Bachelor of Applied Health Information Science (Honours)
- Credential:
- Bachelor of Applied Health Information Science (Honours)
- College Code:
- CONS
- School:
- Health & Life Sciences
- Program Code:
- 1131C
- Accelerated Delivery:
- No
- Campus:
- DO
- Academic Year:
- 2019 / 2020
Notice:
Students in this program are required to bring a mobile device that meets minimum specified requirements.About the Program
Do you want a great job when you graduate? Launch your health care career today by applying to the Bachelor of Applied Health Information Science. Our graduates help fill a skill shortage and are in demand for jobs as data analysts, business intelligence specialists, privacy professionals, and clinical informatics specialists.The Bachelor of Applied Health Information Science (Honours) degree is an innovative four-year co-op program that will prepare graduates for a number of in-demand careers in the health care industry. Our graduates enable the healthcare system to achieve its goals of person-centred, safe, high quality and sustainable health care through data-informed problem solving. Our graduates will use applied and integrated knowledge and skills from health information science, biomedical and health sciences, information technology and management sciences to positively impact the health care system.
Focusing on health informatics and health information management, students in the BAHIS degree will experience a variety of real-life learning opportunities that will enrich the learning experience. Students will be challenged to use creativity and problem-solving skills to design, implement and evaluate a broad range of projects with community partners. Students will design health informatics and information management solutions while learning to maintain security, privacy and confidentiality. The BAHIS degree will offer students opportunities to develop critical thinking and communication skills that will enable them to work successfully on inter-professional teams.
Upon graduation from the program, students will qualify to challenge the national certification examination of the Canadian Health Information Management Association (CHIMA). Our graduates will be eligible for careers in health informatics utilizing their skills in information technology (IT), healthcare and management.
Program Information
Length: Four-year Academic Co-operative Bachelor's degree programDelivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2019 - Fall | Winter | Fall | Winter | Fall | Winter | Spring/Summer | Fall | Winter | Spring/Summer
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 35
Note:
- Advanced standing pathways are available for graduates with diplomas in health information management or in Conestoga's Health Office Administration program.
- Successful completion of a pre-health sciences program may be considered as meeting the admission requirements. See below for details.
Bachelor's Degrees in Applied Areas of Study
Conestoga's Bachelor's degrees:- are current and offer a balance of applied study and theory.
- offer integrated content across disciplines including business, liberal arts and sciences.
- offer personal learning experiences with smaller class sizes.
- result in a graduate with thorough knowledge and co-op work experience.
- provide opportunity for further studies in a number of articulation agreements with universities worldwide.
- are government approved and meet all ministry standards.
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, OR 19 years of age or older
- A minimum of six (6) Grade 12 courses with a minimum cumulative average of 65%, including three (3) required U level courses and three (3) additional U or M level courses ( Higher averages are often required for admission due to competition for available spaces in the program.)
- The following Grade 12 U courses are required:
- English (ENG4U)
- One (1) Grade 12 Mathematics course with a minimum average of 65% from the following: Advanced Functions (MHF4U) OR Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) OR Mathematics of Data Management (MDM4U)
- Grade 12 Biology with a minimum average of 70% (SBI4U)
- Three (3) other Grade 12 U or M courses
Note re: Admission Requirements
- Successful completion of a pre-health sciences degree pathway program from an Ontario College of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT) with two semesters of the required science and mathematics will be considered acceptable as meeting the U level requirements. Minimum averages will apply.
- Advanced standing pathways are available for graduates with diplomas in Health Information Management or in Conestoga's Health Office Administration program.
- Applicants with transcripts from institutions where the language of instruction is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency with a minimum test score on one of the following language proficiency tests or equivalent scores from another internationally recognized English language test:
- IELTS overall band of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
- TOEFL iBT 88
- CAEL 70, no sub-test band score less than 60
- PTE Academic 58
- Conestoga English Language Test (CELT) Band 6
- We offer a language program for students whose English language skills are below the standard required for admission but all other admission criteria have been met. You will be eligible for admission to the degree program after completion of level 4 of the General Arts and Science - English Language Studies (ELS) program with an overall grade average of 80% and no grade less than 75%. Your placement in the ELS program is determined by scores on an in-house English language test or TOEFL or IELTS.
