Health Sciences Education

For admission inquiries, please contact the program director.

Program Goal

The Master of Education in Health Sciences Education (MEd in HSE) program will extend the knowledge and skills of health sciences educators in the areas of educational pedagogy, educational research, and interprofessional leadership within the collaborative context of communities of practice of professional educators.  

Program Summary

Post secondary institutions offering health science programs are expected to manage increasing student enrolments and improve the quality and delivery of education to these students. These institutions require an increased number of faculty members who possess strong teaching skills and more sophisticated knowledge of pedagogy and educational research. The University of Alberta’s Master of Education in Health Sciences Education (MEd in HSE) program was developed to address the need and desire of health professionals and clinical faculty to enhance their teaching, leadership, and research skills. The program was developed by a planning committee with membership from the Faculty of Education, the health science faculties, and the Health Sciences Council* and includes the following unique structural and curricular design:

  • Interprofessional communities of practice/learners, facilitating regular opportunities for engagement, practice and critical reflection. Teachers and learners will come from different professional backgrounds, contexts, and perspectives and course subject matter will be interprofessional in nature;
  • Clinically relevant educational content; 
  • Emphasis on interprofessional teamwork in education, research, and practice; 
  • Exposure to new technologies used in teaching, research and practice (eg. simulations, digital media in health care, blended learning environments); 
  • Practical considerations of the learning needs of practicing health sciences graduates that may continue full-time employment while studying; 
  • Both thesis-based and course-based routes; 
  • Includes instructors from the Faculty of Education and the various Health Sciences Faculties; and 
  • Assignment of an Advisor from the Faculty of Education and a Co-supervisor from the students’ professional discipline.

It is envisioned that the interprofessional community of practice initiated with the program will provide the structure for students and faculty to continue learning and collaborating even after program completion. 

*Membership of the University of Alberta Health Sciences Council (HSC) includes the eight health sciences Deans, the VP (Research), and representation from Alberta Health Services (Capital Health). It is lead by the Vice-Provost (HSC).

To apply to the Master of Education in Health Sciences Education
(MEd in HSE) program for September 2013 admission:
When you are applying online:
What department are you applying to?  select  Health Sciences Education
What program are you applying to?  select  Master of Education (Crse)
When do you want to start this program?  select  Fall Term 2013