The University of British Columbia

At UBC students can transfer from a research masters program to a PhD degree without completing the masters. The requirements and the process for a transfer are described below.

Requirements to Transfer

To be eligible to a transfer you must make sure:

• Your supervisor agrees to the conversion.
• You've held a committee meeting and the members have agreed to the transfer. This should be clearly stated on the meeting form.
• You show clear evidence of research ability.
• You've completed one year in the master's program with:
  • a minimum 80% average in twelve credits
  • at least nine credits must be at the 500 level
  • at least 9 credits must be at 80% or above.
• You have completed no more than two years in the masters program.
• You request that the transfer take effect at the start of a term.

Transfer Process

Once you meet the above requirements you should follow the process below:

• Ask your research supervisor to write a one page letter addressed to the Dean of Graduate Studies but directed to the EOS Graduate Coordinator. It should summarize the reasons for granting the transfer.
• The proposal will then be reviewed by the Chair of the Graduate Committee.
• If approved, the letter will be forwarded to Graduate Studies for a final decision.
• If the request is granted your status on your student account will change and you'll also receive a letter in the post.

A Warning

Please note in rare cases a student may find they no longer wish to complete a PhD and a masters degree would be more appropriate. In these situations a move back is at the discretion of the Dean of Graduate Studies. If granted the change will be noted on your transcript and you will be required to repay any tuition fee awards.