Student Experience

Prepare for further studies in health sciences

One male and two female students in lab coats standing by a microscopeStudents of the Pre-Health Science Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas at Algonquin College learn the basics of the health sciences in preparation of meeting the eligibility requirements for a number of Algonquin College programs, including:

Students interested in further academic study in a three-year diploma or university program should refer to the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diploma and Degrees program.

Successful completion of the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas program does not guarantee entry into any health or science program.

Caitlyn Cassidy, AC Grad

“I applied for the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas program straight out of high school as I did not have the courses necessary to go directly into Practical Nursing. This was an outcome of me not knowing what I wanted for my future job until later on in high school. When I realized I wanted to follow in my family’s footsteps and become a nurse I worried it was too late to pursue it until I found out about Algonquin College in Pembroke offering the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas program. It opened up so many doors for me and was like a second chance. Now, I am entering into my second year of Practical Nursing, and I am loving it so much. All thanks to the Pre-health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas program for opening up so many great opportunities and making it possible for me to apply to Practical Nursing.”

–Caitlyn Cassidy, Grad

Pre-Health Science Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas, Algonquin College, Pembroke Campus“As a mature student who had been out of the school system for over a decade, I was unsure what to expect from the Waterfront Campus of Algonquin and the Pre-Health program. Thankfully it didn’t take long to feel right at home. Staff and students at the college were very welcoming, and becoming a part of the school atmosphere was easy. With events taking place at the school on a regular basis and evening events hosted by the Students’ Association (SA), the opportunity to make new friends was always present. From the custodial, to SA, to Teacher and Administrative staff, they were all great at their jobs. As a student in the Pre-Health program, I learned new concepts regularly and benefited largely from the teachers and content in many of the classes. This program will be a huge asset for me as I take my step at the Ottawa Campus in the Paramedic program this coming fall.”

-Matt Butler, Grad

Hands-on Learning Techniques

A female hand holding up a DNA model made of licorice and marshmallows An understanding of human biology provides students entering health-related disciplines with foundational knowledge that can be applied to future courses in a variety of healthcare areas. Students in the Pre-Health Biology courses engage in a combination of face-to-face and online activities including lectures, independent studies, group work and a variety of hands-on and kinesthetic learning activities. Students can expect to participate in a range of activities that meet the diverse needs of learners. Students are encouraged to explore the theoretical concepts through application as they participate in laboratory activities, microscope work, and are challenged to build models of cellular structures using common materials. Critical thinking skills are developed through group problem-solving exercises.