PhD Program

Mission Statement

SCARP's PhD Program provides students with a collegial and convivial environment in which to pursue interdisciplinary research at the intersections of planning theory and practice. We aim to foster planning scholars and practitioners who can think critically, research inventively, and communicate their ideas effectively.

Ph.D. Program

The SCARP Ph.D. is primarily a research degree. Only candidates for whom a suitable Research Supervisor has been identified from among SCARP faculty are admitted to the Program. Doctoral students work under the guidance of a Supervisory Committee consisting of at least three faculty members, including the Research Supervisor. Students must satisfactorily complete course work, two comprehensive examinations (theory and substantive), a research prospectus, a two-year residency, and write and defend a Ph.D. thesis to qualify for the UBC doctoral degree. Overall, Ph.D. candidates should expect to spend at least 3 years in the completion of their degree requirements. Typical programs run 4-5 years.

The SCARP Ph.D. Program is governed by the general policies and procedures of the UBC Faculty of Graduate Studies and their more specific elaboration by the School, as detailed below.

Here is the link to UBC Faculty of Graduate Studies website that specifically addresses expectations around the supervision relationship, including student's rights and responsibilities -     Handbook of Graduate Supervision

Program Chair and Supervisory Committee

Residency and Required Courses

Comprehensive Exam, Research Prospectus and Candidacy

Thesis Preparation, Internal Defense, Final Oral Defense and Thesis Submission