Admission Procedures
- Academic strength is calculated by averaging marks from the three required courses (see Admission Requirements) and the three additional U or M courses. If more than three additional courses are submitted, the courses with the highest marks will be used.
- A sound English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs may apply.
- Graduates of Conestoga's Health Office Administration diploma may be eligible for admission into third year with a modified timetable of courses. Minimum averages apply. Applicants will be ranked based on an assessment of academic performance (grades). Please apply to program 4131C.
- Graduates of a Health Information Management diploma may be eligible for admission into third year with a modified timetable of courses. Minimum averages apply. Applicants will be ranked based on an assessment of academic performance (grades). Please apply to program 3131C.
- Graduates of relevant health or science degree programs may be eligible for admission into second year with a modified timetable of courses. Minimum averages apply. Applicants will be ranked based on an assessment of academic performance (grades). Please apply to program 5131C.
Program Requirements
- Applicants must have basic computer literacy,
- Students in this program are required to bring a mobile device that meets minimum specified requirements.
- Applicants should display integrity, reliability, maturity, self-direction, determination, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ability to work in teams and leadership.
- Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed by students prior to student field/clinical placements. Successful placement completion is required for students to progress to program completion. To qualify for field/clinical placement learning experiences, students must present the following practicum requirements by the deadline indicated on the practicum package which will be distributed in class at the beginning of year two:
- A complete immunization record including MMR, Tdap, Varicella, and Hepatitis B. Seasonal flu vaccination is required during flu season (October - March).
- TB Testing: Evidence of current 2-Step or previous 2-step + current 1-step if more than one year has passed since 2-step testing.
- A Police Check for Venerable Sector Screening (VSS) or Police Information Check (PIC) to be completed prior to year 2 work term; type of Police Check to be confirmed by your Program Coordinator. Police checks must be clear of any unpardoned criminal offences. An unclear criminal record may result in the inability to participate in field placement/clinical which will jeopardize progress in the program. Acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency; some agencies may request students to provide a VSS completed within six months of placement start date. Students with criminal records are advised to meet with the program chair for academic counselling to determine program suitability.
- The academic requirements to be eligible for a co-op work term in a degree program are as follows:
- Minimum 2.5 SWA (65% session weighted average) in the eligibility term two academic semesters prior to any co-op work term
- Maximum two failures or withdrawals during the academic semester that occurs in the eligibility term two academic semesters prior to any co-op work term
- Must have successfully completed all but two core courses, according to the program design, by the eligibility term prior to any given work term (regardless of the level the student was placed in advanced standing)
- Students (even those on special timetables) will not be permitted to complete a co-op work term until conditions above are met and all but two core course deficiencies, according to the program design, are cleared
- Co-op work terms may need to be re-sequenced to allow academic deficiencies to be cleared or in the event a student changes cohorts (i.e. graduation is delayed by one year or more). Students may not repeat a passed work term
- Should a student's academic performance decline considerably during the term just prior to any work term, the college reserves the right to withdraw the student from the upcoming work term
Tuition & Fees
Tuition fee details for the 2018-2019 year are listed below. Fees for the next academic year are unavailable at this time. Books and supplies are additional.
