Dr. Celine Byukusenge, Ph.D.
Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences
Dr. Céline Byukusenge is a dedicated academic researcher, educator, and leader currently serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Catholic University of Rwanda, where she also teaches Biology modules.
In her leadership role, she oversees four key departments: Public Health, Human Nutrition, Nursing, and Midwifery. She provides strategic direction for academic programs, supervises department heads, ensures quality of teaching, and leads faculty development efforts.
About Our Faculty
The Faculty of Health Sciences at the Catholic University of Rwanda is dedicated to advancing health education and research through its comprehensive academic programs. It comprises several key departments, including Public Health, Human Nutrition, Nursing, and Midwifery.
Our Teaching Philosophy
At the Faculty of Health Sciences, we embrace a learner-centered, competency-based, and community-oriented teaching philosophy that prepares healthcare professionals to excel in their fields while upholding ethical values. Our approach integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical practice, ensuring that students develop the skills, confidence, and expertise required for high-quality healthcare delivery.
Our Departments
Biomedical Laboratory Sciences
Advanced training in laboratory diagnostics and biomedical research, preparing students for critical roles in healthcare delivery and medical research.
Midwifery A0 and A1
The Midwifery departments provide rigorous training for future midwives, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for quality patient care.
Aims:
To provide professional, ethical, and compassionate training in maternal and neonatal care, grounded in Catholic values, while promoting safe motherhood, community health, and evidence-based practice.
Goals:
- Provide Professional Training
- Integrate Ethical and Catholic Values
- Encourage Community Engagement
- Support Research and Innovation
Nursing A0 and A1
The Department of Nursing offers comprehensive programs designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice.
Programs Offered:
Advanced Diploma in Nursing (A1)
3-year program focusing on practical skills and foundational knowledge for effective nursing care.
Bachelor of Science with Honors in General Nursing (A0)
4-year program combining theoretical instruction with clinical practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles.
Public Health
Dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address health challenges at the population level.
Curriculum Areas:
- Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Environmental Health
- Health Promotion
- Disease Prevention
Graduates are prepared for careers in public health agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare institutions, and governmental bodies.
Human Nutrition
Offers a comprehensive program that delves into the multifaceted aspects of nutrition and its pivotal role in human health.
This interdisciplinary field integrates knowledge from physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, psychology, anthropology, economics, and political science.
Facilities:
Well-furnished Nutrition Skills Laboratory equipped with modern tools for food analysis, diet assessment, and nutritional research.
Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in healthcare settings, research institutions, and governmental agencies.
International Partnerships
LAB University of Applied Sciences, Finland
The Faculty of Health Sciences fosters international collaboration aimed at enhancing the quality and global relevance of our academic programs.
This collaboration focuses on Nursing and Paramedics, offering opportunities for student and faculty exchange programs, joint curriculum development, and double degree programs.
Recent News & Updates
HON. MINISTER OF HEALTH ENDORSES CUR'S CUTTING-EDGE HEALTH TRAINING FACILITIES
On 9 September 2025, the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) proudly welcomed the Honorable Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, to its Save Campus. The visit was marked by his deep appreciation of CUR's modern, well-equipped skills laboratories, which he described as essential for producing highly competent healthcare professionals.
Minister's Endorsement
Recognizing the University's commitment to practical excellence, the Minister pledged further support through the provision of additional mannequins to strengthen hands-on training.
Dr. Nsanzimana commended CUR for its vital contribution to Rwanda's health sector by training professionals in Nursing, Midwifery, Nutrition, Public Health, and Biomedical Laboratory Sciences. He emphasized that CUR's model of education, grounded in knowledge, technical skills, ethical values, and Catholic principles—equips students not only to excel in their professions but also to serve humanity with integrity and compassion.
Save Health Center Update
The Minister announced that Save Health Center will soon be medicalized, providing greater opportunities for clinical training while enhancing healthcare delivery for both CUR and the surrounding community.
Community Leadership
Fr. Dr. Laurent Ntaganda, Vice Chancellor of CUR, and Mr. Jérôme Rutaburingoga, Mayor of Gisagara District, expressed gratitude and pledged to build on the Minister's advice.
CUR's Unique Foundation
At CUR, students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, real-world clinical exposure, and value-driven education—a unique foundation for shaping Rwanda's future healthcare leaders.
Transforming Health Education
The Catholic University of Rwanda’s Faculty of Health Sciences is transforming health education. Combining theory with hands-on clinical training, it offers programs in Public Health, Nursing, Midwifery, Human Nutrition, and Biomedical Laboratory Sciences. Its mission: produce competent, ethical health professionals to serve communities with excellence.
Success Stories
Diane Uwase
Year One Nursing Student
"Even as a first-year student, I feel like I'm being shaped into a confident future nurse. The practical sessions, mentorship, and supportive environment at CUR are preparing me for the frontline of healthcare."
Assoumpta Mukandekezi
Year One Midwifery Student
"I chose midwifery because I want to stand beside women in their most powerful and vulnerable moments. At CUR, I already feel part of something meaningful we're learning to save lives."
Marie Claire Ingabire
Human Nutrition Alumna
"The practical skills I gained in our Nutrition Lab gave me the confidence to create real solutions for child malnutrition. We're not just studying nutrition we're saving lives."
Achievement: Developed a locally sourced, cost-effective porridge blend that's being adopted in multiple districts.