Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy

Dalhousie University’s Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy programme is an individualized and self-designed course. Its students work in such emerging fields as environmental studies, health and human performance, marine management, social work, computer studies, indigenous-led resource management, informatics in commerce and business, and international development.  

What makes Dalhousie University ‘s  Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy programme unique amongst doctoral programmes?  While it still requires exceptional focus, hard work, and self-discipline, there is no home department in the usual sense to guide you along the way. Self-direction and self-reliance are needed, as you may be working more on your own than usual, even for PhD students. 

Whether you are aiming to incorporate the insights of two or three traditional disciplines or engage in research in an interdisciplinary field such as environment, health administration, international development, law, biology, or information management, the Interdisciplinary PhD (IDPhD) programme is designed to meet the needs of motivated, experienced, and highly qualified students looking for research opportunities which cut across disciplinary boundaries.  

Strengths of Dalhousie University’s Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy programme include:

• Individualized and self-designed programme

• Access to faculty across many departments

• Access to faculty from other universities 

• Cutting-edge approach in emerging fields

• Emphasis on publication

• Encouragement of policy and applied solutions

Careers

About half of our graduates gain academic positions in Canada and other countries, and others go on to work as researchers, administrators, or consultants in government, non-profits, large private organizations, or small practices.

Possible careers include:

• Consultant-United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization

• SAR Preparedness Officer, Canadian Coast Guard 

• CEO – Invethics  Corp/Founder & CEO Databöliks Corp

• Communications Coordinator – International Community-University Research Alliance (ICURA) 

• President at Global Ecologic

• Environmental Consultant 

• University Professor

Programme options

Thesis: Pursue independent and original research guided by a supervisor and committee to develop and defend your thesis. 

Courses include: 

• Research Directed Studies

• Doctoral Thesis