Overview

Our Pre-Health Sciences certificate program is designed for students to explore a wide range of health care disciplines and careers with specific essential skill development in biology, mathematics, health care communication, professionalism in health care, safety in health care, and health care informatics. This program emphasizes academic readiness, professional development, and preparation for further studies in the health sciences. Please note that this program is not a pre-requisite to any program at Assiniboine; it is a stand-alone program.

Are you:

  • Exploring whether a career in health care is the right path for you?
  • Returning to school after time away?

This flexible, preparatory program is tailored to align with your future educational goals in the health sciences. In this program you will study core subjects such as biology, mathematics, health care communications, professionalism in health care, safety in health care, and health care informatics. 

 

Program Highlights

Comprehensive Foundation
Gain a well-rounded introduction to the health sciences, including biology, math, and communication—key building blocks for future academic success.

Customized Preparation
Choose courses that aligns with your specific career goals—whether you're pursuing nursing or an allied health profession.

Skill Enhancement
Build and strengthen core competencies in English, science, math, and communication.

Career Exploration
Discover a range of health science careers and gain the clarity you need to make confident decisions about your academic and professional future.

Core Values

The Pre-Health Sciences Program is grounded in the following core values:

  • Excellence in Education: Committed to delivering high-quality, rigorous coursework that prepares students for healthcare studies.
  • Integrity: Fostering a culture of honesty, professionalism, and ethical behavior in all aspects of student development.
  • Collaboration: Promoting teamwork and cooperation among students, faculty, and community partners to enhance learning and career opportunities.
  • Compassion: Encouraging a human-centered approach ensuring students develop an empathic and caring stance. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of our Pre-Health Sciences certificate program will be able to meet the following program outcomes:

  • Communicate clearly in writing, speaking, and in electronic formats for academic and health care settings
  • Demonstrate a strong foundation in science and math that supports further study in health programs
  • Apply critical thinking by locating, evaluating, and using reliable information to solve problems
  • Exhibit professional behaviours and use technology appropriately to support learning and teamwork
  • Understand health and wellness in society and how the Canadian health care system functions.
  • Explore health careers pathways in relation to personal strengths and interests

Is This Program Right for You?

Our Pre-Health Sciences certificate program is ideal if you have one or more of the following goals:

  • Starting your post-secondary journey and want to explore health care career options
  • Interested in strengthening your academic foundational abilities
  • Returning to education after time away and looking to refresh or build foundational skills
  • A newcomer to Canada seeking to transition into health education
  • A mature student considering a new career in health care

Admissions

Admission Requirements

  • A complete Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent

If you received your education outside of Manitoba, please review the equivalent admission requirements: Interprovincial or International.

English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirements. Minimum requirement for this program is IELTS 6.0 with no-sub-score less than a 5.5 or equivalent.

Recommendations

It is expected that students entering our Pre-Health Sciences program will be proficient in the use of a computer and various software including e-mail, web search, and creation of Word documents. If you do not feel competent in these areas or feels that they are underprepared, an additional computer systems course or training may be recommended. 

Each program has its own admission requirements. The Pre-Health Sciences program does not give advanced standing or that you will meet the admission requirements for other programs. If you plan to apply to another program, check its admission requirements to see whether credits from the Pre-Health Sciences program will count toward your admission.
 

Applications opening soon!

 

Careers & Connections

Career Opportunities

Our Pre-Health Sciences certificate program is designed to allow students to explore a wide range of health care disciplines and careers. Graduates often go on to pursue further education and careers such as:

  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  • Registered Nurse
  • Paramedic
  • Dental Hygienist
  • Medical Laboratory Technologist
  • Comprehensive Health Care Aide
  • Other health-related professions requiring further education

Each program has its own admission requirements. The Pre-Health Sciences program does not give advanced standing or that you will meet the admission requirements for other programs. If you plan to apply to another program, check its admission requirements to see whether credits from the Pre-Health Sciences program will count toward your admission.

Connections

Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For information on agreements, see Articulation Agreements.

