Faculty of Social Sciences McMASTER UNIVERSITY
www.socsci.mcmaster.ca
Social Sciences ww w. so csci . mcm aster. ca
The Faculty of Social Sciences at McMaster University offers you an educational experience of the highest quality. After our students complete their studies, they enjoy considerable success whether they go to graduate school, continue their education in some other way or enter the job market. The flexibility of your first year in the Faculty of Social Sciences will help you to discover your interests by giving you the opportunity to take courses from a wide variety of disciplines. First-year courses are designed to provide an overview of each discipline and to help you to choose a major (or majors) best suited to your interests and learning style. Elective courses taken to complement your studies may be selected from other Faculties, subject to meeting prerequisites. You should also feel free to make use of the extensive academic advising offered through the Office of the Associate Dean. While some students have well-defined academic plans, others are unsure of their academic interests and may find it useful to talk to one of our academic advisors.
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Inquiry As a first-year student you are encouraged to complete Inquiry 1SS3. Taught in small classes of 30 students, it provides an opportunity for students to learn how to ask good research questions, search out and evaluate evidence, develop well-reasoned conclusions and present outcomes to the class. Research has shown that students who complete Inquiry 1SS3 receive higher grades in university courses, complete their degree on time and are more likely to obtain the Dean’s Honour List standing.
Experiential Education The Faculty of Social Sciences offers an education that combines academic study with hands-on experience – we call it Experiential Education. This unique blend provides you with the opportunity to: take our tuition-free course, Social Sciences 2EL0, which
pursue a placement or practicum that allows you to
provides an introduction to career planning through
develop professional skills in the field while earning
experiential learning
academic credit
participate in the diverse learning strategies used by
test drive your career choices before graduation
our award-winning professors, including: field trips,
through our paid internships, career placements or
simulations, computer-mediated experiments and
volunteer opportunities.
academic placements within the community
Develop
Putting It All Together
After Level I you will further develop your academic
Hi-tech CEOs, university chancellors and others who know
interests. The Faculty of Social Sciences offers
the virtues of a social sciences degree have said:
three- and four-year Bachelor of Arts and four-year
‘our students develop a broad range of transferable skills
Bachelor of Social Work degrees. You can choose from one (or two) of our innovative programs: Anthropology
Psychology,
Economics
Neuroscience &
Geography
Behaviour
Gerontology
Religious Studies
Health Studies
Social Psychology
Labour Studies
Social Work
Political Science
Sociology.
that adapt easily to a changing workplace.’ These skills include: critical thinking communication skills problem-solving research and data analysis skills teamwork confidence with presentations abstract reasoning expository writing time management.
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Level I Course Descriptions Note: The last digit of the course code indicates the unit value of a particular course (e.g. 1A03 = 3 units).
Anthropology 1A03
Anthropology 1Z03
Introduction to Anthropology: Culture and Society
The Human Species: Becoming and Being Human
An introduction to the comparative study
The study of interaction between biology
Students in Level I Social Sciences have a
of culture and society. Anthropology began
and culture based on examination of human
great deal of flexibility in their course selection
as a discipline devoted to the study of the
biological variation and evolution, past and
from within the Faculty of Social Sciences and
ways of life in “primitive� or tribal societies.
present. The course takes an anthropological
from other Faculties across the campus.
The nature of anthropology has changed
approach to investigating humans within
in the last thirty years; today, the scope of
the biological world; that is, it aims to study
anthropology extends far beyond the few
humans as biological organisms who have
remaining societies that have experienced
culture. Topics may include: human origins,
minimal cultural change. Examples are drawn
non-human primates, the concept of race,
from a broad range of societies at all levels of
disease, sex and gender. It will explore the role
social and technological complexity in order
played by culture, diet and disease in shaping
to explore some fundamental issues about
contemporary human biology and will ponder
human knowledge and behaviour.
the expanding human footprint on earth.
Anthropology 1B03
Economics 1B03
World Archaeology
Introductory Microeconomics
An overview of the long-term archaeological
Microeconomics is the study of the economic
history of humanity, with an emphasis on
behaviour of individual households, business
historical processes that include migration,
firms and the manner in which they interact
technological and stylistic change,
in the markets for goods, services and
intensification of food production, social
labour. This course pays particular attention
differentiation and political integration. The
to market structure (e.g. monopoly vs.
course will examine some of the scientific
competition) and the roles of government.
methods and theories currently implemented
The governmental roles considered include
by archaeologists in their search for answers.
those of market regulation (such as controls
Level I Program
Total = 30 units Required: 12 units (from the Faculty of Social Sciences) Electives: 18 units
for pollution and public utilities), provision of services (such as health and education) and income transfers (such as unemployment insurance and public pensions). The goals of the course are to help the student understand why we have the types of markets and the roles for government that we observe today and what would be the consequences, both good and bad, of alternative economic policies. The course makes extensive use of graphical analysis.
