Bachelor of Health Sciences - Population and Public Health (Honours) and Master of Health Sciences - Occupational Therapy

University of Ottawa

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 Population and Public Health option will further students’ interdisciplinary health sciences training grounded in population health and public health theories and methodologies that remain the foundation of Canada’s healthcare system. Students will appraise health scenarios from local and global perspectives, critique health frameworks, develop health interventions including health promotion strategies, distinguish structural and systemic causes of health disparities, and evaluate contributions of intersectoral collaborations in health.Occupational therapy is both an art and a science whose aim is to prevent handicap situations, re- establish or promote occupation (everyday activities that people do), health, and well-being of individuals. Occupational therapists work in collaboration with individuals or groups of individuals to prevent or address occupational performance difficulties. Occupational performance difficulties may arise from a health condition, developmental issue, environmental obstacle or a consequence of aging. Difficulties may occur in areas of self-care, productivity, or leisure. Occupational therapists enable their clients to reconstruct their life and develop a renewed sense of self-identity and independence.The occupational therapy program follows the standards developed by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). This allows students develop the skills and competencies needed to practice their profession upon graduation. In addition to the coursework, students complete 1,000 placement hours as required by CAOT. These mandatory placements can take place in Ottawa-area hospitals, schools, community organizations, the interprofessional university clinic and rehabilitation centres or at locations outside the National Capital Region.