Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Health Sciences

2020 has seen rising demands for the health sector, which is expected to continue as we battle the pandemic and address the needs of Canada’s aging population. As the world progresses, its appreciation and need for health sciences will continue. As you consider your future as a health care professional, now is a great time to explore Thompson Rivers University (TRU’s) variety of flexible learning opportunities for health sciences.

Completing TRU’s four-year undergraduate program can grant you not only a Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHS) degree, but also a Respiratory Therapy diploma. This diploma is considered a three-year program but is part of the BHS degree and courses. You are eligible for admission if you have completed, or are enrolled in, a two-year diploma in health care (or other related field of study) from a recognized institution. If you completed a three-year diploma program, you are eligible to have up to 90 transfer credits, or up to 60 transfer credits for a two-year diploma.

Also offered by TRU are Transition Courses for health and healthcare. These courses are for you if you are already a nationally or internationally educated healthcare professional, or a student entering into entry-level healthcare programs. As a professional, Transition Courses can help you work towards a post-diploma undergraduate degree or help you alter your professional practice – ultimately, these courses can help you obtain your Canadian licensure.

Other Health Science certificates offered as online study include:

• Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) Certificate

A two-year program where you will be properly trained to collect, sort, and prepare patient samples for further testing and analysis. There is also a practicum component in either a hospital or laboratory, though location, timing, and availability can vary. ​​​​Health care careers can be done with hospitals, private labs, and Canadian Blood Services among others.

• Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) National Certificate

A two-year program similar to the previously discussed MLA Certificate program, but specifically designated for students in the provinces of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. As such, and if possible, practicum is done in these provinces.

• Polysomnography Certificate

This program consists of three predetermined courses and a two-week clinical learning component. The clinical component occurs in British Columbia, but the other courses in the program can be taken online. Careers as a Polysomnography technologist typically involve overseeing the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from sleep disorders. Following the completion of this certification, you are eligible to write the Certified Polysomnographic Technician (CPSGT) exam, though you must earn this within three-years of graduating.

• Pre-Health Science Certificate

This program is for you if you are needing courses and academic experience for entry into a post-secondary health care program. As such, it is known for being flexible for part-time and online students.​​​​ Completing this certificate will ensure you are eligible for most post-secondary health care programs.

You can expect to pay anywhere from CAD $800 – CAD $3,500 per semester, depending on your status as a Canadian or international student, before factoring living and residency costs for these degrees or certificate programs.

As a healthcare worker, your work is essential, and your selflessness will be appreciated evermore. Keen to explore your learning options? Global Study Guide is here to assist you with your decision making and enrolment. Register today and start your rewarding journey as a healthcare professional.