• Academic: These are general, overview sessions of a particular subject area, and a great way to get an overall feel for the subject area and types of programs they offer.
    • Informational: These are general, overview sessions of subject areas outside of academics, such as admissions or financial aid. These sessions are also open via drop-in to parents, supporters, or guests.
    • Interactive: These sessions are a more in-depth way to explore a particular program or subject through demonstrations, hands-on activities, mini lectures, and more. These often have limited capacity, are only available to students, and fill up quickly!
    • Pathway: These sessions highlight various "pathways" to study at Dalhousie, often including professional programs that require previous university study, or avenues that allow you to transition to Dalhousie's campus from alternate starting points.
    Arts & Social Sciences
    • Academic: Intro to Arts and Social Sciences: Join us for an introduction to the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) with insights from faculty leaders and the Fountain School of Performing Arts. Hear about the value of an Arts degree, career outcomes for graduates, and real experiences from both current students and recent alumni in humanities, social sciences, and performing arts.
    • Interactive: Fountain School of Performing Arts Tours: Representatives from the Fountain School will lead tours of the facilities where students will learn, practice, create and perform as performing/creative arts students at Dal
    • Interactive: Intro to Humanities and Social Sciences Courses: Get a taste of first-year BA courses with the instructors of Introduction to Humanities and Introduction to Social Sciences. Through an interactive activity, you’ll discover how these fields connect to everyday life, while also learning how these courses support your transition from high school to a successful first year at Dal.
    • Interactive: Philosophy and Real World Conflicts: Join Professor MacIntosh for a thought-provoking look at how philosophy tackles today’s toughest questions—from justice in war to global conflict, violent extremism, and even the ethics of creating “super soldiers.” Explore how big ideas shape real-world decisions—and add your voice to the conversation.
    • Interactive: Why Social Anthropology Matters Now More Than Ever: Discover how social anthropology helps us make sense of the world today. From understanding cultural differences to tackling global challenges like inequality, migration, and climate change, this session will show how studying people and societies gives us the tools to navigate (and change) the world around us.
    Architecture & Planning
    • Academic: Intro to Community Design: Discover how the spaces we live, work, and play in are shaped to support people and communities. In this session, you’ll be introduced to the field of community design—where architecture, planning, and social impact meet. Learn how planners consider sustainability, accessibility, culture, and wellbeing when creating environments that bring people together. Whether you’re interested in shaping cities, towns, or neighbourhoods, this session will give you a first look at how design can transform everyday life.
    • Interactive: Architecture Activity: Session description coming soon!
    • Interactive: Community Design Activity: Session description coming soon!
    • Pathways: Intro to Architecture: Curious about a future in architecture? This session introduces you to the Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies (BEDS) program—the first step in our professional architecture pathway. Discover how students progress from BEDS into the Master of Architecture, and get a sense of what it’s like to learn through design studios, hands-on projects, and collaborative work. 
    Computer Science
    • Academic: Intro to Computer Science: 
      • Curious about studying Computer Science at Dal? Join Professor Raghav Sampangi and our CS Student Ambassadors for an inside look at what you’ll learn in your degree, the career opportunities that await after graduation, and real student experiences from those already in the program.
    • Interactive: Build Your Own  AI Chatbot with ShiftKey Labs: 
      • Step into the world of artificial intelligence with this hands-on workshop hosted by ShiftKey Labs. You’ll learn the basics of how chatbots work and even get the chance to build your own. No coding experience needed, just bring your creativity and curiosity!
    • Interactive: Cybersecurity Workshop: Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in tech and Dalhousie is a leader in teaching it. In this hands-on workshop with Professor Srini Sampalli, you’ll get a chance to explore what cybersecurity is all about through an interactive activity designed just for future students. 
    • Interactive: Ocean Tech workshop with DeepSense: Explore how technology is transforming our understanding of the ocean in this interactive session hosted by DeepSense. You’ll take part in a hands-on activity connected to their cutting-edge ocean research and see how computer science and data are being used to solve real-world challenges. 
    Engineering
    • Academic: Intro to Engineering: Are you curious about a future in engineering? Join us for Engineering 101. This is your chance to explore what it means to be an engineering student at Dal, whether you're just starting to think about your options or ready to apply. During this session, you'll learn about admission requirements, explore the various engineering disciplines offered at Dalhousie and discover the benefits of our co-op program, which gives you hands-on, paid work experience before graduation. Hear directly from current engineering students about life in the program and on campus,, ask your questions, and get answers from faculty, advisors, and student ambassadors!
