Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees
Develop knowledge and skills to continue your studies in health sciences.
- Explore interests in the health science field while developing strong study skills and earning post-secondary credits which may be transferred to other college programs.
- This program provides students with the core knowledge, skills and abilities fundamental to academic success in a variety of health science programs.
- Ideal to prepare for University and Advanced Diplomas in Health - prep program for BSCN in Ottawa
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Spring 2025
No
Fall 2025
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Other Campuses
The one-year Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees is an Ontario College Certificate program that prepares you for more advanced health science programs. You develop strong study skills and earn post-secondary credits that may transfer to other post-secondary programs.
As a student, you explore your interests in the health science field while meeting the eligibility requirements for a number of Algonquin College advanced diploma programs. These include:...(read more)
Overview
Develop knowledge and skills to continue your studies in health sciences.
The one-year Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees is an Ontario College Certificate program that prepares you for more advanced health science programs. You develop strong study skills and earn post-secondary credits that may transfer to other post-secondary programs.
As a student, you explore your interests in the health science field while meeting the eligibility requirements for a number of Algonquin College advanced diploma programs. These include:
- Biotechnology - Advanced (Co-op and Non-Co-op Version)
- Cardiovascular Technology
- Dental Hygiene
- Massage Therapy
- Medical Radiation Technology
- Respiratory Therapy
In addition, graduates may be eligible to apply to various degree programs including:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) at the University of Ottawa
- Bachelor of Human Kinetics (BHK) at the University of Ottawa
- Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) at Queen`s University
- Bachelor of Culinary Arts and Food Services at Algonquin College
- Honours Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Science at the University of Ottawa
The curriculum provides you with the opportunity to learn more about potential careers in the health sciences as you improve your skills in communications, mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics.
The intention of this program is to prepare you for further study in either advanced diploma or degree programs, rather than moving directly into a chosen industry. It is important to note that completing this program does not guarantee entry into a health or science program.
Students interested in further academic study in a health-related one-year certificate or two-year diploma program should consider applying to the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas program.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well suited to individuals who:
- Are interested in health sciences.
- Have good study habits and time management skills.
- Enjoy working with others and as a member of a team.
- Are attentive to detail.
- Have an interest in enhancing their aptitude in math and science.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BIO0005
Course Name:
Human Biology
Course Description:
An understanding of human biology forms the basis of further study in health science. Students learn about the cell as the basic unit of str... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENL0078
Course Name:
Communication Studies for the Health Sciences
Course Description:
The ability to communicate clearly contributes to success in academics and in the workplace. Strong communicators critically assess informat... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT0024
Course Name:
Math for the Health Sciences
Course Description:
Through the study of mathematics, students learn how to reason logically, think critically and solve problems - key skills for success in th... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
PSY0032
Course Name:
Psychology
Course Description:
Understanding mental processes, thoughts, feelings, and behaviours is essential in promoting healthy relationships. Through examining tradit... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SCI0004
Course Name:
General Chemistry
Course Description:
All biological processes are rooted in chemistry. Through collaboration and a focus on health-related examples, students learn about matter,... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
SSC0097
Course Name:
Exploring Careers in Health Sciences
Course Description:
Investigating a variety of health science opportunities is an integral step in successful career planning. Through discussions, independent ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO0007
Course Name:
Anatomy and Physiology
Course Description:
The structure and function of the body is fundamental to health science. Students further their knowledge of the structure of the human body... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
ENL0079
Course Name:
Communications and Research for the Health Sciences
Course Description:
The ability to understand, apply and communicate scientific information is critical in healthcare education and practice. Students use resea... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MAT0027
Course Name:
Statistics for the Health Sciences
Course Description:
Statistics and probability theory are utilized in many ways in the health sciences and in everyday life. Students further develop mathematic... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
SCI0006
Course Name:
Organic and Biological Chemistry
Course Description:
Understanding the human body, its diseases and the medicines used to treat disease requires knowledge of general, organic and biological che... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
PHY0002
Course Name:
Physics for the Health Sciences
Course Description:
As the fundamental science, physics underpins chemistry and biology. Through the extensive use of algebra, students apply critical thinking ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
SOC0012
Course Name:
Sociology of Health
Course Description:
Understanding current trends and issues in the interaction between society and health is essential for professionals working in the industry... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates of the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program may be eligible to apply for admission to various certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or degree programs. However, final admission to any program is at the discretion of the receiving institution.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- 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.
- Examine fundamental physics laws and concepts and their application to health sciences and other science-related fields.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Textbooks, access to online learning platforms, and supplies cost approximately $800.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Mathematics, Grade 11 (MBF3C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
Application Information
PRE-HEALTH SCIENCES PATHWAY TO ADVANCED DIPLOMAS AND DEGREES
Program Code 1626X01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
This is a full-time program, running in two consecutive 14-week semesters. Classes may be scheduled anytime Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
The Pre-Health Sciences Pathway programs are part of the College`s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative. All applicants are expected to own a laptop or tablet, have access to a reliable internet connection, be computer proficient and have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. There may also be additional technology-related resources required to participate in a course that are not included in the materials fee.
This full-time program is also offered at the Pembroke Campus. While the learning outcomes at the Pembroke and Woodroffe campuses are the same, the curriculum order and subject delivery are reflective of local circumstances that impact program delivery.
Please note: students must receive a minimum grade of C in MAT0024 to be eligible to register in the PHY0002 elective.