Domestic Fees
Estimated fees based upon the previous academic year (2018 / 2019) for Bachelor of Applied Health Information Science (Honours) - Program # 1131c
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| Program Services Fee | $135.88 | $135.88 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| Program Tuition Fee (ACR) | $3675.00 | $3675.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $4653.28 | $4330.28 |
| Year Total | $8983.56 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| Program Services Fee | $135.88 | $135.88 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| Program Tuition Fee (ACR) | $3675.00 | $3675.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $106.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $4759.28 | $4330.28 |
| Year Total | $9089.56 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 | Spring 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 | $0.00 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 | $0.00 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 | $0.00 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 | $0.00 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 | $0.00 |
| Program Services Fee | $135.88 | $135.88 | $0.00 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 | $0.00 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 | $0.00 |
| Program Tuition Fee (ACR) | $3675.00 | $3675.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 | $0.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $4653.28 | $4330.28 | $0.00 |
| Year Total | $8983.56 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 | Spring 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Priority Fee | $0.00 | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $0.00 | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $0.00 | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $0.00 | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $0.00 | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| Program Services Fee | $0.00 | $135.88 | $135.88 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $0.00 | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $0.00 | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $0.00 | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| Program Tuition Fee (ACR) | $0.00 | $3675.00 | $3675.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $80.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $0.00 | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $323.00 | $4410.28 | $4330.28 |
| Year Total | $9063.56 |
International Fees
Estimated International fees based upon the previous academic year (2018 / 2019) for
Bachelor of Applied Health Information Science (Honours) - Program # 1131c
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| Program Services Fee | $135.88 | $135.88 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| International - Degree Program Tuition | $6650.00 | $6650.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $8488.28 | $7680.28 |
| Year Total | $16168.56 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| Program Services Fee | $135.88 | $135.88 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $106.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| International Health Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| International - Degree Program Tuition | $6650.00 | $6650.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $8594.28 | $7680.28 |
| Year Total | $16274.56 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 | Spring 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 | $0.00 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 | $0.00 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 | $0.00 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 | $0.00 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 | $0.00 |
| Program Services Fee | $135.88 | $135.88 | $0.00 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 | $0.00 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 | $0.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 | $0.00 |
| International Health Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 | $0.00 |
| International - Degree Program Tuition | $6650.00 | $6650.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $8488.28 | $7680.28 | $0.00 |
| Year Total | $16168.56 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 | Spring 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $0.00 | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $0.00 | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $0.00 | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $0.00 | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $0.00 | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| Program Services Fee | $0.00 | $135.88 | $135.88 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $0.00 | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $0.00 | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $0.00 | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $80.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $0.00 | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| International Health Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $0.00 | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| International - Degree Program Tuition | $0.00 | $6650.00 | $6650.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $808.00 | $7760.28 | $7680.28 |
| Year Total | $16248.56 |
Financial Assistance
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs-based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.For more information, please visit Financial Services/Awards.
Co-op Information
- Co-op programs add value to your education. Earn while you apply what you learn in a real workplace environment. See the Co-op webpages for more details.
- The College cannot guarantee co-op employment. All co-op students are required to conduct an independent co-op job search in addition to the supports and services provided by the Department of Co-op Education.
- Students are responsible for their own transportation and associated costs in order to complete work term requirements. Work locations may not always be readily accessible by public transportation.
Graduate Opportunities
Our graduates have careers as data analysts, clinical analysts, project managers, software developers, privacy officers, implementation coordinators, data scientists, business intelligence consultants, decision support specialists, and consultants.On average, 87% of graduates from the last three years (2015 to 2017) found employment within six months of graduation.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home
Pathways & Credit Transfer
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.Often applicants have earned credits from another college or university that may allow a student to be granted advanced standing or exemption. Learn more about credit transfer opportunities at Conestoga.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Conestoga recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through employment, formal and informal education, non-formal learning or other life experiences. Prior learning must be measurable at the required academic level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses. Challenge exams and portfolio development are the primary methods of assessment. Other methods of assessment may be available depending upon the nature of the course objectives. Successful completion of the assessment results in an official course credit that will be recorded on the student's Conestoga transcript. PLAR cannot be used by registered Conestoga students for the clearance of academic deficiencies, to improve grades or to obtain admission into a program.Learn more about PLAR.
