Public Health

public_health_bsc_description = "The Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of Waterloo prepares students to address complex health issues affecting communities locally, nationally, and globally. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines foundational sciences, social sciences, policy analysis, and research methods to equip graduates with the skills necessary to promote health and prevent disease across diverse populations. Students will engage in coursework covering topics such as epidemiology, environmental health, health promotion, health policy, and health systems management. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and practical experience through internships, community projects, and collaborative research opportunities. Students will develop competencies in data analysis, program planning, and health communication, enabling them to design effective interventions and evaluate health initiatives. The program also encourages engagement with current global health challenges, including infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, health disparities, and the impact of social determinants on health outcomes. With dedicated faculty expertise and access to cutting-edge research facilities, students are supported throughout their academic journey to become future leaders in the field of public health. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in public health agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and private sectors focused on health promotion, disease prevention, and health policy development. The Bachelor of Science in Public Health at Waterloo aims to foster socially responsible professionals committed to improving health equity and advancing the well-being of populations worldwide."

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Health at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive foundation in understanding the social, behavioral, environmental, and policy aspects that influence population health. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex health challenges in diverse communities both locally and globally. Throughout the program, students explore core topics such as health promotion, disease prevention, health policy, and epidemiology, gaining insights into how social determinants and health disparities impact population well-being. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research methods, and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to work effectively in public health organizations, community agencies, government bodies, and research institutions. In addition to theoretical coursework, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, community engagement projects, and collaborative research activities. These practical experiences enable students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their professional readiness. The program also focuses on interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to collaborate with experts in fields such as sociology, psychology, environmental studies, and policy analysis. By the time they graduate, students will have developed a strong understanding of public health principles, the ability to analyze health data, and the skills to design and implement public health initiatives. The Bachelor of Arts in Public Health at the University of Waterloo prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to the improvement of health outcomes and the sustainability of health systems, both in Canada and around the world.

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of Waterloo requires students to complete a total of approximately 120 credit hours over the course of their degree. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and practices in public health, including epidemiology, health promotion, environmental health, health policy, and social determinants of health. Students must fulfill core courses in introductory public health, biological sciences, social sciences, and humanities to build a strong foundational knowledge.

Additionally, students are required to complete a set of electives that allow for specialization in specific areas such as global health, health informatics, or health management. The program emphasizes experiential learning, and students must participate in co-op placements, internships, or community-based projects to gain practical skills and real-world experience. There are also opportunities for research projects, which enable students to engage in independent study under faculty supervision. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA established by the university, typically around 60-70%, and complete all required coursework with passing grades.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making skills relevant to public health practice. The curriculum includes both theoretical courses and applied components, integrating current public health issues and policies. Students are also expected to attend seminars, participate in workshops, and engage with community stakeholders to broaden their understanding of the field. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in health promotion, epidemiology, health policy analysis, environmental health, or to pursue graduate studies in public health or related disciplines. No specific information about thesis or capstone project requirements is available, but students are typically advised to undertake a culminating experience that synthesizes their learning.

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 various options for funding and financing studies within its Public Health programs. Students pursuing undergraduate degrees typically have access to a range of financial resources, including scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid. The university provides numerous merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students, which can significantly offset tuition costs. Additionally, need-based bursaries are available to eligible students demonstrating financial need, helping to reduce the economic barriers to enrolling in the program.

Graduate students, including those pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in Public Health, have access to research assistantships and teaching assistantships, which provide stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for research or instructional responsibilities. These assistantships are highly competitive and typically require students to contribute to ongoing research projects in public health areas. The university also offers fellowships and specific funding opportunities through faculty research grants, which students can apply for to support their research activities.

Students are encouraged to explore external sources of funding as well, such as government grants, private foundations, and international organizations that support public health initiatives and studies. International students, in particular, should check for specific scholarships and funding programs available to them, including those offered directly by the university or through government-sponsored initiatives.

Furthermore, the university's Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive support and advising to help students identify suitable funding options and navigate the application processes. Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, familial support, employment, and available financial aid sources. Overall, the University of Waterloo is committed to providing its students with diverse funding opportunities to facilitate access to quality education in public health, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of their academic and professional goals.

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of Waterloo is an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to improve health outcomes in diverse populations. The curriculum integrates core concepts from health sciences, social sciences, and policy studies, preparing graduates for careers in health promotion, policy development, research, and healthcare management. Students engage with topics such as epidemiology, health behavior, environmental health, health communication, and health systems management, allowing them to analyze complex health issues and develop effective interventions. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, community engagement projects, and collaborative research opportunities, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities within the public health sector. The faculty consists of experts in various fields of public health, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship. Graduates of the program are prepared to work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare institutions, and international health agencies, contributing to the development of equitable and sustainable health systems globally. The program also offers pathways for further education, including graduate studies in public health, health policy, and related fields. With a focus on cultural competence, ethical practice, and evidence-based decision-making, the Bachelor of Science in Public Health aims to foster leadership and innovation among its students, aligning with current public health challenges and future trends in the field.