Health Sciences

Simon Fraser University

Health and Nutrition: blue ink subject illustration

4 years
Duration (years)
4 years for the typical 120-unit full bachelor
SFU Fall 2026 four-year bachelor credential definitions
Co-op details
Work experience
Optional paid Health Sciences co-op with three work terms. Published entry-GPA guidance needs confirmation.
SFU: current Health Sciences co-op programme admission requirements
~Mid 80s for domestic applicants
Entering average
Published approximate guidance: Mid 80s for domestic applicants. Official three-year historical guide checked November 2026. Historical range for Canadian citizens and permanent residents applying from high school. SFU lists high 80s for high school applicants on a study permit.
SFU three-year historical high school admission guide

Deadlines

January 2027

Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Sun
				1	2	3
4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30

Next deadlineSunday, January 31, 2027

4 deadlines

Application
Fall 2027 · High-school applicants and applicants with fewer than 24 transferable postsecondary units
Official deadline
Fall undergraduate application
2027 entry · High school applicants
The application period opens October 1, 2026.
Official deadline
BC Student Transcript Service form
Fall 2027 · British Columbia high-school applicants
Official deadline
Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship documents due
Fall 2027 entry · Applicants for USES
January 31, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Include both references and admission documents on your goSFU to-do list. A complete qualifying USES application can also cover Beedie’s supplement.
Official deadline

Other deadline details

No central deadline, each B.C. institution sets its own application open and close datesEducationPlannerBC, deadlines are set per institutionRecurring annual · Every year

No central deadline, each B.C. institution sets its own application open and close dates
No central B.C. deadline
Each institution and sometimes each program sets its own dates

Full source wording

Verbatim: "Each institution sets their own application open and close dates. These dates also may vary based on the program you are applying to. You can use the search database to explore programs you are interested in applying to or visit the institution's website directly. Please refer to the institution's website or contact the Admissions/Registrar's Office directly for application deadlines and details." EducationPlannerBC is the single application service for B.C.'s 25 public post-secondary institutions but publishes no deadline dates of its own.

SourceChecked Aug 14, 2026

July–August 2027; exact date in Student CentreFinal transcriptsFall 2027

High-school applicants and applicants with fewer than 24 transferable postsecondary units
July–August 2027; exact date in Student Centre

SourceChecked Oct 11, 2026

July–August 2027; exact date in Student CentreTransfer final transcriptsFall 2027

Applicants with at least 24 transferable postsecondary units or a completed bachelor degree
July–August 2027; exact date in Student Centre

SourceChecked Oct 11, 2026

Requirements

Admission requirements

High-school prerequisites

ENG4UEnglish ENG4U (min 70%)70% min.
SCH4UChemistry SCH4U

Application steps

Step 1Check the admission requirements
- Check the published entry route for your applicant category.
SFU current Fall 2026 onwards Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) BC/Yukon admission requirementsSFU current Fall 2026 onwards Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) BC/Yukon admission requirements
Step 2Apply through EducationPlannerBC
- Create your application and select this program.
EducationPlannerBCEducationPlannerBC
Step 3Student Centre document list and final official records
- Submit the documents on your Student Centre To Do List. Upload items with an upload button; other items must come directly from an institution or by mail. Uploads are unofficial and can be used for evaluation. A conditional offer requires final official documents ordered directly from the institution.
SFU application document submission instructionsSFU application document submission instructions
Step 4Fall 2026 application fee: $87.75 domestic or $130 international
- The Fall 2026 calendar requires this non-refundable CAD fee before an admission or readmission application is submitted. It is separate from tuition and any later admission deposit.
SFU Fall 2026 calendar: undergraduate application feesSFU Fall 2026 calendar: undergraduate application fees
Step 5Apply through EducationPlannerBC to the exact SFU degree.
- Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
SFU current Fall 2026 onwards Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) BC/Yukon admission requirementsSFU current Fall 2026 onwards Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) BC/Yukon admission requirements
Step 6Report grades and provide academic transcripts and language evidence required for your applicant category.
- Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
SFU current Fall 2026 onwards Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) BC/Yukon admission requirementsSFU current Fall 2026 onwards Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) BC/Yukon admission requirements

Applicant pathways

British Columbia or Yukon: SFU General requirements

British Columbia or Yukon high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science), Fall 2026 onwards

You will need to meet SFU’s general admission requirements as these apply to all programs. Faculty and program specific admission requirements are listed separately.
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
Graduate high school
Have a minimum of five approved academic Grade 12 courses, including English Studies 12 or equivalent
Have a minimum grade of 70% or higher in Language Arts 11, English 12, or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved academic Grade 11 and 12 courses, including any specific course requirements set by the faculty or program to which you are applying.
A comprehensive list of approved academic Grade 11 and 12 courses considered in the admission evaluation is available on the Approved Academic courses page.
Equivalent AP or IB courses may be used in place of required courses listed below.

British Columbia or Yukon: Required Courses

British Columbia or Yukon high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science), Fall 2026 onwards

Grade 11
No specific Grade 11 course requirements
Grade 12 (at least 5 approved academic courses)
Equivalent AP or IB courses may be used in place of the following courses.
One of: English Studies 12 English First Peoples 12
All: Anatomy and Physiology 12 Chemistry 12
At least one of: Pre-Calculus 12 Calculus 12
Additional course(s): See SFU's approved academic course list

Alberta: general academic requirements

Alberta high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved 30-level Courses* (see below), including English Language Arts 30-1 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved 20-level and 30-level courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Alberta: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Alberta high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English Language Arts 20-1 Mathematics 20-1 or Mathematics 20-2 One of Science 20, Biology 20, Chemistry 20 or Physics 20
Grade 12 required courses: English Language Arts 30-1 (min 70%) Biology 30 Chemistry 30 Mathematics 30-1 or 31 One 30-level Math, Science, Social Studies or Language Arts courses

