Admission Requirements
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Applicants may enter the RSI PhD Program through two routes:
Route 1: PhD following a Master's Degree
Applicants must:
- Hold a master's degree in a relevant thesis-based or clinical program with clearly defined research output(s).
- Have achieved a minimum A− average in the master's program.
Relevant master's programs may include:
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitation Sciences
- Psychology
- Education
- Other closely related thesis-based master's programs
Research experience
RSI expects PhD applicants to demonstrate prior research experience and strong research potential. RSI specifically identifies publications and/or presentations as evidence of prior research experience.
PhD applicants must submit:
- A letter of intent
- Two confidential reference letters addressing the applicant's preparation and competence to conduct research
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Applicants should clearly describe their research experience, research accomplishments and potential for doctoral-level research in their application.
Applicants are recommended to identify a faculty member whose research aligns with their proposed area of study.
Both domestic and international applicants should contact potential supervisors before applying to discuss research interests, supervisory availability, funding, and program fit.
To find a supervisor, visit our Potential Supervisor or Faculty Directory webpages.
Route 2: Direct-Entry PhD
Exceptional students with a bachelor's degree may be considered for direct admission to the PhD program without first completing a master's degree.
This route is intended for exceptionally strong undergraduate students with demonstrated research potential.
Direct-entry applicants must:
- Hold a BSc degree or equivalent undergraduate degree from a recognized university.
- Have a minimum A+/A average (GPA 4.0) in the undergraduate program.
- Have previous relevant research experience.
- Have outstanding references.
- Have a personal recommendation from a potential supervisor.
Direct-entry applicants should be able to demonstrate a level of research preparation and potential comparable to that expected of highly successful master's-level applicants.
Applicants are recommended to identify a potential faculty supervisor whose research aligns with their interests.
For international applicants, a confirmed RSI graduate supervisor is required before the application can be reviewed.
To find a supervisor, visit our Potential Supervisors and/or Faculty Directory webpages.
Direct-entry PhD applicants must submit:
- A letter of intent
- Two confidential reference letters addressing preparation and competence to conduct research
- A current CV