English Language Proficiency Requirements

Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status:

The language of instruction at the University of Prince Edward Island is English. All academically admissible applicants, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status, are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language prior to undertaking studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. Proficiency is demonstrated by:

• possession of a degree or its academic equivalent from an institution recognized by the University of Prince Edward Island and where the language of instruction is English. Proof that the instruction for the degree was in English may be required and will be confirmed by the UPEI Registrar’s Office;
• or a satisfactory score on one of the following approved English language examinations.

Any exam should have been written within the last two years. If not written in the last two years, students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

*Conditional: Students meeting this requirement must participate in the Graduate English Academic Preparation program and satisfy the minimum Unconditional English Language Proficiency requirements before being permitted to enrol in Graduate level courses or participate in Graduate program activity.

Graduate English Academic Preparation (GEAP)

The University of Prince Edward Island may extend a conditional offer of admission to a highly-qualified graduate applicant who does not quite meet the minimum English language proficiency requirement set by the graduate program to which the student has applied. A conditional admission allows a student to obtain a study permit (if necessary) and begin their studies in the UPEI Graduate English Academic Preparation (GEAP) program. Upon successful completion of the prescribed terms of study in the Graduate EAP program, the student will proceed directly into the graduate degree program.

To be eligible for participation in the Graduate EAP program, an applicant:

• Must be recommended by the appropriate Graduate Admissions Committee.
• Can reasonably be expected to reach the required English proficiency standard for unconditional graduate admission in no more than one year (12 months).
• May not participate in Graduate level courses or participate in Graduate program activity until the minimum (unconditional) English Proficiency requirement has been satisfied through an acceptable assessment test.

The Graduate English Language Preparation program is designed for students coming to graduate studies whose first language is other than English. To be eligible for admission to GEAP, students must have an English proficiency, demonstrated by means of an accepted test, as outlined in the English Proficiency requirements for Graduate studies. The program begins with an in-depth skills and needs analysis to define an individualized education plan focusing on:

• Advanced Composition: North American convention and academic argumentation to develop clarity, forcefulness, and genre appropriateness
• Scientific Writing: quantitative reasoning and analytical writing, if applicable
• Writing abstracts, conference proposals, and literature review
• Conference presentation requirements and skills
• Academic ethics and responsibilities: case study, debate, problem-based learning, data gathering and reporting, seminar presentation
• Library familiarization: databases, resources, cultural and program norms
• Working with an Academic Mentor and with the Writing Centre
• Online Course Work–if required
• Computer skills updating–if required

Progress
Students in the GEAP program are expected to satisfy the minimum (unconditional) English Proficiency requirement, through an acceptable assessment test within one year (12 months) of the start of the program. Students who have not met the requirement within the stated time period, may make appeal to the Graduate Admissions Committee for an extension. Appeals will be considered on a case-by-case basis in consultation with appropriate support units.

Master of Science (MSc), Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc),  and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

In the following it must be understood that the standard of reference is the typical Canadian university curriculum and university system.

Admission to a graduate degree program as a regular student is granted, on recommendation of the Department concerned, to:

i. the holder of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, or a four-year honours or majors baccalaureate or its equivalent, as set out below; or

ii. a student who has satisfied the requirements for transfer from provisional student category as described below.

The minimum requirement for admission to graduate studies in the Faculties of Science and Veterinary Medicine is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, or equivalent; or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree, or equivalent, normally of four years’ duration, in an honours or majors program or equivalent from a recognized university or college, the applicant having achieved an average of at least second-class (“B,” i.e., 70% to 79.9%) standing in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years.

Admission to the doctoral program normally requires at least second-class standing as well as a recognized Master’s degree. Admission to the MVSc program is normally limited to holders of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, or equivalent.

Admission to a graduate course is normally based upon the same requirements as for admission to a graduate program, with exceptions needing the approval both of the Program Administrator and of the Chair of the Department within which the student is registered. Admission, whether as a regular, a provisional, or a special student, is in all cases based upon the recommendation of the Department concerned and is subject to the approval of the Program Administrator.

Admission to advanced courses of instruction or to the privileges of research does not imply admission to candidacy for a higher degree.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar.

APPLICATION FEE

Applications to graduate programs must include fees for the first and any subsequent applications.

APPLICATION FORM

Application forms for admission can be completed on line for the Office of the Registrar at http://www.upei.ca/discovermore/apply with the appropriate fee and supporting documentation.

