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Professional diplomas

Build skills, earn a diploma and work in Canada

Our professional diploma programs are designed to help you build leadership skills and gain hands-on work experience in high-demand Canadian industries. Learners who complete this full-time 24-month program are eligible to apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP). 


Eligibility is determined solely by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and is subject to its discretion and current policies.

Discover the benefits Professional Diploma in Management and Leadership Studies (24 months) 12-Month Professional Diploma in Human Resources Management 12-Month Professional Diploma in Strategic Leadership Life as a student Your path to being accepted
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Professional Diploma in Management and Leadership Studies (24 months)

Program details

Location:  Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada 

Duration: 24 months, complete three certificates and a four-month Work Integrated Learning (Internship)

Program start dates: September or January 

Application deadline: Rolling admission

Format: Hybrid  - more than 50% of coursework will be completed in-person.  

Time commitment: This is a full-time program (PGWP eligible). Students will be in class between 7-10 hours per week, depending on the specialization, and should expect to spend a minimum of 30 hours per week engaged in courses, study, and experiential learning. 

Learn more about the costs and payment requirements Begin application Review our policy on refunds, deferrals and more
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Professional Diploma in Human Resource Management (12 months)

Build practical HR and leadership skills to grow—or shift—your career. You’ll complete two complementary certificates and a four-month, full-time internship to gain real-world experience.

This program is a great fit if you’re already in Canada and ready to upskill or pivot into people-focused, corporate, or administrative roles—especially if you want to make that move quickly.

Please note: This program is not eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Learn more and apply
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Professional Diploma in Strategic Leadership (12 months)

Build practical HR and leadership skills to grow—or shift—your career. You’ll complete two complementary certificates and a four-month, full-time internship to gain real-world experience.

This program is a great fit if you’re already in Canada and ready to upskill or pivot into people-focused, corporate, or administrative roles—especially if you’re looking to make that move quickly.

Please note: This program is not eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Learn more and apply
Human resources interview

Discover the benefits

  • Receive targeted training designed to help you succeed in the Canadian workplace, including help with your Canadian job search and personalized feedback on your resume and cover letter. 
  • Take part in one-on-one career counseling from a career advisor with the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), Nova Scotia’s top immigrant-serving organization, to define and achieve your career goals.
  • Apply your skills in a Canadian workplace by completing a four-month work term as part of your program.
  • Learn from one of Canada’s leading research institutions, located in one of its safest and friendliest cities.
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Life as a student

Living and working in Canada

If you’re coming to Canada with your family, there are many supports available to help you settle in. If your spouse is joining you, they may be eligible for a work permit while you complete your Master’s or PhD program. If you have children under 18, they can attend public school for free while you’re enrolled in your program.

You may also be able to work while studying—check the IRCC website for full details. Throughout your program, you’ll work closely with the ISANS team to explore job opportunities, gain Canadian work experience, and apply for positions in your field. You’ll receive plenty of guidance and support, but ultimately, finding a job or internship will be your responsibility.

Apply for the Professional Diploma in Management and Leadership Studies Apply for the Professional Diploma in Human Resource Management Apply for the Professional Diploma in Strategic Leadership
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What to expect

For the Professional Diploma in Management and Leadership Studies, you will complete four courses in strategic leadership and four courses in human resource management.

To earn the Professional Diploma in Human Resource Management, you will complete seven courses over twelve months.

To earn the Professional Diploma in Strategic Leadership, you will complete seven courses over twelve months.

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Finishing your program

To be awarded a professional diploma, you must:

  • Successfully complete all mandatory coursework.

  • A minimum grade of 70% is required for the assignment and participation components of each course unless otherwise specified. 

  • Complete your work term by achieving the required work hours, writing a final report, and receiving a positive evaluation from your supervisor. 

Upon completion of your program, you will be awarded the diploma and each certificate.

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Your path to being accepted

The professional diploma programs welcome two cohorts per year - in September or January. You can begin your application any time.

Applications are competitive and evaluated on a rolling basis so apply early. 

Please note that it can take approximately five to six months to process your study permit and visa before travelling to Canada. 

Step 1: Get your documents ready

As part of your application, you will need to submit the following:

  • Unofficial university transcripts from your undergraduate degree translated into English*
  • Proof of English language proficiency. 
  • Personal statement
  • Résumé/CV
  • Digital copy of your passport photo page.
  • Two professional or academic references

*NOTE: Successful applicants will be required to submit official transcripts. 

Step 2: Submit your application

You can begin your application now and come back to it later. However, all supporting documentation must be received within 30 days of the original application submission or the application will be cancelled.  The Admissions Committee will only review fully completed, successfully submitted applications.

Please note that during high-volume periods, application processing times may vary, but we aim to process applications within 15 business days. To check the status of your application, please email openlearning@dal.ca.

Step 3: Complete an interview

Shortlisted candidates to the program will be invited to a 30-minute virtual interview, where you'll be asked to respond to five structured questions related to your professional experience and goals.

 

 

Step 4: Receive your Letter of Offer

If you’re successful, you will receive a Letter of Offer to the program. This document outlines the program's duration, total cost, policies and rules, and deposit instructions.

Step 5: Secure your spot

To secure a place in the program, a non-refundable tuition deposit must be paid within 21 days of receiving the offer. View the payment schedule. 

Step 6: Receive your letter of acceptance

After paying the deposit, the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) will be issued.

The LOA is usually issued four to five months prior to the start date. 

Once the deposit is received, you will receive the letter of acceptance (LOA) and Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), which are usually issued 4 to 5 months prior to the start date. The deposit is due within 21 days of your acceptance into the program.

Step 7: Apply for your study permit and co‑op work permit

Use your LOA and PAL to apply for your study permit and co-op work permit. (Note that your PAL will expire in 12 weeks of the issuance date.)

Please refer to the website for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for the latest and most accurate information about eligibility requirements and the length of PGWPs. 

Step 8: Before you start

Make sure that the original transcript has been emailed or mailed to openlearning@dal.ca or to the senior program manager.