This program is one of two doctoral programs offered by the Faculty of Science, the other of which being the PhD in Environmental Sciences.
This research-intensive PhD program brings together researchers from the faculty of science at UPEI to tackle the chemistry, physics, and biology of molecules big and small. The program involves graduate-level courses, a dissertation, candidacy examination and final oral defense while developing unique connections to the business aspects of the growing field. While the focus is on developing an expertise in the chemistry and/or physics of molecules and macromolecules, students will also engage in three MBA-level business courses key to applying scientific concepts and principles in the business world. Students will also participate in a capstone experience where they will be paired with a company to integrate their trans-discipline knowledge.
Research projects span a wide range of molecular and macromolecular sciences (MMS)--from synthetic and analytical work on biodegradable polymers, marine natural products, supramolecular systems and intercalation chemistry to theoretical studies on molecules, materials and movement to applied research in imaging, drug delivery, and batteries.
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Note: Current UPEI students should refer to Student Planning in myUPEI and the UPEI Academic Calendar governing their entry year, and speak to an academic advisor about course requirements. The course structure presented for this program is a recommended, unofficial progression for prospective students.
Students will be required to take three (3) graduate-level courses in Molecular and Macromolecular Sciences, three (3) graduate-level courses in business, and one (1) capstone course that integrates science and business components. Each student must complete a minimum of three (3) courses within the first 18 months of the degree, which may be a combination of the science and business requirements but must include at least one MMS and one business course. In addition, students should have started their capstone project, although completion of this project is not a requirement for this period.
Following this initial stage of research and coursework, each student will take a candidacy exam adjudicated by a Candidacy Examination Committee, and upon its successful completion will become a PhD candidate. Completion of the remaining required courses, further development of the research project, and preparation of a thesis within a maximum of seven (7) years will culminate in the defence of this body of work in a public forum, adjudicated by the student’s supervisory committee and an external examiner who will be an expert in the student’s field of research. If a student, for any reason, withdraws from the PhD program they may elect to enter the MSc program at UPEI if no such degree has been previously obtained.
Graduate students are required to register for MMS 8010—PhD thesis throughout their degree program. Additional required constellation-based courses include MMS 8020—Molecules, Macromolecules and the Business of Science and MMS 8030—Directed Studies in Molecular and Macromolecular Sciences. Students are also required to take 2 additional MMS electives at the graduate level. Business requirements include BUS 6030—Marketing Management, BUS 7010—Biotechnology Management and Development and BUS 7020— Commercialization of Biotechnology and Innovations.
The purpose of this PhD degree program (PhD in Environmental Sciences and/or PhD in Molecular and Macromolecular Sciences) is to provide a doctoral level research experience for candidates, ensuring that they develop critical thinking, creativity and subject mastery through their program. A secondary objective is to provide a value added degree containing a significant, Business (PhD in Molecular and Macromolecular Sciences) or environmental communications (PhD in Environmental Sciences) component to the studies. This degree will offer graduate education at the PhD level that meets the needs of the global scientific business, industry, research and academic environments in Molecular and Macromolecular Sciences, or Environmental Sciences both identified as constellations of research strength at UPEI.
Please refer to the UPEI Academic Calendar for complete admissions details.
Application deadline: for Fall intake July 1; for Winter intake November 1; for Summer intake March 1.
Securing a supervisor prior to applying to this program is an admission requirement. Visit the Potential Graduate Supervisors page of the Faculty of Graduate Studies website for contact information.
Tuition
PhD in the Faculty of Science - $14,506 per 3-year program
For a complete breakdown, visit our Tuition and Fees page.
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