Pathology (PhD) at Dalhousie University

Pre-requisite for acceptance into this program is an MSc degree in Pathology or other Life Sciences field or an MD degree with research experience.

Minimum requirements will normally include a minimum average of A- in the last year of studies and minimum cumulative GPA of 3.7. Exceptions may be made in special cases, and there are provisions for "special" and "qualifying year" students.

Students entering from a BSc would first enter the MSc program but could transfer to the PhD program before completing the MSc provided that the student had made satisfactory progress and the project had sufficient scope and depth. PhD candidates are required to pass both a written and oral comprehensive examination midway through their programme. Completion of the program requires the preparation and oral defense of the student's thesis describing an extensive original investigation. The typical time to completion for a PhD ranges from 4-6 years.

Admission to the graduate program is based on an evaluation by the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS), the departmental Graduate Studies Committee, and on acceptance of the candidate by a research supervisor. Students cannot be admitted until an eligible supervisor has been identified. Students are selected primarily on the basis of their potential for scientific achievement.

It is in applicant's best interest to have a supervisor prior to applying for Pathology. Students cannot be admitted into the Graduate programmes until an eligible supervisor is identified. A list of potential supervisors is available.

Please note that attachments will not be read by the Graduate Studies Committee before a formal application is received. Eligible applicant must supply all required documents with their application.

The application for Ph.D. should include:

• Completed application form from FGS;
• Application fee payment required by FGS;
• CV;
• Letter of Intent;
• Letter of Research Interest;
• Letter of Research Experience;
• 2 Academic Reference letters;
• Official Undergraduate Transcripts, received in a signed/sealed envelope from the University/College’s Registrar’s Office;
• Copy of Graduate Certificate (if graduated); and
• English Language test score (if applicable).

Application Deadlines