Program Overview

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PhD Program Overview

The PhD Program at the School of Community and Regional Planning (SCARP) is a research degree that focuses on original research and intellectual contributions to the field of planning. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in planning theory, research methods, and practice, and to prepare them for careers as planning scholars and professionals.

Program Structure

The PhD program is primarily a research degree, with a flexible component of coursework. Students work under the guidance of a Supervisory Committee consisting of at least three faculty members, including the Research Supervisor. The program typically takes 4-5 years to complete, with a minimum of 3 years required to complete the degree requirements.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the PhD program, applicants must meet the minimum admissions criteria for graduate studies at UBC. The SCARP Admissions Committee considers many factors in making admissions decisions, including academic preparation, academic capability, experience, and fit with a prospective research supervisor and with the School.

Program Requirements

The PhD program is governed by the general policies and procedures of the UBC Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (G+PS). Students must complete the following requirements:

• Course work: 15-24 credits of coursework in the first two academic years
• Comprehensive examination
• Research proposal
• Writing and defending a PhD dissertation

Course Requirements

The following courses are required:

• PLAN 559: Design of planning- and policy-oriented research (3 credits)
• PLAN 602: Advanced planning theory (3 credits)
• PLAN 603: Planning colloquium (6 credits over 2 years)
• PLAN 649: Dissertation (0 credits, registration required throughout the program)
• An advanced research methods course selected in consultation with the supervisor

Additional Requirements

• Monthly research forums
• Student-organized lecture series
• Annual SCARP Student Symposium
• Social events for students and faculty

Candidacy

To be admitted to candidacy, students must complete all required coursework, pass the comprehensive examination, and successfully defend their research proposal. Candidacy requirements should normally be completed within the first 24 months in the program and, in any case, within the 36-month limit established by G+PS.

Thesis

The thesis is a formal oral thesis defense administered by the Dean of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. Regulations pertaining to the University's final oral examination can be found in the reference booklet entitled "The Final Oral Examination Guide for Doctoral Candidates".

Application Requirements

To apply to the PhD program, applicants must submit:

• A research statement of intent (approximately 1,000 words)
• Evidence of research competence (e.g., Master's thesis, academic publications)
• CV/Resume
• Application fee
• Transcripts
• Letters of Reference
• GRE requirements
• Evidence of English Language requirements

Tuition Fees

Full-time studies (Schedule A) tuition fees apply. Up-to-date fee information can be found on the UBC website. Additional student fees may apply.

Research Areas

The faculty at SCARP are actively recruiting students in the following research areas:

• Indigenous Community Planning
• Child care planning
• Rental & shared housing, migration, mixed methods (N. America/China/Germany)
• Urban Planning, policy, and politics
• Anti-displacement, housing justice, Community Land Trusts
• Participatory climate action planning, transdisciplinary learning

Faculty

The faculty at SCARP are recognized worldwide for their intellectual contributions to the field of planning. They are committed to mentoring and supervising PhD students and providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The faculty members' research specialties, research inquiries, and lens in the world of planning can be found on the SCARP website.

Conclusion

The PhD Program at SCARP is a rigorous and rewarding program that provides students with the opportunity to conduct original research and make intellectual contributions to the field of planning. With a strong focus on research, practice, and community engagement, the program prepares students for careers as planning scholars and professionals.