Manitoba: general academic requirements

Manitoba high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved 40-level Courses , including English Language Arts 40S (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved 30-level and 40-level courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Manitoba: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Manitoba high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English Language Arts 30S (any) Pre-Calculus Math 30S or Applied Math 30S One of: Biology 30S, Human Biology 30S, Chemistry 30S, Ecology 30S, Physics 30S
Grade 12 required courses: English Language Arts: Comprehensive Focus 40S, Literary Focus 40S or Transactional Focus 40S (min 70%) Biology 40S Chemistry 40S Pre-Calculus 40S or Calculus 42U or 42S One of: 40-level Math, Science, Social Studies or Language Arts

New Brunswick: general academic requirements

New Brunswick high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved grade 12 Courses , including English 121 or 122 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved Grade 11 and 12 courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

New Brunswick: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

New Brunswick high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English 111 or English 112 One of: Foundations of Math 110 or Pre-Calculus Math 110 One of: Biology 111 or 112, Chemistry 111 or 112, Environmental Science 120, or Physics 111 or 112
Grade 12 required courses: English 121 or 122 (min 70%) Biology 121 or 122 Pre-Calculus A120 and Pre-Calculus B120 One of: Math 12, Science 12, Social Studies 12, or Language Arts 12 One additional course from List A or B

Newfoundland and Labrador: general academic requirements

Newfoundland and Labrador high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved Grade 12 Courses , including English 3201 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved Grade 11 and 12 courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Newfoundland and Labrador: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Newfoundland and Labrador high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English 2201 Math 220X Science 220X
Grade 12 required courses: English 3201 (min 70%) Biology 3201 Chemistry 3202 Math 3200 or 3208 One of: Math 320X, Science 320X, Social Studies 320X or Language Arts 320X

Northwest Territories: general academic requirements

Northwest Territories high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved 30-level Courses , including English Language Arts 30-1 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved 20-level and 30-level courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Northwest Territories: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Northwest Territories high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English Language Arts 20-1 Mathematics 20-1 or Mathematics 20-2 One of Science 20, Biology 20, Chemistry 20 or Physics 20
Grade 12 required courses: English Language Arts 30-1 (min 70%) Biology 30 Chemistry 30 Mathematics 30-1 or 31 One 30-level Math, Science, Social Studies or Language Arts courses

Nova Scotia: general academic requirements

Nova Scotia high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved Grade 12 Courses , including English 12 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved Grade 11 and 12 courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses

Nova Scotia: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Nova Scotia high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English 11 (Academic/Advanced) Math 11 One of Biology 11 (Academic/Advanced), Chemistry 11 (Academic/Advanced) or Physics 11 (Academic/Advanced)
Grade 12 required courses: English 12: English 12 (Academic/Advanced) or African Heritage (min 70%) Biology 12 Chemistry 12 Mathematics 12 (Academic/Advanced) or Pre-Calculus Mathematics 12 One of: Math 12, Science 12, Social Studies 12 or Language Arts 12

Ontario: general academic requirements

Ontario high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of six (6) Grade 12 U/M courses , including English ENG4U (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved Grade 11 and 12 courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Ontario: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Ontario high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English ENG3U One of: Functions and Applications MCF3M or Functions MCR3U One of: Biology 11 SBI3U, Chemistry 11 SCH3U, Environmental Science 11 SVN3M, or Physics 11 SPH3U
Grade 12 required courses: English ENG4U (min 70%) Biology SB14U Chemistry SCH4U One Math 4U One of: Math 4U, Science 4U or Social Studies 4U One additional course from List A or B

Prince Edward Island: general academic requirements

Prince Edward Island high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved Grade 12 Courses , including English 621 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved Grade 11 and 12 courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Prince Edward Island: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Prince Edward Island high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: ENG521 One of: MAT521A or MAT521B or MAT521E One of: BIO521, CHM 521 or PHY 521
Grade 12 required courses: ENG621 or ENG611 (min 70%) BIO621A CHM621A MAT621B or MAT611B One of: Math 12, Science 12, Social Studies 12 or Language Arts 12

Nunavut: general academic requirements

Nunavut high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved 30-level Courses , including English Language Arts 30-1 (min 70%) or equivalent
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved 20-level and 30-level courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses.

Nunavut: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Nunavut high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English Language Arts 20-1 Mathematics 20-1 or Mathematics 20-2 One of Science 20, Biology 20, Chemistry 20 or Physics 20
Grade 12 required courses: English Language Arts 30-1 (min 70%) Biology 30 Chemistry 30 Mathematics 30-1 or 31 One 30-level Math, Science, Social Studies or Language Arts courses

Quebec CEGEP: general academic requirements

CEGEP academic applicants

Complete at least one year of an approved academic programme.
Present at least 12 academic pre-university courses, excluding courses numbered 109, including two English (603) or French (601) courses.
Meet SFU English Language and Quantitative/Analytical Skills requirements.
A completed two-year academic DEC may qualify for up to 30 transfer credits.

Quebec CEGEP: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

CEGEP applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Biology (101), Chemistry (202), Math (203), as printed for Health Sciences BSc.

Saskatchewan: general academic requirements

Saskatchewan high-school applicants

All required Grade 11 courses (or equivalents)
English language requirement
Quantitative and analytical skills requirement
A minimum of five (5) Approved 30-level Courses , including one of English Language Arts 30, A30, or B30, (min 70%)
Admission is based on an evaluation of all approved 20-level and 30-level courses, with greater emphasis on List A courses

Saskatchewan: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)

Saskatchewan high-school applicants to Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science) only

Programme: Health Sciences (Bachelor of Science)
Grade 11 required courses: English Language Arts 20 Foundations of Mathematics 20 or Pre-Calculus 20 One of: Computer Science 20 , Environmental Science 20 , Health Science 20 or Physical Science 20
Grade 12 required courses: English Language Arts A30 and B30 (min 70%) Biology 30 Chemistry 30 Pre-Calculus 30 or Calculus 30 One of: 30-level Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts

Degree requirements

Credits and degree requirements

Health Sciences Major / Program Requirements: For the bachelor of science (BSc) health sciences program, students complete 120 units, which includes:
Health Sciences Major / Program Requirements: at least 60 units that must be completed at Simon Fraser University

References

Required courses and electives

Health Sciences Major / Program Requirements: at least 44 upper division units including a minimum of 28 HSCI units
Health Sciences Major / Public Health and Data Stream Upper Division Requirements: and at least 24 additional upper division HSCI units
Health Sciences Major / Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements: Students admitted to Simon Fraser University beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.

