CEWIL Resource Hub: Applied Research Project at the University of Toronto

Applied Studies courses are conducted on an individual basis. Each course experience is designed and delivered by two faculty members (the Applied Studies coordinator and a disciplinary expert), a workplace supervisor, and the student. Students express their interest in a paid or volunteer work experience and develop a research proposal linking the practical work and proposed research question. Students also propose this research question to a faculty member whose discipline aligns with the proposal. The student consults and collaborates with both the faculty member and the applied studies coordinator to design course learning outcomes and a research assignment. 

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Key success factors

  • 75% of students participating in the program are supported by Mitacs. International students can access further support by accepting loans available through our partnership with Prodigy Finance.
  • The program attracts high-quality students, and participation is competitive for both students and industry.
  • A dedicated business development team works with companies to identify potential research opportunities.
  • Emphasis is placed on the research problem at hand for both the student and the employer.

Unique characteristics

  • Female students have represented 35-40% of total program participation over the last five years.
  • Program participants have the potential to continue their industry research in the form of a PhD.

Resources

Key Characteristics

  • Type: Applied Research Project
  • Year program was established: 2010
  • Number of students per year: ~60
  • Number of employers/partners per year: 45
  • Programs/academic disciplines participating: Computer Science, Statistical Sciences, and Mathematics
  • Duration of experience: 8 months of courses followed by 8 months of internship
  • Submitted by: Arvind Gupta and
    Claire Mosses