COURSE CURRICULUM

The Health Information Science program at the University of Victoria is structured to build strong technical, health care and professional skills through a combination of coursework and co-operative education work terms. In the first year, students take foundational courses in academic writing, health information technology, the Canadian health care system and mathematics, along with an introduction to programming or health data analysis. Students may also take basic science electives such as anatomy, biology or biochemistry depending on their background. In the second year, students focus on core concepts in health databases, organizational behaviour, biomedical fundamentals and statistics, while continuing elective study. The summer term includes a co-op work placement that provides real-world experience. In the third year, students take advanced courses in systems analysis, project management, health information standards, epidemiology and health care systems, followed by another co-op term. Additional courses cover electronic records, legal and security issues, interoperability and clinical methodologies. In the fourth year, students complete advanced studies in system design, information management, evaluation and health informatics trends, along with a final co-op term. The program concludes with senior electives, allowing specialization. Overall, the structure blends academic learning with practical experience, preparing students for careers in health informatics and digital health systems.