References

Grades and academic standing

Health Sciences Major / Program Requirements: an overall cumulative grade point average (CGPA) and upper division CGPA of at least 2.0
Health Sciences Major / Public Health and Data Stream Upper Division Requirements: NOTE: SFU students accepted in the accelerated master’s within the Faculty of Health Sciences may apply a maximum of 10 graduate course units, taken while completing the bachelor's degree, towards the upper division electives of the bachelor’s program and the requirements of the master's degree. These graduate courses must be passed with a grade of B (3.0) or better in order to be used towards the requirements of the master's degree. For more information go to: https://www.sfu.ca/gradstudies/apply/programs/accelerated-masters.html .
Health Sciences Major / A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit: Must include at least one upper division course, taken at Simon Fraser University within the student's major subject; two courses (minimum three units each)

References

Program facts

Entering average~Mid 80s for domestic applicants

Historical range for Canadian citizens and permanent residents applying from high school. SFU lists high 80s for high school applicants on a study permit.

Co-opCo-op details

Check work experience options

Majors & specializations

Degree variants, engineering options, streams and concentrations on the selected current calendars.

Cellular Pathology and Physiology Concentration

BSc

Study cellular and physiological processes and how they relate to health and disease.

Published requirements

Courses

Named required and alternative courses in the exact Fall 2026 degree calendars. The menu includes separate degree options and concentrations; it is not a timetable or a list every student takes.

Life Sciences template · 0–30 units · Fall3 listed

Published term placement within this earned-unit stage; prescribed combinations remain subject to change.

BISC 101General Biology4 credits
Introduction to the molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms of living organisms (microorganisms, plants, animals). Lecture and lab topics include cell structure and function, flow of genetic information, enzyme function, metabolism, whole organism form and function (circulation, gas exchange, nutrition, osmoregulation). BISC 101 and 102 can be taken in either order. Prerequisite: Biology 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or BISC 100 with a minimum grade of C-, or BISC 113 with a minimum grade of C+, or BPK 105 with a minimum grade of C+, or HSCI 100 with a minimum grade of C+); and Chemistry 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or CHEM 111 with a minimum grade of C-; or CHEM 110 and 115 , both with a minimum grade of C-). Breadth-Science.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
CHEM 121General Chemistry and Laboratory I4 credits
Builds upon the principles of chemistry through a lecture and laboratory experience to develop problem-solving skills with a focus on learning trends in the periodic table, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, the energetics of chemical reactions, and properties of gases, liquids, and solids. This course includes a laboratory component. Prerequisite: Chemistry 12 with a minimum grade of B, or CHEM 109 or 111 with a minimum grade of C- or CHEM 110 and 115 , both with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 120 or 125 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 130Foundations of Health Science4 credits
How health, illness and disease are defined and measured for individuals and populations. Research strategies used to identify how health, illness and disease are distributed across human populations and how environmental, socio-economic, demographic, biological, behavioural and political factors influence individual and population health. Breadth-Social Sci/Science.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 0–30 units · Spring3 listed

Also one 100-level ENGL/WL slot. The language slot must satisfy the requirement list: one three-unit ENGL 111W, 112W, 113W, 114W, 115W or 199W, or WL 101W, 103W, 104W or 105W.

BISC 102General Biology4 credits
Introduction to evolution and ecology, focusing on the processes that shape the diversity of life on earth. Lecture and lab topics include: natural selection and other mechanisms of evolutionary change, phylogeny, genetics, speciation, behaviour, species interactions, population ecology, and ecosystems. BISC 101 and 102 may be taken in either order. Prerequisite: Biology 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or BISC 100 with a minimum grade of C-, or BISC 113 with a minimum grade of C+, or BPK 105 with a minimum grade of C+, or HSCI 100 with a minimum grade of C+). Breadth-Science.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
CHEM 122General Chemistry II2 credits
Builds on CHEM 121 , emphasizing essential concepts including chemical reactions and equilibria, acid-base principles, reaction rates, solubility, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics. Students also quantify reaction energetics and explore electrochemical processes, with a focus on oxidation-reduction reactions, thereby deepening their understanding of both theoretical and practical applications of chemistry. Students who intend to take further laboratory courses in chemistry should take CHEM 122 concurrently with CHEM 126 . Prerequisite: CHEM 120 or 121 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 124 or CHEM 180 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MATH 154Mathematics for the Life Sciences I3 credits
Designed for students specializing in the life sciences. Topics include: limits, growth rate and the derivative; elementary functions, optimization and approximation methods, and their applications, integration, and differential equations; mathematical models of biological processes and their implementation and analysis using software. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least B, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least C-, or MATH 110 with a grade of at least C-. Students with credit for either MATH 150 , 151 or 157 may not take MATH 154 for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 0–30 units · Summer1 listed

Also one 200-level HSCI choice and one elective. The requirements page restricts the HSCI choice to HSCI 204, 210, 211, 212, 214, 216 or 220.

MATH 155Mathematics for the Life Sciences II3 credits
Designed for students specializing in the life sciences. Topics include: vectors and matrices, partial derivatives, multi-dimensional integrals, systems of differential equations, compartment models, graphs and networks, and their applications to the life sciences; mathematical models of multi-component biological processes and their implementation and analysis using software. Students planning to take MATH 251 are recommended to consider MATH 152 as the prerequisite pathway. See an advisor to determine what may be best for you. Prerequisite: MATH 150 , 151 or 154 , with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 157 with a grade of at least B. Students with credit for MATH 152 or 158 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 30–60 units · Fall3 listed

Also one elective. Source conflict: the planning table prints CHEM 281 as 2 units; the same document’s requirements page and held course calendar give 4 units. The course retains its calendar weight.

