Population health risk assessment is the comprehensive assessment of health risks in the general population based on environmental, genetic, economic, social and behavioural determinants of health. This leads to evidence-based population health risk policy analysis, and ultimately, cost effective population health risk management decisions.

The Graduate Diploma in Population Health Risk Assessment and Management is specially designed for those individuals employed and/or interested in population health analysis and risk assessment. The diploma aims to provide the professional skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in both the public and the private sectors. The diploma is offered both full- and part-time.

On completion of the Diploma, qualified students meeting admission requirements could apply to one of the following programs: the Master of Science (MSc) in Epidemiology, the Master of Health Administration (MHA) or the Doctorate in Population Health (PhD). Upon admission, students will have to complete the requirements of their program with credits granted for relevant diploma courses.

Students who have completed the Graduate Diploma in Population Health Risk Assessment and Management may request admission to the MSc in Epidemiology. Admission to the MSc is competitive and the number of candidates admitted is limited. If admission is granted, some credits from the Graduate Diploma may be retained in the MSc. This evaluation is made on a case-by-case basis by the MSc Epidemiology Program Committee.

The diploma operates within the framework of the general regulations of the FGPS, which are available on the website at the following link:

The professors included in the list below are members of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. This means that they are authorized to supervise or co-supervise theses. A complete list of the faculty and staff members associated with the program can be found at http://www.mclaughlincentre.ca

KREWSKI, Daniel, Cross-appointment
Environmental and occupational epidemiology; biostatistics; population health risk assessment

Admission is competitive. Candidates must normally hold a bachelor's degree with honours in science, health sciences and/or social sciences with an average of 75% (B+) or above, calculated in accordance with FGPS guidelines. Candidates holding credentials that may not exactly match these standards but who meet the FGPS minimum admission requirements may be admitted based on having demonstrated knowledge and skills obtained through relevant training and/or experience. Proficiency in English is required. Ideally, applicants would have successfully completed EPI 5240 and EPI 5242 prior to their admission. Students who have not completed courses in biostatistics and epidemiology will be required to attend a non-credit one-week each intensive courses at the end of August. These courses are offered by the University of Ottawa.

A maximum of three credits in equivalencies or advanced standing may be granted. To be eligible, the credits in question must not have counted towards the requirements of a previous diploma or degree. Candidates who have already successfully completed some of the compulsory credits may be allowed to replace those credits with elective credits. For details, consult section B.2.7. of the general regulations of the FGPS.

Transfer from Graduate Diploma to Master’s

Students registered in the graduate diploma program can request to transfer to the Master of Science degree in Epidemiology in accordance with section A.7.1 of the general regulations of the FGPS.

Language Requirements

The core courses are offered in English. In accordance with University of Ottawa regulations, however, all students have the option of writing exams and assignments in either English or French.

Graduate Diploma Requirements (15 credits)

Duration of the Program

Minimum Standards

Tronc commun / Core Courses

Cours optionnels / Optional Courses

Academic Unit Coordinates