Program Overview
Overview of Social Sciences I
The Social Sciences I program at McMaster University is designed as a general first-year pathway that allows students to explore various social sciences disciplines before choosing a major. This program enables students to sample courses across different social sciences, develop essential skills in writing and data reasoning, and explore questions that interest them. By the end of the first year, students will apply to their chosen major or area of study with confidence, backed by real experience and smart advising.
Programs and Majors
The Faculty of Social Sciences at McMaster University offers a range of programs and majors, including:
- Anthropology co-op option available
- Economics co-op option available
- Environment & Society co-op option available
- Health, Aging & Society co-op option available
- Indigenous Studies
- Political Science co-op option available
- Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour
- Social Psychology
- Social Work
- Society, Culture & Religion
- Sociology co-op option available
- Work and Labour Studies co-op option available
Students can also choose specializations built into some programs, such as mental health & addictions in Health & Society or public law and judicial studies in Political Science.
Experiential Learning
The Social Sciences program incorporates experiential learning, providing hands-on experiences and engagement opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. This includes field courses, real-world issue research, and volunteer or employer experience through internships.
Co-Op Program Options
The Faculty offers eight different co-op program options in the Social Sciences, including:
- Aging & Society Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Anthropology Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Economics Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Environment & Society Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Health & Society Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Political Science Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Sociology Honours BA, Co-op Option
- Work & Labour Studies Honours BA, Co-op Option
Students apply to their co-op program at the end of their first year and, if selected, participate in three professional co-op terms at different businesses or organizations over five years.
Research Intensive Learning
As one of Canada's top research universities, McMaster provides access to world-renowned researchers and research facilities. The program incorporates research elements and problems into many courses, allowing students to hone their research skills using real, community-based research problems. Undergraduate Research Awards are also available, enabling students to apply for a bursary and conduct research alongside a professor.
Community
The Social Sciences program fosters a tight-knit community, with opportunities for peer mentorship, access to hundreds of clubs across campus, and program-specific societies like the McMaster Social Sciences Society.
Fast Facts
- 3,000 Undergraduate Students
- 70+ Study Abroad Destinations
- $8k-$10k Average Compensation for Co-Op
- 2 Concurrent Certificates with Mohawk College
Student Testimonials
Students have praised the program for its flexibility, especially in the first year, and the broad fields of study available, which prepare them well for their future careers.
Your Classes
Recommended First-Year Courses
- SOC SCI 1SS3 – Inquiry in the Social Sciences: A seminar class that teaches students to ask good questions, evaluate evidence, develop conclusions, and present outcomes. This class provides valuable foundational research and writing skills.
- SOC SCI 1T03 – Life, the University and Everything: A course aimed at helping incoming students develop crucial skills and habits needed to succeed in their adjustment to university.
Beyond First Year
After the first year, students further develop their academic interests. The Faculty of Social Sciences offers three and four-year Bachelor of Arts and four-year Bachelor of Social Work degrees, with a choice from innovative programs like Anthropology, Economics, Environment & Society, and more.
McMaster / Mohawk Affiliated Certificates
Through a partnership with Mohawk College, students can earn a college certificate while completing their degree in areas like Business Studies, Disability Management, or Leadership and Management in the Not-for-Profit Sector.
Admissions
The admission process involves selecting the appropriate program and meeting the specific requirements. The university provides tools and resources to guide students through the application process, including an admission requirements tool and information on dates and deadlines.