Departmentally Funded Clinical Fellowships

Departmentally Funded Clinical Fellowships at Dalhousie University are specialised postgraduate training opportunities offered through the Faculty of Medicine – Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME).

These fellowships are designed for physicians who have completed their primary specialty training and seek advanced clinical experience in a focused area such as neurology, neuroradiology, cardiac surgery, or other subspecialties.

Unlike Royal College-accredited residency programs, these fellowships are non-CaRMS appointments and are not part of the national matching system. They are funded directly by the department or hospital division, rather than external sponsors or visa agreements. This funding typically covers salary and benefits, and the fellow is integrated into departmental clinical and academic activities. 

Eligibility and Key Requirements

• Medical Qualification: Candidates must hold recognized specialist credentials or be eligible for licensure in Nova Scotia. For international fellows, defined licences and immigration compliance are mandatory.
• Funding Source: The fellowship is financed by the department or hospital (e.g., Nova Scotia Health), confirmed through internal agreements and paymaster approval.
• Language Proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS or equivalent) for clinical practice in Nova Scotia.
• Regulatory Compliance: Fellows require CMPA coverage and must meet College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia requirements for postgraduate education licences. 

Admissions Process

The admissions pathway for Departmentally Funded Clinical Fellows is distinct from CaRMS and involves several coordinated steps:

1. Departmental Nomination and Offer

   • The clinical department identifies the candidate and confirms funding availability.
   • A Letter of Offer and Contract is issued by PGME in collaboration with the department. This includes fellowship start/end dates, funding details, and responsibilities.

2. PGME Review and Documentation

   • The candidate completes the Non-CaRMS Postgraduate Medical Training Application, which includes sections for program and applicant details, training type (Clinical Fellowship), and funding source (Departmentally Funded). 

3. Immigration and Licensing

   • For international fellows, PGME manages visa processes (e.g., LMIA OEN numbers) and coordinates with regulatory bodies for defined licences.
   • Canadian fellows with permanent residency follow a streamlined track but still require licensure confirmation. 

4. Onboarding and Orientation

   • Once funding and documentation are approved, PGME issues admissions paperwork and coordinates orientation for the fellow. Departments often expedite this step for fellows with tight timelines.