Bachelor of Science [B.S] (Health Studies)
Field of Study:
₹34 L/Yr
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) is a four-year honours undergraduate degree in Canada, with an optional co-op stream that integrates paid work terms.
This programme equips students with research, clinical, and public health expertise. Five specializations let you focus on occupational health, gerontology, international health, maternal-child health, or community health.
- Co-operative education: alternate four-month work terms with full-time study, earning CAD 9,600 to CAD 22,800 per term.
- Choice of stream: regular full-time or co-op (adds 2 years, integrates salary earnings).
- Strong placement: 91.3% of Health Sciences graduates find roles within six months.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the September 2026 intake were open until 31 January 2026. For the next available intake in September 2027, applications open in September 2026 with a deadline of 31 January 2027.
Indian applicants must verify GIC requirements and ensure WES evaluation timelines align with admission deadlines for the intake they target.
Also Check: University of Waterloo Admission Requirements
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) Fees and Living Costs 2026
International tuition for Health Studies is charged per full course load (five courses per term) over two terms (eight months).
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) | INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| First-year tuition (regular stream) | C$40,588 | INR 28.45 Lakhs |
| First-year tuition (co-op stream) | C$42,436 | INR 29.76 Lakhs |
| Application fee (non-refundable) | C$156 | INR 10,938 |
| Tuition deposit (international students) | C$5,000 | INR 3.51 Lakhs |
| University Health Insurance Plan (annual) | C$792 | INR 55,535 |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 70.12 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- The co-op stream adds two years of study but earnings (CAD 9,600 to CAD 22,800 per term) substantially offset costs.
- Incidental fees (WUSA, athletics, health services) are billed separately each term.
- Co-op participation fee: CAD 836 per term for undergraduate students.
Cost of Living in Waterloo for Health Studies Students
| Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (CAD) | INR Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared bedroom near campus) | C$700 to C$900 | INR 49k to INR 63k |
| Groceries and dining | C$300 to C$450 | INR 21k to INR 31.5k |
| Transport and utilities | C$150 to C$200 | INR 10.5k to INR 14k |
| Books, supplies, personal care | C$150 to C$250 | INR 10.5k to INR 17.5k |
| Total per month (estimate) | C$1,300 to C$1,800 | INR 91k to INR 1.26 Lakhs |
Key Insight: Waterloo’s cost of living is lower than Toronto but higher than rural Ontario. Co-op earnings offset tuition significantly; many students graduate debt-free.
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) Admission 2026
Intakes are in September each year. Competitive admission requires strong academics, English proficiency, and science background.
| Admission Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Accepted qualifications | High school diploma (12th grade), IB, A-Levels, equivalent |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 / 4.0 (Ontario average of 85%+) |
| Required subjects | Biology, Chemistry, Grade 12 Math (recommended: Physics) |
| Intakes | September (Fall) only |
University of Waterloo is a public research university ranked in the top 200 globally and first in Canada for engineering and co-operative education.
English Language Proficiency for International Students
All applicants from non-English-speaking countries must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests.
- IELTS (academic): minimum 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each band; most Indian students score 7.0 to 7.5.
- TOEFL iBT: minimum 90 overall (22+ in each section); TOEFL Home Edition accepted.
- Duolingo English Test: minimum 120 (equivalent to IELTS 6.5); faster and cheaper than IELTS.
- University-specific pathway programs available if your score is 0.5 bands below the minimum.
Tip for Indian Students: IELTS is more recognized by Canadian universities. Plan 8 to 12 weeks of preparation; register 6 months ahead of your target deadline.
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) Application 2026
The application process is online through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC). Submit transcripts, test scores, and supplementary essays.
| Intake | Application Deadline | Decision Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| September 2027 | 31 January 2027 | Decisions from April 2027 onwards |
| September 2028 | Expected 31 January 2028 | Expected April 2028 onwards |
- OUAC application fee: CAD 156 for international undergraduates; non-refundable.
- Waterloo’s application includes a supplementary questionnaire (five short essays on motivation, goals, co-op readiness).
- Decisions are rolling; apply in September to maximize chances, as spots fill quickly.
Application Tip: For Indian students, plan 2-3 months for transcript translation, WES evaluation, and IELTS scheduling. Submit by November to secure your profile.