Program Courses
| Course Code | Course Title and Description |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | |
| HIM71010 | Success in Health Care Careers
Description: This course introduces the students to the College, the School, the program, and the profession of health informatics and health information management. Students will be provided with an overview of the program structure, its curriculum, and policies. Students will be introduced to team dynamics, personality traits, self regulated learning, project management strategies and ePortfolios. Students will also be encouraged to connect with senior students in the program to learn more about co-ops careers and success strategies. |
| HIM71030 | Healthcare Governance in Canada
Description: Students will gain a comprehensive and critical understanding of the planning and delivery functions of health care, including the Canadian health care system, factors affecting health policy formulation, health economics, and funding sources. These concepts will be discussed at the federal, provincial, regional, and organizational levels to prepare students for leadership roles as health informatics professionals. |
| HIM71050 | Health Informatics
Description: This course will introduce students to the discipline of health informatics. Through work-integrated learning opportunities connected to health care related organizations, case studies and discussions, the students will develop an understanding of the core concepts of health informatics and how they are applied to practical health care related situations. By discussing historical perspectives, current developments and future trends in health informatics, students will start developing an appreciation for a variety of topics such as information needs of healthcare professionals and administrators, leadership, strategic planning, project management, change management, system implementation, medical errors, and others. |
| HIM71080 | Biomedical Concepts I
Description: This is the first of three biomedical concepts courses. This course will introduce students to the biomedical terminology typically encountered in health care documentation. The students will become familiar with the structural units of the body and associated physiological functions, as well as pathological processes involving these units. Different pathological conditions will be discussed in relation to their clinical manifestations, and current methods of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The students will explore the relationship between clinical information, its documentation in health records, and its importance in health informatics and information management in health care. The systems covered in this course will be: the integumentary system, the body membranes, and the musculoskeletal system. |
| INFO71765 | Information Technology I
Description: This course provides a foundation to the technical aspects of Health Information Science, and focuses on desktop computing. Students will learn how to perform basic hardware troubleshooting, how to install and use different operating systems, how to use common productivity applications to analyze basic data and communicate ideas, and how to leverage tools, services and content from the Internet. Students will apply course concepts by using their own laptop. |
| PROG71000 | Database Concepts I
Description: This course provides a foundation for students to query data in healthcare and focuses on the development and use of the SQL language to access, analyze and present meaningful data to stakeholders. Students will write basic queries to extract useful data, and will develop more complex queries to address increasingly complex use-cases and contextual requirements. Students will apply their knowledge by analyzing data from the Canadian healthcare industry through the use of SQL and integrated development environments. |
| Level 2 | |
| ENGL71000 | Academic Communications
Description: This course is intended to develop the communication skills required in academic studies, which will translate into useful writing and presentation skills in Canada's increasingly intercultural professional and technical domains. Students will practice planning, drafting, and revising documents. The complex process of researching, creating, and revising arguments will encourage critical thinking, grammatical writing, and appropriate citation skills. Correct formatting of research papers and effective oral presentation skills will be emphasized. |
| HIM71020 | Health Information Management I
Description: This course introduces students to the profession of Health Information Management (HIM). Foundations of data and information management in Canadian health care will be a core focus of the course. Health care documentation, in both paper-based and electronic formats, and the steps of the health information life cycle will be discussed. Students will begin to apply biomedical terms, abbreviations, and acronyms to health care documentation. Students will be introduced to ethics, legal, regulatory, privacy, and confidentiality issues related to information management in Canadian health care. |
| HIM71100 | Solving Problems in Health Systems
Description: This course will provide students with an opportunity to enhance their problem solving skills in health informatics through application of systems and process improvement methodologies. The students will analyze selected cases from local, national, and international health informatics projects. The course will expose students to a variety of tools to improve their problem solving strategies, ability to work in teams, leadership and interpersonal conflict management skills. |
| PROG71010 | Database Concepts II
Description: This course builds on the foundation students have in SQL queries and report generation by introducing concepts of database design, data modeling and database normalization. Students will understand use-cases and business requirements and transform their understanding of the healthcare system into meaningful data models and database schemas that efficiently store information while meeting the business and technical requirements of our complex healthcare system. Students will apply their knowledge by manipulating data from the Canadian healthcare industry through the use of SQL. |
| PROG71880 | Programming Concepts I
