Program Overview

Island Pre-Health Science Advanced Diploma

Overview

The Island Pre-Health Science (IPHS) program prepares students for advanced health programs with a focus on health science, biology, and Indigenous perspectives.

Program Details

• Duration: 3 years
• Delivery: In-person, full-time or part-time
• Location: Comox Valley

Requirements and Courses

• Core skills in health science and biology in the first two years
• Advanced topics in pathobiology, epidemiology, and pharmacology in the third year
• Socio-economic and cultural factors in rural healthcare
• Indigenous and place-based learning with an emphasis on rural health issues
• Pathways to medical school or health-related degrees, especially in rural communities
• Start with an orientation that fosters a supportive learning community and introduces cultural biases and decolonization concepts
• Develop a holistic understanding of healthcare and health science
• Be prepared for further education in health science or a Bachelor of Science in Health Science or related fields

Careers

This diploma provides a solid foundation for further studies in health sciences, which can lead to the study of medicine, pharmacology, dentistry, kinesiology, and more.

• Annual Estimated Earnings: $178,810 (for general practitioners and family doctors in BC)

Costs

• Domestic Tuition: $12,500
• Lab Fees: $320
• Student Union Fees: $710
• Learner Resource Fees: $610
• Health and Dental Fees: $855
• Total Estimated Cost: $14,995

Supports and Services

• Two seats per intake are reserved for Indigenous students, supported by an Indigenous Education Navigator.
• The program integrates Indigenous knowledge and health, addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action.
• All students engage with this knowledge, helping to combat racism in healthcare.
• The program begins with Indigenous cultural safety training for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Should I take this program if I want to go to medical school at UBC?
  • You don’t need to attend UBC to qualify for its medical school. Admission depends on completing 90 university-transferable credits (including 6 English credits), achieving competitive MCAT scores, and excelling in both academic and non-academic components of the application.
• Can I take this program if I’m interested in other health sciences (e.g., pharmacy, dentistry, physiotherapy, or veterinary)?
  • Yes, this program meets the academic requirements for multiple professional health science programs, providing flexibility even if your career goals change.
• What are the benefits of this program?
  • Cohort of 16 students fosters a supportive network and future professional connections.
  • Non-academic supports, including program coordinator check-ins, application/interviewing guidance, guest speakers, and community service opportunities.
  • Personalized learning through group, hands-on, and inquiry-based activities.
  • Access to modern labs emphasizing skills and communication, rare in larger institutions.
  • Integration of local, regional, and Indigenous-focused knowledge.
  • Research opportunities, including participation in applied health projects.
  • Study close to home, reducing barriers for rural students to compete in professional health programs.
  • Flexible course selection to accommodate diverse career paths post-graduation.
  • NIC tuition is more affordable compared to universities, making it a cost-effective choice for students.