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Economics 1BB3 Introductory Macroeconomics Macroeconomics concentrates on overall economic activity and on such aggregate measures as the unemployment rate, the inflation rate and gross domestic product. The main issue in this course is whether and how changes in government expenditure, taxation and monetary policies may affect the economy
biomedical perspective. This course will
We will also examine how the earlier activities of
focus on those issues through a critical social
the labour movement continue to have an impact
scientific perspective. Themes may include
on contemporary Canadian society.
ways of understanding health and illness, social justice and health and the politics of
Labour Studies 1C03
health care systems.
Voices of Work, Resistance and Change
Health, Aging and Society 1BB3
How is work shaped by gender, race, class and
Aging and Society
culture in a global world? How are workplace cultures of community and resistance built? Do
This course examines issues in aging from a
they transform our experience of work? In this
multidisciplinary perspective including such
course, questions will be raised about why work is
topics as: myths and stereotypes of aging, social
satisfying or not and under what conditions people
ties in later life and the aging of the Canadian
construct communities of work, at work. In order
population. It provides a deeper understanding of
to study these issues, the course will introduce
aging and the changing body, mind and self, as
students to information on where people work,
well as the meaning and experiences, challenges
the segmented structures of the labour market
Geography 1HA3
and opportunities of aging and later life.
and the changing form of employment relations
Human Geographies: Society and Culture
Inquiry 1SS3
in the short and long term. There is considerable discussion of the policy choices involving such issues as unemployment, inflation, government spending and taxes, international trade and others. The course makes extensive use of graphical analysis and simple equations.
This course provides an introduction to the theories and methods of human geography by providing an overview of the field and acts as a foundation for subsequent human geography courses. Topics covered include: culture (including language, ethnicity and religion); cities and urban society; symbolic landscapes; and environment and health. There will also be an opportunity to conduct fieldwork in the local area.
Geography 1HB3 Human Geographies: City and Economy This course provides an introduction to the theories and methods of human geography in the area of urban/economic geography. The course provides an overview of the field and acts as a foundation for subsequent courses in urban/ economic geography. Topics include: world population; environmental issues; theories of location and world urbanization trends. There will also be an opportunity to conduct fieldwork in the local area.
Health, Aging and Society 1AA3 Introduction to Health Studies Health, illness and health care are concepts that have many social, cultural, political and economic dimensions that go beyond the
Inquiry in the Social Sciences Inquiry is the art and skill of developing
towards more precarious, risky jobs.
Political Sciences 1G06 Politics and Government
understanding through the process of asking good
This course introduces students to the
questions, searching out evidence and arriving
theoretical and practical aspects of politics.
at well reasoned conclusions. In sections of only
Students will develop an understanding of
30 students, the course will help develop critical
the origins and significance of basic political
abilities in conducting an inquiry in the social
science concepts, such as democracy, citizens’
sciences. Students find these skills invaluable as
rights and responsibilities and political power,
they progress in other university work. The course
among others. The course will also introduce
is unique in that it takes the process of learning
students to contemporary political issues, such
to be crucial. It emphasizes a participatory
as controversies associated with Canadian
approach with the development of the ability to be
politics, international politics, multiculturalism or
self-directed and features small group instruction.
the justice system.
Labour Studies 1A03
Psychology 1X03
An Introduction to the Canadian Labour Movement
Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour
Why do some workers form unions while others don’t? Why do some advocate reforming the
This course explores the central theme that
current economic system while others have
rigorous research methods are required to
more radical political goals? How have workers
understand the broad topics of experimental
been affected by economic booms and busts,
psychology. Students will explore learning
political crises and war? This course will
and cognitive functions, higher order
explore these questions and more by examining
processes, social psychology, personality
the history of the Canadian labour movement.
and psychopathology through interactive web
Students will look at how workers, by forming
modules, class reviews, weekly small group
trade unions and political parties, have shaped
discussions and live lectures.
working life, political participation, legal employment rights and social welfare in Canada.
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Psychology 1XX3
Religious Studies 1D06
Foundations of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour
Modern Study of the Bible
This course builds on the themes of Psychology
to the writings of the Bible, and to the study of
1X03 to understand that modern approaches
the Bible as an academic discipline. Substantial
to problems in psychology use multiple levels
portions of the Bible, in a modern English
of analysis. Students will explore how methods
translation, will be read. Attention will focus on
of neuroscience, evolution and behaviour
the circumstances in which, and the process
contribute to our understanding of sensory
by which, various parts of the Bible came to be
systems and behaviours critical to survival
written; also on how the Bible can be used to
as we interact with the environment.
illuminate the history of ancient Israel and
Religious Studies 1B06
early Christianity.
about injustice? This course introduces students to new perspectives on current issues, emphasizing the social context of what many
This course is designed to introduce students
see as personal struggles. Students examine our
sexism, heterosexism and ableism. Students will also consider the roles of social work and social workers in service provision, advocacy, organizing and policy development. The course a career in Social Work is for you.
