Thesis Screening Panel

PhD students are required to prepare a thesis proposal and present it to the Thesis Screening Panel (TSP) prior to embarking on major components of the thesis research. The TSP’s role is to evaluate the scope and content of the proposed research in light of the general expectations of the University and SPPH for doctoral (or masters) theses, and to provide feedback to the student and the supervisory committee on all aspects of the proposal. MSc students are encouraged to present to the TSP, but it is optional.

Presenting to the TSP

The TSP meets three times each Academic Year. Generally, meetings are held in Fall (usually October), Winter (usually February/March), and Summer (usually June). PhD students who wish to present to the TSP will be given priority over Masters students. PhD students are encouraged to complete the Comprehensive Examination prior to presenting to the TSP.

A call for proposals is distributed to all students prior to the meetings. Proposal submissions must include a signed coversheet, complete proposal, and completed checklist. Presentation dates are scheduled after all proposals are received.

• Current PhD students can find more information here.
• Current MSc students can find more information here.
• Supervisors of current students can find more information here (if you do not have access, email the PhD program to request it).
• The TSP Process document can be downloaded here. 

At the meeting, the student gives a brief (10-12 minute) oral presentation and responds to questions from the TSP. The student’s supervisor is expected to attend the meeting and other supervisory committee members are also encouraged to attend. The role of the supervisor and committee members is to observe the meeting. The TSP provides written feedback to students and their supervisors after the meeting.

Thesis Proposals

Thesis proposals are expected to outline the research topic and how the student will address a research question. Proposals should include:

• A problem statement;
• A brief literature review;
• A research plan (including objectives, design, methods, ethics, feasibility, and limitations);
• Implications of the study;
• Knowledge Transfer and Translation; and
• References and Appendices

Proposals should be 10 pages, excluding title pages, references, or appendices. Students should not include surveys, letters of reference, or letter of collaboration; these may be commented upon in the presentation and discussion with the TSP.