Health Studies

The Bachelor of Science in Health Studies at the University of Waterloo is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the health sector. This interdisciplinary program combines foundational knowledge in health sciences with practical skills, enabling graduates to address complex health issues in various contexts. Throughout the program, students explore the social, behavioral, and environmental determinants of health, gaining an understanding of how these factors influence individual and community well-being. The curriculum includes courses in public health, health policy, epidemiology, health promotion, and healthcare systems, offering a well-rounded perspective on the health landscape. Emphasizing experiential learning, the program provides opportunities for internships, community-based projects, and collaborations with health organizations, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings. This prepares graduates for roles in health promotion, policy development, public health research, healthcare administration, and community health initiatives. The program also fosters critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making skills essential for effective collaboration within multidisciplinary health teams. With access to cutting-edge research facilities, experienced faculty, and a vibrant academic community, students are encouraged to pursue their academic and professional interests actively. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Health Studies are well-equipped to pursue further education or enter the workforce confidently, making meaningful contributions to improving health outcomes locally, nationally, and globally. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their learning experiences to align with their career aspirations, ensuring they acquire the competencies needed for success in the ever-evolving health sector.

The Bachelor of Science in Health Studies at the University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in health, public health, and healthcare sectors. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the social, biological, environmental, and policy factors that influence health and wellness. Students will explore key topics such as health promotion, health policy, community health, disease prevention, health disparities, and healthcare systems.

Throughout their studies, students engage in a variety of learning experiences including lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical projects. The program encourages active participation and fosters a collaborative learning environment, enabling students to work effectively in team settings and develop leadership skills. In addition, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, co-op placements, and community engagement projects, providing real-world insights and professional networking opportunities.

The curriculum is structured to give students a broad perspective on health while allowing specialization in areas of interest through electives and minor options. Core courses cover foundational concepts in health sciences, research methods, epidemiology, and health policy. Advanced courses delve into current issues such as global health challenges, health communication, environmental health, and health informatics. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations, cultural competence, and the importance of evidence-based practice.

Graduates of the Health Studies program are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies or enter the workforce in various health-related roles including health promotion specialists, policy analysts, public health educators, community outreach coordinators, and healthcare administrators. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and committed to promoting health equity and improving community well-being. Through rigorous coursework, experiential learning, and collaborative projects, students develop the skills necessary to address complex health issues and contribute positively to society.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Health Studies at the University of Waterloo include a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. Students are expected to complete a set of foundational courses in health sciences, which cover topics such as human health and disease, public health principles, health promotion, health policy, and ethics in health care.

In addition to the core courses, students must select electives that align with their specific interests within the health field, such as mental health, community health, health technology, or health administration. These electives are designed to provide students with specialized knowledge and skills relevant to their career objectives.

A significant component of the program is the capstone project, which requires students to apply their learning to real-world health issues. This project usually involves research, analysis, and the development of practical solutions, often in collaboration with community organizations or health agencies.

Students are also encouraged to participate in experiential learning opportunities, including internships, co-op placements, or volunteer work, which are integral to gaining practical experience in health settings. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA as specified by the university and complete all required coursework within the prescribed timeframe.

Overall, the program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of health-related issues, interdisciplinary skills, and practical experience to prepare them for careers in health promotion, health services administration, policy analysis, research, and community health initiatives. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their education according to their professional goals while ensuring a solid foundation in health sciences.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Waterloo offers several financing options for students enrolled in the Health Studies program, designed to support diverse financial needs and ensure access to quality education. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to apply for various scholarships, bursaries, and awards based on academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement. Institutional scholarships such as the University of Waterloo Entrance Scholarships are awarded automatically at admission and are renewable based on academic performance. Additionally, students can apply for faculty-specific awards related to Health Studies, which recognize excellence in research, leadership, or service.

Apart from scholarships and bursaries, students can explore government financial aid programs, including Canada Student Loans and Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). These programs provide low-interest loans and bursaries to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. The university also encourages students to seek external funding sources such as private scholarships, employer-sponsored awards, and community grants. For students planning to pursue graduate studies or specializations within the Health Studies program, assistantships and research grants may be available through faculty funding.

Work-study programs at the University of Waterloo offer part-time employment opportunities on campus, enabling students to earn income while gaining valuable work experience relevant to their field of study. The university’s co-op education model is a significant component of its funding strategy, allowing students to alternate academic terms with paid work terms in health-related industries, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. This practical work experience not only subsidizes educational costs but also enhances employability after graduation.

Financial planning resources, including workshops, counseling, and budgeting tools, are provided to help students manage expenses effectively throughout their studies. The university emphasizes the importance of early financial planning and encourages students to apply for funding opportunities as soon as they are eligible to maximize their financial support. Overall, the combination of institutional aid, government programs, external scholarships, work opportunities, and strategic planning forms a comprehensive financing framework designed to support students pursuing a degree in Health Studies at the University of Waterloo.

Health Studies at the University of Waterloo is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a broad understanding of health, health systems, and health-related issues from multidisciplinary perspectives. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of social, cultural, political, and economic factors that influence health outcomes. Students have opportunities to explore topics such as public health, health policy, health promotion, and health disparities, preparing them for diverse careers in health care, public health organizations, research, policy development, and community advocacy.

The curriculum typically includes core courses that cover fundamental concepts in health sciences, alongside electives that allow students to tailor their education to their interests, whether that be epidemiology, health communication, environmental health, or mental health. The program incorporates practical experiences, such as internships and community-based projects, to give students hands-on exposure to real-world health issues and practices. Additionally, students develop vital skills in research methods, data analysis, and evidence-based decision-making, equipping them for leadership roles in health-related fields.

Partnerships with local health agencies and organizations provide opportunities for experiential learning and networking, enhancing employability upon graduation. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations, cultural competence, and the importance of health equity, preparing students to address complex health challenges in diverse populations. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for graduate studies or direct entry into careers such as health promotion specialists, policy advisors, public health educators, research analysts, and community workers. The University of Waterloo’s Health Studies program is committed to fostering a multidisciplinary approach to health, emphasizing both individual well-being and systemic change, to improve health outcomes at local, national, and global levels.