Domestic students with an “A” average - We will reimburse your application fee! |
PhD Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics — Admission and Program InformationThe PhD program in Food, Agricultural & Resource Economics focuses on two major areas of emphasis:
Across these areas there is a focus on both developed and developing countries. Students in the PhD program focus on an area of specialization relevant to their thesis research, plus complete courses in microeconomic theory and economic research methods. All students must complete and defend a thesis in their chosen area of specialization. Admission RequirementsMinimum University of Guelph admission requirements for a Doctoral program include: 1) a satisfactory baccalaureate; and 2) at the very minimum high second-class honours ("B" standing) in a recognized Master's degree. Students entering the PhD program are expected to have satisfied the requirements, or their equivalents, of the department's MSc degree in Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics. Refer to Office of Graduate Studies for university guidelines. We strongly suggest students provide the department with Graduate Record Examination (GRE - General only) scores. In cases where a student's master's degree is not equivalent to that offered by the department, the student may initially be accepted into the MSc program and may then apply for transfer to the PhD program at some time during the first three semesters. Applications for transfer must be supported by the Departmental Graduate Program Commiee and approved by the Board of Graduate Studies. The student does not have to complete all the requirements of the MSc before transferring to the PhD program, but must achieve high academic standing. As international grading scales and minimum requirements do vary, please consult the "International Credential Evaluation Guidelines" If you require further guidance in regards to the application process you may also contact the Graduate Program Assistant.If your first language is not English, you will be required to submit the results of a standardized language test. Accepted tests and minimum required scores are:
Canadian Academic English Lanaguage Test (CAEL) - 60 Successful applicants are strongly encouraged to participate in a Math Camp in the Department of FARE prior to the beginning of the Fall semester. Students enrolled in the PhD program must successfully complete a program of at least ten taught courses that prepare them for the various elements of the qualification examination and thesis research, as outlined below. However, students that are able to demonstrate a satisfactory level of competence in any of these requirements may have these course requirements adjusted accordingly, subsequent to evaluation and the decision of the Departmental Graduate Program Committee. Microeconomic Theory:
Economic Research Methods:
Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics
Plus ONE other graduate course approved by the student's advisory committee.
See Department of Economics http://www.economics.uoguelph.ca/econ/index.htm for ECON course outlines. Students may also be permitted to take other courses as substitutes for the above, subject to approval by the Departmental Graduate Program Committee.
It should be noted that successful completion of the above courses is not necessarily sufficient for qualification to PhD candidacy. Students are expected to complete successfully the qualifying examination in microeconomic theory that aims to assess a student's understanding of key theoretical concepts. Students are allowed two attempts at this qualifying examination. Students that fail the examination at the second attempt will not be permitted to continue. Dissertation Proposal During the second year and only after the theory comprehensive exam is passed, students must prepare a dissertation proposal under the supervision of the student's advisory committee. PhD Student SupervisionUpon enrolment in the Department, a doctoral student is under the supervision of the Departmental Graduate Program Committee. This committee assists the student in the selection of a course program for his/her first term of study. By the end of the second semester at the very latest, PhD students are required to select an Advisory Committee in consultation with faculty members and subject to the approval of the Departmental Graduate Program Committee. The Advisory Committee consists of a minimum of three Graduate faculty members, at least one of whom must be from outside the student's home department. Until an Advisory Committee is finalized, the Graduate Studies Committee will remain the 'acting' advisory committee. The Advisory Committee is responsible for establishing the student's prescribed schedule of studies and advising his/her research progress. The Advisory Committee should be consulted prior to registration each semester. A list of prescribed courses for each student is agreed with the advisory committee. Both of the above forms are to be submitted to the Graduate Program Assistant. If you require assistance with these forms please feel free to consult the Graduate Program Assistant or Graduate Co-ordinator. PhD ThesisThe doctoral thesis is expected to be a significant contribution to knowledge in the students chosen field of specialization. The candidate is required to take a final oral examination devoted chiefly, but not entirely, to the defence of their doctoral thesis. In accordance with University regulations, this is a University examination conducted by a committee consisting of:
• Member of the graduate faculty who is not a member of the student's Advisory Committee appointed to act as Chair by the Dean of Graduate Studies. • Qualified examiner from outside the University. • Member of the graduate faculty from the Department who is not a member of the student's Advisory Committee. • Two members of the student's Advisory Committee.
To provide guidance to students, previous thesis topics of Doctoral students in the Department are available on the Departmental website: http://fare.uoguelph.ca/theses/
Please Note: The Doctor of Philosophy programs offered by the Department must follow all regulations of the Office of Graduate Studies. These are given in the University of Guelph's Graduate Calendar under General Regulations. In addition, there are specific regulations found in the Calendar for PhD degrees. The information provided in these pages is provided for guidance only. |
 "I had a great experience completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph so I chose to continue into graduate studies. The Department of FARE is a great place to make more real world connections and participate in top quality programs." - Chris, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "One thing that I like most about being a graduate student in the Department of FARE is the focus on consultation. Each semester students meet with the graduate study committee to discuss course selection, plan of research and ask questions." - Na, PhD FARE Graduate Student  "My first impression of the University of Guelph was based around the openness to diversity and appreciation of hard work that is evident around campus. This impression was only strengthened by the graduate program in the Department of FARE. With knowledgeable faculty and staff, FARE offers a wide variety of research opportunities and meets the needs of many students with various interests." - Predrag, PhD FARE Graduate Student  "The FARE graduate program has provided me with knowledge about important agricultural issues as well as applied economic tools that will help to solve industry problems. My experience in the Department of FARE has been very enjoyable and has opened the doors for a promising and rewarding career in the agriculture industry!" - Rebecca, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "The Department of FARE was my graduate program of choice because of the diversified research programs and academic training that is available here. Students have the opportunities to pursue their interests and work on applied researches that help solve real world problems." - Xin, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "I was initially attracted to the Department of FARE because of the applied approach to economic research, allowing me to think outside the classroom. Working and studying at the University of Guelph presents an opportunity to be a part of an academic community that can provide me with skills and tools needed to succeed in the working world." Read More - Brook, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "I chose to study in the Department of FARE because of its excellent reputation in agricultural economics. Strict and systematic coursework training laid a solid foundation for my future research. Kind, diversified and knowledgeable faculty and staff have provided very helpful assistance on my way of learning." - Zongyuan, PhD FARE Graduate Student  "Guelph is a great place to study and FARE is a top program in my chosen field. The faculty, staff and students are like a big family because we work together and help each other. During the first eight-month study, I have not only learned the theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills." - Di, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "My experience as a graduate student in the Department of FARE has been very rewarding. The growing interest in food and agricultural related topics in today's society has provided a great deal of application to current world issues. The department also offers a very communal environment that has allowed me to form lasting relationships, both personally and academically." - Ann-Renée, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student  "I chose to study in the Department of FARE because of the expertise and flexibility of the program. The instructors and students are highly regarded in the field of agricultural economics, and I have also been able to complete the International Development Studies program. The combination of these programs is providing me with the knowledge to be successful in a field where my direct interests lie." - Derek, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
