The Transition Year Program (TYP), a one-year program designed for First Nations and African Canadian adults, prepares students who do not yet meet standard Dalhousie entrance requirements. Dalhousie University, in partnership with the two communities, established the TYP to redress educational inequities faced by members of the First Nations and African Canadian communities.
The TYP introduces students to the university in a variety of ways. Its curriculum, which includes a variable number of credit courses, can be adapted to individual needs and objectives. The TYP core curriculum includes courses in Black and Native Studies, Study Skills, English, Mathematics and a credit course at Dalhousie. A Computer course is also offered at the introductory level, which offers basic skill development in e-mail, internet use and word processing.
All TYP courses are full-year, university preparatory courses and are not for credit. Students who have tested strongly in Math may be placed in TYP Pre-Calculus instead of TYP Math, while those who have tested strongly in English may choose to take a first-year English class. Students with significant overall strengths may be given the opportunity to take a university credit course, with the approval of the Director.
All program tutorials scheduled as part of the TYP are mandatory. Students who request additional tutorial assistance must have their request supported by the instructor of the course. TYP pays the costs associated with obtaining tutorial service once the tutor is approved by the instructor and Director.
Classroom instruction is complemented by an orientation week, special lectures, campus tours, workshops and field trips.
The program's staff includes members of the Dalhousie University community as well as the First Nations and Nova Scotian Black communities.
Financial Assistance
African Canadian non-status Aboriginal and Metis students accepted into the program may be eligible for university bursaries during their transition year. If they successfully complete TYP with a "B" average, they may become eligible for continued tuition fee waivers as long as they remain in good academic standing and progress towards a first degree. Beginning with the TYP class of 2000-2001, TYP students must maintain a 2.0 average in their degree program to maintain their tuition waiver.
Status Indian students attending the program may approach their individual band councils for financial assistance.
For Additional Information
For futher information or application forms please contact Professor Patricia Doyle-Bedwell, Director, Transition Year Program, by telephone at (902) 494-8810, by fax at (902) 494-2135 or by email at Patricia Doyle Bedwell
