Our programs are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health
This review of program quality and career outcomes demonstrates the concepts you learn in class are up to date and directly relevant to the real world.
Biology isn't the only thing that determines health. Social, cultural, political, and geographical conditions play a pivotal role in individual and population health. Rather than a focus on treatments after diagnosis, we have a larger vision: to find strategies for preventing disease, promoting health and improving healthcare services to make them more integrated and responsive.
Programs
We have two programs you can choose from in the School of Public Health Sciences. Both are available through our co-op or regular system of study. You choose co-op or regular when you apply.
Health Sciences (BSc)
Learn about the biological and social factors that impact health. Get a unique “cell to society” perspective, which means you’ll learn about how to prevent disease as well as proactively promote health and improve health-care systems and services.
Public Health (BPH)
Learn to examine and improve the health of communities and populations. You’ll focus on the social, ecological, biological, political and psychological factors that influence human health and how these factors can help us tackle and anticipate health challenges.
Optional specializations
You also have the opportunity to pursue a variety of minors and options, including Gerontology, Health Informatics, Health Research, Addictions, Mental Health, and Policy, Neuroscience (Health Sciences students), and Pre-Clinical (Health Sciences students).
Careers
Learn about careers our grads have ended up in. You might be surprised and learn about jobs you’ve never even heard of before!
Co-op and experiential learning
As a Health Sciences or Public Health student at the University of Waterloo, you have two great ways to study: co-op or regular.
Student life
We pride ourselves on providing an outstanding student experience - both inside and outside the classroom. At Waterloo, there are lots of opportunities to get involved and have new experiences.
Visit us
Book a tour (in person or virtual), and get more details about upcoming events and information sessions.
Meet current students
“I chose the Health Sciences program because I realized it was the perfect intersection of my interests in the hard sciences and sociology, and understanding that health isn’t just about the biological composition of your body.”
My favourite part of the program is the opportunity you have to specialize, to make a program that fits you. I’m doing a Gerontology Minor, which is the study of aging. And I found having that really deepened my understanding of health and helped me apply my interests.
- Rachel, Health Sciences (co-op)
Questions?
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please email Pamela Hurvid, our Faculty of Health recruitment co-ordinator, who can answer any questions you have.