Founded in 1802, Saint Mary's University is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Halifax (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Nova Scotia. Officially recognized by the Department of Labour and Advanced Education of Nova Scotia, Saint Mary's University (SMU) is a medium-sized coeducational Canadian higher education institution. Saint Mary's University (SMU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 220 years old Canadian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 60-70% making this Canadian higher education organization a somewhat selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. SMU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.