Public Health University of Victoria

Overview

The Public Health programme at the University of Victoria offers a comprehensive exploration of health inequities and the systemic changes required to address them. Students engage with community-centred health services through a social justice lens while studying in a flexible, primarily online environment.

This degree is designed for those who wish to support inclusive health systems in Canada and internationally. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills in program planning and community engagement. Learners benefit from a diverse academic community, collaborating with peers from various professional backgrounds.

The primarily asynchronous delivery allows students to maintain their professional or personal commitments while pursuing higher education.

Why Public Health at the University of Victoria?

The University of Victoria provides a distinctive learning environment that prioritises social justice and community-centred practice. Students can customise their degree by selecting a specific area of focus, such as Global Health or Indigenous Peoples’ Health, to align with their career aspirations.

A key feature of the programme is the supervised practicum, which allows students to apply their knowledge within government agencies or non-profit organisations. This practical component helps develop essential interpersonal and professional skills. Additionally, the institution offers directed readings for those interested in bespoke research projects.

The School of Public Health and Social Policy is recognised for its commitment to climate action and social impact. By choosing this institution, students gain access to a supportive network of faculty members and researchers dedicated to improving population health outcomes through evidence-based policy and advocacy.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 35448 per year
• National fee: CAD 6414 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a robust foundation in population health and management. Modules may include:

• Healthy Sexuality
• Determinants of Health and Population Health Promotion
• Health Program Planning and Program Management

Students can further tailor their studies by choosing one of the following areas of focus:

• Ageing
• Disability Studies
• Global Health
• Indigenous Peoples’ Health

Careers with Public Health

Graduates of this programme are equipped with the skills necessary for leadership and advocacy roles within the public and non-profit sectors. The practical experience gained during the degree makes candidates highly competitive in the job market. Potential career paths include:

• Health administrator
• Health advocate
• Health educator
• Health planner

The degree also serves as a strong foundation for further academic study in public health, social policy, or community development. Many alumni go on to work for grassroots groups, government agencies, and international health organisations, focusing on program evaluation and community engagement.