LEAP Application Information and FAQ

Do I need professional experience?
Yes. The program is designed for candidates with at least seven years of technical experience.

Can I apply with only an undergraduate degree?
Strong technical applicants with significant professional experience may be considered. Additional courses may be required to ensure you have the knowledge and preparations to succeed in the program.

I have a technical undergraduate degree and an MBA. Am I eligible?
Yes. Candidates with combined technical and leadership training are often well-positioned.

Do you accept international students?
Yes, we welcome international applicants, and they may connect with UVic’s International Centre for Students for support after admission.

Do I need a study or work permit?
Most international students require a study permit to study in Canada if their program is longer than six months. Although the in-Canada portion of the DEng may be shorter than six months, the overall program length exceeds this threshold. Therefore, international students must obtain a study permit for the in-Canada components.

Under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines, study permits are generally issued only for the duration of the in-Canada portion of the program.

We encourage prospective applicants to discuss their situation with the DEng program team during the pre-application process to clarify any questions.

Is the DEng eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
No. As a specialized professional doctorate with a non-standard credential structure, it does not meet current IRCC criteria for PGWP eligibility.

Do I need to take the GRE?
No.

Do I need to take TOEFL or IELTS?
Only if required to meet UVic’s English language proficiency standards.

When will admissibility be determined?
Preliminary assessment occurs during pre-application discussions. Formal admissibility decisions are typically released a few weeks after a complete application is submitted.

Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
Admission is holistic and considers academic preparation, project concept, professional experience, organizational support, and confirmed funding.

How long is the program?
The program typically takes three years to complete, while allowing participants to continue working professionally while studying.

Can I work while completing the program?
Yes. The program is built for working professionals.

How are courses delivered?
Courses are delivered primarily through in-person conferences, complemented by project-based online learning for flexibility and ongoing engagement.

How much time will I need to spend on the program?
Approximately 10–15 hours per week, depending on assignments and research.

Do I need to live in Victoria?
No. Most activities are online. Conferences may be held in Victoria or at other select locations.

How long is each conference?
4–5 days. There are nine conferences (three per year).

What are the costs associated with attending conferences?
There is no conference fee. Participants are responsible for travel and accommodation. Conference scholarships may be available.

What can I expect from the in-person conferences?
Engaging sessions, leadership workshops, company site visits, meetings with supervisors, and opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders.

When should I start the application process?
As early as possible. Early conversations allow time to refine the project idea, explore supervisor alignment, confirm funding, and eligibility.

When and how do I choose a supervisor?
During the pre-application process, applicants begin identifying potential supervisors whose expertise aligns with their project ideas. Program staff help facilitate alignment. Applicants are also encouraged to explore UVic’s directory of researchers to get a sense of the breadth of available expertise.

Can I have co-supervisors?
Yes. Interdisciplinary projects are encouraged. The DEng also requires engagement from a senior industry leader.

What is a praxis?
A praxis is a modern, practice-focused form of a dissertation: it is an applied research project that demonstrates real-world impact. Examples may include a prototype, design, simulation, or report, though other forms are possible.

Can I work on a project outside my organization?
Yes. Independent or self-funded candidates may work with external partners.

What support exists for innovation or intellectual property?
Guidance is available through the UVic Innovation Centre and Mitacs.

IP is retained by the sponsoring organization or managed according to agreements for independent projects.

How can I prepare before applying?
Clarify your project idea, explore potential supervisors, and think through the impact your work could have within your organization or your own enterprise. If you plan to pursue an employer-supported project, speak with your employer early to confirm interest and alignment. We also encourage prospective applicants to meet with the program team to discuss funding options, research alignment, and the steps needed to prepare a strong application.

What careers do DEng graduates pursue?
Graduates advance in senior technical and innovation leadership roles, guiding strategy, overseeing complex engineering initiatives, and leading applied research and change within their organizations or industries.

How does the DEng help further my career?
The DEng is Canada’s first professional engineering doctorate designed for experienced professionals who are tackling real-world challenges through applied, customizable research. The program combines intensive residencies, expert mentorship, organizational engagement, and global learning experiences to deliver meaningful results. This model benefits both the employee and the organization—supporting professional growth, strengthening leadership and technical capacity, and generating research-driven solutions that create lasting value.

What makes the DEng a significant investment?
It is Canada’s first professional engineering doctorate designed for experienced professionals tackling real-world challenges through applied, customizable research. The program integrates intensive residencies, expert mentorship, organizational engagement, and global learning experiences.

What funding options exist?
Many candidates receive employer support. Others may combine personal funding, external grants (e.g., Mitacs), and program scholarships. Early conversations with the program team help clarify available options.