Sociology 1A06
Religious Studies 1J03
A study of the world’s major religious and
Great Books in Asian Religions
philosophical traditions, including Hinduism,
This course introduces foundational books of
Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shinto,
the major religious traditions of Asia, including:
Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The course
Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism and
introduces major texts, thinkers and practices
Shinto, in their historical and cultural contexts.
An Introduction to Sociology This course is designed to give students a broad understanding of sociological inquiry. The instructor will provide an overview of the basic concepts and themes of sociological analysis. Students will explore various issues, such as deviance and crime, the world of work,
appreciation of these traditions and allows
Social Work 1A06
them to develop a deeper understanding of the
An Introduction to Social Work
academic study of religion.
to issues such as poverty, violence, racism,
can provide a basis on which to decide whether
World Religions
to increase the student’s knowledge and
world, our communities and ourselves in relation
Have you ever wondered how personal
social movements, political organizations, gender relations, race and racism, the family, and popular culture.
problems are caused or affected by society? Ever wanted to understand or do something
Typical Timetable – Term I Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Psychology 1X03 – Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour
Health, Aging and Society 1AA3
Thursday
Friday
8:30 am 9:30 am
Psychology 1X03 (lecture)
(tutorial)
(lecture)
10:30 am
Economics 1B03 – Introductory Microeconomics (lecture)
11:30 am
Economics 1B03 (lecture) Health, Aging and Society 1AA3 – Introduction to Health Studies (lecture)
Psychology 1X03 (lecture) Health, Aging and Society 1AA3 (lecture)
12:30 pm 1:30 pm 2:30 pm 3:30 pm
Sociology 1A06 – An Introduction to Sociology (lecture)
Sociology 1A06 (lecture)
Inquiry 1SS3 – Inquiry in the Social Sciences (lecture)
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4:30 pm
Economics 1B03 (lecture) Sociology 1A06 (lecture)
Anthropology
Anthropology today is part of an interdisciplinary endeavour that studies four dimensions of humankind: the past of humanity, the cultures of present-day peoples, the biological component of human beings and language in a cross-cultural
Admission to Level II Students must complete the requirements of any Level I program, including at least two courses (6 units) from Level I Anthropology 1A03, 1B03, 1Z03.
Skills
perspective. It differs from other social
knowledge about biological, ecological and cultural factors that influence human behaviour
sciences in terms of its breadth (which is
theoretical approaches and practical methods for enhancing cross-cultural understanding
global), its methods and its outlook, which is
an understanding of particular cultures and ethnic groups from a global perspective
comparative, humanistic and – increasingly –
skills in social research, qualitative interviewing and fieldwork
both practical and applied. In the words
an understanding of the elements of human evolution and genetics
of Margaret Mead, a founding ancestor of
experience in writing both descriptive reports and analytical papers
cultural anthropology, "never doubt that a
the ability to analyze the root causes of social problems, and to work towards solutions with
small group of thoughtful, committed people
people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds
can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Focus of Study Our anthropology programs provide grounding in the four sub-fields of anthropology: archaeology
Did You Know... The Department of Anthropology has a state-of-the-art ancient DNA laboratory, perhaps the finest one of its kind in Canada? Our department has long term involvement in applied HIV/AIDS research in the African countries of Zimbabwe, Uganda and Malawi?
biological (or physical) anthropology
The Department has a new area of specialization in the Anthropology of Health?
cultural anthropology
Each summer, the department offers an archaeological field school at Dundurn Castle in
linguistics.
Hamilton? Students learn how to excavate an archaeological site and receive hands-on instruction in such techniques as mapping, field recording and laboratory analysis.
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Economics
Economics is the study of how individuals, businesses and governments make decisions and of how they might make better decisions. Economists analyze behaviours in most areas of human activity. What is the most efficient and fair way to provide health care and education? What are the benefits and costs of free trade among countries? What are the benefits and costs of pollution control strategies?
