Programs Requiring Prior University Study

You must complete university study before you can apply to the following programs.

To find programs that require you to complete college study before you can apply, view Collaborative University and College Programs.

3 Prior Study Programs

Optometry

University of Waterloo

Professional

Help preserve and enhance vision as an optometrist. After 3 years in a Bachelor of Science program, you can apply to Canada’s only Doctor of Optometry degree program taught in English. Learn about ocular health and disease, optics and vision while applying your knowledge in clinical settings. Recommended Waterloo programs to meet requirements include Honours Science, Biomedical Sciences, and Biology.

The professional Doctor of Optometry program is 4 years in length, not including the minimum 3 years of university studies needed prior to entry.

Completion of at least 3 full years of university-level science with specific course requirements.

Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), Admission Information Form, online assessment of personal characteristics (Casper test), and optometrist and character references required.

Minimum overall university average of 75%.

Pharmacy

University of Waterloo

Professional

Pharmacists are medication experts who identify, resolve, and prevent medication-related problems for their patients. Many pharmacists work in community pharmacies, but they also provide care in hospitals, family health teams, and long-term care facilities, often collaborating closely with other health professionals.
As the only co-op pharmacy program in Canada, you'll get paid, hands-on experience throughout your studies. Spend co-op work terms at a community pharmacy practice or choose to explore careers in industry and government.
Recommended Waterloo programs to meet requirements include Honours Science, Biomedical Sciences, and Biology. The professional Doctor of Pharmacy program is 4 years in length, not including the minimum 2 years of university studies needed prior to entry.

Successful completion of at least 2 full years of university-level science with specific course requirements.
Minimum overall university average of 75%.
Admission Information Form, reference, online assessment of personal characteristics (Casper test), interview, Fundamental Skills Assessment required.
High school students may qualify for Conditional Admission to Pharmacy.

Social Work

University of Waterloo

Undergraduate

The Bachelor of Social Work is offered as a full-time or part-time professional degree program at Renison University College, which is located on the University of Waterloo campus. The program prepares students for ethical, critically reflective, anti-oppressive, competent, and accountable social work practice. Waterloo's BSW distinguishes itself through strong academics as well as a hands-on, skills-oriented approach to social work practice. Admission requirements include successful completion of either a 3 or 4 year undergraduate university degree (Bachelor of Arts or equivalent) from an accredited university, with a minimum 70% average and at least 6.0 academic units (12 one-semester courses) in the social sciences, including 7 prerequisite courses listed on the Renison University College website. Conditional Admission to Social Work: Minimum 75% overall average in Social Service Worker diploma; resumé; references; personal statement. Social Service Worker diploma graduates (or equivalent) can apply directly to Social Work and may qualify for admission to the program conditional upon completion of the 3-year general degree in Social Development Studies, overall average 70% (75% overall average in required social work pre-requisite courses). Interested in becoming a social service worker? How can Renison help you in your journey? Learn more about the Social Service Worker Pathway to a BSW.