Instagram profile: "Don't be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that's gonna take you":

We have recently investigated other 2024 Paris Olympics' -related rumors, such as:

• Lifeguards Are Present at Olympic Swimming Competitions?
• Hobby Lobby Pulled $50M in Ads from 2024 Paris Olympics?
• 2024 Paris Olympics Are 'Lowest-Rated' Games in Modern History?

Gunn, Rachael Louise. Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-Girl's Experience of B-Boying. 2022. Macquarie University, thesis. figshare.mq.edu.au, https://doi.org/10.25949/19433291.v1.

---. Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-Girl's Experience of B-Boying. 2022. Macquarie University, thesis. figshare.mq.edu.au, https://doi.org/10.25949/19433291.v1.

Ibrahim, Nur. "Lifeguards Are Present at Olympic Swimming Competitions?" Snopes, 8 Aug. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/lifeguards-paris-olympics-swimming/.

"Olympic Breaking: Criticism of Viral Breakdancer Rachael Gunn - Raygun - Condemned by Australia Team." BBC Sport, 10 Aug. 2024, https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/articles/c2dgxp5n3rlo.

ORCID. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1069-4021. Accessed 12 Aug. 2024.

Paris 2024. https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/athlete/-raygun_1940107. Accessed 12 Aug. 2024.

Saunders, Grant Leigh, and Rachael Gunn. "Australia." Global Hip Hop Studies, vol. 3, no. 1–2, Dec. 2023, pp. 23–32. Macquarie University, https://doi.org/10.1386/ghhs_00060_1.

Wazer, Caroline. "2024 Paris Olympics Are 'Lowest-Rated' Games in Modern History?" Snopes, 1 Aug. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/paris-olympics-lowest-rated-games/.

---. "Hobby Lobby Pulled $50M in Ads from 2024 Paris Olympics?" Snopes, 8 Aug. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/olympics-hobby-lobby-ads/.

By Aleksandra Wrona

Aleksandra Wrona is a reporting fellow for Snopes, based in the Warsaw, Poland, area.

Article Tags

Howdy from the College of Marine Sciences and Maritime Studies

The College of Marine Sciences and Maritime Studies is the state’s premier marine and maritime destination, with internationally renowned faculty and programs tailored to your passion for the coast and sea. Located on Texas A&M’s island campus in the vibrant coastal community of Galveston, you’ll have an ocean of possibilities at your doorstep.

How to Apply

Learn how to apply, sign up for a campus tour, check your application status and more!

Undergraduate Majors

We offer more than ten undergraduate programs spanning marine science, engineering, business and logistics, transportation and liberal arts that make the most of our location with immersive experiences and rigorous classroom engagement. Four of our degree programs can be combined with a U.S. Coast Guard license through the Texas A&M Maritime Academy to expand your earnings and opportunities.

Graduate Programs

Our graduate programs explore the economic, social, political, and ecological aspects of our oceans and coasts, aiming to enhance understanding, stewardship, and sustainability of these vital resources. All graduate programs can be combined with a U.S. Coast Guard license through the Texas A&M Maritime Academy to support your career goals.

Departments

Our seven departments are home to pioneers, researchers and educators at the top of their field. With a strong focus on immersive experiences, we are making a difference in real-world problems that impact marine wildlife and resources, coastal communities, maritime industries and urban infrastructure.

Our Location

We are located on Texas A&M’s Galveston Campus, a hub of marine, coastal and maritime excellence in the vibrant coastal community of Galveston, Texas. Here we have direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, Houston and Galveston ports, shipping lanes, estuaries, and coastlines, which serve as our natural laboratories for hands-on learning, training and research.

Making an Impact

We are solving global challenges and advancing Texas A&M’s sea-grant mission to improve understanding, stewardship and sustainability of the blue economy with innovation, discovery and scholarship.

Dive in and explore the wonders of the marine and estuarine environments with our summer camp programs for children and adolescents.

In the News

Father And Son Together On Summer Sea Term

This summer, James P. (Jim) Gompper, Texas A&M Maritime Academy commandant, and James H. (Jim) Gompper ’21, Texas A&M University at Galveston former student and summer sea term deck watch officer, are sailing together on TS Kennedy as part of the academy’s annual summer sea term. The pair are father and son, each happy to ...

Do You Have Advice For The Class Of 2028?

