Environmental & Life Sciences Ph.D.

Let your scientific interests lead, as you investigate environmental issues of significance to society – and the world.

Become a catalyst for change in what is often called “the Age of the Environment.” Pose the critical questions about the issues of our time, and study alongside experts to find the answers. Explore environmental issues that will shape our future: the conservation of biodiversity, the spread of contaminants and infectious diseases, the matters of sustainability and water quality.

As part of the prestigious Ph.D. program, you will hone your scientific and communication skills, generate knowledge and contribute to the future. Inspired by top-notch professors from diverse disciplines, as well as scientists from governmental and non-governmental organizations, you will help forge new approaches to key environmental challenges.

• Take part in leading research in cell biology and genetics, ecology and conservation biology, physical geography, trace contaminant toxicology and chemistry, and much more.
• Study in world-class research centres and institutes, built on superior funding and state-of-the-art research equipment that support you in your investigation.
• Prepare for advanced academic training and for employment with governments, NGOs, or private industry.
• Benefit from strong funding, scholarship opportunities and teaching assistantships.

Environmental & Life Sciences website

Program Options

• Ph.D.
• Full or part-time studies
• Thesis-based
• Ph.D. is 4 years, full-time
• September, January and May intake

​Admission Requirements 

• Masters degree in Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Geography, Environmental Science or a related discipline
• Minimum B+ (77%) or equivalent in the work of the last four semesters or the last two years

Required Documents

Transcripts

Post-secondary transcripts and graduation certificates (where applicable) of all previous undergraduate and graduate work are required.  This includes transcripts for courses taken on a Letter of Permission, for transfer credit, or on an exchange program.   Transcripts must show all course work completed and grades received.   If applicable, evidence of degree completion is required.  Transcript must include a grading scale or transcript legend.

Please note: Transcripts are not required to be official and final when applying to the School of Graduate Studies.   Official transcripts are only required to be submitted if an applicant receives an offer of admission.

Previous or current Trent University students do not need to submit a transcript for degree and course work completed at Trent University.   Transcripts must be submitted for any course work completed at another institution – i.e.) study abroad, letter of permission, transfer credit.

Two Letters of Reference

Academic references are preferred; however, professional references will be accepted. Links for your referees to submit an online reference will be sent directly to the referees you have provided on your application. We recommend you contact your referees prior to submitting an application to confirm their availability and contact information. If your referee does not receive the link, you can suggest that your referee check their junk email folder and email setting.  The email may have unintentionally been blocked by their email server.

Proof of English Language Proficiency

Proficiency in English usage, both written and oral, is essential to pursue graduate studies at Trent University. It Is required for applicants to demonstrate an adequate level of English proficiency, regardless of their citizenship status or country of origin. Applicants who completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university in Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the USA are exempt from this requirement. If you have completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university where the primary language of instruction is English, the School of Graduate Studies is prepared to consider alternate proof of English language proficiency.

Applicants to this program, require an IELTS (International English language Testing Services) - Academic testing - score of 7.0 with no band below 6.0.

For other acceptable English language proficiency tests, see International Applications. 

Plan of Study          template

Typically 1-2 pages, outlining applicant's objectives in a graduate program. Any specific research interests (if known), relevant experiences, and/or career aspirations can be included. If a potential supervisor has been discussed, please identify this in your plan of study. P

Detailed Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Additional information: 

Proof of Citizenship (ie. copy of passport or birth certificate) will be requested, only if an offer of admission is made.

Program contact information:

For any program specific inquiries or current application status, please contact the program directly: 

Email: enlsgrad@trentu.ca

Apply Now