PhD students must comply with the School of Graduate Studies regulations and:
1. Courses
PhD: Minimum Course Requirements:
- RS 725* Effective Knowledge Transfer for Rehabilitation Scientists (3 credits)
- An approved Data Analysis or Methods course (3 credits)
- An approved Content Course Relevant to Thesis (3 credits)
NOTE: PhD students are expected to have previously completed Masters level training in research methods, data analysis and theory. If these have not been completed during masters level training, then additional courses will be required. In particular, if a course on the theory of science relevant to Rehabilitation has not been completed at the Master's level, students will be required to complete RS 700*
NOTE: The student's supervisory committee may require students to take additional courses
NOTE: Students may choose additional courses, which may be taken once approved by the student's supervisory committee
NOTE: REQUIRED COURSE FOR ALL GRADUATE STUDENTS
All graduate students, including part-time students, must complete
1) SGS 101 - Academic Research Integrity and Ethics and
2) SGS 201 - Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) on-line training module
A graduate student may not obtain a graduate degree at McMaster without having passed these courses.
2. Comprehensive Examination
The comprehensive process is intended to expand the student’s breadth of knowledge and skills. It requires a portfolio that demonstrates the key competencies required for an academic career be proposed, completed and defended by 16 - 20 months (28 months for part-time students) from date of admission or transfer to the PhD program.
Individual portfolios are customized to the individual's learning plan. All portfolio’s contain three core elements: a scholarly paper suitable for scientific publication, preparation of a grant application and a knowledge translation project. The comprehensive examination includes submission and oral defence of the portfolio.
3. Thesis
The thesis process is intended to create deep knowledge and skills in the student’s area of research speciality. The student will submit a thesis on an approved topic and defend the thesis at a final oral examination according to the School of Graduate Studies (Graduate Calendar, section 4.4) under the supervision of a supervisor and supervisory committee.
4. Additional Requirements
Graduate students are also required to attend the series of seminars regularly given in the School of Rehabilitation Science by rehabilitation scientists.
Note: The supervisor or supervisory committee may recommend activities or provide opportunities to enhance the student’s development on an individual basis.
How long does it typically take to complete the PhD program?
Full-time students normally take 4 years to complete the program. For part-time students, the expected duration of the program is 6 years.