What do you wish somebody had told you when you were an incoming freshman at Texas A&M-Galveston? Let us know! We are collecting words of wisdom for the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2028. Send Your Advice at tx.ag/28for28.

Whittington Has A Magical Summer With Disney College Program

On April 1, maritime studies major Ashton Whittington ’25 started as a cast member, a term for all Walt Disney World employees, in the Disney College Program. Bldg. 311 sat down with him to talk about his experience so far. What made you decide to apply to the Disney College Program? I had been interested ...

• Accessibility Options:
• Skip to Content
• Skip to Search
• Skip to footer
• Office of Disability Services
• Request Assistance
• 305-284-2374
• High Contrast
• School of Architecture
• College of Arts and Sciences
• Miami Herbert Business School
• School of Communication
• School of Education and Human Development
• College of Engineering
• School of Law
• Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
• Miller School of Medicine
• Frost School of Music

School of Nursing and Health Studies

• The Graduate School
• Division of Continuing and International Education
• People Search
• Class Search
• IT Help and Support
• Privacy Statement
• Student Life
• University of Miami
• Division of University Communications
• Office of Media Relations
• Miller School of Medicine Communications
• Hurricane Sports
• UM Media Experts
• Emergency Preparedness
• Current Events
• Publications
• About SONHS
• Admissions & Student Services
• Faculty & Staff
• Life at SONHS
• Latest Headlines
• Nursing School
• Subscribe to News@TheU Newsletter
• UM NEWS HOME

Audrey Harkness, Ph.D., assistant professor, University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, receives $3.8M NIH research grant

By SONHSNews

The University of Miami (UM) School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS) is honored to announce that assistant professor Audrey Harkness, Ph.D., has been awarded a $3.8 million R01 grant from the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The five-year grant will support her new study, “Leveraging a Strategic Alliance of Community-Based Implementers and Researchers to Characterize, Protocolize, and Scale Up Local Implementation Strategies for Ending the HIV Epidemic among Latino MSM.” The NIH’s highly-competitive R01 grants are awarded to researchers with a proven track record of experience and expertise in their field and mark the recipient’s achievement of independent investigator status.

Dr. Harkness and her team will visit community organizations in Miami and Orlando, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, to identify and assess the strategies they are using to improve the reach of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and mental health/substance use treatment to Latino men who have sex with men (MSM). The team will build an online dashboard to showcase the most promising strategies, making them available to other organizations serving Latino MSM in the United States.  

“Often, researchers develop programs to bring HIV services into the community and then try to get organizations to implement them—but these programs aren’t always feasible in a real-world setting,” said Harkness. “This study is different because we’re taking the reverse approach: centering the knowledge and experience of community organizations and leveraging the strategies they’ve developed to engage Latino MSM.”

The study will assess each strategy to learn about how well it is working, whether it addresses key factors known to be important in increasing use of health care services, and whether it uses an effective method to promote behavior change. “Our approach upholds rigorous scientific standards,” said Harkness. “If a strategy meets these standards, we'll develop a protocol that other organizations can follow to use the strategy in their own setting.”

Dr. Harkness is a psychologist with years of training and experience working with sexual minority men in the areas of mental health, HIV, and public health, and leveraging implementation science to improve implementation of programs for sexual minority men. “Dr. Harkness is a promising new investigator who is already making her mark in the field,” said SONHS Dean and Professor Hudson P. Santos, R.N., Ph.D., F.A.B.M.R., F.A.A.N. “Her study addresses an urgent public health issue because Latino MSM are disproportionately impacted by HIV. And it’s transformational in its approach to identifying and scaling up community-generated strategies that can benefit other organizations across the nation.”

The new study responds to the “Ending the HIV Epidemic” (EHE) initiative for the US, which aims to reduce new cases of HIV in the US by 90 percent by 2030 through science-based strategies in the areas of diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and response. The study builds on formative work supported by an NIH “Ending the HIV Epidemic” administrative supplement awarded to Harkness through UM’s Center for HIV and Research in Mental Health (CHARM), which is led by Steven A. Safren, Ph.D.

As the study’s principal investigator, Harkness will collaborate with an expansive 30-member team of community-based implementers and researchers known as the “SOMOS Alianza” (San Juan, Orlando, Miami Organizational Strategic Alliance). Colleagues Edda Santiago Rodriguez, Dr.P.H., M.P.H., and Eric Schrimshaw, Ph.D., will serve as lead investigators at the University of Puerto Rico and University of Central Florida, respectively. The network will tap into community wisdom and organizational best practices across three EHE regions that share many commonalities and cross-geographical migration, yet experience their own barriers to sharing resources and information.

“Community organizations are often fragmented networks,” said Harkness. “This study allows us to be the bridge that helps to connect organizations to each other, so they in turn can help Latino MSM connect to the resources and treatments that work.”

About the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies:  The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS) transforms lives and health care through education, research, innovation, and service across the hemisphere. Established in 1948 as South Florida’s first collegiate nursing program, SONHS is a world-class, prestigiously accredited, research-driven school conferring undergraduate nursing, public health, and health science degrees, and advanced nursing degrees. SONHS values its diverse faculty, students, and 250+ clinical and community health partners. Its research core includes the Biobehavioral Research Laboratory, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre, Center for Latino Health Research Opportunities (CLaRO), Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Training Program, and 41,000-square-foot Simulation Hospital Advancing Research and Education (S.H.A.R.E. ® ). For more information, visit  sonhs.miami.edu .

Undergraduate and Graduate

Get started, leading edge research.

Student Services

Student resources.

• P.O. Box 248153 Coral Gables , FL 33124
• 305-284-3666 305-284-3666
• UM News and Events
• Alumni & Friends
• 'Cane Watch

Tools and Resources

• Academic Calendar
• Department Search
• Parking & Transportation
• social-facebook
• social-twitter
• social-youtube
• social-instagram

Copyright: 2024 University of Miami. All Rights Reserved. Emergency Information Privacy Statement & Legal Notices Title IX & Gender Equity Website Feedback

Individuals with disabilities who experience any technology-based barriers accessing the University’s websites or services can visit the Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion .

Julie Ada appointed Assistant Professor

By Common Law

Communication, Faculty of Law

Her principal fields of research include international human rights law, comparative law, law and gender, law and culture and human rights in cross-cultural perspectives. She is interested in policy reforms and projectxs with an end goal of social change.

We are delighted to announce that Julie Ynès Ada Tchoukou is an Assistant Professor, effective July 1, 2024. 

Professor Ada's appointment is the latest milestone in her already distinguished career and we thank her for the many contributions she has already made to the uOttawa Common Law Section.

An expert in human rights law in cross-cultural perspectives, Professor Ada's journey with the University of Ottawa began with her doctoral research. Before she completed her PhD at uOttawa in 2021, she was selected as the Shirley Greenberg Fellow in Women and the Legal Profession (2021-2023). 

Last year, in 2023-2024, she was the Allan Rock Visiting Professor, during which she focused on educating the next generation of legal practitioners in critical race theory and directed research projects on the law's role in perpetuating racial inequalities .

She is a dynamic force in the academic community, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to her teaching and research. She teaches courses such as Property Law, Immigration and Refugee Law, Theory and Practice of Social Justice, Race, Gender and Canadian Legal Culture, Comparative Law, Applied Learning, and Equal Justice Advocacy.

In response to her promotion, Professor Ada shared her excitement and commitment to her new role: "I am incredibly grateful to the University of Ottawa, the Faculty of Law, and Dean Boon for this opportunity and truly honored to accept the promotion. Working as a law professor at the University of Ottawa is a dream come true. 

“Immigrating to Canada as a foreign trained lawyer and scholar from South Africa taught me resiliency and gratitude for the generosity of professors at our faculty who supported me throughout my PhD journey. I'd never be where I am today without them. Our law faculty is home to brilliant scholars engaged in forward-thinking, inclusive, and innovative research with intellectual courage and passion. I am thrilled to be a part of this special academic community. I look forward to learning from them, exchanging ideas with them and hopefully add a few small pieces to the already strong intellectual culture at the faculty". 

Kristen Boon, the Susan & Perry Dellelce Dean of the Common Law Section, stated: "Professor Ada brings important international perspectives to our faculty, and is passionately committed to her work.  She has already been a major contributor to the graduate studies program and has been deeply involved with black and law students.   Her appointment as Assistant Professor is a testament to her commitment to excellence.  We look forward to seeing her continue to inspire and challenge our students."