Description: This course will introduce students to problem-solving techniques, programming logic and programming fundamentals. Topics will include programming basics such as data types, arrays, decision and control structures, as well as graphic user interface, event-handling, sequential files and fundamentals of current program design methodologies. |
| SOC71500 | Group Dynamics
Description: This course will focus on comprehensive theoretical understanding of group process, personal skill development and application through intensive team work. These skills are of critical importance in both professional and social settings. Through guided exploration and application of theoretical paradigms and practical strategies, students will achieve the necessary skills to succeed in and lead effective teams. The course consists in an intensive experiential approach – learning by doing – enabling participants to become effective, practiced team members with experience applying skills necessary for leadership, analysis and evaluation, problem solving, and conflict management. Individual and team activities enhance participants' skills to work with a variety of personalities in diverse situations, and to effectively assume various professional roles within a team. |
| Level 3 | |
| HIM72015 | Data Analysis I
Description: The students will be introduced to types of data and common statistical measures used in health care. They will develop skills in applying data quality frameworks to health data in order to improve processes. The course will give students an opportunity to perform data analysis using different statistical approaches, and to present data in various formats to specific audiences. The students will discuss proper uses of statistics in health care and their impact on decision-making. |
| HIM72050 | Biomedical Concepts II
Description: This is the second of three biomedical concepts courses. This course will reinforce students' knowledge of the biomedical terminology typically encountered in health care documentation. The students will advance their familiarity with the structural units of the body and associated physiological functions, as well as pathological processes involving these units. Different pathological conditions will be discussed in relation to their clinical manifestations, and current methods of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The students will continue exploring the relationship between clinical information, its documentation in health records, and its importance in health informatics and information management in health care. The systems covered in this course will be: the nervous system, the endocrine system, blood, the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic and immune systems, and the respiratory system. |
| HIM72060 | Healthcare Information Systems I
Description: In this course students gain exposure to health information systems by researching and documenting typical clinical workflows, scenarios and use-cases. Some of the clinical and administrative functions that are explored are: scheduling, admission, discharge and transfer (ADT), inpatient and outpatient pharmacy management, lab test order management, patient vitals collection and analysis, eMAR/BCMA and CPOE. Students are encouraged to think inter-professionally and required to research and document the information needs and roles of various healthcare team members and in a variety of different care settings, such as primary care, acute care, home care, community care, and long term care. |
| PROG72300 | Programming Concepts II
Description: Students will plan, write, test, and debug computer programs using current program design methodologies. They will learn how data and code can be encapsulated into modules or components to describe business and health entities, and how data can be hidden to maintain data integrity. |
|
Electives: Interdisciplinary
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours Interdisciplinary Elective Details | |
| Level 4 | |
| COMM72010 | Business Communications
Description: This course will support the development of student writing and communication skills in their professional careers. Students will learn strategies for effectively proof reading business documents, learn to write effective business cases, and learn to critique business proposals from a manager's perspective. Students will review case studies to understand how to rationalize and communicate business value. |
| FPLT70000 | Field Placement (Health Information Science)
Description: |
| HIM72040 | Health Information Management II
Description: The course introduces students to theory and practice related to coding, abstracting, grouping and case weighting approaches. Various healthcare coding systems will be examined, and coding and abstracting standards will be applied. The application of Canadian grouping and weighting methodologies will be examined. The students will apply knowledge of biomedical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pathophysiology to the coding process. |
| HIM72070 | Introduction to Business Intelligence
Description: This course builds on previous courses in relational database design by allowing students to analyze healthcare-related business needs and design appropriate business intelligence solutions to support decision making. During lectures students will learn about the fundamentals of business intelligence by exploring the design and implementation of data marts, ETL, data cubes and reporting. Through a course project and individual assignments, students will develop hands-on skills by developing meaningful data solutions for real-world scenarios and situations. |
| HIM72090 | Biomedical Concepts III
Description: This is the third of three biomedical concepts courses. This course will solidify students' knowledge of the biomedical terminology typically encountered in health care documentation. The students will solidify their familiarity with the structural units of the body and associated physiological functions, as well as pathological processes involving these units. Different pathological conditions will be discussed in relation to their clinical manifestations, and current methods of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The students will continue exploring the relationship between clinical information, its documentation in health records, and its importance in health informatics and information management in health care. The systems covered in this course will be: the digestive system, the urinary system, the reproductive systems, growth and development, the human genome, and mental health. |
