The Dalhousie Cardiology Residency Experience

The Division of Cardiology at Dalhousie University serves as a tertiary care referral centre for Atlantic Canada, managing a high volume of critically ill and complex cardiovascular patients in the Maritime provinces. We offer our trainees a breadth of exposure to challenging cases, from complex percutaneous coronary interventions and innovative electrophysiology procedures, to the management of adults with congenital heart disease and post-cardiac transplant.

With two to four residents per year, the program boasts a tight-knit, nurturing learning environment. Within the Competency by Design (CBD) curriculum, our trainees are empowered to develop excellent clinical decision making, critical thinking, and leadership skills. There are ample opportunities to learn diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and to participate in groundbreaking research projects. Each resident is provided with the support and resources needed to achieve their career goals.

Nationally Renowned Faculty

We have nationally renowned faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields. Many are authors of Canadian Cardiovascular Society practice guidelines and are principal investigators of multicentre randomized-controlled trials. Every faculty member is devoted to teaching and mentoring residents. From bedside physical examination sessions to electrocardiogram and cardiac catheterization rounds, staff cardiologists dedicate tremendous effort and time to providing high-quality and meaningful learning experiences for our residents.

Our Facilities

The Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre is the home of Dalhousie’s Cardiology residency program. It is a large tertiary care teaching hospital, with a 12-bed Coronary Care Unit (CCU), a step-down Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU), and a Cardiology Inpatient Unit. There are four state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization suites and two electrophysiology labs, where complex angioplasties, device implantations, and ablations take place.

Our residents also have access to the high-fidelity simulation suite for procedural learning. Dedicated echocardiogram and point-of-care ultrasound machines are available for our resident cohort to complete scans independently. Not to mention the cozy resident lounge, where residents can relax and bond with one another.

Living in Halifax

Halifax is an Atlantic coastal city with a rich history and a lively culture. It is best known for its mesmerizing waterfront views, fresh seafood, and community charm. Our program emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, and this city offers plenty for residents to explore and enjoy.

Grab a lobster roll and ice-cream cone on the Waterfront Boardwalk. Immerse in the Titanic exhibition at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Learn about Halifax’s history atop the fortress on Citadel Hill. Enjoy the natural scenery at Point Pleasant Park. As a city perfect to explore on foot or by bike, there is never a dull moment!