To learn more about her background, research and publications, please visit Julie Ada’s faculty biography page .

We are excited to support Professor Ada in her new role and look forward to her continued contributions to the legal field and the academic community.

Language selection

• Français fr

Public policy: Open work permits for recent Hong Kong graduates

As a recent Hong Kong graduate, you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit under a temporary public policy for Hong Kong residents . The public policy expires on February 7, 2025.

The open work permit is valid for up to 3 years .

On this page

• Education requirements for post-secondary studies
• Education requirements for graduate and post-graduate studies (effective February 8, 2023)

Designated organizations

• If you’re outside Canada
• If you’re in Canada

If you’re outside Canada when your work permit application is approved

If you’ve already applied for permanent residence and your open work permit will expire soon, who can apply.

To be eligible, you must

• For example, if your passport is valid for 6 months, then you will be issued an open work permit for 6 months.
• To maximize the duration of the open work permit, make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 years from the date of approval.
• Tell us how long you want your work permit to be valid.
• meet the education requirements for post-secondary, graduate or post-graduate studies (see below for details)

Education requirements for post-secondary studies effective February 8, 2023

You must have graduated no more than 10 years before you apply for this open work permit, with one of the following :

• a degree (for example, associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral) from a designated post-secondary learning institution in Canada or an institution abroad
• a diploma from a program of at least 2 years from a designated post-secondary learning institution in Canada or an institution abroad
• from a program of at least 1 year
• you must have received the post-secondary degree or diploma no more than 5 years before you started the graduate/post-graduate program
• a designated learning institution in Canada
• an institution abroad

If you’ve already applied

If you’ve already applied but you haven’t received a decision, your application will be processed under this change but you must have graduated within 10 years of the date you submitted your work permit application to be eligible.

If you got your education abroad

You don’t need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to apply if you got a degree (for example, associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral) outside Canada, but an officer may request one later.

If you got a post-secondary, graduate or post-graduate  diploma  outside Canada, you must provide an ECA.

The ECA must be from an organization or a professional body designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. They’ll give you a report that tells you what your education is equal to in Canada.

Processing times and costs for the ECA vary by the organization or professional body.

Once you choose a designated organization or a professional body, they’ll tell you how to submit your documents to get your ECA.

You must use one of these designated organizations:

• designated: April 17, 2013
• designated: August 6, 2015

How to apply

You must apply for the open work permit online, unless you’re exempt . You can’t apply at a port of entry.

Who can apply on paper

• eligible applicants in Canada
• eligible applicants outside Canada

Who's eligible to apply on paper outside Canada

You’re only eligible to apply on paper if you

• have a disability that prevents you from applying online
• hold an identity or travel document for non-national residents, refugees or stateless persons

Apply for a work permit

Step 1: Make sure you have what you need

To apply online, you need

• a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents
• a valid credit or debit card

Step 2: Pay your fees

You’re exempt from paying the open work permit holder fee (CAN$100). Don’t pay this fee.

You must pay the

• work permit processing fee (CAN$155)
• biometric fee, if you need to give biometrics

Because you’re exempt from paying the open work permit holder fee, you need to pay your fees before you apply online.

• Go to fees for temporary residence applications.
• Scroll down to the row for workers.
• If you’re applying for just your own work permit, enter “1.”
• If you need to give biometrics, scroll down to the row for biometrics.
• If you’re applying for just yourself, enter “1.”
• If you’re applying for 2 or more people, choose Biometrics – per family and enter “1.”

The system will calculate the total amount you need to pay when you click Submit .

Keep your receipt

After you pay your fee, keep a copy of the receipt. You’ll need to upload it when you apply online for your work permit.

Step 3: Create your online account or sign in

You need an account to apply online. You can use your account to

• submit your application forms
• check your status

How to start your application

Once you sign in to your account, you need to

• go to the Start your application section on the account welcome page
• click Apply to come to Canada
• on the next page, scroll down to the I do not have a personal reference code section
• click on the Visitor visa, study and/or work permit button
• on the next page, select Work

Get your document checklist

You must answer some questions to create a personalized document checklist.

