The Haskayne PhD program is a research-intensive doctoral program designed to prepare scholars for academic and research-driven careers. Through rigorous coursework, close faculty mentorship and early immersion in active research, students develop the theoretical, methodological and professional foundations required to produce original, high-quality scholarship.
The program offers a flexible structure that supports focused disciplinary training while enabling interdisciplinary research where appropriate.
Program structure
The PhD curriculum is organized to support a progressive transition from structured coursework to independent research. Students complete a combination of core courses, field courses and methods training that reflects their research orientation and evolves in consultation with their supervisory committee.
Coursework at a Glance*
Before moving to candidacy, students complete 12 courses: two required doctoral courses, five methods courses and five field courses aligned with their area of specialization.
*This is the suggested program structure and is subject to change.
MGST 794 Theory development
MSGT 795 Research development (Summer research project)
Students complete a minimum of five methods courses. Depending on their area and research orientation, students typically follow one of two methods streams and complete additional approved methods courses in consultation with their supervisor.
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Stream A
ECON 615 Econometrics I
ECON 715 Econometrics II
Third stat/ methods course (consult with supervisor)
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Stream B
MGST 754 Linear models I
MGST 755 Linear models II
MGST 783 Advanced research methodology and methods
Students complete five field courses aligned with their area of specialization. These courses provide disciplinary depth and help students develop expertise in their major field, minor field where applicable and emerging research agenda.
Field courses are selected in consultation with the supervisor.
All students are required to participate in the Instructional Skills Workshop in addition to the 12 courses.
Specializations
Haskayne PhD offers doctoral study in eight areas of specialization:
"It is the balance between independence and support. Students have the freedom to develop their own research interests while learning from accessible faculty, strong mentorship, a collaborative cohort, and a wide range of opportunities."
Dr. Xianfeng Zeng, PhD alum
Do I need a supervisor in place before I apply?
No. Once our deadline date passes, our office will circulate complete applications to the areas applicants have applied. Faculty members within each area carefully review applications and will let our office know which applications they are interested in.
What is the summer research project?
Between your first and second year, you will conduct a research project for course credit during the spring and summer sessions. Guided by your supervisor, you will design and implement a research project proposal. No two projects are the same but all involve a proposal, qualitative or quantitative research, a final paper submitted for internal publication and a presentation to faculty and fellow PhD students.