CHEM 281Organic Chemistry and Laboratory I4 credits
Equips students with an understanding of the structure, stereochemistry, and reactivity of carbon-based (organic) molecules. Emphasis is placed on structure-reactivity relationships, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopic methods used to understand and analyze organic compounds. The laboratory component focuses on purification and analytical methods for organic compounds. Prerequisite: CHEM 121 with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: CHEM 122 or CHEM 180 . Students with credit for CHEM 280 or CHEM 285 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 230Evaluating Epidemiological Research3 credits
Prepares students at a foundational level to evaluate and critique conclusions drawn from epidemiological research. Students will also experience the value and limitations of epidemiology as a tool for researching health and disease in populations. Prerequisite: 30 units, including HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for HSCI 330 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MBB 222Molecular Biology and Biochemistry3 credits
The structure, function and synthesis of proteins, RNA and DNA and their interrelated biological functions within the cell. An introduction to molecular biology techniques and methods of protein purification and analysis. Prerequisite: or Corequisite CHEM 281 .
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 30–60 units · Spring2 listed

Also one elective and a STAT 201/203 slot. Source conflict: the planning table offers STAT 201 or STAT 203, while its Life Sciences requirements page specifies STAT 201. Confirm the applicable Statistics requirement.

CHEM 282Organic Chemistry II2 credits
Considers the special properties and reactions of conjugated systems such as dienes and aromatic molecules. It places an emphasis on a range of carbonyl containing functional groups, their reactions, and their presence in biological molecules. A unifying theme is the prediction of reaction outcomes by the application of reaction mechanisms. Prerequisite: CHEM 281 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 283 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MBB 229Introductory Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory3 credits
Practical course providing hands-on experience in fundamental molecular biology and biochemistry techniques including DNA isolation, restriction enzyme digestion, transformation, polymerase chain reaction, DNA and protein electrophoresis and immunofluorescence. Prerequisite: or Corequisite: MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C- or better. Students who have taken MBB 308 or MBB 309 first may not then take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 30–60 units · Summer2 listed

Also one elective.

BISC 202Genetics3 credits
Principles and concepts of transmission of genetic information. Topics include: molecular basis of inheritance, interpretation of pedigrees, chromosomal mapping, linkage, crosses, epigenetics, and the regulation and flow of genetic information from DNA to proteins. Focus on problem-solving. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102 , both with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MBB 231Cellular Biology and Biochemistry3 credits
A study of the molecular processes which underlie cell structure and function, integrating ultrastructural, physiological and biochemical approaches. Modern techniques used in the analysis of organelle and cell function are integral parts of the course. Prerequisite: MBB 222 , BISC 101 , CHEM 281 , all with a minimum grade of C- or better.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 60–90 units · Fall2 listed

Also one of BISC 303, BISC 357, HSCI 336 (recommended on the requirements page), MBB 308 or MBB 309W; and one concentration-dependent HSCI 323, 326 or 338. Source conflict: the plan gives the concentration slot 4 units, while the same PDF requirements and held calendar give each of HSCI 323/326/338 3 units.

HSCI 305The Canadian Health System3 credits
A comparative analysis of the Canadian health care financing and delivery systems and policies. History, organizational principles, health care resources, costs, access to care, quality, and equity. Societal and political issues, threats and values that affect Canada's health care system and others around the world. Prerequisite: 60 units, including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 324Human Population Genetics and Evolution3 credits
Human variation and human health in the context of population genetics, epidemiology, demography, and human evolution. Prerequisite: BISC 202 with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Life Sciences template · 60–90 units · Spring3 listed

Also one three-unit STAT 302 or STAT 305 choice.

HSCI 319WApplied Health Ethics3 credits
Practical ethical and legal issues in health sciences, emphasizing population and public health. Case studies approach highlighting current ethical dilemmas and decision-making in the context of global to local legal frameworks. Prerequisite: 75 units including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-, one of which must be a 200-division course. Writing.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 321Human Pathophysiology3 credits
Molecular, cellular and systemic approach to examine topics in human pathophysiology. Prerequisite: MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MBB 331Molecular Biology4 credits
The study of DNA and RNA in relation to gene structure and expression: DNA replication and the regulation of gene expression in bacteria and higher organisms. Introduction to recombinant DNA and cloning theory; natural vector structures and recombinant vector construction. Prerequisite: MBB 231 , and BISC 202 , with a minimum grade of C.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Mapped terms

Life Sciences route only: the effective-Fall-2026 planning template gives 11 named Fall/Spring/Summer positions within four earned-unit stages, 0–30, 30–60, 60–90 and 90–120 units. Stage labels are preserved rather than treated as numbered academic years. Restricted alternatives and electives stay in term notes. Public Health and Data has a separate template and is not blended with this route. The source does not guarantee a September 2027 cohort sequence or individual course availability.

0–30 units

Fall

Published term placement within this earned-unit stage; prescribed combinations remain subject to change.

BISC 101General Biology4 credits
Introduction to the molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms of living organisms (microorganisms, plants, animals). Lecture and lab topics include cell structure and function, flow of genetic information, enzyme function, metabolism, whole organism form and function (circulation, gas exchange, nutrition, osmoregulation). BISC 101 and 102 can be taken in either order. Prerequisite: Biology 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or BISC 100 with a minimum grade of C-, or BISC 113 with a minimum grade of C+, or BPK 105 with a minimum grade of C+, or HSCI 100 with a minimum grade of C+); and Chemistry 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or CHEM 111 with a minimum grade of C-; or CHEM 110 and 115 , both with a minimum grade of C-). Breadth-Science.
CHEM 121General Chemistry and Laboratory I4 credits
Builds upon the principles of chemistry through a lecture and laboratory experience to develop problem-solving skills with a focus on learning trends in the periodic table, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, the energetics of chemical reactions, and properties of gases, liquids, and solids. This course includes a laboratory component. Prerequisite: Chemistry 12 with a minimum grade of B, or CHEM 109 or 111 with a minimum grade of C- or CHEM 110 and 115 , both with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 120 or 125 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.
HSCI 130Foundations of Health Science4 credits
How health, illness and disease are defined and measured for individuals and populations. Research strategies used to identify how health, illness and disease are distributed across human populations and how environmental, socio-economic, demographic, biological, behavioural and political factors influence individual and population health. Breadth-Social Sci/Science.