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts or certified copies in duplicate of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included.

CONFIRMED SUPERVISOR (MSc and PhD)
Prospective applicants must have a confirmed graduate supervisor before completing an application for admission.

REFERENCE LETTERS

Letters of reference from two professors, under at least one of whom the applicant has taken a significant proportion of work, are to be sent by the professor directly to the Office of the Registrar. An acceptable alternative to one such letter is a letter from the Department Chair on behalf of the Department in which the applicant has studied, or from the employer where the applicant has recently been employed.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATIONS

In some departments, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores may be used as a basis of determining acceptability of an applicant. Applicants should be careful to note the times and places where the GRE and the tests named above may be taken. Ample time should be allowed for the results to reach the University of Prince Edward Island.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant.

ADMISSION OF FACULTY MEMBERS

Faculty members of the rank of Associate Professor or Professor are not eligible for admission to graduate studies. Faculty members who are eligible to undertake graduate studies must obtain permission of the President.

TENTATIVE ADMISSION

Tentative Admission may be granted to an applicant whose record to date is acceptable but whose application is incomplete. If the documents are satisfactory when received, the student’s admission is confirmed. If unsatisfactory, admission is denied.

Master of Applied Health Services Research (MAHSR)

Candidates for admission to the Masters of Applied Health Services Research programs (MAHSR-Thesis and MAHSR-Professional) must have demonstrated high academic standing.

MAHSR-Thesis (MAHSR-T) program:

This program is best suited for those with potential for self-directed, sustained research. Normally, the basic requirements are:

i. a Bachelor’s degree of four years or a Bachelor’s with honours, or equivalent professional degree, from an approved university, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or an average of 75% or higher in the last 20 courses;

ii. two references;

iii. a statement of interest, including research interests.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be submitted through the application process. All application materials must be received no later than is March 1 of the year in which admission is sought. Late applications are reviewed only if seats are still available after all those meeting the deadline have been considered.

APPLICATION FORM

Application forms for admission to the MAHSR-T program can be completed on line.

Official transcripts of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar.

CONFIRMED SUPERVISOR

A confirmed supervisor must be established before completing an application to the MAHSR-T program stream.

International Applicants to the MAHSR-T program stream are eligible for study permits but must complete their thesis research in person at UPEI.

REFERENCE LETTERS

Letters of reference from two professors familiar with the applicant’s work are to be sent by the professors directly to the Office of the Registrar and can be uploaded to the applicant’s file. An acceptable alternative to one such letter is a letter from a Chair or Dean on behalf of the Department or Faculty in which the applicant has studied, or from the employer where the applicant has recently been employed.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose first language is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs. Such students should make arrangements to take the test in time to have the results available for the application deadline.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant.

ADMISSION AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

For MAHSR-T only those students who have a confirmed research supervisor who can provide the student with funding over the course of the degree (two years) will be admitted to the program.

MAHSR-Professional Program (MAHSR-P):

This program prepares graduates for employment in a health-related setting and provides an avenue for current employees to strengthen their skills.

Normally, the basic requirements are:

i. Bachelor’s degree of four years or a Bachelor’s with honours, or equivalent professional degree, from an approved university, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or an average of 75% or higher in the last 20 courses;

ii. two references;

iii. a statement of interest.

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be submitted through the application process. Application deadline is March 1. Late applications will be reviewed only if seats are still available after those meeting the deadline have been considered; they will be accepted until the program has reached its full complement of students or the program begins. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to be considered for the program.

International Applicants: If a student plans to come to Canada on a study permit, the MAHSR-P program does not meet IRCC regulations for long-term study permits. There is therefore no option to get a study permit to take an online program in Canada under IRCC regulations.

APPLICATION FORM

Application forms for admission to the MAHSR-P program stream can be completed on line

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included.

REFERENCE LETTERS

Letters of reference from two professors familiar with the applicant’s work are to be submitted directly by the professors. An acceptable alternative to one such letter is a letter from a Chair or Dean on behalf of the Department or Faculty in which the applicant has studied, or from the employer where the applicant has recently been employed.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose first language is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission

students should make arrangements to take the test in time to have the results available for the application deadline.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The Faculty of Business offers two Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs: an Executive Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Business Administration in Global Leadership.

Admission requirements are stipulated below, first for the Executive Master of Business Administration, and then for the Master of Business Administration in Global Leadership.

