COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Environmental Public Health (BEPH) program at Conestoga College offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for careers as environmental public health professionals. The program begins with foundational courses in human biology, environmental health, microbiology, and environmental science, alongside studies in health information science, global concerns, and safe drinking water. As students progress to levels three and four, they engage with key topics such as environmental toxicology, safe recreational water, environmental public health law, community health, waste management, ethical reasoning, and applied statistics. In levels five and six, the curriculum deepens with courses in inspection practices, epidemiology, food science, infection prevention, air quality, infectious disease epidemiology, and human behavior, alongside First Nations experience, providing a broad understanding of diverse populations. The program also emphasizes practical skills through co-op and career preparation courses, with a dedicated co-op work term at level seven to provide real-world experience. Advanced topics at levels eight and nine include emergency preparedness, advanced toxicology, risk assessment, food hygiene, health promotion, occupational health and safety, public health policy, and professional practice, supported by professional research internships. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop strong communication, research, and leadership skills, alongside critical thinking and ethical decision-making. The inclusion of interdisciplinary electives further broadens students’ knowledge and perspectives. This comprehensive approach equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in environmental public health roles, addressing disease prevention, environmental risk factors, and community health challenges through innovative and informed practices.