UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO · CANADA
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 60+Faculty members
- 3Campuses
- MSc and PhDDegree levels
- KSRDedicated Field Station
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) offers graduate programs for students passionate about understanding the diversity of life, from the molecular level to entire ecosystems. Our research and teaching span a wide range of topics including population and community ecology, ecosystem dynamics, evolutionary genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, behavior, and conservation biology. We employ diverse research methods, including fieldwork, laboratory experiments, molecular biology, computational approaches, and theoretical modeling. Our primary goal is to train versatile scientists who can conduct innovative research, think critically, master specialized skills, and communicate their findings effectively. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, government agencies, data science, consulting, and education. The department fosters a collaborative community with over 60 faculty members across three campuses and affiliations with institutions like the Royal Ontario Museum, the Data Science Institute, and the Centre for Global Change. Students also have access to the Koffler Scientific Reserve for ecological research and partnerships with government agencies for field and lab facilities.
Curriculum
The MSc program focuses on developing independent research skills. Students will design, conduct, and write up a significant research project under faculty supervision, aiming for publication. The PhD program involves conducting a collection of substantial, inter-related research projects that contribute original findings to the field, leading to multiple publications and a defended thesis.
- MSc Year 1
- Graduate Full-Course Equivalent (FCE)
- MSc Year 2
- Thesis completion and defense
- PhD Year 1-2
- Coursework (1.5 FCEs)
- Appraisal exam (research proposal)
- PhD Year 3-4
- Thesis research and writing
- Public seminars
- Doctoral Final Oral Examination
Careers
Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths within and beyond academia. Opportunities include roles in government, research institutions, data analysis, environmental consulting, and higher education.
- Researcher
- Data Scientist
- Ecologist
- Conservation Biologist
- University Professor
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc and PhD programs in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology?
- For the MSc, applicants need an appropriate bachelor's degree with a minimum B average in the previous year and a B+ average in the final year. For direct PhD entry, a four-year BSc in biology with at least a B+ average in the final two years is required.
- Is it necessary to find a supervisor before applying to the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology graduate program?
- Yes, securing an agreement with a graduate faculty member in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology to supervise your research is a mandatory requirement for admission.
- What is the typical duration of the MSc and PhD programs?
- The MSc program typically involves coursework in the first year followed by thesis completion and defense in the second year. The PhD program involves coursework and an appraisal exam in the first 1-2 years, followed by thesis research and writing in years 3-4.
- What are the career prospects after completing a graduate degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology?
- Graduates are prepared for diverse roles including Researcher, Data Scientist, Ecologist, Conservation Biologist, University Professor, and Consultant in academia, government, and industry.
- Where can I find detailed information on tuition fees for international students?
- Detailed fee information, including tuition for international students, can be found by referring to the University of Toronto's School of Graduate Studies.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeAppropriate bachelor's degree with an average grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the last year and a minimum B average in the previous year for MSc. For PhD direct entry, a four-year BSc in biology with at least a B+ average in the final two years. For PhD entry after MSc, a research-based MSc in ecology or evolutionary biology with at least an A- average, in addition to the BSc requirements.
Applicants must secure a commitment from a graduate faculty member to supervise their research before admission.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available on provided pages.
Tuition (home)Information not available on provided pages.
LivingInformation not available on provided pages.
Refer to the University of Toronto's School of Graduate Studies for detailed fee information.
How to apply
1. Identify a SupervisorSecure an agreement with a graduate faculty member in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology who will supervise your research. This is a mandatory requirement for admission.
2. Review Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the minimum academic and any specific departmental requirements for the MSc or PhD program. Check the program page for details on required averages and prerequisite degrees.
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of research interest. For PhD applicants, this may include a research proposal.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the University of Toronto's School of Graduate Studies portal before the application deadline.
5. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the department and the School of Graduate Studies. Successful applicants will be notified of admission decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc and PhD programs in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology?
+
For the MSc, applicants need an appropriate bachelor's degree with a minimum B average in the previous year and a B+ average in the final year. For direct PhD entry, a four-year BSc in biology with at least a B+ average in the final two years is required.
Is it necessary to find a supervisor before applying to the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology graduate program?
+
Yes, securing an agreement with a graduate faculty member in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology to supervise your research is a mandatory requirement for admission.
What is the typical duration of the MSc and PhD programs?
+
The MSc program typically involves coursework in the first year followed by thesis completion and defense in the second year. The PhD program involves coursework and an appraisal exam in the first 1-2 years, followed by thesis research and writing in years 3-4.
What are the career prospects after completing a graduate degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology?
+
Graduates are prepared for diverse roles including Researcher, Data Scientist, Ecologist, Conservation Biologist, University Professor, and Consultant in academia, government, and industry.
Where can I find detailed information on tuition fees for international students?
+
Detailed fee information, including tuition for international students, can be found by referring to the University of Toronto's School of Graduate Studies.