Frequently asked questions

Below are questions that link to the major areas of the PhD Program website. Many of your questions may be answered there. If you don't find your answers here, please feel free to send us an email.

Q: Is the PhD program full-time or part-time?

A: The program is only offered on a full-time basis. It is not offered part-time.

Q: Is it possible to take courses through distance education?

A: No. Students are required to be on campus during their course work for at least the first two years of their program, or up until their candidacy examinations.

Q: Can the GMAT or GRE exam be waived?

A: No. Under no circumstances can the GMAT/GRE exams be waived. Each applicant is required to provide a score, and the exam should have been taken within the allotted five year time frame.

Q: I have received a degree from a post-secondary institution where the language of instruction was English, can my TOEFL/IELTS exam be waived?

A: Yes. If the primary language of instruction was English, the TOEFL/IELTS exam can be waived. This is decided on a case-by-case basis with the final decision up to the Director of the program.

Q: How many courses are required?

A: Students are required to take a minimum of twelve courses. 

Q: What does a typical program look like?

A: Once admitted into the PhD program, the student, supervisor, and program director meet to discuss the student's individual program of study. Check out the Course of Study link to see the general program of study and sample customized programs of actual students. 

Q: Is teaching a requirement of the program?

A: Students are required to teach a minimum of two courses as part of their funding throughout the first four years. Some supervisors use team-teaching and multi-section styles of instruction. 

Q: Do I have to submit a Statement of Interest when I apply to the program?

A: Yes. A Statement of Interest allows the Area, such as Finance or Accounting, to decide if there is a fit between the applicant and a potential supervisor's research interests. 

Q: What is the Summer Research Project?

A: The Summer Research Project is an opportunity to conduct a research project under the guidance of your supervisor. It typically takes place over the spring and summer between the first and second year of the program. In the fall of the second year, students will present their research projects to faculty and peers. For more details, go to the Course of Study page and click on the icon that describes the first year milestones.

Q: What is the PhD Student Colloquium?

A: The PhD Student Colloquium is a student-led initiative for students, and is encouraged by the program. First year students are expected to attend. Sessions are presented by faculty and visiting scholars on a wide range of topics of interest to students. 

Q: Can you provide information on living in Calgary?

A: You will find valuable information at the International Students Website including a host of information relevant to students moving to Calgary from abroad including need-to-know tips and checklists on entering Canada, housing information, details about the school system, etc. Alternatively, you can visit the Calgary Economic Development website for additional information on moving to Calgary. 

Q: Is there funding or financial assistance available for PhD students?

A: Yes. The Haskayne School of Business funding is provided to all students who have been accepted on a competitive basis. There are further opportunities for funding such as teaching or research assistantships, as well as grants and scholarships that students can apply for. See the Faculty of Graduate Studies website for information on potential scholarship and grant opportunities. 

Q: If I am awarded additional funding, will this affect my current funding granted to me as a PhD student?

A: No. We encourage our students to seek out additional funding, such as SSHRC, NSERC, travel grants, etc. The Faculty of Graduate Studies website provides a list of potential scholarship and grant opportunities with details and deadlines for application.

Q: Is there funding provided for conference presentations?

A: Yes. The Director of the PhD program provides a specified amount each year for students wanting to present at conferences. In addition, the Faculty of Graduate Studies offers travel grants for eligable applicants.

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