Spring

Also one 100-level ENGL/WL slot. The language slot must satisfy the requirement list: one three-unit ENGL 111W, 112W, 113W, 114W, 115W or 199W, or WL 101W, 103W, 104W or 105W.

BISC 102General Biology4 credits
Introduction to evolution and ecology, focusing on the processes that shape the diversity of life on earth. Lecture and lab topics include: natural selection and other mechanisms of evolutionary change, phylogeny, genetics, speciation, behaviour, species interactions, population ecology, and ecosystems. BISC 101 and 102 may be taken in either order. Prerequisite: Biology 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum grade of C (or BISC 100 with a minimum grade of C-, or BISC 113 with a minimum grade of C+, or BPK 105 with a minimum grade of C+, or HSCI 100 with a minimum grade of C+). Breadth-Science.
CHEM 122General Chemistry II2 credits
Builds on CHEM 121 , emphasizing essential concepts including chemical reactions and equilibria, acid-base principles, reaction rates, solubility, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics. Students also quantify reaction energetics and explore electrochemical processes, with a focus on oxidation-reduction reactions, thereby deepening their understanding of both theoretical and practical applications of chemistry. Students who intend to take further laboratory courses in chemistry should take CHEM 122 concurrently with CHEM 126 . Prerequisite: CHEM 120 or 121 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 124 or CHEM 180 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
MATH 154Mathematics for the Life Sciences I3 credits
Designed for students specializing in the life sciences. Topics include: limits, growth rate and the derivative; elementary functions, optimization and approximation methods, and their applications, integration, and differential equations; mathematical models of biological processes and their implementation and analysis using software. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least B, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least C-, or MATH 110 with a grade of at least C-. Students with credit for either MATH 150 , 151 or 157 may not take MATH 154 for further credit. Quantitative.

Summer

Also one 200-level HSCI choice and one elective. The requirements page restricts the HSCI choice to HSCI 204, 210, 211, 212, 214, 216 or 220.

MATH 155Mathematics for the Life Sciences II3 credits
Designed for students specializing in the life sciences. Topics include: vectors and matrices, partial derivatives, multi-dimensional integrals, systems of differential equations, compartment models, graphs and networks, and their applications to the life sciences; mathematical models of multi-component biological processes and their implementation and analysis using software. Students planning to take MATH 251 are recommended to consider MATH 152 as the prerequisite pathway. See an advisor to determine what may be best for you. Prerequisite: MATH 150 , 151 or 154 , with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 157 with a grade of at least B. Students with credit for MATH 152 or 158 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

30–60 units

Fall

CHEM 281Organic Chemistry and Laboratory I4 credits
Equips students with an understanding of the structure, stereochemistry, and reactivity of carbon-based (organic) molecules. Emphasis is placed on structure-reactivity relationships, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopic methods used to understand and analyze organic compounds. The laboratory component focuses on purification and analytical methods for organic compounds. Prerequisite: CHEM 121 with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: CHEM 122 or CHEM 180 . Students with credit for CHEM 280 or CHEM 285 may not take this course for further credit.
HSCI 230Evaluating Epidemiological Research3 credits
Prepares students at a foundational level to evaluate and critique conclusions drawn from epidemiological research. Students will also experience the value and limitations of epidemiology as a tool for researching health and disease in populations. Prerequisite: 30 units, including HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for HSCI 330 may not take this course for further credit.
MBB 222Molecular Biology and Biochemistry3 credits
The structure, function and synthesis of proteins, RNA and DNA and their interrelated biological functions within the cell. An introduction to molecular biology techniques and methods of protein purification and analysis. Prerequisite: or Corequisite CHEM 281 .

Spring

CHEM 282Organic Chemistry II2 credits
Considers the special properties and reactions of conjugated systems such as dienes and aromatic molecules. It places an emphasis on a range of carbonyl containing functional groups, their reactions, and their presence in biological molecules. A unifying theme is the prediction of reaction outcomes by the application of reaction mechanisms. Prerequisite: CHEM 281 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 283 may not take this course for further credit.
MBB 229Introductory Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory3 credits
Practical course providing hands-on experience in fundamental molecular biology and biochemistry techniques including DNA isolation, restriction enzyme digestion, transformation, polymerase chain reaction, DNA and protein electrophoresis and immunofluorescence. Prerequisite: or Corequisite: MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C- or better. Students who have taken MBB 308 or MBB 309 first may not then take this course for further credit.

Summer

Also one elective.

BISC 202Genetics3 credits
Principles and concepts of transmission of genetic information. Topics include: molecular basis of inheritance, interpretation of pedigrees, chromosomal mapping, linkage, crosses, epigenetics, and the regulation and flow of genetic information from DNA to proteins. Focus on problem-solving. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102 , both with a minimum grade of C-.
MBB 231Cellular Biology and Biochemistry3 credits
A study of the molecular processes which underlie cell structure and function, integrating ultrastructural, physiological and biochemical approaches. Modern techniques used in the analysis of organelle and cell function are integral parts of the course. Prerequisite: MBB 222 , BISC 101 , CHEM 281 , all with a minimum grade of C- or better.

60–90 units

Fall

HSCI 305The Canadian Health System3 credits
A comparative analysis of the Canadian health care financing and delivery systems and policies. History, organizational principles, health care resources, costs, access to care, quality, and equity. Societal and political issues, threats and values that affect Canada's health care system and others around the world. Prerequisite: 60 units, including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-.
HSCI 324Human Population Genetics and Evolution3 credits
Human variation and human health in the context of population genetics, epidemiology, demography, and human evolution. Prerequisite: BISC 202 with a minimum grade of C-.

Spring

Also one three-unit STAT 302 or STAT 305 choice.

