COURSE CURRICULUM

Community Health program at Laurier Waterloo, students begin by building a strong foundation in the core principles of health and well-being through first-year courses such as Introduction to Public Health, Physical Determinants of Health, and Social Determinants of Health. These courses provide essential knowledge about the biological, social, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes, helping students understand how individual and community health are interconnected. First-year electives, such as Introduction to Forensic Science and Aging: Realities and Myths, allow students to explore specialized areas of interest and gain a broader perspective on public health challenges. As students progress to upper years, they engage in advanced courses and experiences designed to deepen their analytical, research, and practical skills. Courses like Power, Politics and Medicine examine the intersections of policy, governance, and healthcare systems, while Autism: Advocacy, Policy, and Practice highlights the importance of targeted interventions for specific populations. The program culminates in a Senior Practicum and Senior Thesis, providing students with hands-on experience in real-world public health settings and opportunities to conduct independent research that addresses pressing health issues. Through this combination of theoretical, practical, and research-based learning, graduates are well-prepared to enter careers in public health, community advocacy, policy development, or pursue advanced studies in global or public health.