Health Sciences (BHSc) at Dalhousie University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-09

Program overview

Program Overview

Dalhousie University offers a nationally accredited Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) degree, which is a unique program designed for students interested in advancing health through science and technology. This program is the only fully integrated, four-year university-based program of its kind in Canada. Students in the BHSc program can specialize in one of four disciplines: Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiological Technology, or Respiratory Therapy. Additionally, there is a post-diploma option available for professionals already working in these fields, allowing them to expand their career opportunities by earning a BHSc.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Health Sciences program at Dalhousie University is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a four-year period. The program includes:

Hands-on clinical work through an eight-week summer clinical practicum after years 1, 2, and 3.
Opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-life hospital settings.
Options to complete practicums in Halifax or travel to various locations across the Maritimes or Canada.
Specialization in one of four disciplines: Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiological Technology, or Respiratory Therapy.
A post-diploma option for professionals in related fields.

Students are encouraged to connect with academic advisors to explore various options available within the program, including certificates in specialized areas such as Cardiac Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Health Sciences program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Clinical Practicum: An eight-week summer clinical practicum allows students to gain practical experience in a hospital setting.
Hands-on Learning: Students engage in hands-on clinical work, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Post-Diploma Options: Professionals can pursue a BHSc to broaden their career prospects in health sciences.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The program includes foundational courses shared across disciplines, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Sciences program can pursue a variety of rewarding careers in the health sector. Here are some potential job options:

Medical Sonographer: Operates ultrasound equipment to create images of patients' internal structures for diagnostic purposes.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist: Prepares and administers radioactive drugs for imaging and therapeutic purposes, ensuring patient safety and comfort.
Respiratory Therapist: Provides care for patients with breathing difficulties, administering treatments and monitoring respiratory health.
Radiological (X-Ray) Technologist: Performs diagnostic imaging examinations using X-ray equipment, ensuring high-quality images for accurate diagnosis.
Health Educator: Works in community settings to promote health awareness and educate the public on health-related topics.

Additionally, graduates may choose to further their education in graduate programs or pursue professional degrees in medicine or pathology.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Dalhousie University official website

Last updated on 2025-07-09

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) program at Dalhousie University, students must meet the following minimum academic criteria:

Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice
Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course)

It is important to note that admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive, meaning that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

For the Bachelor of Health Sciences program, each discipline has specific Academic Requirements that can be found on the discipline page. Additionally, the following requirements are applicable to all disciplines in the post-diploma program:

Completed Dalhousie application for admission
Transcripts from any previous diploma program or other post-secondary institutions attended
Letter of Intent detailing:
- Two years of post-diploma work experience in your profession
- Any educational initiatives undertaken since completing your diploma
- Other professional activities, e.g., in professional associations
- How this program will contribute to your professional development
- Personal and professional motivation
- Readiness for university education
Resume and References, including the names, addresses, and phone numbers of two references
Proof of registration in a professional association, including your current registration number or a photocopy of your current membership card

Assessment of non-academic performance accounts for 20% of the applicant's overall total score. All supplementary information should be attached to the Application Portal.

Dalhousie University encourages students from historically under-represented and underserved groups, such as Indigenous peoples and members of racialized minority groups, to self-declare at the time of their application for special consideration.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of study at Dalhousie; therefore, all applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.

If you have attended a recognized English-based institution for three years at the secondary (high school) level or one year at the post-secondary level, you are generally considered to have met the requirement.

When proof is required, it can be satisfied through one of the following options:

English language testing
Dalhousie English language Pathway
Partner English language institutions
International high school programs

English Language Testing

Below are the minimum scores required for the English language tests accepted by Dalhousie. If your test scores are lower than our minimums or you do not have proof of English, you may be offered conditional admission provided you complete another test or complete an approved English language pathway program.

IELTS

Test: International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Minimum score: Overall: 6.5, Bands: 6.0

TOEFL

Test: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or TOEFL at Home (online)

Minimum score: Overall: 90, Bands: 20

Duolingo

Test: Duolingo English Test

Minimum score: Overall: 120

MELAB

Test: Michigan English Test (formerly MELAB)

Minimum score: 55

CAEL

Test: Canadian Academic English Assessment (CAEL) / CAEL Online

Minimum score: 70

Pearson Test of English

Test: Academic

Minimum score: Overall: 61, Communicative skills scores: 50

Cambridge English

Test: C1: Advanced / C2: Proficiency

Minimum score: Overall: 180

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!