PhD Program

Our PhD program offers advanced, interdisciplinary research opportunities in cutting-edge fields like Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Digital Media, Computer Networking, Game Development, Virtual Reality (VR), and beyond. Designed for students passionate about exploring the frontiers of technology, this program combines rigorous academic study with practical research, allowing you to work alongside leading experts to solve real-world challenges. With state-of-the-art labs and a collaborative research environment, you’ll gain specialized knowledge and make impactful contributions to fields driving the future of technology. Join us and become a leader in shaping tomorrow’s digital landscape.

PhD students will innovate the content and technology of their subject matter for entertainment, education and communication. The PhD program focuses on advanced interdisciplinary research in Information Technology and related applications and topics. The program allows you to learn new concepts and develop new skills, or improve your existing ones. See our past and current thesis examples and showcase for the types of research being produced by the School of IT in Digital Media.

Students who are registered in the course-based option but later decide to move to the thesis-based MASc option must meet three criteria:

• Minimum CGPA: 10.0.
• Must have completed at least one term in your current program.
• Must find a thesis supervisor (or co-supervisors).

Cybersecurity Specialization

The cybersecurity specialization has limited spots and is very competitive. It requires one credit (CYBR5000) in cybersecurity.

Timelines and Schedules

Typically, students will take:

• ITEC5001 [0.0 credit] Information Technology Seminar : ongoing
• ITEC6907 [0.0 credit] Doctoral Comprehensive Exam
• ITEC6908 [0.0 credit] Doctoral Proposal
• ITEC6909 [8.5 credits] Doctoral Thesis in Information Technology
• 1.5 credit in Electives selected in consultation with the supervisor

The coursework is generally done in the university. The rest depends on students and their supervisor.

Career Paths

Graduates of the PhD program are well-prepared for diverse and exciting career paths. With expertise in areas like interactive media, UX design, digital storytelling, and immersive technologies, as well as academia. Alumni can pursue roles as UX designers and researchers, digital product managers, professors, multimedia designers, and AR/VR developers, and are at the leading edge of research in IT, opening up possibilities for research positions in R&D departments of global tech companies. Canada’s growing digital sector, with hubs in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Montreal, offers ample opportunities in tech companies, media studios, educational institutions, and startups. This degree equips you with practical skills and research experience, making you a standout candidate in Canada’s competitive digital media landscape.