Focus of Study Our general interest field courses, which require only introductory economics as a prerequisite, examine issues such as those associated with public expenditure and taxation policies, labour markets and environmental regulation. More advanced courses have additional prerequisites and cover such policy areas as labour problems, health care, natural resources, money and banking, finance, industrial organization, the aging society, international trade and finance and development. Economics provides an
Students must complete the requirements of any Level I program including Economics
Research projects coming from these initiatives support classroom discussions on: the advantages of using tradable pollution permits rather than pollution
1B03, 1BB3 and Math 1K03 (if Calculus and
taxes to effectively regulate the emission
Vectors 4U was not completed).
of environmental pollution
Did You Know... Members of the Department of Economics
effective ways to manage fisheries or forest resources the extent to which globalization limits
participate in several major research
independent policy making by governments
initiatives at McMaster:
in countries that engage extensively in
The Research Institute of Quantitative
international trade such as Canada
Studies in Economics and Population
how large will the pension and health
The Program for Socio-Economic Dimensions of an Aging Population The Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis The McMaster Experimental Economics Laboratory The Public Economics Research Data Laboratory The Statistics Canada Research Data Centre The Offord Centre for Child Studies?
care burden be on today’s young workers when the baby-boomers retire sensible long-run targets for the size of the Canadian government debt the pros and cons for Canada of free trade with the USA and Mexico selecting the best taxes to cut from – among the HST, income taxes and payroll taxes – in order to help reduce unemployment.
Possible Careers Recent graduates have found employment as:
excellent preparation for graduate training not
economic analysts
only in economics but also in law, business
researchers
administration, public administration, health
financial planners
administration and other areas.
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Admission to Level II
economic forecasters managers (government/business) economic consultants.
Geography “The need for an education in geography – knowing where things are, why they are, and why this knowledge matters – has always been paramount in all societies. It is no different today. Both geographic knowledge and an appreciation of the value of geographic perspective are essential to help individuals and groups make sense of the changing worlds in which we live.”
William Norton, 2007
Focus of Study
Possible Careers
McMaster offers Bachelor of Arts degrees
Recent graduates have found employment as:
in Geography, Geography and Environmental Studies and Geography and Another Subject
environmental analysts assistant controllers
consultants policy analysts
(Combined Honours). Upon entry into an honours
GIS analysts
research assistants
program in Level II students are required to take two methods courses (Statistical Analysis
teachers urban planners.
Many others have gone on to graduate studies or professional programs.
and Research Methodologies in Geography).
Admission to Level II
Students will also select courses from the
Students must complete the requirements of any Level I program including six units of Level I
following themes:
Geography or Environmental Science courses.
GIS and Spatial Analysis Urban Geography
Did You Know...
Health and Population
McMaster’s School of Geography and Earth Sciences offers:
Location and Transportation Environment. Human geography examines the spatial organization of people and their activities. There are three recurrent themes in human geography: Humans and the land: the evolution of the human world with reference to people, their cultures and physical environments Regional studies: the study of regional variation in human societies Spatial analysis: the study of why phenomena are located where they are
a state-of-the-art Geographic Information Systems (GIS) lab an outstanding collection of more than 140,000 maps access to Statistics Canada Research Data Institute? Current research projects of the department’s faculty members include: environmental issues in the Hamilton area psychosocial impacts of exposure to environmental contaminants the roles of the public in health-care decision-making environmental health urban economic and regional migration modeling urban transportation energy use and emissions migration integration of disabled persons in the workplace teaching and learning in geography and environmental studies?
and the explanation of spatial patterns of
As a complement to lectures, students benefit from inquiry components in most courses,
human activity.
methods courses (including geographical information systems), and a variety of field courses and trips? Experiential education is an important component of the Geography programs.
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Health, Aging and Society Programs in Health, Aging and Society focus on the significance of health and aging in institutional and cultural contexts. The perspectives of the social sciences are brought to bear on the diverse means and practices associated with health, aging and society. Students will learn methodologies associated with the approaches, debates and representations of aging and health in a variety of context (e.g., media, policy, literature). Special emphasis will be placed on the development of the students’ ability to critically analyze and interpret information. In our Honours program two fields of study are available: Gerontology and Health Studies. There is also a BA program and a minor in Health Aging and Society that combines the best of both areas of study.
Gerontology Gerontology is the interdisciplinary study of aging, a fascinating and complex area of investigation that requires integration of biological, psychological, social, health and economic knowledge. Gerontology examines issues related to an aging population and explores the meaning, experiences and context of later life and growing old.
Did You Know... McMaster was the first university to offer an undergraduate Gerontology program in Canada? Health, Aging and Society 1BB3 students have the opportunity to attend tutorials led by older adults from the community? Research interests of faculty who teach Gerontology courses include: old age security policies, health economics, homecare workers and family inheritance?
