Program structure

The graduate programs in the Department of Natural Resource Sciences (NRS) at McGill University emphasize research-based learning and academic rigor, tailored to prepare students for professional and academic careers. The program structure for the M.Sc. (Thesis) and Ph.D. programs includes the following components:

Master of Science (M.Sc.) – Thesis Option

1. Coursework: Students complete a small number of courses tailored to their research area.
2. Research Thesis: The core of the program is conducting original research under the supervision of a faculty member.
3. Seminars: Participation in departmental seminars to enhance knowledge-sharing and academic networking.
4. Program Duration: Typically completed within 2 years (full-time).

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

1. Coursework: Limited coursework tailored to the research focus, determined by the advisory committee.
2. Comprehensive Examination: Evaluation of the candidate's knowledge in their field and research proposal.
3. Dissertation: Conducting and presenting original, high-impact research.
4. Seminars: Active participation in and contribution to departmental seminars.
5. Program Duration: Typically completed in 3-4 years (full-time).

Specializations

• Agricultural Economics
• Entomology
• Forest Science
• Microbiology
• Soil Science
• Wildlife Biology

Collaborative Options

Students may choose additional specializations or collaborative research opportunities with:

• The McGill School of Environment
• The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

Research Focus

The program emphasizes practical and theoretical knowledge in natural resource sciences, integrating fieldwork, lab research, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

For detailed program information, visit the NRS Graduate Programs page.

Fees and Funding

The Department of Natural Resource Sciences (NRS) at McGill University offers research-based graduate programs leading to Master of Science (M.Sc.) and Doctorate (Ph.D.) degrees. Specializations include Agricultural Economics, Entomology, Forest Science, Microbiology, Soil Science, and Wildlife Biology.

McGill University

Tuition Fees (2024-2025):

• Quebec Students:

  • Full-Time Thesis Residency Term: $1,483.65 per term
  • Non-Thesis Tuition: $98.91 per credit

• Non-Quebec Canadian Students:

  • Full-Time Thesis Residency Term: $4,630.80 per term
  • Non-Thesis Tuition: $412.00 per credit

• International Students:

  • Full-Time Thesis Residency Term: $10,159.95 per term
  • Non-Thesis Tuition: $992.67 per credit

Funding Opportunities:

McGill University is committed to providing competitive financial support to attract top students to its graduate programs. Funding for graduate students may come from various sources, including internal fellowships, external scholarships, and research stipends. Thesis-based Master's students typically receive funding from their thesis supervisors, while non-thesis Master's students generally do not receive such funding.

Prospective students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities, as securing external funding can enhance admission prospects. Detailed information on funding opportunities is available on McGill's Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies website.

Application Deadlines:

• M.Sc. (Thesis) and Ph.D. Programs:

  • Fall Admission:
    • International Applicants: January 15
    • Canadian/Permanent Residents: May 31
  • Winter Admission:
    • International Applicants: July 15
    • Canadian/Permanent Residents: September 1

• M.Sc. Agricultural Economics:

  • Fall Admission Only:
    • International Applicants: January 15
    • Canadian/Permanent Residents: May 31

For more detailed information, please visit the NRS Graduate Programs page.

Scholarship Guidance

Graduate students in the Department of Natural Resource Sciences (NRS) at McGill University may access several scholarship and funding opportunities to support their studies. Here’s an overview:

Internal Funding Opportunities:

1. McGill Fellowships and Awards:

   • The university offers various merit-based fellowships and awards for graduate students. These are competitive and may require a separate application or nomination by the department.

2. Supervisor-Funded Stipends:

   • Thesis-based graduate students (M.Sc. and Ph.D.) are typically funded by their supervisors through research grants. The amount and duration depend on the research project and funding availability.

3. Departmental Awards:

   • The Department of Natural Resource Sciences occasionally provides awards to outstanding students, which may include travel grants for conferences or additional research funding.

External Funding Opportunities:

1. Canadian Government Scholarships:

   • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Ph.D.): CAD $50,000 per year for up to three years.
   • Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M): CAD $17,500 for one year.

