Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Health Sciences Program

The Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours) degree program at the Cumming School of Medicine offers students an education journey that combines the best aspects of science and health research, with the ability to specialize in various fields of study. Throughout the program, students will develop their critical thinking, analysis, and writing skills, exploring contemporary health issues in a broad-based, interdisciplinary, and active manner.

Program Requirements

The Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours) degree requires the completion of 20.0 full course equivalents (120 credits) and normally four years of full-time study.

Courses Required in the First Year

• Fall semester:
  • Biology 211
  • Chemistry 201
  • Mathematics 265 (249)
  • Physics 211 or 221
  • Medical Science 203
• Winter semester:
  • English Option
  • Biology 213
  • Chemistry 203
  • Physics 223
  • Medical Science 205

Program Structure and Opportunities

Transfer Credit

Students who have received Advanced Placement credit or International Baccalaureate credit may be eligible to use their transfer credit in their degree program, depending on the program and course applicability.

Research Opportunities

The Bachelor of Health Sciences in the O’Brien Centre encourages students to pursue a variety of health research experiences throughout their years of study in the program. Summer studentships and scholarship opportunities are offered to motivated BHSc students to facilitate summer research placements.

Study Abroad

The University of Calgary offers exchanges and study abroad programs in 61 different countries, allowing students to experience different cultures, gain a better understanding of world issues, and travel around the globe while earning credit towards their degree.

Community Service-Learning

Students can combine their classroom learning with volunteer work that achieves community goals, seeing firsthand how their academic learning relates to social issues.

Program Completion and Degree Requirements

Generally, students must complete 3.0 full course equivalents (6 half-course equivalents or 18 units) at the junior (200-level) before they are allowed to register in 300-level courses. However, if a student received IB or AP credit for a 200-level course, they may take the 300-level course that has their 200-level course listed as a prerequisite.