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) Scholarships 2026
Waterloo offers automatic and merit-based scholarships for international undergraduates. Amounts range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 80,000 depending on program and achievement.
| Scholarship Name | Amount (CAD) | INR Equivalent | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Student Entrance Scholarship | C$10,000 | INR 7 Lakhs | All international first-year students, automatic |
| Faculty of Science International Scholarships | C$25,000 to C$80,000 | INR 17.5 Lakhs to INR 56 Lakhs | Top Science programs, 15 awards, application required by Feb 13 |
| Faculty of Mathematics Global Scholarships | C$12,000 to C$40,000 | INR 8.4 Lakhs to INR 28 Lakhs | Mathematics-linked programmes, up to 10 awards |
Health Studies sits within the Faculty of Science. Most students secure the automatic CAD 10,000 entrance award; competitive students apply for the CAD 25k to CAD 80k awards.
Scholarship Reality: Automatic aid covers only 20% to 25% of first-year costs for most students. Co-op earnings are the largest cost offset for Health Studies students.
Read More: Full List of Waterloo Scholarships for Indian Students
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) Salary 2026
Health Studies graduates work across public health, occupational health, healthcare administration, and research sectors. Reported starting salaries range from CAD 50,000 to CAD 70,000 annually.
| Role / Sector | Starting Salary (CAD) | INR Equivalent | Common Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health Planner (federal / provincial) | C$54,000 to C$65,000 | INR 37.8 Lakhs to INR 45.6 Lakhs | Health Canada, Provincial Health Units |
| Occupational Health & Safety Specialist | C$55,000 to C$68,000 | INR 38.6 Lakhs to INR 47.7 Lakhs | Manufacturing, mining, construction firms |
| Health Promotion Specialist (non-profit) | C$48,000 to C$58,000 | INR 33.7 Lakhs to INR 40.7 Lakhs | NGOs, community health agencies |
| Research Coordinator (hospitals / universities) | C$52,000 to C$62,000 | INR 36.5 Lakhs to INR 43.5 Lakhs | Academic health centres, teaching hospitals |
Employment rate is strong: 91.3% of graduates secure positions within six months. Average salary across all fields is CAD 69,000 within two years.
- Federal and provincial government roles offer defined salary grids and pension benefits.
- Private consulting firms pay 15% to 20% higher starting salaries than non-profit sectors.
- Co-op experience is strongly correlated with higher starting offers (8% to 12% premium observed).
ROI Reality: Four-year total cost (tuition + living) is approximately INR 1.08 to INR 1.25 Crore. Year-1 salary easily covers annual costs; full break-even occurs by month 18.
Source: Waterloo Co-operative Education Employment Statistics 2024; Health Sciences alumni survey data.
Check Out: Cost of Living and Career Outlook in Canada for Health Studies Graduates
Canada Visa and Study Permit for Health Studies Students 2026
International students require a study permit and a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). Processing is straightforward for Indian applicants with valid credentials.
- Study Permit: Non-refundable CAD 150 application fee; issued for the duration of your programme (up to four years for Health Studies).
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate): CAD 20,000 deposit in an approved Canadian bank, demonstrating financial stability.
- Processing time: 4 to 6 weeks (faster if applications are complete); expedited service available (2 weeks, +CAD 100).
- Medical exam: Mandatory for all applicants; schedule with an approved panel physician in India (cost: approximately INR 8,000 to INR 15,000).
Visa Reality: Canadian study permits are rarely denied for legitimate Health Studies applicants from India. Ensure documentation is complete and medical exams are done 30 days before you travel.
University of Waterloo Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) Ranking 2026
The University of Waterloo does not hold a specific QS subject ranking in Health Sciences or Public Health. However, the university ranks 173rd globally (QS World University Rankings 2025) and first in Canada for engineering and co-operative education.
Waterloo’s Faculty of Science is recognized for research output in health informatics, occupational health, and public health delivery. For subject-specific strength, consult the university’s research impact metrics and graduate employment outcomes.
Key Insight: Lack of a subject ranking does not diminish Health Studies value; the programme’s strength lies in co-op integration, industry partnerships, and graduate employment outcomes rather than academic league tables.
