Social and Ecological Sustainability - PhD
Graduate students and research are at the core of the SERS community. And whether you're looking to start your masters or doctoral program, you’ll join a community that is dynamic, committed and engaged.
SERS has about 80 graduate students in our Master of Environmental Studies (MES) and PhD graduate program options in social and ecological sustainability. Our students win provincial and national funding awards for research, and are recognized for their research impact.
SERS faculty are internationally recognized researchers and they serve on a wide range of local, national and international organizations and committees in support of global sustainability.
And when your own graduate journey is complete, you’ll be joining a large community of SERS successful alumni actively involved in local and global resource, environment and sustainability efforts in government, academia, civil society and industry.
Graduate students admitted to our program (MES-thesis and PhD) are guaranteed funding through teaching assistantships, research assistantships or stipends, and additional scholarships for qualified applicants. So check out the program that meets your needs and let us know if you have any questions.
Intakes
- Jan
- May
- Sep
Application Processing Time in Days: 30
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how You + Waterloo can bring big ideas to life, together.
The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day.
65% of children entering primary school today will work in jobs that don’t yet exist. While the future can’t be predicted with 100% certainty, there are some trends that indicate the kinds of skills that will be needed in the future.
Learn about industry trends, what careers in these industries might look like in the future, and university programs that will help you get there.
Careers in business
Careers in engineering
Careers in environment, sustainability, and climate change
Careers in health and helping professions
Careers in the humanities, social sciences, languages, and creative arts
Careers in math, coding, and data
Careers in science
PSW Opportunity
Eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
Graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Desire to stay in Canada temporarily for work.
Important Note:
Graduating from a DLI doesn't automatically qualify you for a PGWP.
Validity of PGWP:
Depends on the length of the study program or the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.
Duration of PGWP Based on Study Program Length:
Less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials): Not eligible for PGWP.
At least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years: PGWP may be granted for the same length as the study program (e.g., a 9-month program results in a 9-month PGWP).
2 years or more: PGWP may be valid for 3 years.
Completion of Multiple Programs:
PGWP may combine the lengths of each program if:
Each program is PGWP eligible.
Each program is at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) in length.
Important Restriction:
You cannot obtain a PGWP if you already had one after completing an earlier program of study.
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
Completion of at minimum a 4-year Bachelor degree or, completion of both a Bachelor degree (less than 4 years in length) and a Master degree
First Class, 8/10 or Very Good
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Resume
Supplementary information form (SIF)
The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
Transcripts
References
Three academic references are required
Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
TOEFL 100 (writing 26, speaking 26), IELTS 7.5 (writing 7.0, speaking 7.0)
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Doctoral Degree/PhD
- Duration: 04 Year
-
Total Tuition Fee:
88752 CAD
Average Cost of Living: 22895 CAD /year
Application Fee: 125 CAD
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