Transfer from the MSc Program to the PhD program

Students currently enrolled in the MSc program who wish to transfer to the PhD program without first completing the MSc must follow a defined procedure. The recommended timeframe for initiating this transfer is 12 months after starting the graduate program with a maximum limit of 24 months. Additional information can be found in the GPS Change of Program policy. The details of the process for transfer are consistent across graduate programs in FoMD and the details can be found in the UofA calendar. 

The courses completed, and research performed during the MSc program become part of the PhD program of study. Note that the course requirement for the PhD program is greater than for the MSc program; students transferring to the PhD program will be required to complete six credits of approved graduate coursework (i.e., an additional 3-credits to the 3-credits required for the MSc), within 12 months of the date of transfer.

At this time, it is recommended that the composition of the supervisory committee is reassessed, to ensure that it reflects the direction of the research project.

Transfer Process Summary

12 months into MSc program

  • The student must notify their supervisor as early as possible of their intent to transfer from the MSc to the PhD program. 

1-2 months prior to the transfer date

  • The supervisory committee conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the student's progress. If the committee approves, the student proceeds to prepare a PhD thesis proposal with the guidance of their supervisor. 

1 week prior to the transfer date

  • The student submits the proposal to the supervisor, supervisory committee members and the Director of Graduate Studies.
  • The document should be hypothesis-drive and supported by preliminary data generated by the student. The student must show an appreciation of the appropriate experimental design for their proposed research and the technical difficulties associated with the project.The proposal should not exceed 5 single-spaced pages, excluding figures, tables, and references.

Thesis Proposal Evaluation (up to 24 months into the program)

  • A summary of relevant literature and an introduction to the research topic.
  • Presentation of preliminary results, hypotheses, and a detailed description of the project, including methods.
  • The committee decides on the suitability of the candidate for the PhD program.
  • Appropriate forms are signed and submitted to the NMHI for the program transfer.

Further details

Purpose of the PhD Thesis Proposal

The purpose of the thesis proposal is to determine the student’s ability to understand and defend their research project. The student should demonstrate knowledge of the literature relevant to the problem to be addressed. They must show appreciation of the appropriate experimental design for their proposed research and the technical difficulties and pitfalls inherent in the chosen methodology. In addition, the student should explain why the topic warrants further research. In addition, the work proposed must be of sufficient scope and originality to warrant a PhD.

Thesis Proposal Document

The proposal must be submitted to the supervisor, supervisory committee members, and the Director of Graduate Studies at least one week before the scheduled PhD Thesis Proposal Meeting. Typically, the thesis proposal meeting is conducted without a chair from NMHI.

  • A summary of relevant literature and an introduction to the research topic.
  • Presentation of preliminary results, hypotheses, and a detailed description of the project, including methods.
  • The document should be hypothesis-drive and supported by preliminary data generated by the student. The student must show an appreciation of the appropriate experimental design for their proposed research and the technical difficulties associated with the project.
  • The proposal should not exceed 5 single-spaced pages, excluding figures, tables, and references. 
Thesis Proposal Examination Committee
The evaluation committee will review the student’s performance in formal course work, the student’s competence as revealed by the thesis proposal itself and the student’s ability to defend the content of the proposal. Committee members will assess the feasibility of the project within the projected timeline and determine whether the project is of sufficient quality and quantity for the degree proposed. Following this review, a determination will be made on the student’s future status within the program and recommend any further courses deemed necessary to attain an acceptable level of knowledge. Committee members are encouraged to provide feedback to improve the quality of the research project and identify potential obstacles or pitfalls.
Preparing for the Thesis Proposal Examination

At least one week before the proposal, the student submits the proposal to the supervisor, supervisory committee members and the Director of Graduate Studies.

Format of the Thesis Proposal Examination

  • During the meeting, the student will present a 20-min oral presentation followed by a 40-minute question period focused on the proposal. The committee will evaluate whether the proposed work is of sufficient scope and originality to warrant a PhD and the student’s suitability for the program.

  • Following the conclusion of the proposal, a Report of Supervisory Committee form must be completed, signed, and returned to the NMHI office.

  • Recommendation for Change of Category form must be completed and submitted to the NMHI.
Possible Outcomes of the Thesis Proposal Examination
  • Proceed unconditionally – If the proposal and defense are successful, the student may transfer to the PhD Program. The Graduate Program Administrator (GPA) will submit necessary forms to GPS and the student will be designated as a ‘Provisional PhD Student’, eligible to take the Candidacy Examination. Students transferring from the MSc to the PhD program must complete six credits of approved graduate coursework, which includes an additional 3 credits beyond the MSc requirements. These credits should be completed within 12 months of the transfer date.
  • Repeat evaluation - If the committee feels that significant improvements are needed, the student may revise and resubmit the proposal. A second meeting will be scheduled, with the timeframe for resubmission determined by the Director of Graduate Studies.
  • Complete and defend an MSc thesis - If the repeat evaluation is unsuccessful, or if the student decides not to make a second attempt, the student has the option to remain in the MSc program, complete and defend a Master’s thesis.
  • Withdraw – If performance during the repeat evaluation is unsatisfactory and the committee recommends withdrawal, the student may choose to complete the current academic year before withdrawing.