University of Guelph

What you'll study

The programme combines biological, ecological and social science perspectives to examine how health outcomes are shaped across species and environments. Core topics include infectious disease ecology and epidemiology, animal health and welfare, environmental toxicology, microbiology and immunology, food safety, and public health policy. Students also study quantitative methods such as biostatistics, data analysis and geographic information systems (GIS) to support surveillance and research.

Learning is delivered through lectures, laboratory classes, fieldwork and team-based projects. Many students undertake a capstone research project or applied practicum that brings together concepts from human medicine, veterinary science and environmental management. Elective choices allow specialisation in areas such as wildlife and conservation medicine, food systems and safety, antimicrobial stewardship, or health policy and communication.

The curriculum emphasises experiential education—students can expect opportunities for community-engaged placements, industry internships or co-op work terms where available, and collaborative work with research centres across campus.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Applicants are normally expected to have completed senior-level science courses, typically including biology and chemistry, and demonstrated competence in mathematics and English. Competitive applicants usually present high grades in these prerequisites and related sciences.

Applicants with post-secondary study, relevant work or volunteer experience, or mature applicants are considered on an equivalent basis. International applicants must meet the University of Guelph's English language proficiency requirements. Specific faculty or program-level requirements and any supplementary application components should be checked on the university's official admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require integrated thinking about human, animal and environmental health. Career paths include positions in public health agencies, environmental and wildlife organisations, food safety and regulatory bodies, animal health and welfare organisations, and non-governmental organisations focused on global health and development.

Many graduates pursue further professional or research training such as veterinary medicine, public health (MPH), epidemiology, environmental sciences, or graduate programs (MSc/PhD). Other common roles include research technician, surveillance analyst, policy analyst, environmental health officer, biosecurity coordinator, and positions in industry related to agri-food safety and biotechnology.

Why study at University of Guelph

University of Guelph is well recognised for strengths in veterinary science, agriculture and environmental research, providing a strong institutional base for a One Health education. The campus hosts specialised facilities and centres that support interdisciplinary research and hands-on learning, including connections with the Ontario Veterinary College and applied agri-food networks.

Students benefit from faculty whose research spans infectious disease, ecosystem health, food systems and policy, and from partnerships with government agencies and community organisations that enable practical placements and collaborative projects. The programme’s integrated approach prepares graduates to work across sectors to address complex health challenges at local, national and global scales.