Program Overview

Master of Design Research (MDR) Program

The Master of Design Research (MDR) program at the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL) is a post-professional, thesis-based program that focuses on design-focused research across architecture, planning, and landscape architecture.

Admission Requirements

• Minimum Education: A professional design degree from an accredited school.
• GPA: A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale, calculated over the last 60 units (minimum of 20 courses) of university-level courses at the time of application.
• English Language Proficiency:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 105.
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7.5.
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of 62, or higher (Academic version).
  • Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL) score of 70 with no section less than 70.
  • Academic Communication Certificate (ACC) score of A- in each course.
  • Duolingo English Test score of 135 (on a temporary basis).
  • TOEFL IBT Home Edition score of 105 (on a temporary basis).

Application Process

1. Complete an online application form, including biographical, education, and referee information.
2. Upload application materials to the online UCalgary Student Centre.
3. Pay the non-refundable application fee (CDN $125 for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, CDN $145 for international students).

Application Materials

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary institution attended, including provisional and degree certificates (if applicable).
• Digital Portfolio: A portfolio that provides examples of design, academic, or professional work, as well as other research, community action, or projects that have inspired the research interest area.
  • 8.5" x 11”-page size, maximum 25 pages
  • First and last name on cover page
  • Indicate specific role on group projects
  • Filename: Lastname2026.pdf
  • Maximum file size 30 MB
• Examples of Writing: At least one example of academic or professional productivity, such as a written essay, published paper, thesis, design project, or consulting report.
• References: Three referees, with names and contact information, including at least two academic referees.
• Research Statement of Interest: A clear, concise, and substantive statement of interest (1,000 to 1,500 words; maximum of two pages) that informs the Admissions Committee of the applicant’s reasons for pursuing the MDR degree.
• Funding Plan: A two-year funding plan that confirms sufficient financial resources are available to carry out the entire program of study.
• CV/Resume: A summary of experiences in education, work, volunteering, and other relevant research items.

Tuition and Fees

Information about general, supplementary, and tuition fees is available.

Scholarships and Awards

SAPL offers competitive entrance scholarships and funding opportunities.

Program Details

• Applications for the Master of Design Research program are normally accepted between September 1 and February 1.
• MDR applicants can indicate their preference to start their program in either the spring or fall term in their online application form.
• Decisions from the selection committee will be provided by the end of March for spring applications and the end of April for fall applications.
• The application process is competitive, and unfortunately, not all qualified applicants meeting the requirements will be admitted.
• Supervision: Admission to the MDR is competitive, as there is finite supervisory capacity and research areas. Admission is only offered to applicants who can be matched with a supervisor.
• Research Areas: The program focuses on design-focused research across architecture, planning, and landscape architecture.