    • Interactive: Light Prototyping Lab Circuit: In Dalhousie Engineering’s Light Prototyping Lab, you’ll rotate through three interactive activities: a design challenge where you’ll collaborate with peers to solve a fun problem using creativity and critical thinking, a hands-on tour of the lab’s cutting-edge prototyping equipment to see how engineering students turn ideas into reality, and a Dalhousie Engineering–branded flashlight build that lets you assemble and customize your own take-home keepsake while experiencing the kind of applied, practical learning that defines engineering at Dal.
    • Interactive: Heavy Prototyping Lab - Student Teams Expo: Get an inside look at how engineering students turn bold ideas into real-world prototypes at the Heavy Prototyping Student Teams Expo. This interactive showcase features student-led engineering teams presenting the projects they have designed, built, and competed with, from solar cars to rockets. Prospective students and their families will have the opportunity to meet the students leading the teams, see innovative projects in action, learn how hands-on team experience complements classroom learning, and ask questions about design processes, technical challenges, and team dynamics. Whether you are interested in joining a team or exploring how you want to get involved, the Heavy Prototyping Expo is your chance to see what’s possible in your first year.
    Health
    • Academic: Intro to Health and Human Performance: Explore how people, communities, and organizations can thrive through health, wellness, and recreation. This session introduces you to programs in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Management, Kinesiology, and Health Promotion each offering a unique pathway to making a difference in people’s lives. Learn how students gain hands-on experience, build leadership skills, and apply scientific and social knowledge to improve health and wellbeing. If you’re passionate about helping others live healthier, more active, and more fulfilling lives, this session is the perfect starting point.
    • Academic: Intro to Health Sciences: Step into the world of health care technology and discover the essential roles behind patient diagnosis and treatment. This session introduces Dalhousie’s programs in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Radiological Technology, Respiratory Therapy, and Nuclear Medicine Technology. With specialized equipment onsite, you’ll have the chance to see demonstrations led by current students and get a first-hand look at the tools used every day in health care. If you’re interested in combining science, technology, and patient care, this session will show you how Dalhousie prepares students for these vital careers.
    • Academic: Intro to Kinesiology: Discover how movement impacts health, performance, and quality of life. In this session, you’ll explore Dalhousie’s Kinesiology program and learn how students study the science of human movement through anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and psychology. From sport performance to injury prevention and community health, kinesiology opens doors to a wide range of careers in health, wellness, and research. If you’re passionate about physical activity and helping others reach their potential, this session is the perfect place to start.
    • Academic: Intro to Nursing: Learn how Dalhousie’s Nursing program prepares students to provide compassionate, evidence-based care in a variety of health care settings. In this session, you’ll explore how students build knowledge and skills through classroom learning, clinical placements, and simulation labs. From hospitals to community care, nursing offers diverse career opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives every day. This session will also include an overview of the admissions process to help you understand how to get started on your path to nursing at Dalhousie.
    • Interactive: Kinesiology Lab Tour and Activities: Join us for this interactive session and experience a day in the life of a KINESIOLOGY student at Dal! You’ll get a sneak peek at some of our lab and student spaces. We’ll introduce you to the wide range of sub-disciplines in Kinesiology through some engaging activities where you’ll meet students and professors from the program, and have fun learning about the human body, movement, and kinetics.
    • Interactive: Health Promotion Activity: Come and learn about the field of Health Promotion through an interactive session that introduces some of the key concepts for supporting people and populations to achieve good health and well-being.
    • Interactive: Nursing Simulation Lab Tours: Step inside Dalhousie’s nursing simulation labs and experience what it’s like to train as a future nurse. During this hands-on session, you’ll explore realistic clinical environments, see advanced simulation equipment in action, and learn how students practice patient care skills in a safe, supportive setting. 
    Business (Management)
    • Academic: Intro to Commerce and Management: In this session, you’ll learn about Dalhousie’s Commerce and Management programs and the skills students develop in areas such as accounting, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Whether you’re interested in running your own business, leading teams, or understanding how companies succeed in a global economy, this session will give you an overview of the opportunities and pathways available in commerce and management at Dalhousie.
    • Interactive: Economics Simulation: Offered by the Faculty of Science, trial a computer-based simulation of an economy under different scenarios. Participants are to make choices over fiscal policy (government expenditure, level of taxes) and monetary policy (interest rate) and see how these choices impact the economy (output and prices).
    • Interactive: Marketing Magic: Step into the world of marketing and discover how creativity, strategy, and data come together to influence decisions and drive results. In this hands-on session, you’ll explore real marketing challenges, participate in interactive activities, and see how marketing campaigns are planned and executed. This is your chance to test your ideas, learn from current students, and experience the skills needed to succeed in the dynamic field of marketing.
