Bachelor of Arts in Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies (Optional Co-op)

Waterloo

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies program at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive understanding of human sexuality, intimate relationships, and family dynamics. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and optional co-op placements, students explore diverse perspectives on sexuality, marriage, and family life. The program prepares students for careers in counseling, education, advocacy, research, healthcare, social services, and more, addressing contemporary issues related to gender, sexuality, relationships, and family systems.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies program at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive education in the interdisciplinary field of sexuality studies, with opportunities for practical experience through optional co-op work terms. Graduates emerge with a deep understanding of human sexuality, intimate relationships, and family dynamics, as well as critical thinking skills, communication skills, and cultural competence. With their versatile skill set and interdisciplinary perspective, graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in counseling, education, advocacy, research, healthcare, social services, and more, contributing to positive social change and promoting sexual and relational well-being in individuals, families, and communities.

Curriculum:

1. Foundations of Sexuality Studies: The program begins with foundational courses introducing students to the interdisciplinary field of sexuality studies. Students explore the biological, psychological, sociocultural, and historical dimensions of human sexuality, examining topics such as sexual development, sexual health, sexual diversity, and sexual identities. They learn about theories of sexuality, gender, and power, as well as ethical and social justice issues related to sexuality.

2. Intimate Relationships: Students study theories and research on intimate relationships, including dating, courtship, marriage, cohabitation, and divorce. They examine factors influencing relationship formation, maintenance, and dissolution, such as communication patterns, conflict resolution strategies, intimacy dynamics, and cultural norms. They also explore contemporary issues in intimate relationships, including non-traditional family structures, LGBTQ+ relationships, and online dating.

3. Family Systems and Dynamics: The program explores theories and research on family systems and dynamics, including parent-child relationships, sibling relationships, and extended family networks. Students learn about family life cycles, family roles, family rituals, and family communication patterns. They examine how family systems interact with broader social structures, including cultural, economic, and political factors shaping family experiences.

4. Gender and Sexuality: Students examine the intersections of gender and sexuality, exploring how gender identity, gender roles, and gender relations influence sexual attitudes, behaviors, and experiences. They critically analyze gender stereotypes, gender-based violence, and inequalities in sexual health and access to resources. They also explore feminist perspectives on sexuality and gender equity, as well as LGBTQ+ activism and advocacy efforts.

5. Sexuality Education and Counseling: The program addresses issues related to sexuality education and counseling, including approaches to sex education, sexual health promotion, and sexual consent education. Students learn about effective strategies for providing sexuality education in schools, community settings, and healthcare settings. They also gain skills in sexual counseling, including communication skills, assessment techniques, and intervention strategies for addressing sexual concerns and dysfunctions.

6. Reproductive Health and Family Planning: Students study reproductive health issues, including contraception, pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive technologies. They learn about family planning methods, reproductive rights, and reproductive justice movements. They explore the impact of social, cultural, and political factors on access to reproductive healthcare services and reproductive decision-making.

7. Optional Co-op Experience: The optional co-operative education component allows students to gain practical work experience through paid co-op work terms. Co-op placements may include opportunities in healthcare settings, community organizations, advocacy groups, educational institutions, or government agencies. Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge of sexuality, marriage, and family studies in real-world settings, gain professional experience, and develop transferable skills such as counseling, education, research, and advocacy.

Pollster Education

Location

Waterloo

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

CAD 45000

Application Fees : CAD$ 251

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

  1. Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.  

  2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

    • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
    • PTE: Minimum score of 63.
    • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

  1. International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.

  2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.

  3. President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.

  4. International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.

  5. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.

  6. Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to care.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies program at the University of Waterloo are equipped with a diverse skill set that prepares them for a range of career opportunities in various sectors. With their understanding of human sexuality, intimate relationships, and family dynamics, as well as their practical experience gained through optional co-op placements, graduates are well-prepared to address contemporary issues related to gender, sexuality, relationships, and family life.  

1. Sexuality Educator: Graduates may work as sexuality educators in schools, colleges, universities, or community organizations, providing comprehensive sexuality education to individuals of all ages. They may develop and deliver workshops, seminars, and training sessions on topics such as sexual health, consent, contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), LGBTQ+ issues, and healthy relationships.

2. Relationship Counselor: Graduates may pursue careers as relationship counselors or marriage and family therapists, providing counseling services to individuals, couples, families, or groups. They may work in private practice, counseling centers, mental health clinics, or social service agencies, helping clients address issues such as communication problems, conflict resolution, infidelity, divorce, parenting, and blended family dynamics.

3. Sexuality and Reproductive Health Advocate: Graduates may work as advocates for sexuality and reproductive health rights, working for non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, or government agencies. They may engage in public education campaigns, policy advocacy, and community organizing efforts to promote sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice. They may also work to address disparities in access to reproductive healthcare services and advocate for comprehensive sex education programs.

4. Family Support Worker: Graduates may work as family support workers or family life educators, providing support services to individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, domestic violence, addiction, or mental illness. They may work in social service agencies, shelters, community centers, or healthcare settings, providing counseling, resource referral, and advocacy services to help families navigate complex social systems and access support networks.

5. Sexuality Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers in research, conducting studies on topics related to human sexuality, intimate relationships, and family dynamics. They may work in academic institutions, research institutes, or government agencies, designing research projects, collecting data, analyzing findings, and publishing research articles in scholarly journals. They may contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of sexuality studies and inform evidence-based practices in counseling, education, and public health.

6. Public Health Educator: Graduates may work in public health organizations or government agencies, promoting sexual health and preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. They may develop and implement public health programs, outreach initiatives, and community-based interventions aimed at reducing risk behaviors, promoting condom use, increasing access to reproductive healthcare services, and addressing health disparities among diverse populations.

7. Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as policy analysts or researchers, analyzing legislation, regulations, and policies related to sexuality, marriage, and family issues. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups, conducting policy research, evaluating program effectiveness, and making recommendations for policy reforms to address social inequalities, promote family well-being, and protect human rights.

8. Human Resources Specialist: Graduates may work in human resources departments, applying their understanding of interpersonal dynamics and organizational behavior to support employees' well-being and workplace relationships. They may work in roles such as diversity and inclusion specialists, employee assistance program coordinators, or sexual harassment prevention trainers, promoting inclusive workplace policies and providing support services to employees facing personal or family-related challenges.


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