Bachelor in Health Sciences in Technologies and Innovation in Healthcare (Honours) and Master of Health Sciences in Physiotherapy

The Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences program is defined by its integrative approach for studying health. Students are provided with a biosciences background, knowledge of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, along with an interdisciplinary approach to study the determinants of health. This unique academic program allows students to discover innovative ways to examine, measure and unravel complex health problems at all life stages, in Canada and around the world.

The Technologies and Innovation in Healthcare option will provide students with theoretical knowledge and applied skills to examine the applications and limitations of health technologies. Upon completion of this option, students will be able to evaluate the utility of health technologies including computer-assisted applications to both clinical research and health services delivery, demonstrate skills in health technology assessment methodologies and critically appraise the social and ethical implications of health technologies.

Graduates will be well prepared to undertake health-related MSc programs or pursue careers in public or private health agencies, non-governmental health organizations or in community health programs. Students are provided with the necessary foundation further studies in medicine, rehabilitation studies, dentistry or pharmacy. Our interdisciplinary focus enhances the quality and maturity of future clinicians and health professionals.

Physiotherapy is a self-governing profession that promotes fitness, health and wellness. The profession provides frontline client-centered healthcare services to help clients maintain and improve their functional independence; and prevent and manage pain, physical limitations, disabilities, and limits to participation in their activities (Canadian Physiotherapy Association, 2000). The goal of the physiotherapy program is to train bilingual physiotherapists who can serve francophone clients in Ontario and French-speaking communities across Canada and to foster excellence in research and teaching.

The program supports a client-centered approach and focuses on integrating evidence-based results from research on clinical decision-making. The conceptual framework of the program is based on the human movement sciences (kinesiology and pathokinesiology) and the clinical sciences and incorporates the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework as the standard for describing and measuring health and disability.

The MHSc in Physiotherapy program runs over six consecutive terms, i.e., two years of full-time study. Students must complete 60 course units and 1,025 placement hours. These mandatory placements can take place in Ottawa-area hospitals, schools and rehabilitation centres or at locations outside the National Capital Region.