Best Health Science Programs in Canada

Imagine analyzing Canada’s latest public health policy proposals in a morning workshop, then heading to a lecture on the impact of social factors on community well-being. In the afternoon, you hear a guest talk from a renowned physician or public health innovator and are moved to create real change.

This is everyday life for students in Canada's top health sciences programs. They're where the next generation of healthcare leaders, researchers, and change-makers find their way. 

Are you ready to discover yours?

What to Look for in Health Science Programs

The “best” health science program is the one that ticks your boxes. Canada has a range of top-tier health science programs, but the best one for you should align with your goals, values, interests, and budget.

So, what should you look for when choosing a program?

Here are a few points you’ll want to consider:

Does the program offer the specific health science discipline you want to pursue?

For example, if you want to pursue epidemiology, the program should offer biostatistics and disease prevention courses. If you know you want a career in health but haven't decided on your career path, a program that provides flexibility and the chance to explore different disciplines may be best.

Is the program focused on research, clinical practice, or both?

Health science programs should balance theory and practice. They should offer internships, practicums, and clinical rotations to complement classroom time with hands-on experience.

Where is the university? Do you want the bustle of city life or something quieter?

Larger universities offer more resources and research opportunities but they also come with steep competition. Smaller programs often come with personalized learning opportunities.

Are there co-op or internship opportunities?

Co-op and internship opportunities can help you land the job of your dreams, or at least get your foot in the door. Explore whether the program has industry connections or an alum network.

Top Health Science Programs in Canada

Selecting the best health science program in Canada is challenging because our top universities all offer programs that shine in one way or another.

Some of the most renowned health science programs in Canada include programs at:

• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia
• McMaster University
• University of Alberta
• Queen's University
• Western University
• University of Waterloo
• University of Ottawa
• Dalhousie University
• University of Calgary

But let’s narrow in on our top picks.

University of Toronto

UofT is a stellar choice, ranked second worldwide among universities for health sciences and third for health science research.

With co-op programs, extracurricular opportunities, and high graduation rates, it's no wonder that UofT is so popular. UofT's Health Studies program also offers the chance to design your own research or gain real-world experience through a practicum, on top of a solid foundation in health theory.

Queen's University

Queen's Health Science program is about a lot more than just textbooks, so get ready to roll up your sleeves. They’re largely research-focused, so you’ll be right in the thick of it.

Explore the complexities of the human body, the latest in rehab science, and the foundations of modern medicine. With 38 specialized courses, there’s plenty to learn and explore.

We also love how they ditch the boring lecture format.  Their "flipped classroom" means you do the prep on your own time, so in class you can get to tackling real-world problems and having lively discussions.

Wouldn’t it be nice to actually remember what you learned?

University of Waterloo

Waterloo's Health Science program is one of the best in Canada because it examines the biological and social factors that affect health. The program takes an integrative approach that teaches students how to prevent health issues, not just treat them.

It might be the best program for you if you’re still exploring your career options. With many minors and specialization options, you can pursue medical school or another field in health and wellness.

Waterloo also has the most extensive co-op program in Canada, offering two years of real-world experience.

McMaster University

McMaster is one of the top pre-med schools in Canada. The BHSc program is flexible and allows you to explore other disciplines while choosing the right career path. The classes are small at around 20 students, which gives a much more personal feel to your learning.

McMaster is considered a world-class research university, but the program also offers clinical disciplines like oncology, nursing, physical therapy, and cardiology.

Western University

Western’s Health Science program is flexible and focuses on experiential learning.

If you want a chance to explore what really makes you tick in the healthcare field, this might be a great choice for you. 

You’ll not only have a chance to make a real-world impact, you’ll be guaranteed to! There are community service and international experiences built right into the curriculum.

If you want to make a real difference, you can go wrong with this top-ranked health science program. You’ll be tackling complex health issues alongside future doctors, therapists, and researchers.

Go Beyond Rankings

Now that you’ve had an overview, start to really dig deep.

Where do you want your career to take you? What are you truly passionate about? Your aspirations and interests should come first when choosing a health science program. 

If your passion is community health, for example, you’ll want to make sure you choose a program with courses in community medicine and hands-on experience.

Do you want to specialize?

Are you passionate about research?

Does the thought of hours in a lab light you up?

Do you prefer community service experience in a hospital or private practice?

These are all things to consider when choosing a program, and none have to do with rankings.

Research the specifics of each program and compare them. Once you've narrowed down your university preferences, do some website sleuthing. 

Look for virtual tour opportunities and program information sessions. With a little bit of research, the right program for you will become a lot more obvious.

Getting into Your Dream Health Science Program

Each university has specific admission requirements, so be sure to check the admissions page on the program websites to get all the details.

But beyond the grades, universities are looking for well-rounded students from diverse backgrounds who know what it takes to serve others.

Autobiographical Sketch

Some universities will require a personal essay and autobiographical sketch. These are an opportunity to showcase all the qualities your report card doesn't show – your character, empathy, and communication skills.

An autobiographical sketch is a list of your activities and achievements from the age of 16. It's your chance to show why you’re a suitable candidate for a career in health and how you've been working toward that goal.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Before choosing a health science program in Canada, ask prospective universities about scholarship opportunities and funding.

For example, Weston University has the William Vernon Hull Scholarship. UofT has the Temerty Faculty of Medic∂ine Student Grant Program and MD Admission Bursaries ($20,000).

There are also other funding opportunities like the Canadian Nurses Foundation Scholarship Program ($750 - $20,000) and the Canadian Student Financial Assistance Program.

GrantMe is passionate about helping students secure funding. Try our eligibility quiz to see what scholarship opportunities are available to you.

Career Opportunities

A health science degree opens a variety of doors you may not have even considered. 

Sure, you may have dreamed of being a doctor when you grew up, but there are so many more opportunities beyond the obvious.

Here are just some of the many possible career paths your studies in health sciences can unlock:

• Family medicine: $287,000
• Surgical specialist: $487,000
• Nurse: $74,820
• Physical therapist: $73,974
• Community health worker: $51,790
• Public health researcher: $82,537
• Research scientist: $72,563
• Clinical trial coordinator: $55,853
• Health informatics: $51,000
• Healthcare IT specialist: $80,827
• Registered dietitian: $42,843
• Nutritionist: $63,190

The best part of all? You might not know exactly going in, but the right program will help pave the pathway for you.

Finding the Best Health Science Program for You

The most exciting thing about studying health sciences is the incredible range of possibilities. A solid program can launch you into a career of hands-on patient care, healthcare policy, medical research, or a number of other exciting fields.

So start exploring! Talk to past graduates, visit campuses, start to imagine your future taking shape.

Want help navigating your options? GrantMe is here. We'll not only help you narrow in on the right program for you but we’ll also help you get in. Take our eligibility quiz and find out how we can help you take that first step towards an exciting career in health sciences.