Bachelor of Environmental Public Health (Honours)

Program description - September 2023

This innovative four-year Bachelor of Environmental Public Health (BEPH) encompasses an innovative four-year program (including one co-op term), delivered at the honours level, that will prepare graduates for several progressive public and private sector careers as environmental public health professionals (EPHPs). It has been accredited by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI). EPH focuses on the concept of one health, recognizing the interconnection between people and the environment, and encouraging positive behaviour change.The program encompasses the assessment and control of factors in the environment that target disease prevention, positively impact population and community health, and that reduce health inequities. The scope of practice in EPH includes, but is not limited to, organization, management, education, enforcement, consultation, and health hazard identification for the purpose of prevention and control intervention of EPH hazards, response to emerging infectious diseases, and the promotion and protection of the public health and the environment. Students will develop keen scientific and health literacy skills while obtaining applied and integrated knowledge and skills in EPH sciences, emphasizing environmental epidemiology, toxicology, risk exposure, assessment, and communication. Readiness for practice will be developed in a multidisciplinary curriculum focused on experiential learning activities that will develop knowledge of EPH theory and its application in practice. The program is innovative in its use of technology, including inspection management systems, to investigate issues, organize and manage inquiry, aid collaboration, and communicate information. Students will be challenged to consider multiple perspectives in understanding EPH practice, policy, and advocacy, determining professional practices that positively impact population and community health, and developing leadership perspectives and confidence. Conestoga's BEPH program will offer students opportunities to develop strong critical thinking, resiliency, risk assessment, and professional communication skills that will enable them to understand organizational dynamics, work successfully on inter-professional teams and positively contribute to their chosen field of practice.