Dalhousie University Launches Dual-Degree Nursing Program in India

Dalhousie University has announced an exciting new opportunity for nursing students in India. The Halifax-based institution signed a memorandum of understanding on October 7, 2023, with the SRM Institute of Science and Technology located in Chennai, India. This partnership will establish a dual-degree nursing program, allowing graduates to obtain degrees from both institutions and gain accreditation to practice in both India and Nova Scotia.

The program, which will be offered in Chennai, will initially accommodate 25 students. According to Matt Hebb, Vice-President of Strategic Engagement at Dalhousie, this initiative aims to facilitate pathways for Indian nurses to work in Nova Scotia. “They’ll be positioned to come into Nova Scotia, write their NCLEX [nursing exams], and be able to practice here in the province,” Hebb stated.

Dalhousie University has collaborated with the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the College of Nurses to create a coherent framework for these new nurses. A spokesperson for the NSHA highlighted the importance of ensuring positive clinical learning experiences for students who will undertake part of their program at Dalhousie in Nova Scotia.

While the program’s operational details are still being finalized, Hebb mentioned the possibility of faculty from Dalhousie traveling to Chennai to deliver instruction. Additionally, there may be opportunities for selected students to receive training at Dalhousie. The university aims to launch the program by fall 2024, although this timeline may be subject to adjustments.

The SRM Institute of Science and Technology is recognized as one of India’s leading universities, with over 60,000 students enrolled across various disciplines, including medicine and health sciences.

Expanding International Collaborations

Dalhousie’s initiative reflects a broader ambition to establish more international partnerships. “As a flagship institution, it’s important that our programs have a global reach,” Hebb emphasized. This effort aims to enhance Nova Scotia’s reputation on the world stage.

The dual-degree nursing program is one of three recent agreements Dalhousie has made with Indian institutions. On the same day, the university announced a collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Tirupati and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati. This partnership will focus on advancing graduate-level research and innovation on a shared campus in Tirupati. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to support joint agricultural research initiatives.

These developments highlight Dalhousie’s commitment to fostering educational and research ties with India, paving the way for a new generation of healthcare professionals and researchers.