    • Interactive: Investment and Financial Simulation: Experience the fast-paced world of investing and finance using Dalhousie’s Bloomberg Lab terminals, which simulate the New York Stock Exchange. In this hands-on session, you’ll make investment decisions, track market trends, and see how financial strategies play out in real time. This interactive simulation gives you a practical look at the skills and knowledge needed for careers in finance, trading, and investment management, while letting you test your decision-making in a dynamic, real-world environment.
    Science
    • Academic: Intro to Science: Join us as we dive into the Faculty of Science!  This session will provide an overview of the diverse opportunities available within the Faculty, including our hands-on learning, innovative programs, and supportive academic community. Hear about our 11 undergraduate programs and the student experience from a panel of current Science students. Learn how you can one day be part of our thriving Dal Science community!
    • Academic: Intro to the Integrated Science Program (DISP): Launch your Bachelor of Science with an immersive first year science program. The Dalhousie Integrated Science Program (DISP) offers 70 students a unique opportunity to complete a scientific research project at the outset of their undergraduate degree. Students explore concepts across a range of science subjects, in field trips, labs, and in team-based exercises. Join Integrated Science Faculty for a program overview and stay to talk with former Integrated Science students showcasing their research.
    • Academic: Intro to Medical Sciences: The Medical Sciences program provides a strong foundation for students interested in healthcare careers, such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, research, the biotech industry, and more. Its curriculum is unique, and its small cohort appealing. The academic sessions will discuss program admissions, curriculum, research, and potential careers, and will feature a current student panel for a Q&A with prospective students.
    • Interactive: Biology & Marine Biology Lab Visit: Sit in a Biology Lab, explore the table tanks and find intertidal creatures, and walk around the McCulloch Museum, all while chatting with current students and faculty about all things Marine Biology and Biology, including information about co-op, and the SEASIDE summer field courses.
    • Interactive: Chemistry Lab Experiment: Conduct a hands-on chemistry experiment in one of the first-year labs and have the best handmade souvenir experience!  Students and supporters are welcome
    • Interactive: Economics Simulation: Join us to run a computer-based simulation of an economy under different scenarios. Participants will make choices over fiscal policy (government expenditure, level of taxes) and monetary policy (interest rate) and see how these choices impact the economy (output and prices).
    • Interactive: Psychology and Neuroscience Lab: In this interactive session, we’ll give you a hands-on look at what happens in a typical first-year psychology lab. Using the Human-to-Human Interface activity, you’ll explore how electrical signals from your brain travel down to your muscles to produce movement. Even more exciting, you’ll get to use your own brain signals to control the movement of someone else! This demonstration will highlight how the nervous system controls the body. We’ll also set aside time at the end of the session to answer any questions about our Psychology and Neuroscience programs. 
    • Interactive: Discover SURGE – Dalhousie’s Science Innovation Sandbox!: Step into SURGE and experience how science meets creativity. From building brain-computer interfaces to piloting remote-operated vehicles to diving into design thinking, you’ll explore hands-on activities that bring big ideas to life. This session is your chance to experiment, collaborate, and create solutions that make an impact.
    Informational Sessions (Open)

    All of the below sessions are open to both students and supporters, and do not require pre-registration.
    • Informational: Admissions 101: Get a clear overview of Dalhousie’s admissions process in this informative session., directly from the recruitment & Admissions Team. You’ll learn about application requirements, important deadlines, program prerequisites, and tips for submitting a strong application. This session is designed to help prospective students and their families navigate the steps to becoming a Dalhousie student and answer any questions about how to get started on your university journey.
    • Informational: Finding your University and Program Fit: Choosing the right university and program is an important step toward your future! In this session, you’ll explore how to find a “just right” school by considering factors such as program options, campus culture, learning experiences, and career opportunities. You’ll also learn strategies for assessing your interests, strengths, and goals to identify universities and programs that align with your passions and aspirations. This session is designed to help you make an informed choice and feel confident in selecting the school that is the best fit for you.
    • Informational: Scholarships, Bursaries & Educational Financing: Join our Financial Aid and Awards Team as we delve into essential topics to help you navigate the financial aspects of your Dalhousie educational journey. From exploring available awards, scholarships, and bursarie,s to understanding student loans and financial aid resources, the Student Awards and Financial Aid team will assist you in making informed decisions. Learn effective budgeting strategies and gain access to general financial advising to ensure a smooth transition into your academic pursuits.
    • Informational: Supporting your Student: This session is designed for parents, guardians, and supporters who want to help students succeed at university. You’ll learn practical strategies for providing academic, emotional, and social support, as well as tips for navigating the transition to university life. The session will also cover resources available on campus to assist students, helping you feel confident in supporting your student throughout their university journey.

