Toronto Metropolitan University

PhD in Policy Studies

Toronto, Canada Taught in English Open to international students

Introduction

Toronto Metropolitan University, established in 1948 and located in the heart of Toronto, is a dynamic urban university serving around 45,000 students with 142 programs across applied, creative, and professional disciplines. The university’s downtown location offers exceptional industry connections, internships, and co-op placements that help students translate classroom learning into workplace experience. International students, who make up a significant portion of the population, find diverse communities, robust support services, and abundant networking opportunities in Canada’s largest city.

Academic offerings span applied sciences, business, arts, and emerging technology fields, all delivered with an emphasis on experiential learning and career readiness. Campus resources include dedicated international student advisors, career services, modern labs, and entrepreneurship support, designed to help students adapt and succeed. Cultural associations, student clubs, and city-wide events provide social integration and practical exposure to Toronto’s multicultural landscape.

Graduates are sought after by employers for their practical skills and city-based work experience, and many international alumni remain in Canada through postgraduate work routes. Prospective students should research program-specific admission requirements, co-op opportunities, and available scholarships, and connect early with the international office for visa and settlement guidance. Toronto Metropolitan University is an excellent option for students seeking applied programs in a globally connected urban setting.

About the Program

The PhD in Policy Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University is a unique interdisciplinary doctoral program. It prepares students for positions in academe and the public, non-profit, and private sectors. This 4-year program is for students with a Master's degree.

The curriculum covers policy studies from an interdisciplinary perspective. Students develop skills in research, analysis, and policy development. The program includes hands-on components, such as research projects and policy analysis.

Graduates can work as Policy Analysts, Researchers, Professors, or Consultants. They can find jobs in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies. Employers may include universities, think tanks, or government institutions.

Tuition in Context

This program's tuition is 70% above the typical PhD in Canada.

Median tuition for that cohort is 10,207 USD, across 514 programs in our catalog.

Compare Canada PhD programs

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
Duolingo
85–95
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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