PhD Degree in Clinical and Translational Research (formerly Experimental Medicine)
The overall objective of this program is to train students in the in-depth analysis of fundamental, translational and/or clinical research. Students perform studies at diverse levels, from molecular, cellular, and tissue to whole animal, human, and population in order to elucidate mechanisms behind human diseases, leading to drug discovery. Students are trained to become research leaders in both academic and industrial settings.
Applicants for the PhD in Clinical and Translational Research must normally hold an M.Sc. degree. The one exception is the possibility of direct entry offered to candidates having demonstrated academic excellence, i.e., a CGPA of 3.7 or more out of a possible 4.0 throughout their undergraduate studies.
For additional information, please refer to the timeline for the Ph.D. Program from admission to final thesis submission: 
Ph.D. Timeline
Program Requirements
*For students who began the PhD program prior to Fall 2026, please see program requirements for the PhD in Experimental Medicine*
A PhD Degree in Division of Clinical and Translational Research requires the student to:
- If entering with Master’s degree, complete 12 course credits at the 500+ level, which includes EXMD 634, one methods-based course, and 2 electives.
- If entering with a BSc or MD or having been fast-tracked, complete 18 course credits, which includes EXMD 634, one methods-based course, and 4 electives.
- Hold annual thesis committee meetings
- Successfully complete the oral comprehensive exam
- Submit a thesis based on their research that is passed by either an internal and external examiner.
Time and Fee Requirements
- The PhD Program at McGill University requires a minimum residence of four full-time terms if admitted at the PhD 2 level, and 6 full-time terms if admitted at the PhD 1 level.
- PhD students are required to pay a minimum of 6 full-time terms (if admitted as PhD 2) and 8 full-time terms (if admitted to PhD 1). If degree requirements are met prior to completion of the residency year (PhD 3), fees for outstanding residency terms will be charged in the final term of registration.
- Please refer to PhD Program Progression | Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies - McGill University
- For further information on Tuition & Fees, please refer to the following link
Course Requirements (12-18 credits)
Required Courses |
|
3 credits 0 credits |
Complementary Course |
Choose 3 credits from the following
|
3 credits |
Elective Courses |
The remaining 6-12 credits should be selected in consultation with the primary supervisor. Courses may be taken outside the department at the 500 level or higher in medical and allied sciences. A list of courses offered by the Division can be found here. | 6-12 credits |
Total |
For graduate students, the minimum acceptable grade in required courses is B- (65%). | Total: 12-18 credits |
Thesis Requirements
- A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.
- The PhD Thesis should follow the guidelines and requirements outlined on the Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies website.
- Thesis Submission Deadlines
For additional information, please refer to the timeline for the Ph.D. Program from admission to final thesis submission: Ph.D. Timeline