Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees at NC - Niagara College Canada - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-23

Program overview

Are you looking for a way to transition to a career in nursing or another health science field, but lack the scientific background? The Pre-Health Sciences – Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program at Niagara College Canada is designed for you! This program provides a solid foundation in health sciences, equipping you with the necessary skills to pursue advanced postsecondary studies and achieve your career dreams. Whether you are a mature student ready for a career change or someone seeking to enhance their scientific knowledge, this program is tailored to meet your needs.

Program structure

The Pre-Health Sciences program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a 1-year period. This program includes:

Lecture-style science courses that prepare students for Bachelor’s Degree studies.
Over 126 hours of practical, hands-on, health-focused lab experience, including weekly labs in science courses.
Individual support and planning with assistance from an academic advisor.

Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for further educational opportunities, including Bachelor's Degrees in various health science fields. The program is also Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible, allowing graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on lab experience with over 126 hours dedicated to practical learning.
Individualized support from academic advisors to help plan your educational journey.
Opportunities for preferred admission into various advanced programs at Niagara College, including Dental Hygiene, Nursing, and Paramedic programs.
Collaborative learning environment that encourages teamwork and independent study.

Career Options

Graduates of the Pre-Health Sciences program can pursue a variety of career options in Canada, including:

Nursing: Provide patient care and support in various healthcare settings.
Medical Laboratory Technician: Conduct tests and analyze samples to assist in patient diagnosis.
Pharmacy Technician: Assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing pharmacy operations.
Occupational Therapist Assistant: Support occupational therapists in helping patients improve their daily living skills.
Paramedic: Provide emergency medical care and transportation to patients in critical situations.

These roles not only offer rewarding career paths but also contribute significantly to the health and well-being of communities across Canada.

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

Visit NC - Niagara College Canada official website

Last updated on 2026-03-23

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Pre-Health Sciences – Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program at Niagara College has specific academic requirements for applicants. To be eligible for admission, students must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent qualification, which includes the following required courses:

English – any Grade 12 (C) or (U), or equivalent
Mathematics – any Grade 12 (C) or (U), or equivalent

Additionally, while not mandatory, the following courses are recommended to help students succeed academically in this program:

Biology – Grade 11 (C) or (U) or Grade 12 (U)
Chemistry – Grade 11 (U) or Grade 12 (C) or (U)
Physics – Grade 11 (U) or Grade 12 (C) or (U)

For international students, it is essential to provide official, translated high school and/or post-secondary transcripts, proof of graduation, and proof of English proficiency. Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students are encouraged to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process and requirements.

Language Requirements

If English is not your first language, you can meet Niagara College’s admission requirements by submitting one of the accepted language proficiency test scores listed below.

The following language proficiency tests are accepted:

Cambridge English Exams (B2 First/FCE, C1 Advanced/CAE or C2 Proficiency/CPE)
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: 169 – No skill under 162.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: 176 – No skill under 169.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) including Indicator Test
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: 6.0 – No individual band under 5.5.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: 6.5 – No individual band under 5.5.
Internet-based (IBT) Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) including Special Home Edition Test
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: iBT: 80, Minimum 20 in Writing and Speaking OR Minimum 4.0 overall, with a minimum of 4.0 in each section.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: iBT: 85, Minimum 22 in Writing and Speaking OR Minimum 4.5 overall, with a minimum of 4.5 in Writing and 4.0 in Speaking.
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: 58+, with no individual skill below 53.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: 60+, with no individual skill below 57.
Duolingo English Language Test
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: 105+, with no individual subscore below 95.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: 120+, with no individual subscore below 100.
Oxford ELLT and Pre-Sessional English
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: 6.0 – No individual band under 5.0.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: 7.0 – No individual band under 6.0.
Canadian Academic English Language Test (CAEL) including CAEL Online Proficiency Test
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: 60 – No individual band under 50.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: 60 – No individual band under 50.
Niagara College’s English for Academic Preparation program (EAP) OR English as a Second Language (ESL) Online program
- Minimum score for undergraduate diplomas, certificates and international nursing programs: Completion of English for Academic Preparation (EAP) Level 5 with 70% and no individual grade under 50% OR English as a Second Language (ESL) Online exit test.
- Minimum score for graduate and degree programs: Completion of English for Academic Preparation (EAP) Level 5 with 75% and no individual grade under 60% OR English as a Second Language (ESL) Online exit test.

Please check with our team for more details.

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!

Last updated on 2026-03-23

Program overview