| OHS71320 | Safety in the Workplace
Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the nine units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of General Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers. |
| SOC73165 | User Training and Adult Education
Description: The Workplace Learning and Performance course is designed as an introduction to the competencies developed and recognized by the Learning and Performance sector. This course is designed at an introductory level, for non L&P professionals who are occasionally asked to design and deliver learning solutions (training) for employees in the workplace, often related to a new product, policy, system or technology implementation. |
| Level 5 | |
| CEPR71050 | Co-op and Career Preparation
Description: This series of modules prepares degree level students for job searching for their co-op work terms and for their future careers. Students will examine the co-operative education policies and procedures and will learn the expectations, rules, and regulations that apply in the workplace concerning social, organizational, ethical, and safety issues while deepening their awareness of self-reflective practices. Students will critically reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and evaluate available opportunities in the workplace. Successful completion of this course is a requirement for co-op eligibility. |
| ENGL72000 | Professional Communication
Description: Effective communication is at the heart of any successful professional work environment. This course teaches students key aspects of communication: bridging the gap between oneself and others; using simple, direct, and correct language; using and citing sources; and editing and proofreading accurately. The focus will be on creating effective workplace documents such as letters, memos, proposals, abstract, summaries, and reports. Students will combine informative and persuasive communication skills to create these documents and to develop and deliver oral presentations. |
| HIM73070 | Advanced Business Intelligence
Description: Business intelligence skills are developed to ensure competencies and the practical application of spreadsheets, process improvement frameworks, project management tools, reconciliation strategies, data validation methods, query development, data mart construction, metadata, and appropriate data visualizations. Healthcare costs, staffing, productivity and key allied health metrics are explored with descriptive and inferential techniques, and predictive algorithms. |
| HIM73100 | Data Analysis II
Description: This course will build on previous Programming Concepts, Data Analysis and Business Intelligence courses to focus on where programming can be used to automate the delivery of data analysis artefacts to the desired stakeholders and augment packaged data analysis toolsets. A primary goal of this course is to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to select and utilize or develop appropriate data analytic tools to support the continuous monitoring and improvement of clinical care processes and health outcomes. The course will cover all aspects of the data analysis workflow that transforms raw data to information useful for decision-making for some stakeholders in the healthcare system. |
| HIM73120 | Systems Analysis and Design
Description: This course will introduce students to systems analysis methodologies. Topics will include project initiation, business process reengineering, requirements gathering, object oriented analysis; static and dynamic modeling of systems and presentation skills. Emphasis will be placed on health industry practices and documentation skills in a team environment. |
| RSCH73020 | Research Methods in Health Sciences
Description: Basic statistical and research methods and their application to analysis of data will be explored. Students will develop skills at reading and understanding research literature in health informatics, and gain expertise in evaluating the reliability and validity of research data. |
|
Electives: Interdisciplinary
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours Interdisciplinary Elective Details | |
| Level 6 | |
| HIM73030 | Epidemiology, Population Health and Public Health
Description: The objective of HIM3030 is to develop an appreciation for epidemiology and public health. Principles and methods of epidemiology will be discussed, including the role of epidemiology in health care planning. Applications of health informatics will be explored. Additional topics such as research ethics, critical reviews of the literature, and data analyses will also be covered within the course. |
| HIM73080 | Introduction to Information Security
Description: This course will introduce students to basic information security concepts. Students will learn about technical threats, their detection and their mitigation. Students will also learn about different type of administrative policies and procedures, and who they play an important role in a security program. Students will engage in case studies and lab demonstrations to understand the role of security in healthcare. |
| HIM73090 | Technology Planning in Health Systems
Description: This course will introduce the student to the processes and methodologies used to select and procure Information Technology products and services. Topics will include: requirements determination, Request for Proposal process and preparation, the selection and evaluation process, and issues associated with integration, multiple vendors, implementation, contracts, service level agreements, and health industry guidelines, regulations and legal requirements. Emphasis will be placed on health industry practices, documentation and presentation skills in a team environment. Students will be assigned to a project team involved in a case study. |
| INFO73020 | Information Technology II
Description: This course provides a foundation to the technical aspects of Health Information Science, and focuses on enterprise computing. Students will learn how to use virtualization and virtual machines, how to troubleshoot and configure basic networks, how to install and use server operating systems, how to manage security threats, and how to take advantage of Cloud-based services and resources. The benefits and drawbacks of using different types of enterprise technology will be discussed. Students will apply course concepts by using virtual machines on their own laptops and within the Cloud. |
