Your First Year

first year

Approximately 325 first-year students join the Health Sciences program each fall and take a common set of first-year courses that introduce them to the diverse areas of health that impact people around the globe. These courses, in addition to a series of electives, help students identify areas of interest before selecting a module/specialization prior to entering second year.

Required First Year Courses (3.0 credits)

Personal Determinants of Health (Health Sciences 1001A/B)

This course focuses on health and wellness with an emphasis on increasing knowledge and awareness of a wide variety of health-related topics, as well as on improving individual health.

Social Determinants of Health (Health Sciences 1002A/B)

This course introduces key social determinants of health, and orients students to viewing health in relation to social factors, equity, and social justice. Students will be introduced to basic terms, concepts, and measurements related to health, public health, population health, and health inequalities.

Achieving Balance and Meaning (Health Sciences 1111A/B)

This course explores mind-body connections linked to fostering resilience and navigating complex social and occupational challenges. Students will acquire skills that facilitate achieving a sense of balance and wellness, will challenge misperceptions about wellbeing and success, and will explore how to incorporate healthy routines and practices into daily life.

Functional Human Gross Anatomy (Health Sciences 1300A/B)

A gross anatomical description of systemic structure and function of the human body, with emphasis on skeletal, muscular and cardiovascular systems. Integration between systems will be discussed using clinical examples related to sport, medicine, and physical therapy.

Biology for Science I (Biology 1001A)

This course provides an understanding of fundamental biological concepts with emphasis on function in and relevance to humans. Topics include inheritance, evolution, ecology, behaviour, ecosystem health.

Biology for Science II (Biology 1002B)

This course provides an understanding of fundamental biological concepts with emphasis on function in and relevance to humans. Topics include molecular genetics, physiology, bioenergetics.

Elective Courses (2.0 credits)

Students can choose elective courses from a wide array of options that complement their Health Sciences program requirements and provide the flexibility to explore other areas of interest. Elective options also open doors for students to tailor their program of study in the upper years through Western's module system.