Focus of Study At McMaster, Gerontology is studied from a wide variety of perspectives. We offer courses on topics such as: social aspects of aging the aging mind issues in aging families social and health policy for an aging society aging, work, retirement and pensions images of aging in literature aging and health aging body
Strengths of the Program Faculty come from diverse academic backgrounds with a wide range of research interests and expertise Provides a multi-disciplinary focus
diversity and aging
on the study of aging and in-depth
aging and mental health
knowledge on a wide range of topics
issues in long term care homes research methods in gerontology.
Admission to Level II Enrollment in Honours Gerontology is limited.
and issues in gerontology Community professionals are involved in the classroom, as placement supervisors and as thesis advisors Small class size allows for a high level
Admission is competitive and is done through
of student-faculty interaction and
an application process. To be considered,
fosters a “sense of community� among
students must complete the requirements of
students in the program
any Level I program, including Health, Aging and Society 1AA3 and 1BB3.
Experiential learning, with practical and applied components, is available in several courses
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Health Studies Health Studies provides students with an interdisciplinary background in the social and cultural dimensions of health, illness and health care. Health Studies examines the contributions of Western medicine in the Canadian context, explores other ways of understanding health and illness, and examines health and health care from an international perspective.
Focus of Study The broad aims are: to introduce questions that social scientists ask in the study of health and illness to understand some of the implications of the social and cultural study of health and illness for health services and policies to help students critically analyze and interpret health-related information, debates and representations in such contexts as: the media, public policy, community activism, literature and the arts. Beyond first year, courses include: Mental Health Work and Health Environment and Health Ethical Issues Disabilities and Chronic Illness Health Economics Social Aspects of Reproductive Health
Admission to Level II Enrollment in Honours Health Studies is limited. Admission is competitive and is done through an application process. To be considered, students must complete the requirements of any Level I program, including Health, Aging and Society 1AA3 and 1BB3.
Research Research interests of faculty who teach in the program include: the impact of environmental pollutants on child health cultural representations of health and illness migration of health care workers social organization of cancer care international comparison of disability policy systems complementary therapy use and health care decision-making among people living with HIV/AIDS midwifery and maternity care how religious beliefs influence and shape illness and healing experiences how social marginalization affects
Possible Careers Health Studies provides a solid basis for informed engagement in community, cultural and political contexts concerned with health and illness. The skills that students learn will be valuable preparation for many different areas of work and study, including: health-related occupations other careers where health and health care may be of interest, such as journalism, public policy or law further professional studies such as nursing, social work or medicine graduate studies.
people’s experiences of illness rehabilitation policy.
Social Identity, Health & Illness Health, Illness and the Body Health Policy Health in Cross Cultural and International Perspectives. As a minor, Health Studies complements any four-year program.
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Labour Studies Labour Studies may be of interest to you if you would like to know: how work is changing in a global economy how unions are renewing themselves the impact of corporate strategies on workers how labour markets are being transformed how the role of women in the paid and unpaid labour market is changing whether changes in the workplace are improving the quality of life at work.
Focus of Study Work is studied as one component of a
Did You Know... students are able to become involved
larger life experience that includes family life,
in research projects with faculty?
community relations, gender relations, and
The Labour Studies Online Learning
state policy. The subject is broadly defined
Centre (www.labourstudies.mcmaster.ca)
to include those in paid and unpaid work,
is one such student led project.
and in traditional and non-traditional workplaces. Course materials range from medieval roots of modern labour markets to discussions of how to deal with problems created by globalization.
Admission to Level II Students must complete the requirements of any Level I program including Labour Studies 1A03 and 1C03.
research activities of the unit are housed
Honours students may complete a fourth-year field placement course where they gain practical experience in an area of interest? You might: sit at the bargaining table while GM and the Canadian Automobile Workers hammer out a deal see what happens to workers when
in the Institute on Work in a Global
a firm downsizes or introduces
Society? Projects include:
new technology
- a major study of the relationship
help implement policies aimed at
between work organization and
reducing health and safety risks.
heart disease - the impact of globalization on social cohesion amongst workers - examining the treatment of contract workers globally - how reorganization of the public sector has affected workers - a study of international campaigns
Possible Careers community outreach workers international aid work labour lawyers human resource managers union research officers public policy analysts
to improve working conditions in
arbitrators
less developed economies
employment equity officers
- work reorganization and work/family balance in the public sector.
labour educators A number of students have gone on to law school, completed Masters in Industrial Relations or the Masters in Work and Society, taught by Labour Studies faculty at McMaster.
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Political Science Who gets what, when and how? Who rules? Where does the power lie in Canada? What drives globalization? Can it be stopped? In political science, we consider these and other questions in looking at the future of Canada and other countries around the world. We also look at issues such as justice, freedom and democracy and the relationship between individuals and governments. At the international level, students examine the cause of conflicts, the conditions for peace and the impact of regionalization and globalization on individuals and communities.