Make sure you answer these questions correctly

• You would like to work temporarily—more than 6 months
• Answer “Yes” to the question Will you be coming to Canada under an active public policy or special measure announced by IRCC?
• Select “A work permit under an active public policy or special measure announced by IRCC” as the type of work permit you want to apply for.
• You’re a resident of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
• You’ve lived in any other designated country or territory for 6 months in the last year.
• You are exempt from paying only the open work permit holder fee. See Step 2: Pay your fees .

Read the instruction guide and complete the application

You should read the instruction guide before you complete your application. Once you get your document checklist, fill out the application form and supporting documents. The guide will explain how to complete each field on the form.

Special instructions for this public policy

When you fill out the work permit application form:

• Select “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit you’re applying for in the Details of Intended work in Canada section.
• Enter “HKPPTR” as the Job title .
• Enter “Hong Kong public policy – open work permit” in the Brief description of duties field.
• Enter the date you expect to enter Canada as the Start date .
• You can’t ask for a date beyond the expiry date of your passport.

Upload the correct documents

Your documents must show that you’re eligible for the public policy. You must upload the completed application form and include the following documents with your application.

Depending on your situation, you may also need to

• give biometrics
• Residents of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region must get a medical exam.
• If we ask you for a police certificate, there are special instructions to get one in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region .

Upload a sheet of paper with the words “Not applicable” if you’re asked for the following documents:

• employment reference letter
• letter from current employer
• employment records
• employment contract

To be eligible, one of the following must apply:

• you have valid status as a visitor, student or worker
• you applied to extend your status before it expired (“ maintained status ”)
• you’re eligible to restore your status
• you already have an open work permit issued under the previous Hong Kong public policy (2021)

If you need to restore your status

When you apply under this public policy in Canada, you’re exempt from paying the

• open work permit holder fee (CAN$100)

However, if you’ve lost your status, you need to

• restore your previous status
• pay the restoration fee (CAN$200)

How to pay your restoration fee

You need to pay your restoration fee before you apply online:

• Go to Pay your application fees online (make an additional payment or pay other fees).
• Go to the row to pay a Custom amount .
• In the quantity column, enter “200.”

After you pay your restoration fee, keep a copy of the receipt . You’ll need to upload it when you apply online for your work permit.

Step 2: Create your online account or sign in

• You would like to work temporarily—for more than 6 months.
• For students, this is a temporary measure while we update the application system.

Answer “yes” when asked:

Does one of the following apply to you?

• I am subject of a removal order that is unenforceable
• I applied for a study or work permit before entering Canada that was approved, but not issued at a port of entry
• I am in primary or secondary school, or a visiting or exchange student, in Canada with visitor status
• I am applying for an open work permit under an active public policy or pilot program announced by IRCC
• I am a student who has completed a program of study that is a prerequisite to my enrolment at a designated learning institution with visitor status in Canada
• Spouse or Common-law Partner in Canada
• Humanitarian and Compassionate cases
• Protected Persons in Canada
• Live-in Caregiver in Canada
• Answer “Yes, I will be paying my fees.” to the question: There are fees associated with this application. Will you be paying your fees or are you fee exempt?

Once you get your document checklist, complete the application forms. You should read the instruction guide before you complete your application. The guide will explain how to complete each field on the form.

• Enter “Hong Kong public policy—open work permit” in the Brief description of duties field.
• It may not be possible to finalize your application by the start date you ask for.
• If we don’t finalize your application by your requested start date, we’ll update the end date of your work permit in line with your new start date.
• You can’t ask for an end date beyond the expiry date of your passport.

You need to include the following documents with your application:

• get a medical exam
• provide other documents

After you apply

Find out what to do and what happens after you apply for your work permit .

If you plan to apply for permanent residence

There is a Canadian work experience stream under the permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents . You can use the work experience you gain with this open work permit or any other work permit to meet the hours of work requirement for this pathway.

Open work permit for Hong Kong permanent residence applicants

Starting May 27, 2024, you’ll be able to apply for an open work permit, while you wait for your permanent residence application to be processed, if you meet both of the following requirements:

• You applied for permanent residence under 1 of the 2 permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents
• You held a work or study permit within 3 years of us receiving your permanent residence application.

Find out more about the open work permit.

We’ll issue you a letter of introduction with a deadline to enter Canada. If you delay your travel to Canada, you might not be able to get the work experience you need before the permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents close on August 31, 2026.

You may be eligible for a new open work permit for up to 3 years if

• you’re waiting for your permanent resident application for Hong Kong residents to be processed
• your open work permit will expire soon

Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply .

