Criminology and Social Justice (PhD)

Frequently asked questions

• How much does Criminology and Social Justice (PhD) cost?

  CAD 19,166 / year.

• What English score does it need?

  IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.

• When does it start?

  Intakes listed for this programme: September 2027.

• How long is it?

  4 years, as listed by the university.

• What are the entry requirements?

  Hold a four-year honours undergraduate degree in the social sciences from a Canadian university, or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Typically, applicants are expected to have completed the university's Master of Arts (MA) in Criminology or an equivalent research project or thesis-based MA program from a recognized institution. Minimum overall academic standing of an A-minus (GPA: 3.7 on a 4.3 scale) during their graduate studies. Applicants with advanced degrees in other relevant fields, such as Sociology, Social Psychology or Legal Studies, are also welcome to apply. Applicants with unrelated backgrounds may be admitted as special cases. However, all applicants should realize that without a strong background in social science, specifically social theories and methodologies, they may find themselves at a significant, temporary disadvantage. Required supporting documents: To apply, applicants should prepare a portfolio consisting of all of the following: A completed application form. One official or institution-certified copy of each previous undergraduate and graduate transcript. A photocopy of the applicant’s degree parchment(s). Proof of English proficiency if the applicant’s first language is not English (see language requirement section below). A two- to three-page statement of academic intent. A curriculum vitae (CV). A substantive writing sample. A sample of the applicant's MA thesis is optimal. However, a sample from any published work (with the applicant as first author), or any other MA assignment would suffice if a thesis was not completed or pursued. An applicant’s statement of academic intent should describe previous research experience, including the MA thesis project and any other relevant research projects. A short description of general career aspirations, and any relevant industrial or community experience would also be highly appropriate. If an applicant has already contacted a potential dissertation supervisor (which is highly advised), that should be made known within the statement. Applicants must also submit the required documents outlined in the checklist of required documents . Note: Admission is competitive and occurs once per year. The specific average or standing required for admission varies from year to year. Students are selected by taking into consideration a wide range of criteria, including grades, distribution of courses taken, statements of academic intent, reference letters, research interests, and supervisor and funding availability. Possession of the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Preference will be given to applicants with the best qualifications. Required test scores for English language proficiency See English language proficiency for the minimum required test scores for this program. · English: IELTS 6.5 · English test waiver: Waived if you have studied full-time for at least three years (or the part-time equivalent) in a university degree program where the language of instruction AND examination was English, or you have completed such a degree; enrolment in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program does not count toward the three years. Ontario Tech may ask for official verification. Applicants who meet every other admission requirement may instead enrol in an eligible English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program through an Ontario Tech EAP partner. Source: https://gradstudies.ontariotechu.ca/future_students/application_process_and_requirement/step%203/english-language-proficiency.php · Deposit: Ontario Tech does not publish a deposit amount: 'To accept your offer of admission and secure your place in the program, you must submit a non-refundable tuition deposit. The deposit amount is listed in your official Letter of Acceptance and on the Applicant Portal.' International applicants must pay it before requesting a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). Source: https://registrar.ontariotechu.ca/fees-and-payment/ancillary-fees/miscellaneous-and-administrative-fees-2026-2027.php

• Is there a scholarship?

  Applicants to research-based graduate programs studying full-time are automatically considered at the time of admission for entrance scholarships, minimum funding packages, and teaching, research and graduate research assistantships - no application required. Assistantships are available to both Canadian and international students (an international student who accepts a TAship, RAship or GRAship must obtain a Social Insurance Number). Part-time students are not eligible. External awards also exist but Ontario Tech states "the majority of these awards are for domestic or permanent residents only". Sources:; the Funding tab of this program page View scholarship page