Focus of Study
Admission to Level II
The department covers all aspects of political science
Students must complete the
with particular emphasis on:
requirements of any Level I program
Canadian Politics: public policy formation, social movements, political parties, organized interests, foreign defense and economic policy Comparative Politics: theories of comparative politics, methodology of comparative analysis, knowledge of selected geographic areas and political systems, human rights, regional integration and state policies. International Relations: covering globalization, international relations theory, international organizations and international political economy. Political Theory: examines political theory and the questions and ideas that provide a basis for political action. The major areas of study include the political thought of the ancient Greeks, liberal-democratic
including Political Science 1G06.
Did You Know... Some of our faculty research includes: the impact of globalization and
practical learning: in Political Science 3N06 Research Methods, Statistics and Political Analysis, as they conduct a general social survey of the student body and analyze the data in Political Science 3S03 Local Government and Politics in Canada,
demonstrations
when they visit City Hall and attend a
racism and tolerance in the United States and France private non-governmental authorities in the international system (for example, private authority of the internet) restoration of the environment around the Great Lakes the political experience of refugees
political economy critique of liberal theory.
reasons for economic success of
citizen groups, business, and other actors interact in
opportunity to combine theoretical and
the reasons for anti-globalization
theory including theories of the market and the
Public Policy: studies the way in which governments,
Political Science students have the
East Asia?
Council Meeting when they attend various UN simulations held each year around North America?
Possible Careers journalists policy analysts data analysts lawyers media and communication coordinators
the development and implementation of government
political assistants
policies. Students specializing in public policy learn
public affairs managers
how to analyze government efforts to address public
human resource personnel
policy problems.
teachers civil servants
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Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour is the scientific study of brain and behaviour. It covers topics from perception (how we see objects, process speed, hear music); to cognition (how we think); to emotion and social behaviour (how we feel, how we interact with others); to psychopathology (how and why does behaviour sometimes go wrong); to development and evolution (how organisms develop in various domains, the role of genetics in development, the role of environment) and how the brain develops and how experience influences its development.
Focus of Study Animal Behaviour: the use of ecological, evolutionary,
Possible Careers Graduates are well prepared to pursue postgraduate training as well as
physiological and psychophysical approaches to
careers in medicine, neuroscience, law, speech and hearing pathology, clinical
understand behaviour and cognition.
psychology, forensics, business, teaching and environmental and biomedical
Cognition & Perception: Cognitive psychologists study
research. The types of entry-level jobs for which graduates are typically
how people mentally represent their experience and
prepared include those that use writing, analytical, people and research skills.
then use these representations to operate effectively.
Admission to Level II
Perception research seeks to understand how natural and artificial stimuli interact with our sensory systems. Developmental Psychology: is concerned with factors that affect physical, perceptual, cognitive, emotional and social development across the lifespan. The relative contributions of innate and experiential factors in development are studied. Evolution & Social Behaviour: Evolutionary psychology is where the study of social cognition, development and behaviour is integrated with the study of animal behaviour, physiology and the evolution of behaviour. Systems and Behavioural Neuroscience: The
Enrolment in the Honours BA program is limited. Students must complete any Level I program including Psychology 1X03, 1XX3 with a grade of B- in each and credit in Biology and Calculus. For the BA program, students must complete any Level I program including Psychology 1X03 with a grade of C- and Calculus must be completed by the end of Level II.
Did You Know... The 90,000 square foot Psychology Building provides state-of-the-art human and animal research facilities, including: an optical imaging laboratory, a transgenic procedure suite, neurochemistry suites, a computer lab, advanced eye-tracking and virtual reality systems, equipment for transcranial magnetic stimulation and the largest number of
question of how the brain works is a major focus of
electroencephalography (EEG) systems in one department in Canada?
this research area. Sensation, perception, learning,
The Music Cognition Specialization is a new multidisciplinary program
memory, reasoning, emotion and all other aspects of
which brings together science and the arts in a unique and innovative way;
brain functioning depend on cellular communication
studying questions about: the neural processing of music, the performance
within the nervous system.
and perception of music, how music induces emotional reactions and how musical experience and training affect brain development?
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Religious Studies
All known civilizations, cultures and nations have been deeply affected by religion.
Religions have variously shaped peoples’ ideas of what is real and important about themselves and the world; created institutions such as temples, schools, synagogues and churches; produced literature in which they have recalled their history, instructed their followers and poured out their devotion; organized rites and rituals for the ordering of both the continuities and the changes of individual and communal life; crowned kings and queens and inspired revolutions. The study of religion, then, is one of the most comprehensive ways of understanding humankind and human visions of reality.