HSCI 319WApplied Health Ethics3 credits
Practical ethical and legal issues in health sciences, emphasizing population and public health. Case studies approach highlighting current ethical dilemmas and decision-making in the context of global to local legal frameworks. Prerequisite: 75 units including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-, one of which must be a 200-division course. Writing.
HSCI 321Human Pathophysiology3 credits
Molecular, cellular and systemic approach to examine topics in human pathophysiology. Prerequisite: MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor.
MBB 331Molecular Biology4 credits
The study of DNA and RNA in relation to gene structure and expression: DNA replication and the regulation of gene expression in bacteria and higher organisms. Introduction to recombinant DNA and cloning theory; natural vector structures and recombinant vector construction. Prerequisite: MBB 231 , and BISC 202 , with a minimum grade of C.

Summer

Three electives. Their credit weights are not printed in this planning table.

Course details have not been mapped for this term.

90–120 units

Fall

Two 400-level HSCI courses from the selected concentration, plus HSCI 440 or HSCI 442 (4 units), or HSCI 441 in Spring instead. Follow the selected concentration’s exact requirements; these options are not all compulsory courses in Fall.

Course details have not been mapped for this term.

Spring

Three 300/400-level-only electives and one other elective. The Virology alternative places HSCI 441 here instead of the Fall HSCI 440/442 slot. Elective weights are not printed in this planning table.

Course details have not been mapped for this term.

