
Transdisciplinary Research — Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (Thesis-based)
Course at a Glance
- PhDDegree level
- 4 yearsDuration
- Main Campus, CanadaLocation
- Faculty of Graduate StudiesField of study
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- Main CampusCampus
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)Awards
- $8,576Fees
- AvailableScholarship
About this programme
The PhD in Transdisciplinary Research program will provide students with the opportunity to pursue innovative research that builds upon knowledge between, across, and beyond traditional disciplines. Students can complete their degree with guidance from a supervisor and co-supervisor (where applicable) who are doing research in their area of interest.
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Some of the unique and exciting features of the PhD in Transdisciplinary Research are an emphasis on knowledge engagement and knowledge translation through a common course; experiential learning through collaborations with community (non-academic) partners; and a cohort experience where students undertaking transdisciplinary research in many different areas can learn with and from each other. Students who enrol in the program will have the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge, transdisciplinary research that they define in collaboration with their supervisor; this research could approach societal grand challenges with methods that merge, for example, the arts and sciences, and provide students with a unique and individualized program that is relevant not only to their interests, but also to broader society. The PhD in Transdisciplinary Research will provide a signature transdisciplinary pedagogy. At the core of the thesis-based PhD program in Transdisciplinary Research will be opportunities for students who are working within new, innovative fields to collaborate with a cohort of peers who are pursuing transdisciplinary work. This cohort experience will offer regular speaker series, workshops, and networking opportunities for students as well as members of industry and non-academic communities. In addition, all students will enrol in a course on knowledge engagement, where they will engage with industry and community partners. They also will be required to have a non-academic advisory member on their committee, and they will be required to generate a body of work (equivalent to one thesis chapter) that is relevant and applicable outside of academia. Potential students are encouraged to visit the FGS non-traditional thesis webpage to explore the variety of research endeavours and methods of research presentation encouraged in the TD program. Please consult the Transdisciplinary Graduate Programs website to confirm current details.
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
- Listed from the catalogueNot yet staff-verified — ask us to confirm the details.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
- Study modeThesis-based program
Admissions checklist
Entry requirements
GPA: For applicants with a master's degree, a minimum grade point average of 3.30, or an honours four-year baccalaureate degree with a GPA of 3.70. | Minimum education: A four year baccalaureate degree, or equivalent from a recognized institution | Work samples: N/A | Documents: • Transcript • Letter of support from proposed supervisor and co-supervisor (if applicable) • Transdisciplinary Vision Statement | Reference letters: Two · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 86; PTE Academic 59; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: The department or graduate program may waive the English proficiency-testing requirement in certain circumstances, such as the possession of a baccalaureate degree or its academic equivalent from a recognised institution in which the language of instruction is English. Applicants are told to contact the graduate program to which they plan to apply. Source: G.A.1 Graduate Qualifications, https://calendar.ucalgary.ca/pages/833465eb455d4f95aed3e67c017fcd04 · Application fee: CAD 145.00 for International Students (CAD 125.00 for Canadians or Permanent residents), paid when the online application is submitted. Source: Faculty of Graduate Studies Applying for grad studies, https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/how-apply
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- Tuition$8,576 CAD / year≈ $6,306 / year
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
- ScholarshipsFull-time students registered in a graduate degree program are eligible for awards and financial assistance, and select awards are available for prospective students; applicants are encouraged to apply for awards at the same time as they apply for admission. The University states that international students are eligible for award applications that do not specify Canadian residency. Government student loans are limited to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons and American citizens. SourceView scholarship page
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
How much does Transdisciplinary Research — Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (Thesis-based) cost?
CAD 8,576 / year.
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
How long is it?
4 years, as listed by the university.
What are the entry requirements?
GPA: For applicants with a master's degree, a minimum grade point average of 3.30, or an honours four-year baccalaureate degree with a GPA of 3.70. | Minimum education: A four year baccalaureate degree, or equivalent from a recognized institution | Work samples: N/A | Documents: • Transcript • Letter of support from proposed supervisor and co-supervisor (if applicable) • Transdisciplinary Vision Statement | Reference letters: Two · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 86; PTE Academic 59; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: The department or graduate program may waive the English proficiency-testing requirement in certain circumstances, such as the possession of a baccalaureate degree or its academic equivalent from a recognised institution in which the language of instruction is English. Applicants are told to contact the graduate program to which they plan to apply. Source: G.A.1 Graduate Qualifications, https://calendar.ucalgary.ca/pages/833465eb455d4f95aed3e67c017fcd04 · Application fee: CAD 145.00 for International Students (CAD 125.00 for Canadians or Permanent residents), paid when the online application is submitted. Source: Faculty of Graduate Studies Applying for grad studies, https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/how-apply
Is there a scholarship?
Full-time students registered in a graduate degree program are eligible for awards and financial assistance, and select awards are available for prospective students; applicants are encouraged to apply for awards at the same time as they apply for admission. The University states that international students are eligible for award applications that do not specify Canadian residency. Government student loans are limited to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons and American citizens. Source View scholarship page
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