UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA · CANADA
Master of Science in Health Systems
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Only health systems program in Canada embedded within a business school.Unique Positioning
- Multidisciplinary faculty with expertise in qualitative and quantitative methods.Expert Faculty
- 24 months (full-time study)Program Duration
- 30 units of study including coursework, internship, and thesis.Program Structure
- Offered in English and French.Language Options
The Master of Science in Health Systems (MSc HS) at the University of Ottawa is designed for individuals aspiring to become researchers and leaders in transforming global health systems. This multidisciplinary program, housed within the Telfer School of Management, uniquely integrates business expertise with health system challenges. Students come from diverse backgrounds, including sociology, psychology, engineering, business, and various health-related fields, applying both qualitative and quantitative methods to complex issues like wait time management, IT adoption, and quality of care. The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to improve the quality and timeliness of healthcare delivery in Canada and worldwide.
Curriculum
The MSc in Health Systems requires the successful completion of 30 units. This includes 12 units of coursework, a 6-unit Health Systems Research Internship, and a 12-unit thesis. Students typically complete the program on a full-time basis over three terms (24 months).
- Year 1
- Research Design Methodologies and the Conduct of ResearchMHS 5301
- Systems Analysis, Modeling and Decision Support in HealthMHS 6380
- Health Systems Research Seminars 1MHS 6991
- Graduate level courses in health administration (MHA)
- Elective Courses (examples)
- Year 2
- Health Systems Research Internship
- Thesis
Careers
Graduates of the MSc in Health Systems program are prepared for diverse roles in research and leadership within the health sector. The program's unique integration of management principles with health system challenges equips students for impactful careers.
- Health Systems Researcher
- Health Services Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Healthcare Consultant
- Project Manager in Health Organizations
- Industry roles in various health organizations and research institutes.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the MSc in Health Systems program?
- You need a four-year bachelor's degree with a minimum 75% (B+) GPA in a relevant field, and at least 6 units of analysis courses. You must also submit GMAT/GRE scores (minimum 50th percentile), two letters of recommendation, and a statement of research interest.
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
- You can demonstrate proficiency with a TOEFL score of 250 (TWE 5, TSE 5), an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (with specific section minimums), a CANTEST score of 14 (with section minimums), or by having completed a degree from an English-language university within the last five years.
- What is the program duration and structure?
- The full-time program typically takes 24 months and requires the completion of 30 units. This includes 12 units of coursework, a 6-unit Health Systems Research Internship, and a 12-unit thesis.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition rates can be found on the University of Ottawa's official fee schedule. Information on specific program fees should be sought directly from the university.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Health Systems Researcher, Health Services Manager, Policy Analyst, Healthcare Consultant, and Project Manager in various health organizations and research institutes.
- What is the application deadline for the MSc in Health Systems program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1st. The first round of offers is typically extended in mid-December.
Entry requirements
Four-year bachelor’s (honours) degreeMinimum 75% (B+) cumulative GPA in management, health sciences, life sciences, medicine, nursing, computer science, economics, social sciences, engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
Analytical BackgroundAt least 6 units of analysis courses (quantitative and qualitative research methods, micro/macro economics, calculus, probability, statistics, linear algebra, information technology). Students lacking quantitative analysis background may need prerequisite coursework.
TOEFL250 (TWE 5, TSE 5)
IELTS7.0 overall, with at least 7.0 in three sections and 6.0 in the fourth.
CANTEST14 overall, with no individual score below 4.0, and 4.5 on the oral component.
Previous DegreeCompletion of a previous degree program in an English-language university within the last five years.
Work ExperienceProlonged residence and professional practice in an English-speaking country (normally at least four years of the last six).
Applicants must also submit a GMAT (minimum 50th percentile) or GRE (minimum 50th percentile) score, at least two letters of recommendation, and a statement of research interest (800-1000 words). Ability to read and understand written English is required for all applicants. Prerequisite courses may be required if the academic background is insufficient.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Ottawa's official fee schedule for current international tuition rates. Information on specific program fees should be sought directly from the university.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Ottawa's official fee schedule for current domestic tuition rates. Information on specific program fees should be sought directly from the university.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program or supporting pages. Prospective students should consult the University of Ottawa's general cost of living estimates for students.
Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship may be available for international students who completed secondary or post-secondary education in French.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather transcripts, GMAT/GRE scores, English proficiency test results, at least two letters of recommendation, and prepare a statement of research interest (800-1000 words).
2. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the application form through the University of Ottawa's graduate studies portal.
3. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
4. Application ReviewThe Admissions Committee will review complete applications after the deadline.
5. Receive DecisionApplicants will be notified of the admission decision.
Scholarships
Telfer School of Management Admission Scholarship (MHA program)$5,000
Telfer MHA Diversity and Equity Admission Scholarship for Women (MHA program)$15,000
John A. King MHA Admission Scholarship for Health Care Leadership (MHA program)Variable
Laurie Strano Memorial MHA Scholarship (MHA program)$3,500
The Ron Sapsford MHA Scholarship for Health Care Leadership (MHA program)$2,000
The Soublière Family MHA Scholarship (OSOTF) (MHA program)$3,000
Jack Kitts / MHA Alumni Association Admission Scholarship (OSOTF) (MHA program)$2,500
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the MSc in Health Systems program?
+
You need a four-year bachelor's degree with a minimum 75% (B+) GPA in a relevant field, and at least 6 units of analysis courses. You must also submit GMAT/GRE scores (minimum 50th percentile), two letters of recommendation, and a statement of research interest.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
+
You can demonstrate proficiency with a TOEFL score of 250 (TWE 5, TSE 5), an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (with specific section minimums), a CANTEST score of 14 (with section minimums), or by having completed a degree from an English-language university within the last five years.
What is the program duration and structure?
+
The full-time program typically takes 24 months and requires the completion of 30 units. This includes 12 units of coursework, a 6-unit Health Systems Research Internship, and a 12-unit thesis.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition rates can be found on the University of Ottawa's official fee schedule. Information on specific program fees should be sought directly from the university.
What career opportunities are available after graduating?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Health Systems Researcher, Health Services Manager, Policy Analyst, Healthcare Consultant, and Project Manager in various health organizations and research institutes.
What is the application deadline for the MSc in Health Systems program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1st. The first round of offers is typically extended in mid-December.