How to Apply
At the Marine Affairs Program (MAP), we believe that addressing today's ocean and fisheries challenges requires diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise.
Whether you're interested in the Master of Marine Management (MMM) or the Master of Fisheries Science (MFSc), we welcome applicants who are passionate about making a difference in our oceans and aquatic environments.
Both programs share Dalhousie University's general graduate admission requirements, but each offers a different academic focus and pathway to a career in marine or fisheries management.
General Admission Requirements
All applicants must meet the minimum admission requirements established by Dalhousie University's Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).
To be considered for admission to either program, applicants must have:
- A four-year bachelor's degree (or recognized equivalent) from a university of recognized standing.
- A minimum B average (3.0 GPA) in the last 60 credit hours (approximately two years) of undergraduate study.
- English language proficiency, where applicable, in accordance with Dalhousie University's requirements.
Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Applicants must also meet the requirements specific to their chosen program.
For more information, visit the Faculty of Graduate Studies Admission Requirements.
Which Program Is Right for Me?
Both the MMM and MFSc are 16-month, course-based professional master's programs. While they share a commitment to addressing real-world marine and fisheries challenges, they differ in their academic focus and the backgrounds they typically attract.
| Master of Marine Management (MMM) | Master of Fisheries Science (MFSc) | |
|---|---|---|
| Academic background | Welcomes applicants from all disciplines | Science-focused, with consideration of relevant education and work experience |
| Primary focus | Ocean and coastal management, governance, policy, and sustainability | Fisheries biology, stock assessment, statistics, and data analysis |
| Learning approach | Interdisciplinary, management-oriented, and applied | Scientific, technical, and applied |
| Professional preparation | Marine and coastal management, policy, conservation, and related fields | Fisheries science, stock assessment, resource management, and related fields |
Program-Specific Requirements
Master of Marine Management (MMM)
Different backgrounds. Shared commitment to ocean solutions.
The MMM welcomes applicants from all academic disciplines. Whether your background is in natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, engineering, business, law, or another field, we value the different perspectives students bring to marine management.
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in marine and coastal issues and a commitment to understanding and addressing complex environmental, social, and management challenges.
Master of Fisheries Science (MFSc)
Applying science to real-world fisheries challenges.
The MFSc is designed for applicants interested in the scientific and technical aspects of fisheries and aquatic resource management.
Applicants are expected to hold a Bachelor of Science degree specializing in marine science, wildlife, biology, marine biology, oceanography, mathematics, or statistics. A combination of education and relevant work experience may also be considered.
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to fisheries science or data analytics through academic studies, research, professional experience, or other relevant activities.
What If I Don't Meet Every Requirement?
Your academic record is important, but it doesn't tell your whole story.
We recognize that there is no single pathway to graduate studies. Applicants bring valuable knowledge, skills, and perspectives through their education, professional experience, and individual journeys.
If you have a non-traditional educational background, substantial relevant work experience, or an academic record that falls below the standard admission requirements, we encourage you to contact us before applying.
Dalhousie's Faculty of Graduate Studies establishes the minimum academic requirements for admission. Any consideration of applicants who do not meet these standards is subject to university policies and approval processes.
While admission cannot be guaranteed, we're happy to discuss your circumstances, help you understand the requirements, and explore whether there may be an appropriate pathway for you.
Still Have Questions?
Not sure which program is the best fit, or whether your academic and professional background meets the admission requirements?
We're happy to help!
Contact the Marine Affairs Program at marine.affairs@dal.ca, or reach out to the MFSc team at mfsc@dal.ca.
You can also visit the Faculty of Graduate Studies for additional information about graduate admission requirements.