Possible Careers
Admission to Level II
The usefulness of a religious study degree is
Completion of any Level I program including
not limited to those who seek employment in
six units of Religious Studies courses.
religious organizations and may include: community workers
Did You Know...
journalists
Faculty in Religious Studies at McMaster
teachers
are engaged in research on:
religious educators
anthropology of pilgrimage, focusing on
public relations officers
an unofficial Catholic pilgrimage shrine
civil servants.
in Brittany
Focus of Study McMaster specializes in: Asian religions: both religious traditions
technology and ethics Buddhism, alcohol and tea in Medieval China new Jewish healing groups
and the religion and culture of the
Japanese religions
geographic area
Buddhist monastic law
Biblical studies: the Jewish and Christian Bible, scriptural themes, the history of early Judaism or Christianity Contemporary and comparative religions: cross-cultural study of
the emerging dialogue between theology and the new physics and biology the publication of the Dead Sea Scrolls new approaches to Jewish-Christian relations in late antiquity?
religious phenomena including cults in North America; health, healing and religion; death and dying Western religious thought: Christian thought of all periods and the encounter of religious thought (both Christian and Jewish) with the science and secularism of the modern world.
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Social Psychology
Students examine various aspects of social psychology from a multidisciplinary perspective to gain an understanding of how individuals behave, how small groups and communities interact and how societies develop practices and priorities.
Focus of Study Students will learn how to locate themselves in the complex fabrics of their cultures, their geographies and their power relationships. Students who are interested in many social science perspectives on how people develop over the lifespan and how they behave both individually and socially in different environments and circumstances should consider this program.
Admission to Level II
Did You Know...
Enrolment in this Honours program is limited.
Some of our faculty research includes:
Students must complete any Level I program
child and adult development
including Pscychology 1X03 and Sociology
human sexuality
1A06 with a grade of B- in each and credit in
intergroup relations
at least nine units of other Social Sciences
ethnopolitical conflict
courses from the following list:
relationship between psychology
Anthropology 1A03, 1B03, 1Z03 Economics 1B03, 1BB3
community versus individuality
Geography 1HA3, 1HB3
the social and personal impact of,
Health, Aging and Society 1AA3, 1BB3 Inquiry 1SS3 Labour Studies 1A03, 1C03 Political Science 1G06 Psychology 1XX3 Religious Studies 1B06, 1D06, 1J03 Social Work 1A06
Possible Careers
and response to, economic crises? Social Psychology students have the opportunity to combine theoretical and practical learning: in Social Sciences 3ZZ3 (Complex Problems From a Multidisciplinary Social Psychology Perspective), as they examine social problems from a multidisciplinary social psychology perspective
behaviour analyst
in Social Sciences 4ZZ6 (Integrative
career counsellor
Studies in Social Psychology), when
health care coordinator
they get to participate in a seminar,
human resources specialist
an experiential education opportunity,
marketing research
an internship, a group thesis, or some
parole officer
combination of experiences which result
teacher
in a capstone learning opportunity?
volunteer services
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and sociology
Social Work
Have you ever wondered how personal problems are caused or affected by society? Ever wanted to understand and do something about injustice? Social Work might be for you. Social Work emphasizes the social context of what many see as personal problems. Social workers use their skills and knowledge to facilitate change with and for people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives and who struggle with the impact of injustice and oppression. As social workers, we see personal troubles as inextricably linked to oppressive structures. We believe that social workers must be actively involved in the understanding and transformation of injustices in social institutions and in the struggles of people to maximize control over their own lives.
Focus of Study Our program prepares graduates for the general practice of social work by developing: how to analyze personal, community, family and societal problems – including how social work and social welfare institutions affect and respond to these problems practical skills such as interviewing, counselling, community development, social action and advocacy
Admission to Level II
Experiential Education
Social Work offers two limited enrolment
You will have two field placements during
programs, a combined BA/BSW and a BSW
your degree. Working in a community
(for students who already have a degree).
organization you will:
The BA/BSW program requires: completion of the requirements of any Level I program with a minimum average of 67% one of: Sociology 1A06 or Social Work 1A06 six additional units from: Social Sciences I courses, Indigenous Studies 1A03, 1AA3, Women Studies 1A03, 1AA3 submission of an application form to the School of Social Work by March 1st of the year you plan to start the program, and
gain real-life experience working with service users and community groups apply skills and knowledge acquired in academic courses understand how social organizations and networks work collaborate with other professionals and learn social work values and ethics learn from and be supervised by a practicing social worker.
completion of the Social Work Admissions
Possible Careers
Test (S.W.A.T.)
