Pre-Health Science Program Details
The healthcare and science fields are rapidly growing, and a strong educational foundation is essential for success in these demanding areas. The Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees (PHSU) program is specifically designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and skills required to pursue advanced studies in health sciences and related fields. Whether you’re aiming to enter nursing, biotechnology, or another science-based program at the diploma or degree level, this program is the perfect launching pad for your academic and professional journey. With a curriculum tailored to provide academic preparation and career exploration, students will gain the confidence and competence needed to excel in their next steps.
The Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program is designed to provide students with the core knowledge, skills and abilities fundamental to academic success in health sciences programs such as the collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program delivered by Durham College and the Ontario Tech University (Ontario Tech), as well as other science-related programs at the advanced diploma or degree level. The program emphasizes a strong understanding of foundational subjects crucial to the healthcare field. Courses in mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics are not only designed to meet the academic prerequisites for advanced programs but also to help students grasp essential concepts that form the backbone of health science disciplines.
This two-semester pre-health science program is specifically designed for individuals who would like to develop their knowledge and skills in communications, mathematics, biology, general and organic chemistry, physics or critical thinking so they are well-prepared for the rigours of their next academic program. Students are guided through lab-based and theoretical courses that mirror the challenges they will face in more specialized health science programs. Communication and critical thinking skills are also integrated into the curriculum to ensure that graduates are prepared to engage effectively with complex scientific materials and collaborate with peers in professional healthcare settings.
In addition, our pre-health program provides students with the opportunity to learn about potential careers in the health sciences and identify other programs focusing on the biological or chemical sciences that will enable them to achieve their career objectives. Whether you aim to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) or another advanced diploma or degree in a science-related field, the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degree program is your stepping stone toward a successful and fulfilling career in healthcare or biological sciences.
PLEASE NOTE:
- Successful completion of the PHSU certificate does not guarantee admission into Ontario Tech or other post-secondary programs.
- The January intake of the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program may not line up with university application deadlines for a fall start. Students must be sure to check the website for application deadlines at the institution to which they intend to apply.
- Each educational institution determines its own admission requirements, so students must ensure that the courses they take meet the admission requirements at the institution(s) to which they intend to apply.
- Individual academic planning assistance is offered by the student advisor and students are strongly encouraged to meet with their advisor before selecting their courses or applying for transfer credit. Some Pre-Health Sciences Pathway courses are also transferable to other post-secondary programs.
Pre-Health Sciences Program Learning Outcomes
- Examine biological concepts, processes and systems of the human body, including genetics and epigenetics, as well as the structure, function and properties of the molecules of life, cells, tissues and organ systems in relation to homeostasis, physical development and health.
- Examine concepts, processes and systems of chemistry, including atomic and molecular structure; quantities in chemical reactions; solutions and solubility; acids and bases; as well as organic chemistry and biochemistry in relation to health and the human body.
- Solve numeric problems and interpret data related to health sciences and other science-related fields using mathematical concepts, including algebra and probability, along with descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Use health sciences and other science-related language and terminology appropriately to communicate clearly, concisely, and correctly in written, spoken, and visual forms.
- Prepare a personal strategy and plan for academic, career and professional development in the health sciences or other science-related fields.
- Investigate health sciences and science-related questions, problems and evidence using the scientific method.
- Physics (Optional): examine fundamental physics laws and concepts and their application to health sciences and other science-related fields.
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