A PhD is the most prestigious academic qualification. Traditionally it was a step in the path to becoming a Professor, but these days this is not the only or indeed the main trajectory. It involves a 3-5 year period of full time self-directed study supervised by a professor and would typically result in 3-5 publications in the academic literature, i.e. literature, peer reviewed by experts. Pass or fail is determined by an external reviewer who reads your thesis (200-300 page document describing your research) and determines if it warrants the qualification PhD which in Europe, USA and Anglo-Canada may also be designated by the title Doctor.

It would be normal that you present your work at leading international conferences and become acquainted with and share ideas with leaders in your chosen domain.

A PhD is about understanding not only the significance of your work but appreciating the gaps in knowledge that we as a society have today and where your work can help guide the field. It is a long process in which people mature on many levels, it is demanding of you and your time, but immensely satisfying.

Please note the following important information:

• Students聽who have an MSc in Epidemiology are exempt from taking a statistics聽course.聽They must find a replacement 3 credit course in order to meet the 15 credit requirement for the program.
• Courses taken in a Master's degree cannot be counted toward the PhD.聽

See Full Program Description on McGill eCalendar

PRE-DOCTORAL - COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION EVALUATION REPORT (PDF)

See details about funding from McGill Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies