mcmaster university phd nursing

Graduate Studies

Faculty of Health Sciences

Program Contact

Jasmine Francis

Degree options, nursing (msc).

The Nursing graduate program provides registered nurses with the opportunity to advance their education and become leaders in nursing practice, education, research and policy.

The program offers three MSc streams:

• course-based
• course-based Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner.

To qualify for the masters course-based Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner program, applicants must have worked full-time as a registered nurse for two years. Students in the graduate program have access to the educational, research and clinical resources of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the services of the Hamilton-Wentworth health care community.

Areas of Research

• Illness prevention and management
• Healthy equity and disparity
• Health system integration and innovation

Nursing (PhD)

The Nursing graduate program provides registered nurses with the opportunity to become clinical health science investigators in Nursing, contributing to the development and evaluation of health care interventions and programs.

The program offers studies leading to the PhD students having access to the educational, research and clinical resources of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the services of the Hamilton-Wentworth health care community.

Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (GDip)

Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioners (PHC NPs) are registered nurses, who are specialists in primary health care, and provide accessible, comprehensive and effective care to clients of all ages. They are experienced nurses with additional nursing education which enables them to provide individuals, families, groups and communities with health services in health promotion, disease and injury prevention, cure, rehabilitation and support.

This graduate diploma is available to qualified individuals who have successfully completed a master’s degree with a clinical nursing component (MSc or MN).

McMaster is part of the Council of Ontario University Programs in Nursing (COUPN) Ontario Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (PHC NP) program, a consortium of nine Ontario universities offering the program. Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Nurse Practitioner Exam Examination: Family/All Ages to qualify as an NP-PHC.

Alyssa Vito Scholarship in Cancer Research $

Established in 2022 by Dr. Alyssa Vito, survivor of triple negative breast cancer and MSc/PhD McMaster alumna. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Graduate Associate Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, to a graduate student who conducts cancer research with a component of their activities devoted to leadership, community outreach, and patient engagement. Preference will be given to students pursuing research in breast cancer.

Association of Canadian Universities for Northern Studies (ACUNS) Varied values

Varied values

ACUNS established its scholarship program, the Canadian Northern Studies Trust (CNST) in 1982 to advance knowledge and understanding of Canada’s North. The purpose of the CNST is to develop a cadre of scholars and scientists with northern experience and, at the same time, to enhance the educational opportunities available for northern residents.

For a list of scholarships and funding available, as well as eligibility criteria, award values, application details, and deadlines, visit the ACUNS website.

Autism Scholars Award $$$

Deadline Date:

December 2, 2024

With the support of the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities, a scholar awards program in autism has been established to ensure that Ontario attracts and retains pre-eminent scholars. The community of autism scholars fostered by this awards program will excel, according to internationally accepted standards of scientific excellence, in the creation of new knowledge concerning child autism, and its translation into improved health for children, more effective services and products for children with autism, and increase the province’s capacity in diagnosis and assessment of autism and a strengthened treatment system.

One one-year award at the master’s level and up to two one-year awards at the doctoral level will be made by the COU:

• Master’s Award: $18,000 ($6,000 per term beginning September 2025)
• Doctoral Award: $20,000 ($6,666 per term beginning September 2025)

Betty Gourlay Award for Excellence $

Established in 2016 by Ms. Betty Gourlay, a practicing nurse for over 40 years. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a full-time student in the nursing graduate program who, on the recommendation of the School of Nursing, has demonstrated excellence in academic achievement. Funds to be used by recipients to defer costs related to attendance at and/or participation in professional conferences or learning opportunities.

Value: 1 award variable up to $1,000

Canada Graduate Scholarships – Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplements $$

September 19, 2024

The CGS-MSFSS supports high-calibre Canadian graduate students in building global linkages and international networks through the pursuit of exceptional research experiences abroad. By accessing international scientific research and training, CGS-MSFSS recipients will contribute to strengthening the potential for collaboration between Canadian and foreign institutions.

Please review eligibility and criteria for more information about this travel award.

If you wish to apply, please contact your department graduate administrator.

Canada-U.S. Fulbright Program

The bi-national program is an educational exchange, with a mandate to enhance mutual understanding between the people of Canada and the people of the United States of America. Available to graduate students, faculty, professionals and independent researchers, successful applicants conduct research, lecture, or enroll in formal academic programs in the United States. Fulbright Canada offers various scholarship awards within this program, with further information on the various award opportunities made available through the Canada-US Fulbright Program website.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the Fulbright website.

CIBC Graduate Bursaries in Breast Cancer $$

The CIBC Graduate Bursaries in Breast Cancer was established in 2004 by CIBC under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund II initiative in support of CIBC’s belief that all students should have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals. To be granted first to students enrolled in a graduate program in the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate financial need and are conducting thesis research in the field of breast cancer and alternatively to students who are conducting thesis research in the field of women’s health, obstetrics, gynecology or medical oncology. Preference will be given to full-time graduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence.

CIHR Canada Graduate Scholarship – Doctoral $$$$

October 1, 2024

McMaster internal ResearchNet deadline: Tuesday, October 1, 2024, 11:59 p.m.

Applications are prepared and submitted by students in ResearchNet by the internal deadline set by McMaster. You will not be able to submit your application to ResearchNet until all the required tasks are completed, including the letters from your sponsors.

We encourage you to work closely with your supervisor and department on your application. The application you submit to ResearchNet on October 1 will be the final version that will be sent to CIHR if approved by McMaster.

CIHR Postdoctoral Fellowship $$$$

September 25, 2024

Postdoctoral research opportunities funded through CIHR. E-Approval done through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

Fellowships provide support for highly qualified applicants in all areas of health research at the post-PhD degree or post-health professional degree stages to add to their experience by engaging in health research either in Canada or abroad.

Valued at up to $60,000 per annum for up to five years.

CIHR Strategic Master’s Award $$$

December 14, 2023

The CIHR Strategic Master’s Award program provides financial support to scholars who are engaged in an eligible master’s program in Canada (refer to Eligibility) and that are relevant to specific CIHR priority research areas. This support allows these scholars to concentrate on their studies in their chosen fields.

The CIHR Strategic Master’s Award program is supported by CIHR Institutes and Initiatives with specific priority areas and is administered by CIHR.

CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M) $$$

The CGS M Awards Program supports students in all research disciplines and is administered jointly by Canada’s three federal granting agencies: the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC). The selection process and post-award administration are carried out at the university level, under the guidance of the three agencies.

CSA Group Graduate Scholarship $$

March 31, 2024

The purpose of the CSA Group Graduate Scholarship is to support graduate students in the pursuit of knowledge generation related to standards. Full-time graduate students at the Masters level studying at a publicly funded, accredited Canadian university are eligible to apply.

The research can be conducted in any field (e.g. engineering, social sciences, health sciences) and must include standards as a component of the research. The topic does not need to be related to an area in which CSA Group already has standards. The research may investigate aspects of an existing standard or may explore an area for future standards development.

Dr. J. A. Campbell Young Investigator Award $$

April 30, 2023

The Dr. J. A. Campbell Young Investigator Award of $5,000 for any kind of research into celiac disease and / or gluten sensitivity is available to students and those who have recently completed degrees.

Eligibility criteria, application details and deadlines available on the Canadian Celiac Association website.

Dr. John Thomas Memorial Bursary $

Dr. John Thomas Memorial Bursary was established in 1996 in memory of Dr. John Thomas by family, friends and colleagues. The bursary fund will assist graduate students enrolled in the department of philosophy or the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate financial need. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies with preference given to students studying medical or applied ethics.

E.B. Eastburn Fellowship $$$$

March 3, 2025

Under the terms of a bequest to Hamilton Community Foundation by the late Eugene B. Eastburn, a two-year Fellowship will be awarded for full-time postdoctoral studies in engineering or sciences (Natural or Physical sciences, including Health Sciences).

The fellowship will be awarded for 24 months for a total value of $90,000.

Note: The 2025 competition will be announced in late fall 2024.

Eileen mary grace bursary $.

Established in 2019 by the Estate of Brendan John Grace in loving memory of his mother, Eileen Mary Grace. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to graduate students in the School of Nursing who demonstrates financial need.

Erin ELO Scholarship $$

Established in 2023 by Erin Extended Learning Opportunities. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the School of Nursing, to graduate students enrolled in a Nursing Program who are conducting research on aging and demonstrate academic excellence.

Fulbright Canada Student Awards $ – $$$

November 15, 2023

Traditional Fulbright Canada Student awards are intended for Canadian citizens who are graduate students, prospective graduate students, or promising young professionals who wish to study and/or conduct research in the United States. Awards may be held at any university, research centre, think tank, or government agency in the United States.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the Fulbright Canada website.

GSA Travel Award $

The GSA Travel Assistance Grants are funded from the proceeds of the Graduate Students Association Development Fund, which receives contributions from graduate students and the University. The GSA Travel Assistance Grants fund is administered through the School of Graduate Studies. The GSA Travel Assistance Grants are designed to enable graduate students to travel to undertake research or present at conferences relevant to their field of study. There are a fluctuating number of awards available each semester.

The successful recipients will be determined randomly by selecting one recipient from each faculty (Health Sciences, Engineering, Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business) and the balance of the awards left in a given period will be randomly selected from a list of the remaining applicants from all faculties combined.

Application dates:

• Fall competition for September to December travel: Opens September 1, 2023 and closes October 2, 2023
• Winter competition for January to April travel: Opens January 2, 2024 and closes February 5, 2024
• Summer competition for May to August travel: Opens May 1, 2024 and closes June 3, 2024

H.G. Hilton Master’s Scholarship $$

The H.G. Hilton Master’s Scholarships were established by the income from a bequest in the estate of Hugh G. Hilton, at one time Chief Executive Officer of Stelco and member of the McMaster Board of Governors support a Master’s scholarship. The scholarship is tenable for one year, and is awarded annually to incoming Canadian citizens, permanent residents or, international students from departments which offer full-time Master’s graduate studies. Priority will be given to students intending research in Canadian industry or industrial problems. Other things being equal, preference will be given to deserving children of employees or former employees of Stelco Ltd.

Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship $$-$$$

March 14, 2024

The Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship for First Nation, Inuit, and Métis Students was established in 2009 in honour of Harvey E. Longboat, and in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to McMaster University and to the broader community. The School of Graduate Studies, in consultation with the Indigenous Studies program and the Indigenous Education Council, will award the scholarship annually to a First Nation, Inuit, or Métis student(s) who has demonstrated high academic achievement and exceptional promise.

The scholarship is tenable for one year, although previous award winners may re-apply.

Incoming students are eligible to apply.

Health Research Postdoctoral Opportunities

A comprehensive list of funding sources and agencies for postdoctoral fellows in the Faculty of Health Sciences and those doing health-related research can be found in McMaster’s funding database.. On the site, you will find a variety of filters to help you in your search.

Health Sciences Graduate Scholarship for Indigenous Scholars $$

All incoming Indigenous graduate students who are studying in a graduate program located within the Faculty of Health Sciences, are eligible to apply for this award.

Applicants who are completing a FIAP application for a facilitated graduate program, will be automatically considered for this award.

For full eligibility criteria, application details and deadlines, visit the Faculty of Health Sciences website. (Link below.)

Iranian Student Memorial Scholarship $

Established in honour of McMaster Faculty of Engineering PhD students Iman Aghabali and Mehdi Eshaghian, and a former Faculty of Health Science Post-Doctoral Fellow, who lost their lives on the downing of Ukrainian International Airlines Flight PS752. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Associate Deans responsible for graduate studies, to international graduate students from Iran who demonstrate academic excellence.

John Charles Polanyi Prize $$$

In honour of the achievement of John Charles Polanyi, recipient of the 1986 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, the Government of the Province of Ontario has established a fund to provide annually up to five prizes to outstanding researchers in the early stages of their career who are continuing to postdoctoral studies or have recently started a faculty appointment at an Ontario university.

Lyle Makosky Values and Ethics in Sport Fund $

April 30, 2024

This award is through the True Sport Foundation of Canada. Open to applicants who are

• high-performance athletes enrolled at a Canadian university, community college or other post-secondary educational institution.
• post-secondary students active in sport at a non-high-performance level.
• sport practitioners active/working in sport as an official, administrator or high-performance coach.
• educators working in a sport, sports sciences, sport management/administration or other applicable discipline.

All questions should be directed to the True Sport Foundation of Canada.

Visit their website for all details and contact information.

MacDATA Graduate Fellowship $$

March 15, 2021

The advent of large collection of data and ensuing development in data analysis techniques has made collaboration between data scientists and content experts necessary for cutting-edge research. Furthermore, there is a need for trainees to be exposed to both aspects of such research, namely for data science trainees to learn about real life practical projects and for content expert trainees to gain experience in data analysis and management. The aims of the MacDATA Graduate Fellowship Program are:

• To provide trainees with an opportunity to acquire practical and theoretical skills in data science.
• To facilitate exchange of expertise and knowledge in data science across faculties.

Mackenzie King Memorial Scholarships $$-$$$

February 3, 2025

The Mackenzie King Scholarships were established as an independent charitable trust under the will of the late Rt. Hon. William Mackenzie King (1874-1950).

Two classes of Mackenzie King Scholarship are available. Both are to support graduate study by graduates of Canadian universities. Those whose previous degrees are from outside Canada are ineligible to apply, notwithstanding that they seek support for doing graduate studies in Canada.

Manulife Life Lessons Scholarship Program $$

March 31, 2023

Manulife has introduced the first Life Lessons Scholarship Program in Canada, for students who’ve experienced the death of a parent or guardian with little to no life insurance. The Scholarship Program helps combat the financial burden of paying for post-secondary education during an emotional time and recognizes the perseverance that so many youth show in such adversity.

The next application call for this scholarship opens on February 1, 2024. Visit the Manulife website for details on that date.

Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security $$$

February 23, 2024

Four scholarships open to master’s and PhD students who are conducting research on determinants, impacts, and policy or program interventions into food insecurity in Canada.

Visit Maple Leaf Centre for Food Insecurity to learn more and apply.

Questions can be directed to [email protected] .

Mary Buzzell Graduate Scholarship for Resilient Aging $

December 1, 2024

The Mary Buzzell Graduate Scholarship for Resilient Aging will be awarded to an outstanding student enrolled in any Master’s Degree program at McMaster University who is preparing for a career in the multidisciplinary field of Aging. This award is sponsored by Hamilton Aging in Community.

About Mary Buzzell

Mary Buzzell, a McMaster University faculty member in Nursing, was recognized by McMaster with an honorary doctorate as a pioneer in resilient aging, especially through innovative educational and community programs.

McMaster Graduate General Bursary $

What is a bursary.

A bursary is based solely on financial need. In most cases, information from your OSAP application is used to determine your financial need (some students who don’t receive OSAP can still apply for a bursary).

The McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program application opens mid-August in AwardSpring. Funding is paid out in mid-February.

Who can apply?

Graduate students who demonstrate financial need can apply for the McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program.

Please note: The McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program is not open to international students enrolled in graduate studies, MBA, medicine or physician assistant programs.

Bursary eligibility requirements:

• Be enrolled at McMaster
• Submit a completed application by the bursary deadline
• OSAP students who receive an income update request must complete it by the income update deadline
• Continue to demonstrate financial need throughout the study period
• Indigenous students
• students with OSAP government aid restrictions include:
• academic progress restriction
• income verification restriction
• provincial and/or federal default restriction
• credit check restriction
• students with a disability taking a reduced course load
• students with out-of-province student aid
• part-time students
• students receiving social assistance

McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA) Postdoctoral Fellowship $$$$

July 15, 2020

Prospective postdoctoral fellows are invited to submit a research plan that focuses on interdisciplinary, impact-driven approaches in the study of optimal aging through one or more of the following research areas:

• the impact of exercise on mobility;
• the interrelationship between psychological function and social function;
• causes and consequences of multimorbidity, frailty, and polypharmacy;
• the role of caregiving, equity, economics and transportation in optimal aging;
• the understanding of the biological mechanisms of diseases of aging;
• evaluating approaches to knowledge translation to improve optimal aging; and
• the use of technology to promote optimal aging and aging in place.

The applicant and principal supervisor are expected to involve at least two other researchers from two different McMaster faculties (outside of the principal supervisor’s faculty) as mentors in the development of an interdisciplinary research plan.

Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Awards $$$$

November 1, 2019

The DeGroote Fellowship Awards are offered in TWO categories:

• The Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Award in Basic Biomedical Science. Candidates conducting basic science research will be eligible for the Basic Biomedical Science Fellowship Award
• The Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Award in Clinical Research. Candidates pursuing clinical research will be eligible for the Clinical Research Fellowship Award.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the DeGroote Fellowship Awards web page.

MIRA Graduate Scholarship Program $$$

November 25, 2024

The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA) provides funding to support interdisciplinary research on aging led by McMaster researchers from across all six Mac Faculties.

The MIRA Graduate Scholarship Program is open to applicants entering year one of a master’s program and year one or two of a doctoral program.

Applicants are invited to submit a research proposal focusing on interdisciplinary, impact-driving approaches in the study of aging.

Visit the  MIRA website for all details, including how to apply.

• Notice of Intent: November 25, 2024
• Application: December 10, 2024, 4 p.m. ET

MIRA Graduate Student Travel Awards $

March 15, 2020

The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging funds up to 10 graduate student travel awards per year – five in each round – valued at $500 each for students working with MIRA researchers.  Graduate students travelling to an academic conference to present an accepted abstract in aging research are eligible for up to $500 in travel funding.

For details about this and other funding opportunities, visit MIRA .

Deadlines for 2020: March 15 and September 15

Mitacs-JSPS Summer Program

November 13, 2024

The Mitacs-JSPS Summer program is offered in partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and Mitacs. It provides opportunities for full-time graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in Canada to pursue collaborative research in Japan.

MURA Academic Scholarship

Established in 2020 the McMaster University Retirees Association (MURA). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a graduate student researching technological advances related to seniors, and who demonstrates academic excellence.

OGS for Indigenous Graduate Students $$$

Two OGS-I scholarships are awarded to Indigenous graduate students at McMaster University who face significant financial hardship, with particular priority given to women with family responsibilities.

This criteria has been established in consultation with the Indigenous Education Council (IEC) and is adjudicated by a committee chaired through the Indigenous Studies Program.

Ontario Graduate Fellowships $$$

Ontario Graduate Fellowships (OGF) provide funding to full-time students in graduate studies at the masters and doctoral level. It’s a merit-based scholarship for students with an A- or above.

Value: $12,000 ($4,000 per term)

Duration: 1 year

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarships in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) $$$

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and The Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) programs provide funding to full-time students at the master’s and doctoral levels. They are merit-based scholarships for students with an A- or above average.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship – International $$$

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship for International Students is by nomination only. Applicants to this award must contact their department for application instructions

Ontario Women’s Health Scholars Award $$$$

Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, a scholar awards program in women’s health has been established to ensure that Ontario attracts and retains pre-eminent women’s health scholars.

The community of women’s health scholars fostered by this awards program will excel, according to internationally accepted standards of scientific excellence, in the creation of new knowledge about women’s health and its translation into improved health for women, more effective health services and products for women, and a strengthened health care system.

Psychology Foundation of Canada Varied values

Various grants and travel supports available. Visit the Psychology Foundation of Canada for all details.

Rainbow Fund $

To be granted to graduate students enrolled in any program who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ students and demonstrate financial need.

Rose C. Mosgrove Scholarship $$

The Rose C. Mosgrove Scholarship is awarded to graduates of a nursing program from any university or community college in Ontario, who enroll in a program leading to the degree, Master of Science in Nursing. To be awarded by the School o Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the School of Nursing.

Schlumberger Foundation Faculty of the Future Value varies

Value varies

This fellow is awarded to female students who are citizens of a developing country or emerging economy. Applicants should be preparing for doctoral or postdoctoral research in the in the physical sciences, engineering, technology and related disciplines.

Deadline is usually during the Fall months. For all details – eligibility, value, deadlines, etc. – go to the Schlumberger Foundation website.

Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada Graduate Student Award of Merit $$

At least three awards, each in the amount of $4000, will be awarded annually to the women graduate students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in the university or general community while maintaining exemplary academic records.

Women registered in master’s or PhD programs within a designated region. Regions and number of awards rotate each year. SWAAC has designated Ontario as the region for this 2023 competition. There are five awards available for this competition. Each university may nominate one person for the award.

Read about McMaster PhD student Liza-Anastasia DiCecco, who received the 2023 SWAAC Award of Merit .

The Aileen McPhail Memorial Prize $

The Aileen McPhail Memorial Prize was established in 1989 in memory of Aileen McPhail, associate professor in Nursing (McMaster University) and director of Nursing Services (Chedoke-McMaster Hospital, McMaster Division), by her family and friends. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on recommendation of the co-coordinator of the Clinical Health Sciences (Nursing) program to a worthy student who holds the RN. Preference will be given to those who have indicated an interest in the study of oncology.

The Ann C. Beckingham Graduate Scholarship $$

The Ann C. Beckingham Graduate Scholarship was established in 2004, in memory of Dr. Ann C. Beckingham, who was a faculty member in the School of Nursing (1988-1997) and strongly believed in education, particularly related to aging and health. Scholarships will be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a graduate student registered to practice nursing in Canada and studying in the field of gerontology.

The Barkleys of Avonmore Scholarship $

The Barkley’s of Avonmore Scholarship was established in 1977 through the generosity of Fred Barkley to assist a student from a developing country to pursue advanced studies at McMaster University.  Each year the Dean of Graduate Studies will identify a worthy graduate student from one of the developing countries to receive the award.

The CHEPA Doctoral Research Scholarship $

Established in 2022 by David Feeny and George Torrance, founding members of the Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to doctoral students enrolled in any program, who are conducting research under the supervision of faculty members belonging to CHEPA and who demonstrate academic and research excellence. The scholarship will support PhD students who have successfully completed their comprehensive examinations. Preference will be given to students with research interests that include health-related quality of life, health technology assessment, health economics, health services research, health policy or determinants of health.

The Diane and Colin Wood Bursary in Respiratory Health $$

The Diane and Colin Wood Bursary in Respiratory Health was established in 2008 by Diane Wood and Colin Wood, BComm (Class of ’78). To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the director of the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, to a graduate student who demonstrates financial need and is conducting research in the area of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Preference will be given to students studying emphysema.

The Dr. Colin Webber Graduate Scholarship $$

Established in 2013 to honour the memory of Dr. Colin Webber, McMaster University professor, physicist, radiation safety expert, teacher, mentor, and leader in the field of bone research. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to master’s or doctoral students. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate interest in bone research.

Value: Minimum $1,600

The Dr. Jordan Page Harshman Bursary $

The Dr. Jordan Page Harsham Bursary was established in 2011 by the Harshman Fellowships Society to honour Dr. Jordon Page Harshman, past president of the society. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies, based on the recommendation of the Associate Dean, Health Sciences (Graduate), to a graduate student in the Faculty of Health Sciences who is engaged in medical research and who demonstrates financial need as well as good citizenship, good social responsibility, and leadership in society. Preference will be given to students in the following three areas in descending order: The Michael G. DeGroote institute for Infectious Disease Research, the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute and the department of clinical epidemiology and biostatistics. Recipients will be provided with a certificate from the Faculty of Health Sciences detailing the purpose and history of this award at McMaster University. Students who are recipients of an Ontario Graduate Scholarship are not eligible for this Bursary.

The Dr. Moyra Allen Nursing Academic Grant $

Established in 2023 by the Wilson family to honor Dr. Moyra Allen, a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from McMaster University in 1984 and the prestigious Officer of the Order of Canada in 1987 for her leadership in shaping nursing to be an innovative approach to health care that focuses on health and is responsive to the changing needs of a society and its families. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the School of Nursing to graduate students enrolled in the School of Nursing who self-identify as a member of an equity-deserving group and who demonstrate academic and research excellence and financial need.

We anticipate that this will be awarded in the 2024-25 academic year.

The Dr. Vivian Wood Graduate Scholarship $$

The Dr. Vivian Wood Scholarship was established in 2003 by Vivian and Albert Wood and the School of Nursing to support the education of a graduate student enrolled in the nursing program at McMaster. The scholarship is tenable for up to two years provided the recipient maintains a high level of progress and academic achievement. The scholarship will be made by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the coordinator of the graduate nursing program.

The E.B. Ryan Scholarship $

The E.B. Ryan Scholarship was established in 1997 using funds raised by a performance of the play Letter from Wingfield Farm, this scholarship is to be awarded to in-course graduate students from the faculties of Social Sciences and Health Sciences conducting research on aging. This award, valued at a maximum of $2,000, is awarded by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of a committee comprised of at least the director and the co-ordinator of the Office of Gerontological Studies.

The Edna Howard Bursary $

Established in 2022 by the family of Edna Howard, this bursary honours the support Edna offered graduate students through her work as a cook at The Phoenix Bar and Grill, owned and operated by the Graduate Students Association. Her food warmed the hearts of the McMaster campus community for many years until her retirement. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies to full-time students in any program who demonstrate financial need.

The EJ Irvine Annual Graduate Student Award $

The EJ Irvine Annual Graduate Student Award Established in 2022 by the Estate of Daniel Connelly Irvine in memory of the late Dr. Elizabeth Irvine, MSc. (Class of ’86). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Director of the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute and the Director, Division of Gastroenterology in the Department of Medicine. To be awarded to graduate students who demonstrate the best progress in research after year 1 in the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute.

The Graduate Students Association Bursary $

The Graduate Students Association Bursary was established in 1999 by the Graduate Students Association at McMaster University under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund initiative. To be granted to a full-time or part-time graduate student in one of the following faculties: Engineering, Health Sciences, and Humanities, Science, Social Sciences, or the PhD program in Business. The bursary will be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Graduate Students Association.

The H. Vincent Elliott Memorial Travel Bursary $

The H.Vincent Elliott Memorial Travel Bursary was established in 2010 by Dr. Susan J.Elliott (MA `97 and PhD`92), esteemed former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, professor of Geography and Earth Sciences, and senior research fellow at the United Nations Institute on Water (UNU-IWEH), Environment and Health, in memory of her father, H.Vincent Elliott. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation on the program director of ‘Water Without Borders’ to students registered in a Master’s or PhD program will be given to students in financial need.

The Howard P. Whidden Graduate Scholarship $$

The Howard P. Whidden Graduate Scholarship was established in 1987, and is open to non-Canadian students from countries of the British Commonwealth. This prestigious award is open to students who qualify for admission into any graduate program that extends to the doctorate, although the student’s initial registration may be at the Master’s level. The award is once renewable contingent upon satisfactory academic performance. It will be awarded at the discretion of the School of Graduate Studies.

The James F. Harvey and Helen S. Harvey Travel Scholarships $

Established in 1995 with funds from the estate of Helen S. Harvey.  James F. Harvey was a member of the first McMaster graduating class in Hamilton in 1935.  This travel scholarship will enable students to engage in research requiring travel.  To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence.

The Karen Boyajian Memorial Bursary in Nursing $

Established in 2022 by her husband in loving memory of Karen Boyajian. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies to graduate students enrolled in the School of Nursing who identify as a member of an equity-deserving group and demonstrate financial need.

The Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada Graduate Award

Established in 2022 by the Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a graduate student who is currently enrolled in their first year of any program who identifies as a member of the queer, trans community and is Black, racialized, or Indigenous.

The Lorne F. Lambier, Q.C., Scholarship $

The Lorne F. Lambier, QC Scholarship was established in 1984. The scholarship is tenable for one year. The scholarship is awarded annually to current Canadian citizens, permanent residents or international students registered in a master’s or doctoral graduate program in Faculties of Health Science and Science whose research is directed toward the understanding and/or cure of cancer.

The Louis Minden Scholarship in Health Sciences $$

Established in 1995 with funds from the estate of Mr. Louis Minden. To be awarded to a graduate student in the Faculty of Health Sciences by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Graduate Associate Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. This award is once renewable, and preference will be given to a graduate student pursuing research in preventative medicine.

The Margaret Black Bursary $

Established in 2018 from the Estate of Margaret Ellen Ann Black, former professor in the School of Nursing. To be granted to graduate students enrolled in the School of Nursing who demonstrate financial need.

The McMaster Immunology Research Centre Faculty Scholarship $

Established in 2011 by faculty members within the McMaster Immunology Research Centre to support graduate students. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies, to an outstanding full time M.Sc. or Ph.D. candidate. First preference will be given to a candidate supervised by a graduate faculty supervisor from the McMaster Immunology Research Centre. Second preference will be given to an applicant in the infection and immunity field.      

The Myra Baillie Academic Grant $

Established in 2005 by the Surgical Associates in memory of Myra Baillie. To be granted to a graduate student in any degree program who attains and “A” average and demonstrates financial need. Preference will be given to a female graduate student.

Award Value: 2 awards of $1,000 each

The School of Graduate Studies Grant in Aid for Research Travel $-$$

March 8, 2024

The SGS Grant is intended to be a grant in aid of research; students should not expect the grants to cover the full cost of travel or field work.

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Grant is not intended for conference or course work travel .

It is not meant to replace sources of funding already available from the tri-agencies (CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC), other external granting sources, or internal scholarships and bursaries.

It is not intended to fund the research itself, but the travel to do the research.

Application Date

The application will open in Mosaic on January 8, 2024, and close on March 8, 2024.

The W.E. Rawls Memorial Scholarship $

Established in 1990 by family and friends to honour the valuable contribution of Dr. Rawls made to cancer research; as Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences, founder and coordinator of the McMaster Cancer Research Group, Director of the Molecular Virology and Immunology Programme and Past President of the National Cancer Institute. Eligible students are from the Medical Sciences Graduate Program currently supervised by a faculty member who is associated with the McMaster Immunology Research Centre (MIRC). The award will be made by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Assistant Dean of the Medical Sciences Graduate Program.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship-Doctoral $$$$

September 4, 2024

The Vanier CGS program aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students to establish Canada as a global centre of excellence in research and higher learning. Vanier Scholars demonstrate both leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement in graduate studies in the social sciences and humanities, natural sciences and/or engineering and health.

It is valued at $50,000 per year for three years during doctoral studies.

Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents of Canada, and foreign citizens are eligible to apply for this scholarship.

Wilson Leadership Scholar Award $$-$$$

March 28, 2022

The Wilson Leader Scholarship Award for graduate students is different. Valued at $12,000 in direct funding and up to $2,000 for experiential funding, it’s a leadership development and career launcher program that builds on your studies. It involves about 15 hours/month, including time for synchronous group events between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.

Awarded to up to three graduate students annually.

Yates Scholarship $

The Yates Scholarship Fund (up to $500) was established in 1963 by the bequest of William Henry Yates. This fund support upper-level doctoral students with research activities and conference travel when a paper is being delivered. Applicants must have completed their comprehensive exam.

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Ph.D. Degree

The admission requirements are:

• Master’s degree or demonstrated readiness to transfer from the M.Sc. to the Ph.D. degree within the McMaster program.
• Completion of a research thesis or equivalent (e.g., the candidate has already conducted funded research).
• Same as requirements 2 through 5 under the M.Sc. Degree.

A candidate for the Ph.D. degree must comply with the School of Graduate Studies Regulations for the Degree Doctor of Philosophy.

Requirements

Candidates must:

• Obtain at least B- standing in a minimum of three half courses beyond those required for the M.Sc. degree, one of which must be NURSING 700   . NURSING 701    must also be taken as one of the three required courses for the degree, if an equivalent course was not previously taken at the Master’s level.
• In addition to the above minimum course requirements for the Ph.D., candidates must successfully complete an approved research methods half course, and one HRM statistics half course, if equivalent courses were not previously taken at the Master’s level.
• Pass a Comprehensive Examination before the 24th month following the start of their doctoral studies for full-time students and 36th month for students in the part-time program.
• Submit a thesis on an approved topic and defend the thesis at a final oral examination.

Students entering the Ph.D. program after transferring from the McMaster M.Sc. Program in Nursing must obtain at least B- standing in a minimum of three half courses beyond those required for the M.Sc. degree, one of which must be NURSING 700   . For students who have completed this course at the master’s level, another course must be selected by the student and the supervisory committee. Items 3 and 4 of the above listed Ph.D. requirements must also be completed.