How graduate studies works

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Grad school is different, in a great way

If you’re taking your first graduate degree, it’s important to keep in mind that the experience will be different than your undergraduate, but equally rewarding.

Making the shift

Here are some key elements of graduate studies to keep in mind when deciding if Dalhousie is right for you.

It's time to get focused

This is your chance to take a deep dive into an area of study that fascinates you or sharpens skills that will ready you for career success. You will take your knowledge to the next level, delve further into a discipline and improve your expertise.

Explore Dalhousie's graduate programs

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Put a new emphasis on research

If you pursue a thesis-based degree, you will spend considerable time conducting research. Whether pouring over Dalhousie’s extensive library resources, conducting field studies, or undertaking experiments, you will contribute to the university’s thriving research environment.

Learn about Dalhousie's priority research areas

More independence, more responsibility

No matter what you select for your graduate program you will be expected to take more responsibility for the direction of your studies. If you choose a thesis-based degree, a supervisor will be your guide, but ultimately, you’ll be in charge of keeping yourself on track.

Start looking for your supervisor

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A closer cohort

You’ll attend courses alongside small-group peers in your chosen field. They’ll be a close community that supports you as you take on the challenges of graduate studies, and the network you depend on when it comes time to build your career.

Meet your future peers

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Making sense of graduate programs

Master’s programs

At Dalhousie, there are two main types of master’s programs — thesis-based and course-based. Your choice will depend on how you like to study and what you want to do for a career.

Thesis-based master's programs

Research-intensive programs that require you to write and defend a thesis.
You will need a faculty member to supervise your progress.
Funding may be available through a stipend from the university.
Takes more than one year to complete.
Completion will meet the eligibility requirements to apply for PhD programs.

Course-based master's programs

Programs focused on developing a professional skillset.
Comprised of a series of courses but can include a major project.
No supervisor is necessary.
Most students are self-funded.
Usually takes between one and two years.
Access to hands-on experiences, like practicums and internships.
Does not usually lead toward a PhD.

PhD programs

Your PhD program may include various elements from lab-based experiments to extensive literature reviews to field-based work locally and around the world. Whatever method you pursue, your goal will be to advance knowledge in a specific area of study.

Thesis-based master’s degree is normally required, with some program-specific exceptions.
The majority of work is dedicated to independent research and advanced skill development.
A Supervisor and supervisory committee are required to help guide your course of study.
Comprehensive examination after initial course work to test your grasp of your chosen field.
Successful thesis defence at the conclusion of your program is required to graduate.

Financing your studies

At Dal, you will have the opportunity to access funding through direct support from your supervisor or department, scholarships and bursaries, employment opportunities or student loans.

How to finance your studies

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Admission requirements

Learn about what’s required to become a Dalhousie master’s or PhD student, including the grades you need to have achieved and language proficiency requirements.

Discovery our admission requirements