Executive Master of Business Administration (Executive MBA)

Applicants for admission to the Executive MBA program must have demonstrated the potential to learn within a demanding integrated program, typically through high academic standing in previous university studies. There are two streams available within the Executive MBA: Innovative Management and Biotechnology Management. The basic requirements and qualifications are:

i. for the Innovative Management Stream, an undergraduate degree in any discipline is required. For the Biotechnology Management and Entrepreneurship Stream, an undergraduate degree in the sciences or a degree in any discipline plus considerable work experience in a science field is required.

For both streams, the required degree must be from a recognized university and the applicant should have achieved a minimum average of B (70% or higher) in the last four semesters or last two years of undergraduate study.

ii. acceptable professional designations such as CPA, CFA, or PEng plus work experience will also be considered. Under exceptional circumstances, a person who lacks a formal degree or professional designation but who has other outstanding management qualifications, such as a well-established and documented business career, may be admitted to the Executive MBA program. In these circumstances, applicants will normally be expected to have a minimum of ten years full-time work experience, including significant experience in upper management or entrepreneurial positions. The MBA Committee must be satisfied that the applicant has demonstrated a level of academic competence at least equivalent to an undergraduate degree.

iii. a minimum of three years of full-time work experience is preferred, with a required minimum of one year full-time, relevant work experience. The relevant work experience may include managerial and supervisory responsibilities, new venture ownership, and professional or project development experiences. A variety of work experiences and backgrounds enhance the calibre of class interaction so students learn from both the professor and each other.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar with the appropriate fee.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Graduate Studies Application Form
• All Official Transcripts
• Current, detailed resume
• Two Reference Letters (references must be dated within 6 months of program application)
• GMAT Score (if requested)
• Personal Statement
• English Language Proficiency Scores (for applicants whose first language is not English)
• Application Fee

Applications and all documentation must be received by July 1 for a Fall Semester start date. Early applications are highly recommended as there are a limited number of seats in the program and these fill up as completed applications are adjudicated throughout the year. All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and adjudicated only once.

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts or certified copies of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included. If original documentation is not in English, you must also provide a notarized English translation. This does not apply to French language universities in Canada.

RESUMÉ, REFERENCE LETTERS, AND PERSONAL STATEMENT

A current resume must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar along with two reference letters, and a personal statement. The resume must detail work experiences, responsibilities, and contributions. Two reference letters are to be submitted through UPEI’s online application portal. A personal statement, of no more than 400 words, must explain the reasons why you wish to enrol in UPEI’s Executive MBA program. It should include details of your relevant past experience, your long and short term goals, and explain how the Executive MBA program will meet your needs and assist you in reaching your educational and career goals.

NOTE: Applicants without a formal degree or professional designation will be expected to provide convincing evidence of their capabilities in communications, analysis, and knowledge transfer, as well as their professional contributions and accomplishments within their personal statement. For these applicants only, the personal statement must be no more than 800 words.

GRADUATE MANAGEMENT ADMISSION TEST (GMAT)

A Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score may be requested. If GMAT results are requested, applicants must achieve a minimum score of 550, with preference given to scores of 600 and over. This will be considered as an indicator and a tool for evaluating applicants for quantitative and verbal skills. These scores should be less than five years old.

INTERVIEW

Once all application materials are received, the MBA Committee may conduct an interview for admission. The committee will be seeking well-rounded and knowledgeable people with managerial and leadership potential. Innovative management and entrepreneurial thinking requires teamwork and relationship building so applicants will be chosen based on their ability to enhance this type of diverse and dynamic learning environment.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

The program may extend a conditional offer of admission to an MBA applicant who meets all admission requirements other than the English language proficiency requirement. Please refer to the Academic Calendar’s English language proficiency requirements for conditional offers. Conditional offers allow prospective MBA students to obtain a study permit (if needed) and begin their UPEI Graduate English Academic Preparation (GEAP) program. Upon successfully completing the prescribed terms of study in the GEAP program the student can proceed directly into the MBA program.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Admission to the Executive MBA Program is a competitive process. Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. To avoid disappointment, applicants are encouraged to submit their documents well before the deadline of July 1.

Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Global Leadership

Applicants for admission to the MBA in Global Leadership program must have demonstrated the potential to learn and succeed within a demanding integrated program. The basic requirements and qualifications are as follows:

1. University Degree: Applicants must possess an undergraduate degree from an institution recognized by UPEI.
2. Academic capability for graduate level studies, as evidenced by a strong academic record and, if the admission committee requests it, a competitive GMAT/GRE test score or a solid interview.
3. English Language Proficiency Requirement.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar with the appropriate fee.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

•Graduate Studies Application Form

•All Official Transcripts

•Current, detailed resume

•Two Reference Letters (references must be dated within 6 months of program application)

•Personal Statement

•English Language Proficiency Score (for applicants whose first language is not English)

•Application Fee

Applications and all documentation must be received by July 1 for a Fall Semester start date. Early applications are highly recommended as there are a limited number of seats in the program and these fill up as completed applications are adjudicated throughout the year. All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and adjudicated only once.

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts or certified copies of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included. If original documentation is not in English, you must also provide a notarized English translation. This does not apply to French language universities in Canada.

RESUMÉ, REFERENCE LETTERS, AND PERSONAL STATEMENT

A current resume must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar along with two reference letters, and a personal statement. The resume must detail work experiences, responsibilities, and contributions. Two reference letters are to be submitted through UPEI’s online application portal. A personal statement, of no more than 400 words, must explain the reasons why you wish to enrol in UPEI’s MBA in Global Leadership program. It should include details of your relevant past experience, your long and short term goals, and explain how the MBA program will meet your needs and assist you in reaching your educational and career goals.

EVIDENCE OF ACADEMIC CAPABILITY

The admission committee assesses applicants’ academic readiness for the MBA program based on appropriate evidence. Upon receipt of an application, the committee initially reviews the applicant’s transcripts and other information in the application package. In cases where the committee needs additional evidence, it may request an interview or a GMAT or GRE score.

Grades: Normally, a minimum average of 75% or a grade point average of 3.0 (B) in the last twenty courses is required. A first-class academic record (an average of at least 80% or a grade point average of at least 3.7) will usually provide the committee with adequate evidence of academic capability, with no need for an interview or a GMAT or GRE score.

Interview: The admission committee may request an interview of applicants, particularly of applicants who meet the minimum grade requirements, but who do not have a first-class academic record. The interview may be conducted in-person or virtually, depending on the location of the applicant.

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Exam (GRE)

In some cases, the admissions committee may request a score from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test.  A GMAT score of 570 or a combined GRE score (verbal reasoning plus quantitative reasoning) of at least 310 would typically be competitive. The score should be less than five years old.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for all Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar.  Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

The program may extend a conditional offer of admission to an MBA applicant who meets all admission requirements other than the English language proficiency requirement. Please refer to the Academic Calendar’s English language proficiency requirements for conditional offers. Conditional offers allow prospective MBA students to obtain a study permit (if needed) and begin their UPEI Graduate English Academic Preparation (GEAP) program. Upon successfully completing the prescribed terms of study in the GEAP program the student can proceed directly into the MBA program.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Admission to the MBA in Global Leadership Program is a competitive process. Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. To avoid disappointment, applicants are encouraged to submit their documents well before the deadline of July 1.

Master of Nursing (MN)

Candidates for admission to the MN program must have demonstrated high academic standing and potential for self- directed, sustained research. Normally, the basic requirements are:

i. A baccalaureate degree in nursing from an approved or accredited university is required. A minimum average of 75% or a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (B) in the last twenty courses of a baccalaureate nursing program is required.

ii. Prior completion of a Research Methods course, an Introductory Statistics course, and a course in Nursing Theory, or equivalent.

iii. Individuals applying for the Nurse Practitioner Stream must have a minimum of two years of experience in clinical nursing practice.

iv. Proof of active practicing nurse registration in Canada is necessary (e.g. proof of registration card).  Once enrolled in the program, all students must maintain active practicing nurse registration with the College of Registered Nurses of Prince Edward Island.

v. Upon acceptance into the Master of Nursing program, students must submit a completed up-to-date immunization record, a certified criminal record check, vulnerable sector check, and confirmation of current CPR Certification at the Health Care Provider level.

vi. Payment of International fees will be required of all students from outside Canada.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. All application materials must be received no later than February 15. Please indicate if you are applying to the Thesis Stream or the Nurse Practitioner Steam.

PLEASE NOTE: Admission to the Nurse Practitioner stream occurs every second year.

• Graduate Programs Application Form
• Application Checklist
• Reference Letters (Academic) (Professional)

Application Fee

Applications to graduate programs must include fees for the first and any subsequent applications.

