Who should take the Micro-certificate in Introduction to Health Impact Assessment

There is global pressure to have the expertise to review, evaluate, assess and manage public health risks associated with development projects. Few jurisdictions around the world offer HIA training. In taking this micro-credential, your skills are needed not just in Canada but around the world. As a current public health or environmental professional, you can take this opportunity to stay attuned to an important emerging field of practice that requires international professionalism and training.

If you see yourself reflected in any of the following, this program could be a good match:

Education background

• you have an undergraduate degree in public health, environmental science, occupational health, engineering or a related field, and are interested in obtaining a professional development micro-credential

Career background

• you are an impact assessment professional interested in HIA but require training to conform with core competency requirements as outlined by international organizations
• you are associated with a development project and are looking to positively contribute to communities while managing risk
• you hold social safeguards, health positions, and are responsible for a portfolio of development projects
• you oversee safeguarding the health of a region or community
• you want to better understand potential community health and safety risks and mitigation measures
• you want to work with Indigenous communities or on projects affecting vulnerable populations and sense the need for a safer, healthier approach

Career growth and aspirations

• you're positioning yourself to be a leader in HIA as the global and Canadian landscape evolves and demand grows
• you want to become the go-to expert who can bridge traditional environmental and social impact assessments with comprehensive health impact analysis
• you're seeking to advance into senior advisory roles to influence major project planning and decisions
• your experience spans traditional environmental impact assessments, but you've recognized gaps in addressing broader health determinants and want to positively contribute to change

Motivations and values

• you're driven by the notion of zero-harm and that projects can be built in a way to benefit community health and safety
• you see that health impact and equity should be central considerations to responsible development and decisions
• you value community engagement and want to ensure marginalized voices are heard and protected
• you're committed to preventing health harms before they occur rather than responding after damage is done