Tools & Supplies

ASSINIBOINE BOOKSTORE

Textbooks, supplies and uniforms may be purchased at the Assiniboine Bookstore at the Victoria Avenue East Campus. Booklists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program.

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Technology Requirements

All of our programs require the use of a computer with internet access. Some resources may be available on campus. This program has certain additional technology requirements. To view all of them, see Technology Requirements.

Courses & Costs

Costs

Domestic Students

Tuition, fees and Students’ Association fees total approximately $3,785, which includes a required $1,785 tuition deposit. All fees are estimated and are subject to change without notice.

International Students

Tuition, fees and Students’ Association fees total approximately $19,495, which includes a required $9,495 tuition deposit. All fees are estimated and are subject to change without notice.

Courses

In the Pre-Health Sciences Certificate program, a mark of 60% (C) is required for each course, and an overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 (which translates to an average of 60% (C) in the program) across the entire program is required for graduation. A letter grade of an “F” will be given for marks under 60% unless otherwise listed on the course outline. 

College Foundations | 20 Hours

This course improves students’ ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation.

Communications Foundation | 3 Credits

Communication Foundations builds foundational writing, reading, listening, and critical thinking skills to support success in post-secondary health studies. Students will practice each stage of the writing process, from brainstorming and drafting to revising and editing to develop clear, organized, and thoughtful written work. Emphasis is placed on understanding audience and purpose, improving grammar and mechanics, developing academic vocabulary, and analyzing assigned readings. Students will also learn to summarize, paraphrase, and incorporate reliable sources using APA (7th ed.) citation style while following ethical standards in academic writing. This course empowers students to express their ideas with clarity and confidence, preparing them for the communication demands of health programs and professional environments. 

Mathematics 1 | 3 Credits

Pre-Health Mathematics 1 builds confidence and competence in foundational math skills needed for health care studies. Students will learn how to use numbers in real-life health contexts, work with different measurement systems, and apply math to everyday health and science problems. The course fosters an inclusive environment where students can strengthen their math skills in a supportive and practical way. 

Health Care in Canada | 3 Credits

This course provides an overview of the Canadian health care system with a focus on Manitoba, preparing students to understand and navigate the structures, values, and careers within the health sector. Students will examine how health services are organized, funded, and delivered, as well as the roles of health professionals in interprofessional teams. Key topics include Indigenous health, the social determinants of health, health equity, and health profession regulation. The course also explores current issues and trends affecting health care in Manitoba, such as workforce challenges, rural access, and system transformation.  

Introduction to Biology 1 | 3 Credits

Biology I introduces students to the fundamental principles of cell biology and biochemistry as the basis for understanding life processes. Students explore the chemical foundations of life, the structure and function of cells, the organization of biological molecules, and the processes that sustain cellular function and energy flow. Through applied learning and inquiry, students gain foundational scientific literacy essential for further study in health and life sciences.

Chemistry 1 | 4.5 Credits

Chemistry 1 introduces the foundations of general chemistry. Sudents explore the core principles of chemistry through real-life examples related to health and the human body. Topics include properties of matter, atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and solution chemistry. Emphasis is placed on quantitative reasoning, scientific terminology, and applying chemistry concepts to health care practices and human biology. Simulations will be used to model lab-based processes such as measurement, reaction observation, and solution preparation. 

Health & Wellness in Society | 4.5 Credits

This course introduces students to the many factors that influence health and wellness at both the individual and societal level. Students explore how culture, identity, environment, and social systems shape health experiences, behaviours, and outcomes. Mental health, health literacy, communication, digital access, and health equity are examined alongside evolving definitions and models of wellness. Emphasizing curiosity, empathy, and reflection, this course supports students in understanding diverse perspectives on what it means to be well and prepares them for further study in health or human services. 

