Take a different approach to fighting disease
Focus on preventing illness, not simply treating people once they get sick. At Waterloo, you’ll learn how to promote healthy lifestyles, improve health care systems, and bring together the science and the social aspects of health.
Whether you opt for the regular or co-op stream, Health Studies – similar to a Health Science degree at other universities – gives you the skills for improving human health, along with lots of room for electives. And with five specializations and dozens of campus-wide minors, you can tailor your studies to your specific areas of interest.
You’ll graduate with the skills to tackle global health pandemics such as COVID-19, transform public health policy, and pave the way for new medical breakthroughs.
Offered by the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences
Specializations and options to customize your degree
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- Any 4U English (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Any 4U Mathematics (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Biology (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Chemistry (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
Admission averages: Regular: Low 80s | Co-op: Mid-80s
Advanced Functions and Physics are recommended if you're interested in the Pre-Clinical specialization.
We recommend completing the Admission Information Form once you've applied.
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
Health Studies at Waterloo
Laavanya chose the program because of its multidisciplinary nature. Since graduating, Laavanya has been admitted to medical school to pursue her goal of becoming a physician.
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Monthly topics include how to choose a university program, what it's like to be a Waterloo student, and more.
Questions? Ask a student!
Contact a student ambassador to learn about their experience in the program. Ask them questions such as why they chose the program, what the classes are like, and how you can get involved on campus.
"My favourite part of the program is the variety of disciplines and subject areas. I've learned about health from a biological, social science, ecological, and public health lens, really opening my eyes to the opportunities available in this field!"Christina, fourth-year Health Studies student (minor in Gerontology)"Being in co-op, I've learned so much about careers in health and what I value when looking for a job. But most important, my confidence in interviewing for a job and performing well in the workplace has increased so much over my work terms."Anna, third-year Health Studies student"The best part about being a Waterloo student is having diverse opportunities to customize my degree. Through countless clubs and student societies, you can find your niche and community, which is incredibly supportive and open to helping other students!"Xenia, fourth-year Health Studies student (minor in Psychology)
Join the Health Studies Living-Learning Community and live with students in your program
Apply directly to this program on your application
On average, 57% of Health Studies grads are in professional or graduate school within one year of graduating
Ready to learn more?
- Visit the Health Studies website
- Email our Applied Health Sciences recruitment co-ordinator who can answer any questions about the program
- Subscribe to our newsletter to get tips and advice from current students
Student stories
Visit our Beyond Ideas website to learn about the program, the student experience, branching into your future career, and more.
Be more than a number
With small tutorial sizes right from first year, you’ll really get to know your classmates — and your world-renowned professors.
Friends for life
Make lasting bonds through the Health Living-Learning Community, mentorship programs, and health-related student clubs.