| PROG73000 | Programming Concepts III
Description: This course builds on previous Programming Concepts courses to develop more advanced techniques that can be utilized in the context of solving data analysis problems in healthcare. This includes a strong focus on automating solutions from start to finish, extracting or scraping data from disparate sources, and combining data sources in support of drawing linkages between datasets, and moving beyond static reports and dashboards to actionable, interactive web-based information portals that support rich, dynamic visualization techniques. |
|
Electives: Interdisciplinary
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours Interdisciplinary Elective Details | |
| Level 7 | |
| COOP71450 | Co-op Work Term 1 - HIS
Description: The co-op work term will provide students with college-approved work experience within a health information science environment. Through this course, students will be provided an opportunity to build skills (physical and procedural skills including accuracy, precision, and efficiency); assist in the acquisition of knowledge in and application of knowledge gained in the academic setting (concepts and terminology in a discipline or field of study); develop critical, creative, and dialogical thinking (improved thinking and reasoning processes); cultivate problem solving and decision-making abilities (mental strategies for finding solutions and making choices); explore attitudes, feelings, and perspectives (awareness of attitudes, biases, and other perspectives, ability to collaborate); practice professional judgment (sound judgment and appropriate professional action in complex, context-dependent situations); and reflect on experience (self- discovery and personal growth from real-world experience). |
| Level 8 | |
| COOP72150 | Co-op Work Term 2 - HIS
Description: The co-op work term will provide students with college-approved work experience within a health information science environment. Through this course, students will be provided an opportunity to build skills (physical and procedural skills including accuracy, precision, and efficiency); assist in the acquisition of knowledge in and application of knowledge gained in the academic setting (concepts and terminology in a discipline or field of study); develop critical, creative, and dialogical thinking (improved thinking and reasoning processes); cultivate problem solving and decision-making abilities (mental strategies for finding solutions and making choices); explore attitudes, feelings, and perspectives (awareness of attitudes, biases, and other perspectives, ability to collaborate); practice professional judgment (sound judgment and appropriate professional action in complex, context-dependent situations); and reflect on experience (self- discovery and personal growth from real-world experience). |
| Level 9 | |
| HIM74005 | Health Information Management III
Description: This course applies principles of health information management to improving healthcare processes, health outcomes, and patient safety. Secondary uses of health data including healthcare registries and databases will be analyzed. The students will evaluate the quality of health data and associated organizational practices at different levels of health care in Canada. The students will also evaluate current records management practices used within the legislative and regulatory requirements in Canadian health care. The role of modern technology in health information management will be analyzed. |
| HIM74040 | Healthcare Information Systems II
Description: This course builds on the foundations covered in Health Information Systems I to explore relevant content, interchange and nomenclature standards relating to health information systems, how systems integrate with longitudinal EHRs, gaps in existing systems and how existing systems can be configured or customized to support a variety quality improvement initiatives. In terms of gaps in existing systems, students will learn in greater depth how clinical and administrative users' needs can be analyzed and captured in the form or business requirements documents and/or requests for information/proposal (i.e. RFI/RFP) documents in a procurement context. In terms of customizing or configuring an existing system, students will engage in a project that focuses on ensuring quality data can be adequately captured and resulting observations can be adequately retrieved for analysis in the context of a quality improvement initiative. |
| HIM74070 | Privacy and Confidentiality
Description: This course will introduce students to the concepts of privacy, confidentiality, and computer systems security and how they are interconnected in a health care context. Students will learn the core concepts of security, at both the technology and policy levels, and the importance of addressing them in a health care environment to ensure that individuals are able to maintain control over their health information and its appropriate disclosure. In a hands-on fashion, they will also apply the process of threat modeling to an existing system as a means of identifying and documenting the potential threats against that system. |
| HIM74080 | Process Improvement in Health Systems
Description: Students are introduced to practical modelling approaches as a basis for decision making and process improvement. Complex healthcare environments are examined using simulation, data analysis, and business acumen to uncover improvement opportunities. Important health care indicators are calculated to assess the improvement outcomes. Students explore the relationship between models, systems, and data in the context of the solving Health system problems. |
| INFO74040 | Systems Integration
Description: The students will be provided with the skills needed to manage the development and deployment of complex multi-tier Web Applications and Services, and also to manage the integration of health information systems. The course will also include an overview of current systems integration techniques and middleware. |
|
Electives: Interdisciplinary
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours Interdisciplinary Elective Details | |
