Despite being the capital of a small Canadian province, Halifax, Nova Scotia is home to six universities. Each offers a variety of studies: most have established programs in undergraduate arts and sciences, and some have professional and graduate programs that range from medicine to education. Other unique programs include theology and fine arts.
Undergraduate Programs at Halifax Universities
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, offers the greatest concentration of universities. All Halifax universities offer strong undergraduate programs with studies, for the most part, spanning the varied options of arts and science faculties.
- Dalhousie University: Established in 1818, this Halifax university offers 180 degrees in a variety of undergraduate, graduate, professional programs. Popular undergraduate programs at Dalhousie include engineering, commerce/business, some health professional programs, and computer science in addition to the extensive undergraduate programs in arts and science.
- Mount Saint Vincent University: Located outside of downtown close to Bedford, Nova Scotia, this university runs excellent co-op and distance learning classes.
- Saint Mary's University: As the second-largest Halifax university, Saint Mary’s runs a well-recognized business program besides its regular science and arts courses. This Halifax university prides itself on its strong options for international students. As an extra bonus, the campus is close to Halifax’s gorgeous, ocean-side Point Pleasant Park.
Nova Scotia Universities Have Unique Course Offerings
In addition to standard undergraduate offerings in arts and science, three Halifax universities provide their students a truly different selection of courses:
- Atlantic School of Theology: At this small Nova Scotia theology school, students can embark in a number of studies to pursue careers in Christian ministries.
- University of King's College: The Foundation Year Program (FYP) is the most notable undergraduate program at the University of King’s College, which has a history that stretches back to 1789. The King’s FYP provides an intensive study of philosophy, history, English, and sociology to first-year students. Students can then continue studies at the neighboring Dalhousie University, or enter programs such as journalism, contemporary studies, early modern studies, and a history of science program.
- NSCAD University: This visual-arts school sits in a spacious new Halifax campus. From painting to graphic design, the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University has an excellent history of providing outstanding training for artists.
Graduate Universities and Professional Studies at Halifax Universities
Graduate studies are available at most Halifax universities. Students can embark on Masters and Doctoral studies in many arts and science fields. In addition to graduate studies in these fields, the following Halifax universities offer these specialty programs:
- Dalhousie University: This Nova Scotia university offers post-graduate programs in architecture, dentistry, medicine, law, and some health professional programs.
- Mount Saint Vincent University: This Halifax university first started as a teachers' college for nuns and now runs a well-respected Nova Scotia education program. Professional programs range from public relations and business administration to family studies and tourism management.
- Saint Mary's University: Graduate studies at the second-largest Halifax university, include a notable MBA program.
- University of King's College: In addition to the four-year undergraduate journalism program, King’s offers a one-year post-graduate Bachelor of Journalism program.
Selecting the Best Nova Scotia University
There is no one best university in Nova Scotia; rather prospective students should consider what best aligns with their personal educational goals. With both rural and urban schools, students can decide if they prefer to be near the cultural heart of Halifax or one of the Nova Scotia universities in a more rural area.
Also, the field of study is important. While a number of Nova Scotia universities offer education, science, and arts programs, the options for French-language, visual arts, agriculture, theology, medicine, and dentistry programs are more limited. In general undergraduate studies, graduate studies, and professional programs, Halifax Universities offer plenty of programs to consider.
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