Bachelor of Arts in Social and Health Policy Sciences at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Social and Health Policy Sciences is designed for students interested in understanding the complex issues surrounding health, disease, and environmental factors that impact communities and global health. This program emphasizes multi-level health policy making, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health. As part of the Faculty of Health Sciences, this program is one of eight specialized topics within the broader study of health sciences. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address pressing health issues in various contexts.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Social and Health Policy Sciences offers a well-rounded curriculum that spans various aspects of health and social policy. The program is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical knowledge. Key features of the program include:

Program Length: Typically completed in four years.
Opportunities for hands-on learning through various projects and research initiatives.
Options for co-op placements or internships to gain real-world experience.
Interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from health sciences, social sciences, and policy studies.

This structure ensures that students not only learn about health policies but also how to apply this knowledge in real-world settings, preparing them for diverse career paths.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Arts in Social and Health Policy Sciences program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Co-op placements that allow students to work in health-related organizations, gaining valuable experience.
Field experiences that provide practical exposure to health policy implementation.
Joint partner programs with community organizations to engage in real-world health issues.
Research opportunities that allow students to contribute to ongoing studies in health and social policy.

These experiences are designed to enrich the educational journey and prepare students for successful careers in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Social and Health Policy Sciences can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job options:

Health Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies that impact public health and healthcare systems.
Public Health Educator: Design and implement educational programs to promote health awareness in communities.
Social Services Coordinator: Manage and coordinate social services programs that address health and social issues.
Research Assistant: Support research projects focused on health policy and social determinants of health.
Community Outreach Specialist: Engage with communities to promote health initiatives and gather feedback on health services.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a meaningful impact in the field of health and social policy.

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

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Social and Health Policy Sciences program, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: A minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics is required for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).
General Academic Requirements:
- Applicants must submit a transcript that includes interim marks for their senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior level academic subjects.
Faculty/Program-Specific Requirements:
- For the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, no additional faculty/program course prerequisites are required beyond the general Academic Requirements.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the admission process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at SFU. All applicants, regardless of country of origin or citizenship status, will be required to have demonstrated competence in the English language prior to admission. Competence is required in all four of the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the options below:

Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country in which the principal language of instruction is English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a country in which the principal language of instruction is not English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 3
Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a C- (C minus)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 4 (or C)

Alternatively, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
- Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125

Enrolment in first-year writing intensive courses requires higher grades than admission grades. Students must meet the University’s literacy requirements in addition to the English language Requirement.

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 2025-12-06

Program overview