Additional published courses

STAT 201Statistics for the Life Sciences3 credits
Research methodology and associated statistical analysis techniques for students with training in the life sciences. Intended to be particularly accessible to students who are not specializing in Statistics. Prerequisite: Recommended: 30 units. Students cannot obtain credit for STAT 201 if they already have credit for - or are taking concurrently - STAT 101, 203 , 205 , 285 , or any upper division STAT course. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
ENGL 111WLiterary Classics in English3 credits
Examines literary “classics”, variously defined, apprehending them both on their own terms and within larger critical conversations. May incorporate the comparative study of work in related artistic fields and engage relevant media trends. Includes attention to writing skills. Students with credit for ENGL 101W may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
ENGL 112WLiterature Now3 credits
Introduces students to contemporary works of literature in English and/or contemporary approaches to interpreting literature. May focus on one or multiple genres. Includes attention to writing skills. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
ENGL 113WLiterature and Performance3 credits
Introduces students to plays and performance works created and adapted for the stage, and/or the performative dimensions of other literary forms. May be organized historically, generically or thematically. The course may also explore the links between literary and performance theory. Includes attention to writing skills. Students with credit for ENGL 103W may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
ENGL 114WLanguage and Purpose3 credits
Introduces students to the relationships between writing and purpose, between the features of texts and their meaning and effects. May focus on one or more literary or non-literary genres, including (but not limited to) essays, oratory, autobiography, poetry, and journalism. Includes attention to writing skills. Students with credit for ENGL 104W may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
ENGL 115WLiterature and Culture3 credits
An Introduction to the study of literature within the wider cultural field, with a focus on contemporary issues across genres and media. Students with credit for ENGL 105W may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
ENGL 199WWriting to Persuade3 credits
An introduction to reading and writing from a rhetorical perspective. The course treats reading and writing as activities that take place in particular circumstances and situations, in contrast to the traditional emphasis on decontextualized, formal features of texts. It prepares students for reading and writing challenges they are likely to encounter within and beyond the classroom. Prerequisite: 12 units. Students with credit for ENGL 199 may not take this course for further credit. Writing.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
WL 101WWriting in World Literature3 credits
Explores literary texts from diverse linguistic and cultural origins while introducing students to the fundamentals of comparative literary analysis and critical writing. May examine cross-cultural interactions, or compare texts thematically. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
WL 103WEarly World Literatures3 credits
Introduces ways of comparing early world literatures across time and space. May explore fundamental themes such as love, heroism, or the underworld. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
WL 104WModern World Literatures3 credits
Introduces ways of comparing modern world literatures across time and space. May explore topics such as revolution, technology, or existentialism. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
WL 105WWorld Literature Lab3 credits
Incorporates academic and creative writing assignments through hands-on exploration of language, literacy, and literature across cultures. Includes translation exercises and writing workshops. Additional language fluency highly recommended but not required. Writing.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 204Perspectives on Human Health and the Environment3 credits
An overview of environmental hazards and their impacts on human health. Methodological approaches to their detection, assessment, management, and mitigation. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101 , HSCI 130 , all with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for HSCI 304 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 210Special Topics in Health Sciences3 credits
Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings. Prerequisite: Will vary according to topic.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 211Perspectives on Cancer, Cardiovascular, and Metabolic Diseases3 credits
An interdisciplinary overview of the major non-communicable diseases - cancers, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases - from a public health perspective. Review of biological mechanisms, risk factors, historical and cultural contexts, and global distribution. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101 , HSCI 130 , all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 212Perspectives on Infectious and Immunological Diseases3 credits
An integrated survey of infectious diseases and their social and economic causes and consequences. Infectious agents, including bacteria, protozoa, fungi and viruses -- how they spread, how they work, and how they can be stopped. Surveillance, prevention, and management of infectious diseases and epidemics. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101 , HSCI 130 , all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 214Perspectives on Mental Health and Illness3 credits
An interdisciplinary overview of mental health and mental illness among populations. A review of the distribution and risk factors of mental illnesses as well as the historical and cultural context of their development. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101 , HSCI 130 , all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 216Ecological Determinants of Human Growth, Development and Health3 credits
Effects that social and ecological factors have on human growth, development and health. Challenges such as epidemics, natural catastrophes, industrialization, globalization, migration, poverty, war, global warming, etc, leading to evolution and adaptations. Relationships between socio-ecological challenges, their health consequences and related gene-population variations and effects on growth, development, sexual maturation, reproductive investment, and senescence and health. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101 , with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
STAT 302Analysis of Experimental and Observational Data3 credits
The standard techniques of multiple regression analysis, analysis of variance, and analysis of covariance, and their role in observational and experimental studies. This course may not be used to satisfy the upper division requirements of the following programs: statistics major, statistics honours, actuarial science major, and actuarial science honours. Prerequisite: One of STAT 201 , STAT 203 , STAT 205 , STAT 270 , STAT 271 , BUS 232 , or ECON 233 , with a minimum grade of C-. Students who have taken STAT 350 first may not then take the course for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
STAT 305Introduction to Biostatistical Methods for Health Sciences3 credits
Intermediate statistical techniques for the health sciences. Review of introductory concepts in statistics and probability including hypothesis testing, estimation and confidence intervals for means and proportions. Contingency tables and the analysis of multiple 2x2 tables. Correlation and regression. Multiple regression and model selection. Logistic regression and odds ratios. Basic concepts in survival analysis. This course may not be used to satisfy the upper division requirements of the following programs: statistics major, statistics honours, actuarial science major, and actuarial science honours. Prerequisite: One of STAT 201 , STAT 203 , STAT 205 , STAT 270 , STAT 271 , BUS 232 , or ECON 233 , with a minimum grade of C-. Students who have taken STAT 350 first may not then take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
BISC 303Microbiology4 credits
A broad introduction to micro-organisms (bacteria, viruses and archaea) with an emphasis on their molecular biology, metabolism, physiology, and interactions with their hosts and environment. Labs introduce students to modern microbial techniques. Prerequisite: BISC 102 , MBB 222 , and MBB 231 , all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
BISC 357Genetic Engineering4 credits
The use of genetic engineering to evaluate and alter gene function is introduced in lectures and practiced in labs. Lectures cover bioinformatics, gene editing, and genome sequencing. Lab projects include a series of cloning techniques from nucleic acid extraction to making novel gene constructs. Prerequisite: BISC 202 , MBB 222 , and MBB 231 , all with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: MBB 331 . Students with credit for MBB 308 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 336Health and Life Sciences Laboratory4 credits
An introduction to selected wet bench laboratory techniques common to biomedical health research. The skills learned will focus on observation, communication, problem solving and critical thinking. These fundamental laboratory skills are designed to prepare students to perform future laboratory studies in many areas of health science research. Prerequisite: MBB 229 and MBB 231 , both with a minimum grade of C-. Students who have taken HSCI 373 under this topic in Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MBB 308Molecular Biology Laboratory4 credits
Modern molecular biological and recombinant nucleic acid methods will be covered. Examples are DNA and RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, restriction enzyme digestion, DNA cloning and polymerase chain reaction. Prerequisite: MBB 229 with a minimum grade of C. Corequisite: MBB 331 . Students with credit for BISC 357 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MBB 309WBiochemistry Laboratory4 credits
Contemporary techniques in biochemistry including protein purification, immunochemical methods, and lipid characterization. Prerequisite: MBB 229 and MBB 231 , both with a minimum grade of C. Writing.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 338Virology3 credits
Virology in the context of viral diseases in humans and animals. Viruses, their structures, transmission and replication in human and animal hosts, interactions with hosts and viral diseases. Prerequisite: MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 441Virology Laboratory4 credits
Study, in a laboratory environment, of animal viruses as infectious agents that threaten human health as well as their use as biomedical tools. Includes cell culture methods, virus amplification, titration, purification, and identification, etc. Prerequisite: HSCI 338 and either (one of HSCI 336 , MBB 308 , or MBB 309W ) or ( MBB 229 and ( BISC 303 or BISC 357 )), all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 427Immune Responses in Health and Disease3 credits
Defects in the immunologic responses to bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. The mechanisms of action of vaccines. The causes of immune-mediated diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, hypersensitivity reactions (including asthma and allergy) and organ transplant rejection. The reaction of the immune system to cancer and immunotherapy for cancer. Prerequisite: MBB 326 or HSCI 326 , with a minimum grade of C, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for MBB 427 may not take this course for credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 474Seminar in Neuropharmacology3 credits