Transcripts

Official transcript(s) (statements of course work and grades obtained) of all academic courses taken at all degree-granting institutions must be submitted.

References

Three (3) references (at least one from an academic, and at least one from a recent employer), indicating the applicant’s academic and/or professional qualifications and potential for success in a graduate education program, are required. (See forms: http://www.upei.ca/programsandcourses/graduate-admissions/master-nursing)

Note: For the Nurse Practitioner stream, a reference from the recent employment supervisor must confirm a minimum of two years in clinical nursing practice.

English Proficiency

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date. Students whose first language is French may complete the PhD dissertation in Educational Studies in French provided a qualified supervisory Committee can be established at UPEI.

Resume

A resume/curriculum vitae that includes the following must be submitted:

• Past educational preparation
• Employment experience, including level of responsibility
• Awards and honours
• Previous involvement with research projects, other projects, publications and/or presentations
• Continuing education and professional development (e.g., courses, workshops, conferences)
• Committee work
• Any other supporting information

Personal Statement

All applicants are asked to identify and elaborate on their educational and career goals.

All applicants are asked to explain reasons for applying to the program and the strengths that you will bring as a graduate student.

Thesis students are required to submit a two-page summary describing the research project you are interested in completing as part of the thesis component of the MN. This will assist in confirming supervisory availability.

An interview may be required. Completed applications for admission to the program must be received by February 15 for fall admission. Late applications may be considered if space is available.

Preference will be given to qualified residents of PEI applying to the program.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Admission to the MN program is a competitive process. Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.

Master of Arts (MA)

In the following it must be understood that the standard of reference is the typical Canadian university curriculum and university system.

Admission to a graduate degree program as a regular student is granted, on recommendation of the Department concerned, to:

i. the holder of an Honours or majors baccalaureate or its equivalent.

ii. a student who has satisfied the requirements for transfer from provisional student category as described below.

The minimum requirement for admission to graduate studies in the Faculty of Arts is a Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in an honours or majors program or equivalent from a recognized university or college. The applicant will ordinarily be expected to have achieved an average of at least second-class (“B,” i.e., 70% to 79.9%) standing in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years.

Applicants must also provide, and will be assessed for admission, on:

* A statement of research interests

* A sample of written research work from prior university or professional experience

* Two (2) letters of recommendation from professors or those familiar with the applicant’s professional work

* A resume or curriculum vitae

* An application form (available from the Registrar’s Office or online)

Admission to a graduate course is normally based upon the same requirements as for admission to a graduate program, with exceptions needing the approval both of the Program Administrator and of the Chair of the Department within which the student is registered.

Admission, whether as a regular, a provisional, or a special student, is in all cases based upon the recommendation of the Department concerned and is subject to the approval of the Graduate Studies Committee.

Admission to advanced courses of instruction or to the privileges of research does not imply admission to candidacy for a higher degree.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar.

APPLICATION FORM

Application forms for admission can be completed on line for the Office of the Registrar at http://www.upei.ca/discovermore/apply with the appropriate fee and supporting documentation.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

Master of Education (MEd)

Candidates for admission to the MEd program must have demonstrated high academic standing and potential for self-directed, sustained research. Normally, the basic requirement is:

i. An undergraduate or graduate degree from an approved university with an average of 70% or higher in the last 20 courses (60 credit hours). An applicant lacking a degree, or an applicant possessing a degree with an academic average under 70%, may be considered for admission under exceptional circumstances. In such cases the Graduate Studies Committee must be satisfied that the student has the capacity to complete graduate work. This capacity could be demonstrated through extensive and relevant professional experiences, leadership, research and publications;

ii. at least two years of education-related experience.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applications will be accepted up to two weeks prior to the beginning of the program or until the program has reached the full complement of students. Please make sure to check the start date of the particular Master of Education cohort in which you are interested.

• Application Checklist
• Graduate Application Form
• Personal Statement Form

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included. When such transcripts or statements are in a language other than English, a notarized translation of the document must be submitted, in addition to the original document.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant.

TENTATIVE ADMISSION

Tentative Admission may be granted an applicant whose record to date is acceptable but whose application is incomplete. If the documents are satisfactory when received, the student’s admission is confirmed. If unsatisfactory, admission is denied.

Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies (PhD)

Candidates for admission to the PhD in Educational Studies must have demonstrated high academic standing and evidence of ability to conduct original, independent and sustained research. Normally, the basic requirements are:

(i) First class standing (e.g., a minimum academic average of 80%, or A-, or a GPA of 3.7) or equivalent, in a Masters program conferred by an accredited university (students with Pass grades must request that former professors complete a narrative assessment form to confirm first class standing equivalence and potential for admission to a PhD program).

(ii) A Masters thesis. An equivalent research report such as a Masters project, or a substantial research-focused technical report, authored solely by the applicant, may also be considered.

(iii) Evidence of a minimum of 5 years professional experience in field deemed relevant to the field of educational studies.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. All application materials must be received no later than January 15 of the year for which admission is sought. Late applications are reviewed only if seats are still available after all those meeting the deadline have been considered.

Applicants to the UPEI PhD program in Educational Studies would submit the following documents for consideration by the Graduate Studies Committee:

• A current Curriculum Vitae and statement of intent (please see Faculty of Education website for details relating to the statement of intent).
• 3 references (at least two letters should come from professors familiar with the applicant’s work at the Masters level; one would normally come from the applicant’s thesis advisor.
• The third reference could be provided by another professor familiar with the applicant’s work or by a relevant employer who is in a position to assess the candidate’s suitability for a doctoral program).
• A portfolio including supporting materials the applicant considers relevant. These materials could include scholarly articles, professional publications, evidence of research-driven professional activities, professional/artistic presentations, performances or exhibits.

Applicants may also be invited to an interview (face-to-face or virtual) to discuss the application with the Graduate Studies Committee. All applications to the PhD program are assessed on a competitive basis. Satisfaction of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Due to the nature of the program, deferral of admission will normally not be possible. The Faculty of Education endeavours to provide some financial support for all candidates admitted to the program.

TRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included. When such transcripts or statements are in a language other than English, a notarized translation of the document must be submitted, in addition to the original document.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date. Students whose first language is French may complete the PhD dissertation in Educational Studies in French provided a qualified supervisory Committee can be established at UPEI.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION

Limitations of funds, space, facilities or suitable faculty supervisor may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant.

TENTATIVE ADMISSION

Tentative Admission may be granted an applicant whose record to date is acceptable but whose application is incomplete. If the documents are satisfactory when received, the student’s admission is confirmed. If unsatisfactory, admission is denied.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

ADMISSION
Applicants to the UPEI Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program are required to have an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Psychology including an honours thesis, or an equivalent. Applicants are encouraged to present a record of undergraduate course selection reflecting breadth of study across the core areas of psychology. Given the preponderance of quantitative methods in the current clinical psychology research literature, completion of an advanced statistics course prior to admission is required.  In addition, given the methodological pluralism and critical historical and social perspective adopted by the program, previous course work in qualitative research methods and situating psychology in a critical historical perspective is highly recommended. PsyD students at UPEI will be engaged in a critical and reflective dialogue about research methods and the modern positions adopted by clinical psychology.

A minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4-point scale is normally required, with more recent performance given greater weight.

Applicants whose undergraduate degree is in a language other than English must complete an English proficiency test as an Additional Language assessment. Applicants with a Master’s Degree in clinical psychology are also welcomed to apply; advanced standing in the program will be considered but is not guaranteed.

The program seeks well-rounded applicants who recognize the importance of understanding the mental health needs of individuals from cultural, social and community contexts. Review of applications is based on various elements including specific academic requirements, such as academic transcript, but cultural and individual dimensions of applicants reflected in the personal statement of interest, letters of reference, volunteer and work experience in a human services related field will be highly valued.  As a candidate’s application will be considered in its totality, we encourage high-quality applicants of all backgrounds to apply.

Short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview. In an effort to support a diverse program international applicants and applicants from a diversity of cultural and individual backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Indigenous applicants are especially encouraged to apply.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants must submit the following to the University via the application portal at www.upei.ca/apply:

• a Graduate Application Form;
• Supplemental Application Form which includes a personal statement outlining background preparation and explaining why this particular program is a match for the applicant;
• a curriculum vitae;
• $50.00 Application Fee.

Applicants must ensure that the following items are forwarded directly to the university:

• three letters of reference, at least two academic; the third may be academic or may reflect volunteer or professional experience;
• official Transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) from all post-secondary institutions at which courses have been taken.

All application materials must be received by December 1st of the previous calendar year the student wishes to enter the program.