Credit cards and prepaid cards

We accept credit cards and prepaid cards from:

• MasterCard ®
• American Express ®
• UnionPay ®  (for online applications only; debit cards not accepted)

If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for  at least  18 months after you pay to make refunds easier.  Find more on prepaid cards .

We also accept all Visa Debit cards.The card you use doesn't have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Debit cards

• be from a Canadian bank using  INTERAC ®  Online , and
• be registered for online banking through your bank’s website.

We also accept all Debit MasterCard ®  and Visa ®  Debit cards. If your card has the Visa Debit logo on it, alone or with the INTERAC ®  Online logo, select Visa Debit as your payment method.

The card you use does not have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Page details

The Australian Olympian 'Raygun' went viral for her breaking moves. Now she's defending them.

• Rachael Gunn, known as "Raygun," is an Australian B-girl (break-girl) who competed at the Olympics .
• She lost three battles in the round-robin part of the competition, but her moves went viral online.
• Gunn and sporting organizations are speaking out about harassment and misinformation after her performance.

Breaking made its debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics — and while she didn't earn a spot on the podium, the Australian breaker Rachael Gunn, known as Raygun, has received plenty of recognition online.

Gunn is a 36-year-old lecturer at Macquarie University in Sydney whose research focuses on the "cultural politics of breaking," according to her faculty profile .

But Gunn's time on the Olympic stage was short-lived. The B-girl was eliminated during the round-robin stage of the women's breaking competition, losing in one-on-one battles to the United States' Logistx, France's Syssy, and Lithuania's Nicka.

Raygun didn't earn a point in any of those battles, but as clips of her performance spread online, she got something else: instant meme status.

Here's what you need to know about Raygun now that the breaking competition is over.

Raygun is an academic who studies breaking — and she competes internationally

Before Gunn went to the Olympics, she approached the 2024 Games from an academic perspective.

With her coauthor, Lucas Marie, Gunn published an article in the June 2023 issue of Global Hip Hop Studies titled "The Australian breaking scene and the Olympic Games: The possibilities and politics of sportification." The article examined how the Olympics' institutionalization would affect the Australian breaking scene.

Alongside her academic career, Gunn is a competing B-girl. But before she got into breaking, she had experience with ballroom dancing, jazz, hip-hop, salsa, and tap, The Australian Women's Weekly reported. Gunn told The Sydney Morning Herald that her husband, Samuel Free, introduced her to breaking in 2008 while they were at university. Free is still her coach, she said.

Gunn told Women's Weekly that breaking "hooked" her in 2012, around the time that she began her doctoral program in cultural studies. She began competing more seriously in 2018 and eventually set her sights on the Olympics.

According to her university profile, she was the top-ranked B-girl of the Australian Breaking Association in 2020 and 2021, representing the country at the World DanceSport Federation Breaking Championships in 2021, 2022, and 2023. She also won the WDSF Oceania Breaking Championships in 2023.

"My bag always has two main things: It's like, my knee pads and my laptop," Gunn said on the podcast " The Female Athlete Project ." "Because I need my knee-pads to break. And then, yeah, just do some emails quickly. Or like, do some revisions on a chapter I submitted, or copyedit this article I did, or moderate those grades."

The athlete also told the Herald that she preferred to wear "baggy jeans and a baggy T-shirt" while breaking.

"I like the heaviness they bring," Gunn said. "Maybe it's my background in hip-hop, but having weight closer to the ground works for me, gets me in the right headspace."

Raygun's performances at the Olympics sparked memes and criticism

Raygun took the stage at the Olympics wearing a tracksuit in Australia's green and gold, breaking out moves that included hopping like a kangaroo. Her performances attracted attention online and memes that compared her moves to, among other things, dancing children.

Related stories

The fact that RayGun has a Ph.D in breakdancing is its own commentary on academia vs real world expertise. https://t.co/pQcL8HzAW9 — BioTechSnack (@SnackBioTech) August 9, 2024

me forcing my mom to watch the dance i made up in the pool pic.twitter.com/zbtwEFjpTG — kenzi (@kenzianidiot) August 9, 2024

Judges made the right call here because what was that move lol #Olympics #Breakdancing pic.twitter.com/sXAs9AdHjX — MⓞNK BLOODY P👑s (@MonkeyBlood) August 9, 2024

But some critics argued that Raygun's performance didn't represent breaking — a sport that will not return to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

Breaking came from Black and brown communities in the Bronx in the 1970s. Malik Dixon, an African American man who lives in Australia, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that Gunn came off as "somebody who was toying with the culture" during a significant moment for the sport.

