Program description
What are the four drivers of the Introduction to Health Impact Assessment micro-certificate’s approach?
Prevention-first
Assess the potential health effects of projects to maximise benefits and minimize risk
Evidence-driven
Make informed decisions to prevent costly health outcomes and outbreaks
Community-engaged
Build trust through participatory approaches
Global-ready
Stand out in an emerging specialized field with recognized skills
How this program will prepare you:
- Lead a zero-harm approach to development projects
- Make sound business decisions that can save lives and prevent reputational damage
- Drive decisions and actions using evidence-based approaches
- Engage effectively with communities on relevant topics of utmost concern
How you'll feel more equipped:
- Become confident in addressing community health concerns
- Be empowered to protect vulnerable populations
- Get prepared to lead complex stakeholder discussions
- Be assured in making evidence-based health decisions
- Become ready to advance your specialized career
About the Introduction to Health Impact Assessment micro-certificate

Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is a systematic approach that assesses the potential health outcomes of policies, programs, or projects, with a focus on vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.”
—World Health Organization
The Introduction to Health Impact Assessment micro-certificate equips multi-disciplinary professionals with the critical skills to prevent community health and safety risks and improve population health outcomes in projects and developments. As governments, financial institutions, the private sector, and communities increasingly integrate health into decision-making processes, this program provides essential tools to do so. Drawing on international expertise, it also explores how HIAs can address core concerns that Indigenous populations and communities have regarding projects.
This micro-certificate marks a deep collaboration between HIA leaders and represents a critical professional development opportunity for those involved in the planning, financing, development, and regulation of global development and industrial projects. By completing this introductory health impact assessment program, learners will train to become a leader and contribute meaningfully to healthier communities and future generations.
Micro-certificate highlights

This program is delivered online, allowing you to work independently within deadlines set by your instructor. With this format, you don't have to worry about travel or scheduling conflicts while you study. You can work at your own pace, on your own schedule and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

The University of Victoria is one of Canada's leading universities, recognized for preparing students for careers in a wide range of disciplines. Upon successful completion of this program you will receive a micro-certificate.

Our instructors—Dr. Janis Shandro, Dr. Laura Jokinen, Dr. Gene Peralta and Dr. Mirko Winkler—are global leaders in HIA with decades of professional experience. They’re dedicated to helping you develop the knowledge and skills to realize your full potential. See the instructor’s section below for more details.

Collaborate with, learn from and find support in a network of professional colleagues who are as passionate about adult education and lifelong learning as you are.

This program will give you laddering opportunities into other micro-credentials or to non-credit programs.