Mechanisms of drug action in the brain, including several classes of drugs and neurotransmitter systems that are involved in mental health disorders, drug addiction and neurodegeneration. Prerequisite: HSCI 323 and either HSCI 321 or MBB 331 , all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 475Seminar in Molecular Mechanisms of Epigenetics3 credits
Discussion of novel and advanced topics in chemical covalent modifications of chromatin that influence gene regulation. Prerequisite: HSCI 323 , HSCI 324 , and MBB 331 , all with a minimum grade of C-, or permission of the instructor.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 476Seminar in Molecular Basis of Drug Action and Environmental Exposure3 credits
Current topics in molecular biology-based research into pathologies of disease related to drug and environmental exposures. Focus on systems pharmacology and the molecular determinants of drug and toxicant action as they relate to gene expression and signal transduction. Prerequisite: HSCI 323 and MBB 331 , with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 477Seminar in Vaccine Immunology3 credits
Immunological concepts of vaccines and vaccinology including vaccination, correlates of immune protection, humoral and mucosal immunity, adjuvants, recombinant vaccine technology, 'designer' vaccines, and HIV/AIDS vaccine design as a paradigm for modern vaccinology. Prerequisite: HSCI 326 or MBB 326 or HSCI 338 , with a minimum grade or C- or permission of the instructor.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 478Seminar in Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases3 credits
Application of modern molecular methods to epidemiological questions. Globally-relevant and emerging infectious diseases will be highlighted. Prerequisite: MBB 331 or HSCI 326 or MBB 326 , with a minimum grade of C, or HSCI 338 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for MBB 478 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 482Senior Seminar in Infectious Diseases3 credits
An in-depth overview of newly emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in the context of disease prevention, surveillance and control. Prerequisite: HSCI 326 or MBB 326 or HSCI 338 , with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 326Introduction to the Immune System3 credits
Introduction to the structure and function of the immune system and how this system protects against microbial infections. Innate immune responses, including the function of innate immune cells, receptors and complement. Adaptive immune responses, including the organization of lymphoid organs, development and function of T and B cells, and antibodies. Prerequisite: MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C. Students with credit for HSCI 426, MBB 426 or MBB 326 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 442Immunology Laboratory4 credits
Laboratory methods in immunology. Focus on the vertebrate immune system and the molecular and cellular principles underlying immune recognition. Experimental methods designed to combine serology, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology and genetics as a basis for understanding immunological aspects of health and disease. Prerequisite: HSCI 326 or MBB 326 , and either (one of HSCI 336 , MBB 308 , or MBB 309W ) or ( MBB 229 and ( BISC 303 or BISC 357 )), all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 323Principles of Pharmacology and Toxicology3 credits
Biological, molecular and biochemical actions of drugs and toxicants. Genetic and environmental risk determinants. Understanding the broad spectrum of toxicological problems encountered in clinical practice, drug development and regulation, and medical research. Prerequisite: MBB 231 , CHEM 282 , both with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 440Cell Pathophysiology Laboratory4 credits
A review of pathophysiological mechanisms of disease with an emphasis on the molecular, cellular and genetic bases of pathology. Laboratory includes cell-biology experiments, histological preparations, and microscopic examination of normal and diseased tissues. Prerequisite: HSCI 321 , HSCI 323 , and either (one of HSCI 336 , MBB 308 , or MBB 309W ) or ( BISC 357 and MBB 229 ), all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
CMPT 120Introduction to Computing Science and Programming I3 credits
An elementary introduction to computing science and computer programming, suitable for students with little or no programming background. Students will learn fundamental concepts and terminology of computing science, acquire elementary skills for programming in a high-level language, e.g. Python. The students will be exposed to diverse fields within, and applications of computing science. Topics will include: pseudocode; data types and control structures; fundamental algorithms; recursion; reading and writing files; measuring performance of algorithms; debugging tools; basic terminal navigation using shell commands. Treatment is informal and programming is presented as a problem-solving tool. Prerequisite: BC Math 12 or equivalent is recommended. Students with credit for CMPT 102 , 128 , 130 or 166 may not take this course for further credit. Students who have taken CMPT 125 , 129 , 130 or 135 first may not then take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 206The Economics of Health and Health Care3 credits
Students will gain an introductory understanding of the theories and concepts that underpin economics and be able to demonstrate how these can be applied to provide insights for health policy, health care decision making and health technology assessment. Prerequisite: HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for HSCI 306 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 207Research Methods in Health Sciences3 credits
Principles and applications in health sciences research methodology. Quantitative and qualitative methods. Research process and design. Appropriate approaches for diverse research questions. Research ethics, sources of data, sampling, measurement, data collection, initial data analysis techniques. Prerequisite: HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: STAT 201 or 203 or 205 . Students with credit for HSCI 307 may not take this course for further credit.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MATH 151Calculus I3 credits
Designed for students specializing in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computing science and engineering. Logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometric functions, inverse functions. Limits, continuity, and derivatives. Techniques of differentiation, including logarithmic and implicit differentiation. The Mean Value Theorem. Applications of differentiation including extrema, curve sketching, Newton's method. Introduction to modeling with differential equations. Polar coordinates, parametric curves. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least A, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least B, or MATH 110 with a grade of at least A. Students with credit for either MATH 150 , 154 or 157 may not take MATH 151 for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
MATH 157Calculus I for the Social Sciences3 credits
Designed for students specializing in business or the social sciences. Topics include: limits, growth rate and the derivative; logarithmic, exponential and trigonometric functions and their application to business, economics, optimization and approximation methods; introduction to functions of several variables with emphasis on partial derivatives and extrema. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least B, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least C, or MATH 110 with a grade of at least C. Students with credit for either MATH 150 , 151 or 154 may not take MATH 157 for further credit. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
STAT 203Introduction to Statistics for the Social Sciences3 credits
Descriptive and inferential statistics aimed at students in the social sciences. Scales of measurement. Descriptive statistics. Measures of association. Hypothesis tests and confidence intervals. Students in Sociology and Anthropology are expected to take SA 255 before this course. Intended to be particularly accessible to students who are not specializing in Statistics. Prerequisite: Recommended: 30 units including a research methods course such as SA 255 , CRIM 220 , POL 200W , or equivalent. Students cannot obtain credit for STAT 203 if they already have credit for - or are taking concurrently - STAT 101, 201 , 205 , 285 , or any upper division STAT course. Quantitative.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
STAT 205Introduction to Statistics3 credits
The collection, description, analysis and summary of data, including the concepts of frequency distribution, parameter estimation and hypothesis testing. Intended to be particularly accessible to students who are not specializing in Statistics. Prerequisite: Recommended: 30 units. Students cannot obtain credit for STAT 205 if they already have credit for - or are taking concurrently - STAT 101, 201 , 203 , 285 , or any upper division STAT course.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 341Fundamental Epidemiological Concepts and Approaches3 credits
As a follow-up to HSCI 230 , this course aims to build further literacy of fundamental epidemiological concepts and approaches, and skills to apply basic quantitative measures to describe and evaluate public health issues as well as communicate the magnitude and potential determinants of those issues. Prerequisite: HSCI 230 , and STAT 201 or 203 or 205 , all with a minimum grade of C-.
SFU Fall 2026 official course description
HSCI 410Exploratory Data Analysis3 credits
Regression and data analysis techniques for health research. Practical approaches to linear and logistic regression, multivariable modelling, interaction, variable selection, confounding, and measures of association. Computer-based laboratory exercises using statistical software applied to health datasets. Prerequisite: STAT 302 or STAT 305 , with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: HSCI 230 .
SFU Fall 2026 official course description

Elective choices

Health Sciences Major / Public Health and Data Stream Upper Division Requirements: NOTE: SFU students accepted in the accelerated master’s within the Faculty of Health Sciences may apply a maximum of 10 graduate course units, taken while completing the bachelor's degree, towards the upper division electives of the bachelor’s program and the requirements of the master's degree. These graduate courses must be passed with a grade of B (3.0) or better in order to be used towards the requirements of the master's degree. For more information go to: https://www.sfu.ca/gradstudies/apply/programs/accelerated-masters.html .
Health Sciences Major / Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements: Students admitted to Simon Fraser University beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.

Study routes

Degree variants, engineering options, streams and concentrations on the selected current calendars.

Health Sciences Major

Study locations

Locations of published Fall 2026 sections: Burnaby, Online, Surrey. Locations are observed among the named courses’ Fall 2026 sections. This is a term-specific record, not every required class or a future timetable.SFU Fall 2026 exact degree calendar: published course sections