(You can watch the 2024 Olympic events — including Raygun's full performance — on Peacock.)

Raygun qualified for the Olympics through the Oceania Breaking Championships

There were three ways to qualify for breaking at the Olympics, which the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF) outlined in April 2022: at the WDSF championship in Belgium in September 2023, in a continental qualifier, or in an Olympic qualifier series held in 2024. Gunn qualified regionally by winning the WDSF Oceania Breaking Championships, which were held in Sydney in October 2023.

AUSBreaking organized the Oceania Breaking Championships, according to the WDSF .

AUSBreaking posted on Instagram about the Oceanic Olympic qualifying event on Instagram in September 2023, announcing in a September 25, 2023 post that competitor registration was open. The panel of judges was composed of 10 breakers from multiple countries, led by head judge Katsu One of Japan.

Per the Sydney Morning Herald, Gunn was the highest-scoring B-girl on day one of the championships. She won two battles on the second day to secure her title and a qualifying spot in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

AUSBreaking released a statement on Instagram Monday about the selection process, saying that the qualifying event was "open to all interested participants in the Oceanic region," conducted in line with WDSF standards, and adjudicated by an international panel that used the same judging system as the 2024 Olympics.

"Ultimately, Rachael Gunn and Jeff Dunne emerged as the top performers in exactly the same process, securing their spots to represent Australia in Paris," the statement reads. "Their selection was based solely on their performance in their battles on that day."

Raygun and sporting organizations have spoken out about misinformation after her performance

Claims have circulated online that Gunn unfairly obtained her spot in the games. Posts online, as reported by the Australian Associated Press , claimed that Gunn's husband was one of the judges in her qualifying event. One petition hosted on change.org claimed that she established the governing body that ran the selection process. That petition was eventually removed after it was placed under review, per an archived snapshot .

Change.org did not immediately respond to a request for comment as to why the petition was taken down.

Despite the online claims, Free was not one of the judges at Gunn's qualifying event. And Gunn did not establish AUSBreaking. The organization said in a statement that it was founded by its president Lowe Napalan in 2019, and "at no point" was Gunn "the founder, an executive, committee member, or in any position of leadership."

The Australian Olympic Commission (AOC) also released a statement condemning the change.org petition, and demanding its removal. It also said that by winning the Oceania championship, Gunn was "legitimately nominated" by DanceSport Australia to the AOC to represent Australia at the Olympics.

"The petition has stirred up public hatred without any factual basis. It's appalling," AOC chief executive officer Matt Carroll said in the statement. "No athlete who has represented their country at the Olympic Games should be treated in this way and we are supporting Dr. Gunn and Anna Meares at this time."

In a video uploaded to her personal Instagram account, Gunn said that she was "honored" to have represented Australia and breaking during its Olympic debut. But the "hate" that followed was "devastating," she said. When it came to misinformation around her qualification, Gunn referred viewers to previously issued statements from the AOC and AUSBreaking.

Raygun and breaking judges have defended her Olympic performance

At a press conference on Saturday, the day after Gunn's competition, Anna Meares, the head of the Australian team, responded to criticism of Gunn online.

"I love Rachael, and I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing," Meares said, per ESPN .

"Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team, the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage," Meares continued. "I love her character, and I feel very disappointed for her, that she has come under the attack that she has."

During a press conference on Sunday, Martin Gilian, the Olympic breaking head judge, defended Gunn's performance, saying breaking was "all about originality" and representing your roots, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.

"This is exactly what Raygun was doing," Gilian said. "She got inspired by her surroundings, which in this case, for example, was a kangaroo."

Gunn said during the Saturday press conference that "all of my moves are original," ESPN reported. She told The Guardian that her biggest strength was "creativity."

"I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best, the dynamic and the power moves, so I wanted to move differently, be artistic and creative," Gunn told The Guardian, "because how many chances do you get that in a lifetime to do that on an international stage. I was always the underdog and wanted to make my mark in a different way."

• Main content