Health Care Professionalism | 3 Credits

Professionalism in Health Care introduces students to the foundational principles, behaviours, and expectations of professionalism across a variety of health care careers. Through case studies, self-assessments, and collaborative activities, students will explore the development of professional identity, ethical and legal frameworks, interprofessional collaboration, and the influence of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) on client care. Emphasis is placed on communication, critical thinking, digital professionalism, and reflective practice as essential components of safe, accountable, and culturally responsive health care. Students will also examine the roles and responsibilities of regulatory bodies, build professional portfolios, and reflect on their development toward becoming future health care professionals. 

Mathematics 2 | 3 Credits

Pre-Health Mathematics 2 builds on foundational math skills with a focus on practical health science applications. Students will explore dosage calculations, solutions, dilutions, and data interpretation through lab-based and clinical examples. Basic algebra, graphing, and introductory statistics will be used to support future success in health programs. The course continues to foster an inclusive, growth-oriented learning space. 

Biology 2 | 3 Credits

Biology II explores the principles of genetics, biological inheritance, evolution, and the diversity of microorganisms. Students examine how genetic information is stored, expressed, and inherited, as well as how living organisms evolve over time. Special emphasis is placed on applications of biotechnology, the role of microorganisms in health and disease, and the relevance of evolutionary theory in understanding the unity and diversity of life. 

Exploring the Human Body | 4.5 Credits

This is not your typical A&P course. In this course the students explore how the human body works by interacting with real-world health scenarios, creative simulations, and creative learning strategies. Designed for learners preparing to enter nursing and other allied health programs, this course builds a foundational understanding of the major body systems with a strong emphasis on applied, clinical, and culturally responsive contexts. Students will come to view the human body not as a static diagram, but as a living, adaptive system that reflects health, environment, and diversity.

Health Career Seminar | 1.5 Credits

This course introduces students to a range of nursing and allied health careers in the Canadian health care system. Students will explore the roles, responsibilities, education and licensing pathways, and practice settings associated with various health professions, including Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses, Paramedics, Medical Laboratory Technologists, Occupational Therapists, and more. The course emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and encourages students to reflect on their interests, values, and strengths as they begin exploring potential career paths in health or human services. 

Safety in Health Care | 1.5 Credits

Safety in Health Care introduces students to the foundational principles and practices that promote safe, high-quality care in the Canadian health care system. Drawing from the Canadian Patient Safety Institute's (CPSI) national framework, the course emphasizes system thinking, teamwork, effective communication, cultural safety, risk identification, and continuous quality improvement. Students will explore the critical role of health care professionals in upholding patient safety, preventing harm, and contributing to a culture of safety across disciplines. 

Communication in Health | 3 Credits

This course introduces students to foundational communication principles, strategies, and practices essential in health care environments. Emphasizing therapeutic, culturally competent, and trauma-informed communication, the course equips students to interact effectively with clients, families, and health care teams. Students will explore professional communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and the ethical dimensions of communication in health care. Reflective practice and self-awareness will be emphasized to support safe, inclusive, and client-centered care across diverse health settings.

Health Care Informatics | 4.5 Credits

Health Care Informatics provides an introduction to how technology and digital tools support healthcare delivery. The course explores how informatics contributes to clinical decision-making, client outcomes, and interprofessional collaboration. Students will examine the ethical and legal implications of using digital health systems and gain awareness of current and emerging technologies such as Electronic Health Records (EHRs), virtual health, and artificial intelligence (AI). Through case studies and applied examples, students will begin to understand how health care professionals across disciplines use informatics to support safe, client-centered care. 

Chemistry 2 | 4.5 Credits

Chemistry 2 is an introduction to organic and biological chemistry. In this course, students examine the structure, properties, and reactions of acids, bases, gases, organic compounds, and biological molecules with applications in health care. Through simulation and health-based examples, students learn how chemistry explains the function of pharmaceuticals, the behavior of gases in respiration, and the structure of biomolecules like carbohydrates and lipids. This course builds on the principles from Chemistry I and is essential preparation for further health science education.

Fast Facts

Length
8 months
Program Start
September 2026 & January 2027
Credential
Certificate
Credits
39
Course Load
Full-time
Program Details
On Campus
Open to International Students
School of Nursing
204.694.7111