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Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-09-23

Program overview

The Master of Public Health (Thesis) program at Lakehead University is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of public health issues. This program emphasizes the importance of advanced health-related education, critical analysis, and effective decision-making in health at various levels, including individual, population, and government. Students will engage in research and learn strategies for knowledge exchange and dissemination. The program aims to prepare graduates for impactful careers in public health practice, addressing current challenges in the field.

Program structure

The Master of Public Health program offers both full-time and flexible full-time options, allowing students to choose a path that best fits their lifestyle and commitments. The program can be completed through:

Full-time on-campus study, requiring attendance in daytime classes.
Flexible full-time study, which includes evening classes and is designed for those who may be working or have other commitments.

Students enrolled in the flexible full-time option will participate in classes delivered via Zoom videoconferencing, ensuring real-time interaction with instructors and peers. The program must be completed within specific timeframes:

Full-time students must finish all requirements within 6 terms (2 years).
Flexible full-time students have up to 12 terms (4 years) to complete their studies, with the possibility of taking additional terms without incurring fees.

This structure allows for a comprehensive learning experience while accommodating the diverse needs of students.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Public Health program at Lakehead University offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Opportunities for hands-on experience in public health through various practical engagements.
Access to a collaborative program option in Gerontology, allowing students to explore interdisciplinary approaches.
Utilization of advanced technology, such as Zoom for real-time classes, fostering a dynamic learning environment.
Structured break-out sessions in classes to facilitate both large and small group discussions.
Focus on critical public health issues, including Social-Ecological Systems, Sustainability and Health, and Indigenous and Northern Health.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Public Health program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Public Health Educator: Develops and implements educational programs to promote health and wellness in communities.
Epidemiologist: Studies the distribution and determinants of health-related states in populations, often working to control disease outbreaks.
Health Policy Analyst: Analyzes and evaluates health policies, providing recommendations to improve public health systems.
Community Health Worker: Serves as a liaison between health services and the community, helping individuals access necessary resources.
Research Coordinator: Manages public health research projects, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating data collection.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to public health initiatives across Canada.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2026-09-23

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Admission Requirements for Masters

Applicants for admission must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute as well as show evidence of scholarly achievement. Except where otherwise stated in the Admission Requirements of a particular program, degree students must have a four year bachelor's degree or its equivalent with at least second class standing (B) based on their last 20 half courses or equivalent.

For applicants from countries that follow a British-patterned grading system, please note:

Overall standings are normally reported in lieu of an average. The CGPA can be determined on the basis of annual or overall standings as reported on the transcript or degree certificate.
A minimum grade of B, or Second Class, Upper Division, is required.
The National Diploma and Higher National Diploma are not recognized for admission to a graduate-level program.
Be sure to include a copy of your institution grading scale when uploading your transcripts.
If in doubt, you may wish to order a WES International Credential Advantage (iCap) report from wes.org

An applicant holding a degree other than one in the discipline area to which admission is sought will be considered on the basis of courses taken and academic standing.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission. No candidate will be admitted unless the academic unit recommends admission. All applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.

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Program Specific Requirements

Admission decisions will be made by the Department of Health Sciences Admissions Committee.

In addition to the general admission requirements for Master programs, applicants must also submit:

a curriculum vitae (CV)
a Statement of Goals and Intentions
Preferences will be given to applicants who have completed statistics and research methods courses
Official English Test Results (if required)

An interview may also be required. Admission decisions will be made by the Department of Health Sciences Admissions Committee.

Language Requirements

English Language Requirements

Accepted tests and minimum scores:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Overall 7.0, no individual score less than 6.5, Speaking 7.0, Writing 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Overall 120
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT): Overall 100 on the current scale (0-120), or a band score of 5.0 or higher on the new TOEFL scale (effective January 2026)
Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): Overall 90
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Overall 80
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): Overall 65, Listening 58, Reading 58, Speaking 65, Writing 65

All test results must be valid (taken within the past two years) at the time of application.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!