President's Welcome

Dalhousie University was founded in 1818 by George Ramsay, the ninth Earl of Dalhousie and Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. The cornerstone for Dalhousie University's first building was laid in 1820.

Today, Dalhousie University is located on a 79-acre campus in the heart of Halifax, and confers over 3,600 degrees each year. Dalhousie offers one of the broadest selections of academic choice in Canada, providing more than 4,100 classes in 240 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, as well as an extensive selection of continuing education programs that can respond to almost any interest. With 11 faculties, and a student population of over 15,000 drawn from all over Canada and more than 100 foreign countries, Dalhousie ranks among Canada's leaders.

A world class education

Because of the research and scholarship of our faculty members, the interactive intellectual environment we provide and our excellent facilities, students receive an enriched education that challenges and prepares them for whatever career or path in life they choose.

We take great pride in our students’ achievements. Dalhousie students rank sixth in North America for Rhodes Scholarships won and fourth in Canada for national academic awards. We play hard, too, and our varsity athletic teams compete at the regional and national level. By choosing Dalhousie University, you will be joining a community of achievers where success is contagious and excellence is celebrated.

Killam outside

A place to call home

As Canada's smallest comprehensive university, Dalhousie offers a unique interactive and collaborative environment with diverse, challenging academic programs and career-oriented learning opportunities. There are numerous student societies and activities to satisfy any student's desire to meet peers who share their interests, or explore completely new ones. Add to that the rich cultural and social context of Halifax and you have a wonderful setting for learning, discovery, and personal development.

Over 100,000 alumni and a growing group of friends act as ambassadors and advocates for Dalhousie and demonstrate support for the university through volunteer involvement and financial contributions. Dalhousie alumni are well established in every corner of the world, continuing to build the reputation that makes Dalhousie a great national institution with an international reputation for excellence. The Scientist Magazine ranks Dalhousie as the best university outside the U.S to pursue excellent research.

Above all, Dalhousie strives to deliver opportunities that inspire, and we seek to attract students, faculty, and staff who share that desire.

I invite you to browse our website or contact us for more information about Dalhousie University.

Dr. Tom Traves
President and Vice-Chancellor