2. Provincial Scholarships:

   • Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies (FRQNT): Available for Quebec-based graduate students in natural sciences and engineering.

3. International Scholarships:

   • International students are encouraged to apply for scholarships offered by their home governments or international organizations.

Specialized Awards for NRS Students:

1. Environmental Research Awards:
   • Scholarships specifically aimed at research in soil science, forestry, and wildlife biology.
2. Collaborative Research Funding:
   • Students engaged in interdisciplinary research with institutions like the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute may access additional funding sources.

Application Tips:

• Early preparation is essential, as many scholarships have deadlines that coincide with or precede program application deadlines.
• Students should consult McGill’s Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Funding page for updated information.

For more details, visit the NRS Graduate Scholarships and Funding page.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for graduate programs in the Department of Natural Resource Sciences (NRS) at McGill University typically include the following:

General Requirements:

1. Educational Background:

   • A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as agricultural science, biology, environmental science, or other related disciplines.
   • For Ph.D. applicants, a Master’s degree or equivalent in a related field is usually required.

2. Minimum GPA:

   • A cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent) in the last two years of full-time study.

3. Language Proficiency (for Non-Native English Speakers):

   • Proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests such as:
     • TOEFL: Minimum score of 86 (Internet-based test) with no less than 20 in each component.
     • IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no individual component score less than 6.0.

4. GRE (if required):

   • Some specializations may require GRE scores. Applicants should check specific program requirements.

Program-Specific Requirements:

• Master’s (M.Sc.) Programs:
  • Research interests must align with those of a potential supervisor. Applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members to discuss potential supervision before applying.
• Doctoral (Ph.D.) Programs:
  • Evidence of research experience and academic publications (if applicable) is often advantageous.

Additional Documentation:

1. Statement of Purpose:

   • A detailed statement explaining research interests, academic goals, and reasons for choosing McGill University.

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV):

   • An up-to-date CV highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and relevant work experience.

3. References:

   • Two or more academic letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant’s ability to succeed in a graduate program.

4. Official Transcripts:

   • From all previously attended post-secondary institutions.

5. Application Fee:

   • CAD $132.90 (non-refundable).

Application Deadlines:

• Fall Admission:
  • International Applicants: January 15
  • Canadian/Permanent Residents: May 31
• Winter Admission:
  • International Applicants: July 15
  • Canadian/Permanent Residents: September 1

For more information, visit the NRS Graduate Programs Admission Requirements page.

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the M.Sc. or Ph.D. programs:

Step 1: Research the Program

• Review program details and specializations offered by the Department of Natural Resource Sciences.
• Identify potential supervisors whose research aligns with your interests. Contact them to discuss potential supervision before applying.

Program Information: NRS Graduate Programs

Step 2: Check Eligibility

• Ensure you meet the admission requirements, including academic qualifications, language proficiency, and minimum GPA (3.0/4.0 or equivalent).
• Confirm your readiness to meet program-specific prerequisites.

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

1. Online Application Form:

   • Complete the application on the McGill University Application Portal.

2. Supporting Documents:

   • Statement of Purpose
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Official Transcripts (from all post-secondary institutions attended)
   • Letters of Recommendation (at least two academic references)
   • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
   • Any additional documents requested by the program or supervisor.

3. Application Fee:

   • CAD $132.90 (non-refundable)

Step 4: Submit Application

• Apply through McGill's online portal. Ensure all documents are uploaded and application fees are paid before the deadline.

Step 5: Track Application Status

• After submission, monitor the status of your application through the online portal.
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional documentation or information.

Application Deadlines:

• M.Sc. (Thesis) and Ph.D. Programs:
  • Fall Admission:
    • International Applicants: January 15
    • Canadian/Permanent Residents: May 31
  • Winter Admission:
    • International Applicants: July 15
    • Canadian/Permanent Residents: September 1
• M.Sc. Agricultural Economics (Fall Only):
  • International Applicants: January 15
  • Canadian/Permanent Residents: May 31

Step 6: Acceptance and Enrollment

• Upon acceptance, confirm your offer and complete the enrollment process as outlined by the university.

For more details, visit the McGill Graduate Applications page.