Doctor of Applied Health (DrAH)

The Doctor of Applied Health is a professional doctoral degree that promotes applied health knowledge for the application of strategies, interventions, programs, and methodologies that can improve the quality of life for individuals and communities.  The Doctor of Applied Health is not a Medical Degree, nor does it provide credentials that lead to licensure for medical practice.

UPEI’s goal is to attract the highest quality of candidates with established commitment to health-related professions, as well as personal and professional development; and program graduates with the knowledge and competencies required to contribute to long-term health care transformation.

Admission requirements to the Doctor of Applied Health program are as follows:

1. A student may be considered eligible for admission to the DrAH program if they have completed, at a minimum a 4 year bachelor’s degree in a health-related field from an accredited university (note: a bachelor’s degree with an Honours thesis or equivalent will be an asset).
2. Applicants to the Doctor of Applied Health program would normally have graduated with a minimum average of 75% or a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 (B) in the last 20 courses of a bachelor’s program.
3. Two or more years of work experience in an area of health specialization such as healthcare, health service delivery, health promotion, health education, health studies or health science.
4. It is strongly recommended that applicants have completed course work in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods.
5. Completion of a health-related graduate degree in an applied health related field (such as a Master of Applied Health; Master of Public Health; Master of Applied Health Services Research; Master of Nursing; Master of Global Affairs; Master of Health Science; or Master of Science with a specialty in Health, Health Studies, Health Promotion, Health Education, or Health Sciences), or equivalent experience in a health-related field will be considered an asset.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Applicants must submit the following to the University via the application portal at www.upei.ca/apply:

• a Graduate Application Form;
• a personal statement outlining background preparation and explaining why this particular program is a match for the applicant;
• a curriculum vitae;
• $50.00 Application Fee.

Applicants must ensure that the following items are forwarded directly to the university:

• three letters of reference, at least two academic; the third may be academic or may reflect volunteer or professional experience;
• official transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) from all post-secondary institutions at which courses have been taken.

All application materials must be received by March 1st of the calendar year the student wishes to enter the program.

Doctor of Philosophy in Sustainable Design Engineering

PhD-SDE Program Admissions

Applicants must

• hold a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree,
• hold a thesis-based Master of Science (MSc) or thesis-based Engineering (MEng) or its equivalent from a recognized university, and have achieved at least a second class standing (70-80%) for this degree.
• provide proof of English language proficiency for those applicants whose first language is not English as outlined in the Academic Calendar.

APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION
All documents pertaining to application for admission are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar.

APPLICATION FEE
Applications to graduate programs must include fees for the first and any subsequent applications.

APPLICATION FORM
The online application form can be accessed from UPEI’s website.

TRANSCRIPTS
Official transcripts or certified copies in duplicate of the applicant’s complete undergraduate and graduate (if any) record to date are to be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Applicants from outside North America are strongly urged to attach official statements of the grades obtained and the subject matter included.

CONFIRMED SUPERVISOR
Prospective applicants must have a confirmed graduate supervisor before completing an application for admission.

REFERENCE LETTERS
Letters of reference from two professors, under at least one of whom the applicant has taken a significant proportion of work, are to be sent by the professor directly to the Office of the Registrar. An acceptable alternative to one such letter is a letter from the Department Chair on behalf of the Department in which the applicant has studied, or from the employer where the applicant has recently been employed.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
Students are expected to be proficient in the use of English, both written and oral, when they begin their studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. The University requires that certification of such proficiency be presented by applicants whose mother tongue is not English or whose normal language of instruction throughout their education (as recognized by UPEI) was not English. Tests of proficiency acceptable to the University, and the minimum scores that must be obtained, are listed under the Admission requirements for All Graduate Programs and for Graduate Student Status section of the Calendar. Such students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS
A 2-page statement of research interest, and curriculum vitae (CV) must also be submitted.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION
Limitations of funds, space, facilities, or personnel may make it necessary for the University, at its discretion, to refuse admission to an otherwise acceptable applicant.

ADMISSION OF FACULTY MEMBERS
Faculty members of the rank of Associate Professor or Professor are not eligible for admission to graduate studies. Faculty members who are eligible to undertake graduate studies must obtain permission of the President.

TENTATIVE ADMISSION
Tentative Admission may be granted to an applicant whose record to date is acceptable but whose application is incomplete. If the documents are satisfactory when received, the student’s admission is confirmed. If unsatisfactory, admission is denied.