PhD > Degree Requirements

Comprehensive Examinations
Comprehensive examinations will be taken either at the end of the second year of study or in the fall of year three. The examinations will consist of two papers of approximately 50 pages in length. One examination will explore a general question or topic in the student’s area of interest. The second will explore a specific question relevant to the student’s area of study.

Examination papers will be read and evaluated by at least two members of the student’s supervisory committee. If both examinations receive a “pass,” the student proceeds to an oral examination in which she or he will be required to demonstrate substantial knowledge in both areas.

Supervisory Committee
A Supervisory Committee must be established within one month of beginning the comprehensive period of study. The committee will consist of at least three and no more than five eligible faculty members, including the Supervisor. All committee members must be appointed to the York Faculty of Graduate Studies. Normally, one member will be outside the School of Social Work.

Dissertation
Following successful completion of the comprehensive examinations, students will advance to the dissertation stage. Students will enrol in the Doctoral Seminar and begin preparation of a dissertation proposal, to be approved by their Supervisory Committee.

An original research study and written dissertation must be completed by the student. The student must successfully defend the dissertation at an oral examination presided over by an Examination Committee.