| Level 10 | |
| HIM74030 | Health Care Quality Improvement
Description: This course will provide students with an opportunity to apply the methodology of Continuous Quality Improvement in health care and health informatics management, including current models and theories. Students will develop an understanding of the information needs for quality improvement monitoring, hospital report cards, and balanced scorecards. |
| HIM74090 | Change Management
Description: This course will provide an overview of organizational change in order to understand the process of change, human reaction to change, and the effects of change on the organization. The students will examine leadership competencies in the context of successful change and develop approaches to managing change that will help avoid common problems evident in many change initiatives. |
| HIM74100 | Information Science Capstone Project
Description: This course exposes students to the consulting engagement life cycle including hands-on consulting skills practice. Students will be assigned to work on projects within the community. Formal discussion of various consulting tools will be augmented by mini-cases and real-life consulting engagements. Students will be expected to self-assess their performance and deliver real-world value. The emphasis in the course focuses on structured problem-solving skills, communication, and influencing skills. Students will learn how to use communication techniques to better understand their client's needs and preferences and the ethical issues consultants face. The course is designed around the various phases of a typical consulting framework and engagement approach. |
| MGMT74050 | Project Management
Description: This course will prepare health care professionals to manage projects within their own area and across disciplines. The course will identify the skills and competencies of an effective project manager. The students will develop a major project using project management software specific to health project management for clinical research, health information, and health care quality management. |
| SOC73180 | Conflict Management
Description: Without exception, every relationship of any depth has conflict. Understanding the nature and complexity of interpersonal conflict is critical to its successful resolution. Conflict can be and often is regarded as a negative force and experience to be avoided or least controlled. Conflict can also be seen as an opportunity for strengthening complex relationships, increasing self-awareness and enhancing personal and professional development. This course will provide students with an opportunity to explore theoretical approaches to understanding and addressing conflict through the examination of various factors that contribute to interpersonal and intrapersonal (intrapsychic), and international conflicts, and to discuss, analyse, and apply appropriate skills and strategies to manage conflicts efficiently and effectively. |
Program Outcomes
- Manage patient care and administrative information systems that include data archiving, retrieval, programming, report generation, and interfacing such systems with the hospitals, community health agencies and offices of health professionals.
- Ensure the ongoing efficient operation and evolution of core computer functions and networks in a variety of health care settings.
- Apply problem-solving skills to priorities for health informatics in order to ensure high quality and safety of patient care.
- Analyze, diagnose, and resolve technical issues associated with information systems in health care organizations.
- Integrate the knowledge of the health care delivery system into functionality of health information systems.
- Understand the following health science concepts and their importance for developing health care information systems: health and medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases.
- Apply the concepts of organizational culture, human relations, and leadership to the development and enhancement of multidisciplinary teams.
- Communicate effectively with members of a health care team.
- Apply the principles and skills of business administration and leadership.
- Apply psychosocial, economic and environmental concepts and values.
- Adhere to professional, ethical and legal codes and standards.
- Educate health care professionals in a use of health care information systems, including wireless methods to support patient care.
- Conduct research with health professionals using theory and practice of health informatics to contribute to evidence based practice.
- Develop plans for lifelong learning and professional development.
- Practice health informatics knowledge and skills through co-op work terms in health care agencies.
Software Downloads
- Students and instructors in a full-time science, technology, engineering or mathematics program are entitled to a number of additional Microsoft software packages through Conestoga's Microsoft Partner Agreement.
- Your login information will determine what programs you have access to download.
Program Advisory Committees
The College appoints Program Advisory Committee members for diploma, degree, certificate and apprenticeship programs. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Committees.
Program Handbook
Apply Now
Domestic students should apply online at www.ontariocolleges.ca or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.ONTARIOCOLLEGES.CA
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1G 5J3
Detailed steps on the application process may help you to apply.
International students should apply online using the Conestoga College International Application Portal. Please note: not all programs are open to international students. Interested students should check the listing of open programs on our international students web page before applying.
Additional Information
Conestoga College has been granted a consent by the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities to offer this applied degree for a five-year term commencing July 19, 2013. Conestoga shall ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame.Application to the Ministry for renewal of the consent to deliver is a prescribed and cyclical requirement for all degree programs at all Ontario colleges.
Disclaimer
The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.
Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
