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The Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems PhD program enables students to enhance their research skills and deepen their expertise. Participants are required to design and execute an original doctoral dissertation that makes a novel academic contribution to their discipline. Under the guidance of a supervisor and with support from a graduate committee, candidates undertake independent research initiatives.
ISLFS scholars engage in varied, frequently cross-disciplinary investigations tackling critical food system issues. Their work spans the entire food cycle - from cultivation and processing to distribution, consumption patterns, and waste management. At the doctoral level, ISLFS research often focuses on developing sustainable approaches to food system problems, incorporating environmental, economic, and social perspectives through innovative methodologies.
Applicants for the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) must have completed one of the following requirements prior to admission: a master's degree (or equivalent) from an approved institution, with clear evidence of research ability or potential and a minimum overall average in the B+ grade range (76-79% at UBC) in all graduate courses; a bachelor's degree, with one year of study in a master's program with 12 credits of first-class average, of which, normally, 9 credits must be at the 500 level or above and at least 9 credits must be of first-class standing, and clear evidence of research ability or potential. Transfer directly into a doctoral program is normally accomplished after the first year of study and will not be permitted after the completion of the second year in a master's program; or in exceptional cases, applicants who hold an honours bachelor's degree with an overall average in the A grade range and who demonstrate advanced research ability may be granted direct admission to a doctoral degree program on recommendation of the admitting graduate program and approval of the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies.
English Language Proficiency Requirement
Acceptable English language proficiency tests for applicants to graduate studies are: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): 90 overall with a minimum score of 22 in Reading & Listening and a minimum score of 21 in Writing & Speaking (Internet version); minimum score of 22 in Reading & Listening and a minimum score of 21 in Writing (paper version); or IELTS (International English Language Testing Service): minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no individual component score less than 6.0; or MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery): minimum overall score of 85, with a final score of 3 in the speaking test.