Also Check: University of Waterloo Global Rankings and Accreditations
Health Studies at Waterloo is ideal for students who want practical, work-integrated education in a growing field. The co-op stream differentiates this programme from most Canadian schools; graduates are job-ready and highly placed. Strong government and healthcare employer relationships make Ontario a natural career launchpad for international graduates seeking Canadian permanent residency later.
Bachelor of Science (Health Studies) FAQs
Ques. Can I switch from regular to co-op stream after starting at University of Waterloo?
Ans. Yes, you can switch between streams in your first year if you meet academic and co-op readiness requirements. Switching adds two years to your degree timeline but integrates paid work terms. Contact the School of Public Health Sciences for eligibility criteria and approval process.
Ques. What is the IELTS band requirement for Health Studies admission from India?
Ans. University of Waterloo requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no individual band below 6.0. Most Indian applicants score 7.0 to 7.5 after two to three months of preparation. Duolingo English Test (minimum 120) is also accepted and is cheaper and faster.
Ques. How much do international students earn during co-op terms at Waterloo?
Ans. Co-op earnings range from CAD 9,600 to CAD 22,800 per four-month work term, depending on the employer and your year of study. Over the four co-op terms embedded in a co-op degree, total earnings typically exceed CAD 50,000, covering most of your tuition costs.
Ques. Do I need work experience or volunteer hours to apply to Health Studies from India?
Ans. Work experience is not mandatory for admission. However, volunteer hours in healthcare, community health, or research settings strengthen your application. Waterloo’s supplementary essays ask about your motivation for health work; demonstrating genuine interest through volunteering (even informal or remote) improves your chances significantly.
Ques. What is the post-study work permit (PGWP) duration after graduating Health Studies from Waterloo?
Ans. Graduates of a four-year Health Studies degree qualify for a three-year open PGWP. If you complete the co-op stream (six years total), you can apply for up to four-year PGWP. This work permit allows you to work for any Canadian employer without sponsorship, making it easier to transition to permanent residency through Express Entry or provincial nominee programs.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ₹3403500 (CAD 50000) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Housing | ₹515290 (CAD 7570) |
| Food | ₹204210 (CAD 3000) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | ₹3267360 (CAD 48000) |
| 2022 | ₹3267360 (CAD 48000) |
| 2021 | ₹2296205 (CAD 33733) |
Important Dates
Closed for application.
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline For 2026 Intake | |
| Document Submission Deadline For 2026 Intake | |
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Fees
$19,000+ per semester and other expenses. Very minimal scholarships are available in Canada for international students. Some of them include Entrance Scholarship etc. of about 500-2000$. Better to be financially prepared. CO-OP earning and part-time jobs are essential to meet expenses especially for international students.
I applied to 5 universities in Canada, 4 in Ontario and 1 in Alberta. I pinned down to Waterloo from (Trent, Ottawa, Queens) due to its wonderful co-op system and reviews by others. There was an application fee through the OUAC for every university. The process is simple, but I still went through an agent to help me better.
Scores Required
Required Document List
Followings are the required documents to be submitted while entering this(chemical engineering) program:
- Official Transcripts: Students need to submit their copy of their original transcripts. Official transcripts are printed on security paper with the University of Waterloo seal and signature of the Registrar.
- Statement of Interest: Statement of interest is one of the few ways to describe that faculty have to understand the student's motivation, the seriousness of purpose, and their level of commitment to the discipline.
- Reference Letter: Students will choose letter writers that will be able to comment on their academic record as well as other experiences or relevant skill sets.
- CV/Resume: Students should probably provide a resume, a copy of their transcripts, as well as a copy of their statement of interest, and other relevant application material.
- English Language Requirement Scores like TOEFL, IELTS,..etc.
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Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Top Undergraduate Courses in Canada: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Admissions, Placements & Salaries
Career and Placement after Course
The student will graduate ready for a career as a
- Scientific Evaluator, Health Canada
- Research clerk, Cancer Care Ontario
- A registered nurse, University Health Network
- Clinical research project assistant, The Hospital for Sick Children
- Research assistant, Canadian Red Cross
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A.B. McKie Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 48,466/Yr$712 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| University of Montreal Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 68,070/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student₹ 68,070/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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