Sociology

Sociology is devoted to an understanding of social structures and processes, the many institutions that humankind has formed as well as the various patterns of human behaviour and social interaction (cooperation, competition, conflict).

It is based on the fact that human beings are social creatures, and as such, live and die as members of and contributors to common social traditions, and that society exists as an organized body of attitudes, beliefs, and patterns of behaviour, that are amenable to systematic observation, investigation, and analysis by means of reliable methods and techniques.

As an academic discipline, Sociology is a well-established field of study. As an intellectual enterprise, Sociology makes a substantial contribution to a Liberal Arts education. Knowledge of the field enables the student to think critically and analytically about problems which are part of his or her own society. His/Her willingness and ability to think about the reasons for poverty, prejudice and other social problems are enhanced and increased through exposure to Sociology.

Honours in Sociology — 60 credits

Designed for students who want to specialize in studying social processes and acquire a strong theoretical and methodological training. The Honours seminar provides students with a unique opportunity to conduct and present their own research during their final year of study.

Specialization in Sociology — 60 credits

Intended for students interested in acquiring and developing a high level of skill and knowledge in studying societies and the process of social change. The program provides exposure to an array of theoretical perspectives and covers a variety of methodological approaches.

Major in Sociology — 42 credits

Intended for students interested in acquiring a good level of skill and knowledge to study societies and the process of social change.

Minor in Sociology — 30 credits

Provides students with basic knowledge in studying societies and the process of social change.

See the BA degree description for information on the core and elective requirements. For a complete list of courses: Undergraduate Calendar

Sample courses in Sociology and Anthropology include:

Sociology of Culture, Juvenile Crime and Delinquency, Contemporary Sociological Theory, Development Debates, Introduction to Culture, Race and Ethnic Relations, Art, Aesthetics and Anthropology, Peoples and Cultures of Oceania, Population and Environment, Research Design and Analysis, Field Research, Urban Regions, Political Anthropology, Experiments and Experience in Ethnographic Writing, Anthropology of Food

Admission Requirements

Sociology (BA - Honours/Specialization/Major/Minor) requirements: Minimum cut-off averages, admission statistics and program requirements.

Undergraduate admissions guidelines: For information on international admission, required documents, proof of language proficiency, the university admissions timetable, selection and notification process.