BSc in Psychology and Computer Science
The University of Victoria (UVic) offers a unique interdisciplinary program, the Bachel...
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Science (with Co-op)
Victoria
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Health Information Science program at the University of Victoria (UVic) is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to manage healthcare data effectively, contribute to the development of health information systems, and improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. This interdisciplinary program combines elements of computer science, information technology, health sciences, and management to prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of health informatics. Students learn about the collection, analysis, interpretation, and use of health data to support clinical decision-making, public health initiatives, research, and policy development.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Science program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive education in both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of health informatics. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including database management, health data standards, electronic health records, healthcare analytics, information security and privacy, health communication, project management, and healthcare policy and ethics. Students also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through practical labs, case studies, and projects that simulate real-world healthcare scenarios.
Research Focus: Research in the field of health information science encompasses a broad spectrum of topics related to healthcare data management, informatics, and technology. Students in the program have the opportunity to engage in research projects that explore areas such as health data analytics, clinical decision support systems, telemedicine, health information exchange, patient engagement technologies, and the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in healthcare. Through collaboration with faculty mentors, industry partners, and healthcare stakeholders, students contribute to advancing knowledge and innovation in the field of health informatics.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a central component of the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Science program, with opportunities for students to gain practical experience through co-op work terms, internships, and applied projects with healthcare organizations, government agencies, research institutions, and technology companies. Students have the chance to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings, work on meaningful projects, and network with professionals in the field. Industry partners also provide valuable insights into current trends, challenges, and opportunities in healthcare informatics, helping to ensure that the program remains relevant and responsive to industry needs.
Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Science in Health Information Science program at UVic emphasizes the importance of considering global perspectives in healthcare informatics. Students learn about international standards, best practices, and global health initiatives related to health data management, interoperability, and technology adoption. They also explore the cultural, social, economic, and ethical dimensions of healthcare information systems and their impact on diverse populations and healthcare systems worldwide. Through coursework, research, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop a global mindset and an understanding of the interconnectedness of health informatics on a global scale.
Location
Victoria
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 29716
Application Fees: CAD $188
Academic Requirements: International students applying to undergraduate programs at the University of Victoria are typically required to have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. The university requires a minimum overall academic average of 75% or equivalent, which may vary depending on the program and specific admission requirements.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT).
It's important to note that the specific entry requirements may vary depending on the program of study and can change over time. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as submission of a portfolio or completion of prerequisite courses.
The University of Victoria in Canada offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
International Entrance Scholarships: The university offers a range of entrance scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and range in value from CAD $5,000 to CAD $10,000. International students are automatically considered for these scholarships upon admission.
President's Scholarship for International Students: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students entering their first year of study at the University of Victoria. Valued at CAD $10,000, this scholarship recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities.
International Undergraduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available to international students entering undergraduate programs at the University of Victoria. The scholarships are merit-based and vary in value. They are awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and community engagement.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties at the University of Victoria offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective academic programs. These scholarships are awarded based on criteria established by each faculty and may vary in value and eligibility requirements.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Health Information Science program at the University of Victoria (UVic) are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of health informatics. With their interdisciplinary skills and practical experience gained through co-op work terms, graduates play critical roles in healthcare organizations, technology companies, research institutions, government agencies, and other settings.
Health Informatics Specialist: Graduates can work as health informatics specialists, leveraging their knowledge of healthcare data management, information systems, and technology to design, implement, and optimize health information systems and electronic health records (EHRs) in healthcare settings.
Clinical Informatics Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers as clinical informatics analysts, analyzing healthcare data, conducting performance evaluations, and providing insights to improve clinical workflows, patient care outcomes, and quality of care delivery.
Health Data Analyst: Graduates with strong analytical skills can work as health data analysts, collecting, processing, and analyzing healthcare data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that inform decision-making, research, and policy development in healthcare organizations and government agencies.
Healthcare IT Project Manager: Graduates may work as healthcare IT project managers, leading projects to implement new health information systems, software applications, or technology solutions in healthcare organizations, ensuring successful project delivery on time and within budget.
Healthcare Privacy and Security Specialist: Graduates can specialize in healthcare privacy and security, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards such as HIPAA and GDPR, assessing risks, developing policies, and implementing measures to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of health information.
Telehealth and Telemedicine Coordinator: Graduates may work in telehealth and telemedicine roles, facilitating remote patient monitoring, virtual consultations, and telehealth initiatives to improve access to healthcare services, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Healthcare Data Scientist: Graduates with expertise in data science and machine learning can work as healthcare data scientists, developing predictive models, algorithms, and decision support tools to support personalized medicine, population health management, and precision healthcare initiatives.
Healthcare Researcher/Evaluator: Graduates may pursue careers as healthcare researchers or evaluators, conducting studies, evaluations, and assessments to measure the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of health information systems, technologies, and interventions on healthcare outcomes and patient experiences.
Healthcare Consultant: Graduates can work as healthcare consultants, advising healthcare organizations on strategic planning, technology adoption, workflow optimization, and change management initiatives to drive innovation and improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.
Health Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as health policy analysts, contributing to the development, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare policies, regulations, and standards related to health information exchange, interoperability, privacy, and security.