Social workers work with and for all kinds of
Aboriginal applicants may request an alternative admission process.
people – people living in poverty, people who are ill, living with disabilities, experiencing
For detailed instructions on applying and
mental health difficulties or addictions, those
dates for the S.W.A.T. go to our website
in conflict with the law, people who are
(www.socsci.mcmaster.ca/socwork/)
young or old, refugees, new immigrants and Indigenous people. Social workers make vital contributions to the community by working as: counsellors and advocates community organizers administrators social planners, researchers and policy analysts.
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Sociology Sociology is the study of individuals, groups, patterned behaviours, and social institutions such as the family, education, health and health care, the criminal justice system, media, paid and unpaid work, and politics.
At the core of sociology is a concern with various types of social inequality and movements for social change. Sociologists study a wide range of issues in a way that helps to explain the relationship between our personal experiences and the wider organization of society.
Focus of Study The Sociology Department at McMaster offers expertise in six core areas: Social Inequalities, which examines inequalities based on race, gender and class Individual and Society, which examines how individuals are shaped by social processes Work, Occupations and Organizations, which explores organizations, paid employment, domestic work and labour unions Comparative Sociology, in which institutions are compared across cultures and history Sociological Theory, which provides the conceptual tools for analyzing social life Sociological Methods, which provides the methodological tools for analysis.
Admission to Level II
Did You Know...
Students must complete the requirements of
Sociology faculty excel in both teaching and
any Level I program including Sociology 1A06.
research? Our faculty are currently involved
Possible Careers
in the following research projects: community attitudes toward adoption
advertising consultants
anti-sweatshop campaigns
business consultants
Hasidic communities in Canada
career counselors
aboriginal/non-aboriginal relations
health care coordinators
the Ukrainian Diaspora
human resource specialists
struggles around worker health and
job analysts
safety in Ontario
labour researchers
women, restructured work and unions
media consultants
the transition from school to employment
parole officers
and changing forms of competition
police officers/administrators
among students
recruiters
sociology of the internet/cyberspace
social workers
the popularization of the idea of
statisticians systems analysts teachers
“globalization� HIV/AIDS and alternative approaches to health care social construction of geological science male cosmetic surgery family inheritance men’s filial care-giving hockey violence recruitment of foreign-trained professionals.
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Visitor Information t our s. mcm a st e r. ca
Regular Campus Tours Campus tours take about 1½ hours and are conducted by McMaster students. The entire campus is covered in the tour including a visit to at least one residence building. Please note: advanced notice of two to three working days is required tours are available Monday to Friday, from October 4 to December 7, 2010 and January 10 to April 5, 2011 tour times are 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. campus tours may be scheduled on some Saturdays with at least one week’s advance notice campus tours are also available throughout the summer, from mid-May to the beginning of August
You can meet students, staff and faculty, all who help define the distinct personality of
A visit is the best way to learn more about a university and get a feel for the campus.
the University. McMaster offers many opportunities to do this, from simply spending a couple of hours touring the campus to staying for a whole day and attending scheduled activities during one of our special visit days. Please contact us in advance to book your campus visit. This will ensure that we have time to make the necessary arrangements for
Virtual Tour (tours.mcmaster.ca) Unable to visit McMaster in person? Explore our picturesque
you. When you register for your visit you will receive details about start times, location, where to park, etc. Remember parents and friends are always welcome to join you!
campus via one of our online tours. You can take a Guided Tour that follows the same route as an in-person walking tour, create a personalized tour or simply explore major campus hotspots. We also offer a basic version for users
To register for a campus tour, contact the Student Recruitment &
Tour Portal tours.mcmaster.ca
Admissions Office:
will be provided for registered
phone 905-525-9140 ext. 23650 fax 905-524-3550
with a slower internet connection or older computer.
Complimentary parking passes
e-mail liaison@mcmaster.ca
Special Visit Events
campus tour visitors upon
Fall Preview
March Break
May@Mac
arrival. Please refer to your
October 30, 2010
Monday, March 14 –
Saturday, May 7, 2011
visit display areas and talk
Friday, March 18, 2011
University-wide Open House event
with reps from academic,
regular campus tours
applicants will be sent information
tour booking confirmation e-mail for further details. It is best to enter the campus via the Sterling Street entrance (Central Campus). Directions can be found online at:
www.mcmaster.ca/ welcome/findus.cfm
service areas and student groups in a relaxed and informal Roam Around Session tour the campus
faculty-specific activities available be sure to register in advance as group sizes are limited
in the Spring includes campus bus tours, special facility tours, sample lectures and lab demonstrations, opportunities to speak with professors, staff and students
Still have questions? ask.mcmaster.ca
Hamilton, Ontario, CANADA L8S 4L8 905 525-9140 ext. 23650 www.mcmaster.ca