Dalhousie University

Overview

Dalhousie University offers a unique combined JD/MI pathway that merges legal education with information management and governance. This innovative program allows students to potentially complete both the Juris Doctor and Master of Information degrees in a streamlined four-year format, rather than the traditional five years if pursued separately. The program is designed to integrate legal and information studies to provide a comprehensive educational experience.

What You'll Study

The JD/MI curriculum is thoughtfully structured to meet the requirements of both disciplines throughout the coordinated degree timeline. Key components of the program include:

• Information in Society
• Organization of Information
• Research Methods
• Information Sources, Services & Retrieval
• Organizational Management & Strategy
• Practicum / Internship (applied professional learning)

Students will follow an approved plan of study that fulfills the obligations of both the Juris Doctor and the Master of Information. The MI component may be completed on a course-based (non-thesis) basis, incorporating hands-on practicum or internship experiences as part of the learning outcomes.

Entry Requirements

Admission to the JD/MI program is competitive, requiring candidates to meet the entry standards for both the Juris Doctor and Master of Information components. Applicants must possess:

• A four-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 (B average) in the last 60 credit hours of study
• Proficiency in English, demonstrated by tests such as:
• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 100
• IELTS: minimum score of 8.0
• PTE Academic: minimum score of 65
• Applications must be submitted separately for each degree program, adhering to the specific entrance requirements.
• Supporting documents typically include academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency; additional documentation may be required.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the JD/MI program are well-equipped for a variety of career paths, combining expertise in law with information management. Possible career opportunities include positions in legal practice, information governance, policy development, and consulting roles across various sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of the program prepares students to meet the evolving demands of the job market, making them valuable assets in both legal and information management fields.

Work Permits

After completing your degree in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), subject to Canadian immigration rules and the conditions of your study program.

• Eligibility: You must have completed a qualifying program at a designated learning institution (DLI) and meet the requirements for a PGWP application.
• Duration: The length of the PGWP depends on the length and type of your completed study program. The exact duration is determined by IRCC at the time of application.
• Timing: You generally apply after finishing your program and within the required application window. Processing times vary.
• Work conditions: You may be allowed to work in Canada while your application is processed, depending on your situation and the rules in effect at the time you apply.

Important: Immigration policies can change. For the most accurate guidance for graduates of Dalhousie University and for your specific program length and study dates, check the official Government of Canada (IRCC) guidance and the program’s international student resources.