       
    Pathways
    • Pathways to Dental Professions: Explore the different paths to a career in dentistry with this session designed for high school students. You’ll learn about Dalhousie’s programs in dentistry, dental hygiene, and dental assisting, and discover the steps you can take now and in your first years of university to prepare for professional programs. The session will outline academic requirements, experiential opportunities, and application processes, giving you a clear roadmap for pursuing a rewarding career in dental health.
    • Pathways: Dentistry and Dental Hygiene Student Panel: Hear directly from current Dalhousie students about their journeys in dentistry and dental hygiene. In this session, you’ll learn about the academic pathways, hands-on experiences, and challenges they’ve faced along the way. Students will share insights, answer your questions, and provide advice on preparing for professional programs, giving you a real-world perspective on what it takes to pursue a career in dental health.
    • Pathways: Dentistry Clinic Tour: Take a behind-the-scenes look at Dalhousie’s dentistry clinics and see how students gain hands-on experience in patient care. In this session, you’ll tour the clinical spaces, observe dental procedures and techniques in action, and learn about the skills and training students develop while preparing for careers in dentistry and dental hygiene. This is a unique opportunity to see the day-to-day learning environment of a professional dental program up close.
    • Pathways to Kings:Learn about the Foundation Year Program at University of Kings College, which immerses students in foundational texts and ideas from history, literature, philosophy, and the sciences. In this session, you’ll learn how the program provides a strong academic foundation, small-group tutorials, and opportunities for discussion and reflection, while preparing students to transition seamlessly into Dalhousie University programs in upper years. Whether you’re interested in arts, sciences, journalism, or music, this session will show how the Foundation Year Program can set you on a path to success in your chosen field.
    • Pathways to Law: Discover the steps you can take now and during your first years of university to prepare for admission to Dalhousie's Schulich School of Law. This session will outline the academic pathways, prerequisite courses, and experiential opportunities that can help you build a strong foundation for applying to law school.
    • Pathways to Pharmacy: Learn how to prepare for a career in pharmacy with this session designed for high school students. You’ll explore the academic pathways, prerequisite courses, and experiential opportunities that can help you build a strong foundation for applying to Dalhousie’s pharmacy program. If you’re interested in combining science, patient care, and problem-solving to make a real difference in people’s health and wellbeing - we'd love to see you there!
    • Pathways to Medicine: Explore the steps you can take to prepare for a career in medicine. This session, designed for high school students, will outline the academic pathways, prerequisite courses, and extracurricular experiences that help build a strong foundation for applying to medical school. You’ll also learn about Dalhousie’s pre-med advising, research opportunities, and strategies to strengthen your application, giving you a clear roadmap toward a rewarding career in medicine. 
    • Pathways to Physiotherapy: This session will give high school students an inside look at the steps to pursue physiotherapy. Learn about the courses, hands-on experiences, and extracurricular opportunities that prepare you for Dalhousie’s program, and hear tips for building a strong application. If you’re passionate about movement, health, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives, physiotherapy could be the right path for you.
    • Pathways: Student Leadership Academy: Discover how Dalhousie’s unique Student Leadership Academy can help you develop the skills and experiences needed to become a confident, effective leader, outside of your academics. This session will introduce you to the program as well as workshops and opportunities designed to build leadership, teamwork, and communication abilities. You’ll also learn about entrance scholarships available to new students, the Living and Learning Residence Community, as well as the High Performance tier available in upper years, which provides advanced training, mentorship, and unique leadership opportunities for students looking to take their skills to the next level.
    • Pathways: Transfer Credits: Whether you’re a student coming from another post-secondary institution or completing high school with IB or AP courses, this session will help you navigate Dalhousie’s transfer credit process. You’ll learn how previous coursework can be evaluated, which credits may apply toward your program, and tips for maximizing your advanced standing. The session is designed to give both prospective and incoming students a clear understanding of how transfer credits work and how they can help you make the most of your time at university.
    • Pathways: Truro Start: Learn about Dalhousie’s Truro Start Program, an option that allows students to begin their first year of university in a smaller campus setting in Arts, Science, and Recreation Management. This session will outline how the program provides personalized support, smaller class sizes, and opportunities to build strong academic skills and connections before transitioning to the main Halifax campus. You’ll also learn about the programs offered through Truro Start and how this pathway can help set you up for a successful university experience.

    Have a question that's not answered above? Reach out to us!

    Joy Baillie
    Halifax & Virtual Open House Coordinator
    joy.baillie@dal.ca