Find your program
As a AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ graduate student, you'll contribute to innovative research and work alongside internationally renowned scholars. Graduate studies at Dal take the form of two distinct graduate pathways designed to match your goals:
- Research (Thesis-based)
- Professional master's (Course-based)
Thesis-basedÌýmaster's and doctoral programs are centred around original research and discovery. You will work closely with a faculty supervisor to develop and defend a thesis. Programs also include coursework, which helps build knowledge in your field. These programs emphasize mentorship and publication opportunities, and typically require scholarship funding.
Course-basedÌýmaster's programs are designed for practical learning and career advancement. You will complete structured coursework instead of a thesis, and you do not need a faculty supervisor or scholarship funding. These programs focus on applied learning, with many programs providing students the opportunity to participate in projects in their field of study. Through hands-on, industry-related work, you will tackle real-world problem-solving and build your professional network. See Dal's range ofÌýprofessional master's programs.
Start exploring Dal Science's graduate programs:
Research (Thesis-based)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Economics
- Environmental Studies
- Mathematics
- Medical Physics
- Oceanography
- Physics
- Psychology and Neuroscience
- Statistics
PhD, Entry-to-practice
- Clinical PsychologyÌý(±Ê³ó¶Ù)ÌýInternship, Thesis
Professional master's (Course-based)
- Development EconomicsÌý(²Ñ¶Ù·¡)
- Resource and Environmental ManagementÌý(²Ñ¸é·¡²Ñ)
- Marine ManagementÌý(²Ñ²Ñ²Ñ)
- Fisheries ScienceÌý(MFSc) – coming September 2026
Why choose Dal Science for graduate studies?
Ìý
Experience a research-intensive environment
Learn at Atlantic Canada's leading research-intensive university – Dal is a member ofÌý, with 600+ active research grants and over $45 million in annual research funding in the Faculty of Science.
Work closely with top scientists
Gain mentorship from ourÌýinternationally recognized scholars in a Faculty that isÌýhome to many of Dal'sÌýCanada Research Chairs.ÌýListen to our podcast,ÌýSciographies,Ìýto get to know ourÌýresearchers and their stories.
Access world-leading facilities
Build your network and collaborate with leading research institutions, partners, and organizations within Dal's diverse research and innovation ecosystem, including:
- Ìý(OFI)
- Aquatron Laboratory
- Ìý(NRC)
- Ìý(SKIP)
- Ìý(OTN)
- Ìý(MEOPAR)
Applications and admissions
Ìý
Interested in learning more about what is required to pursue graduate studies at Dal? View graduate program admission requirements and learn how you can apply:
Identify a supervisor (thesis-based)
In thesis‑based master’s and PhD programs, you’llÌýconduct original research with guidance from a faculty supervisor and complete a thesis.Ìý
Supervisor requirements for admissions vary, with some programs requiring you to identify a potential supervisor before applying, while others assign one after admission. Check your program's graduate information page or contact your department directly to confirm what you need.Ìý
Funding
The cost of graduate studies varies by program. You will pay tuition and fees, but in most thesis-based programs, these costs are often offset by funding from your supervisor's research grants and AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ and/or external scholarships. Many students receive support that covers part or all of their tuition, fees, and a portion of living costs. You are encouraged to discuss funding with potential supervisors early in the process.
You are expected to apply for scholarships and bursaries.ÌýAV¾ãÀÖ²¿ awards over $24 million annually through internal and external scholarships,ÌýbursariesÌýand awards.
Support and opportunities for growth
Throughout your program, you will have the opportunity to build your skills and grow your professional network with support and programming from AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ and the Faculty of Graduate Studies:
