Health Sciences degree In September 2016, the Faculty of Health Sciences officially launched the new Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) degree. This groundbreaking new program, specifically designed to prepare its graduates for further studies in health professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, is one of the only health sciences degrees in North America to be offered in a fully online format.
The program has been in development for the past four years. Over that time, a curriculum of completely new and innovative health sciences courses has been created. Courses are delivered through a series of online learning modules which integrate virtual classrooms and labs, real-time simulations, discussion forums, video lectures, and a host of other technologies. As new educational tools and resources are introduced, they, too, can be seamlessly introduced into the curriculum.
The BHSc program is compete in cybased, meaning that the curriculum develops skills, or ‘competencies’, in students that purposefully match those found today in health professional programs such as medicine. Students will not only learn the course content, but also learn how to apply it as effective advocates, collaborators, communicators, leaders, scholars, and professionals.
It is expected that there will be heavy demand for this new program as its flexibility makes a Queen’s degree more accessible than ever. Incoming students, whether graduating from high school or adult learners returning to their studies, can take their Queen’s courses anytime, anywhere, on a schedule that suits their individual needs. Learning is done at their own pace, on either a part-time or a full-time basis. Students have the option of simply taking several courses out of interest or enrolling to complete the full degree.
The online format of the program also makes it affordable for those who would otherwise have had to relocate to Kingston. The total cost of the full degree program is under $30,000, almost 60% less expensive than an on-campus experience. Students are eligible to apply for financial assistance.
Support for students is also a priority. Academic advisors provide counselling and guidance on all aspects of the program, for which technical support is also readily available.
Applications are now being accepted for the Winter 2017 term and prospective students can learn more and submit an application at bhsc.queensu.ca. A sample course module is also available to provide a better understanding of how online learning works. More information can also be requested by contacting the program directly at bhsc@queensu.ca.
