University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

The MAHSR combines advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods with coursework in health systems, policy and programme evaluation. Core topics typically include epidemiology and biostatistics, research design, qualitative methods, health economics and health policy analysis. Students also study subjects such as health services organisation, knowledge translation, ethics in health research, and economic evaluation.

The program can be completed through a thesis or a major research project and practicum. Students undertake a supervised research project that applies methodological skills to a real-world problem in health services, often drawing on provincial datasets, administrative health records or partnerships with health authorities. Seminars and journal clubs provide exposure to contemporary issues in health-system performance and evaluation.

Entry requirements

• A four-year undergraduate degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution, preferably in health sciences, nursing, social sciences, public health, statistics, or a related discipline.
• A competitive academic record; many successful applicants hold a minimum upper-second class (or equivalent) degree. Exact GPA thresholds are set by the university.
• Evidence of research interest and potential, typically demonstrated through a statement of research interests or a brief research proposal, and an up-to-date CV.
• Two academic or professional references who can comment on your suitability for graduate research training.
• Where applicable, proof of English language proficiency for international applicants in line with university requirements.
• Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants from non-research backgrounds.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MAHSR are prepared for a range of roles where research, evaluation and evidence-informed decision-making are required. Typical career paths include positions as health services researchers, policy analysts, health data analysts, programme evaluators, outcomes researchers and research coordinators in universities, provincial health authorities, government departments, non-profit organisations and private-sector consulting firms.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for further academic study at the PhD level for those aiming for careers in academic research and teaching.

Why study at University of New Brunswick

UNB offers the MAHSR within an environment that emphasises close supervision and mentorship from faculty with applied health services expertise. Small cohort sizes enable direct interaction with supervisors and peers, and the university maintains partnerships with provincial health authorities and community organisations that support applied research projects and practicum placements.

Students benefit from access to institutional research resources, methodological workshops, and interdisciplinary collaboration across departments such as nursing, sociology and public policy. The program’s regional focus and connections to local health systems make it particularly strong for researchers aiming to address provincial and Atlantic-Canadian health-system challenges while retaining applicability to national and international contexts.