History
Founded in 1818, Dalhousie has been providing outstanding education for over 200 years. As a member of the U15 — Canada’s group of top research-intensive universities — we’re proud to be the leading research institution in Nova Scotia. From prime ministers to pioneering changemakers, our alumni have helped shape the world — among them, an impressive 94 Rhodes Scholars.
Education
Dalhousie offers the best of both worlds — the prestige of a leading university paired with a hands-on, collaborative education experience. Over 2800 of our students have taken part in experiential learning where they gain real-world experience through co-ops and internships, while working with leading firms and innovative startups across various sectors.
With programs across 13 diverse faculties, you can tailor your degree to fit your goals. Choose from over 4,000 courses in more than 200 undergraduate and 140+ graduate and professional degree programs. Plus, with one of the lowest student-faculty ratios in Canada, you’ll learn in close collaboration with nationally and internationally recognized professors.
Research
Dalhousie is a research powerhouse where over 1,000 researchers collaborate across disciplines to tackle complex global challenges. From groundbreaking ocean and clean tech research to innovative work in health, sustainability, and social impact, our efforts are changing lives and shaping a better future.
As a globally recognized institution, we’re advancing both fundamental knowledge and real-world solutions. Through partnerships, discovery, and a shared commitment to impact, Dalhousie’s research community is making a meaningful difference — locally and around the world.
Career
With a growing population and thriving economy, Halifax is emerging as a hub for careers in tech, ocean innovation, healthcare, and finance. In 2023 alone, 12,900 new jobs were created, offering exciting prospects for graduates. Nova Scotia’s expanding industry and labour markets allow you to build a successful career — working with leading firms and innovative start-ups without having to leave the province.
New grads have access to dedicated career advisors, skill-building resources, networking events, and further education opportunities. Our alumni-to-alumni mentoring program also fosters meaningful connections to support your lifelong learning and career growth.
University Ranking
QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities
2025
275 23
2024
298 10
2023
308
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
World University Rankings by Times Higher Education
2025
301
2024
301
2023
301
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
Academic Ranking of World Universities by Shanghai Jiao Tong University
2024
301
2023
301
2022
301
ARWU World University rankings is the first world university ranking. It ranks the world's top 1000 colleges and universities based on objective indicator. They look at the number of award-winning (Fields Medals and Nobel Prize) scientists who are located there, how much of their research is cited and referenced around the world, and how much they've contributed to different academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, ARWU ranks the universities accordingly.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report
2025
-
2024
352 -38
2023
314
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
Student services
From application to graduation, Dalhousie is here to support you every step of the way. We offer a wide range of resources tailored to meet your individual needs.
STUDENT SUPPORT
Black Student Advising Centre
Indigenous Student Centre
Health and Wellness
Mental Health Services
International Student Advising
Mark A. Hill Accessibility Centre
2SLGBTQIA+ Advisor
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
Academic Advising
Study Support and Tutoring
Bissett Student Success Centre
Writing Support
Career Services
Peer Support
Housing services
The Student Accessibility Centre (Halifax Campus) and the Student Success Centre (Agricultural Campus) are Dalhousie’s dedicated hubs for student access, inclusion, and accommodation support. We collaborate closely with students, faculty, and staff to foster an inclusive and supportive educational environment for all.
Library services
Dalhousie Libraries are dedicated to enhancing learning and discovery for our students and community through extensive collections, services, and dynamic learning environments. We offer a variety of study and learning environments across our five locations. Whether you prefer quiet, individual study areas, collaborative workspaces, or tech-equipped rooms, you'll find the perfect spot to thrive.
Medical services
Dalhousie offers comprehensive health and wellness supports through an interprofessional, collaborative model that focuses on a stepped care approach to wellness. Students have access to a range of services, including professional and peer support, workshops, online resources, apps and more — ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to thrive both mentally and physically.
Campus life
Our Halifax campus puts you in the heart of Nova Scotia’s capital — steps from the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by a diverse, welcoming community. With one of North America’s highest concentrations of universities, Halifax offers a safe, student-friendly environment with a vibrant food scene, thriving tech industry, and an abundance of coastal adventures waiting to be explored.
Just an hour away, our Agricultural Campus in Truro provides a friendly, tight-knit community where everyone knows your name. Whether you prefer the dynamic energy of the city or the warmth of a smaller campus, you'll feel supported, included, and right at home at Dalhousie.
Sports facilities
Dalhousie offers a wide range of sports and recreational facilities to keep you active and engaged.
Dalplex, our largest athletic facility on the Studley Campus in Halifax, features an indoor pool, fitness studios, a spacious fitness hall with strength and cardio equipment, squash and racquetball courts, and a fieldhouse. The Sexton Gym, located on the Sexton Campus in downtown Halifax, boasts an updated weight and cardio room, a new studio space, and a gymnasium. On the Agricultural Campus in Truro, the Langille Athletic Centre includes a weight room, cardio room, gymnasium, and squash courts.
Stay active with a variety of intramural leagues, tournaments, and club sports available to all students.
Student clubs
At Dalhousie University, student life thrives through the Dalhousie Student Union (DSU), which represents over 20,000 students and serves as the collective voice on campus. The DSU advocates for student rights, builds community through events, and supports over 300 student-led societies. With groups covering a wide range of interests, there’s something for everyone—and if you don't find what you're looking for, you can start your own! Some may require registration or a small fee, while others just ask you to show up.
Each fall and winter, the DSU hosts the Clubs and Societies Expo—the perfect opportunity to connect with peers and discover how you can make the most of your time at Dal.
Accreditation
- Programs in the Rowe School of Business have been accredited by AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business).
