Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology
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Bachelor of Arts in Social Development Studies (Optional Co-op)
Waterloo
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Development Studies program at the University of Waterloo provides students with a comprehensive understanding of social development theories, policies, and practices. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, practical experiences, and optional co-op opportunities, students explore topics related to human development, social justice, community engagement, and social change. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a variety of fields such as social work, community development, public policy, advocacy, and human services.
Curriculum:
1. Foundations of Social Development: The program begins with foundational courses that introduce students to key concepts, theories, and approaches in social development. Students explore topics such as human development across the lifespan, social inequality, social justice, and the impact of socio-cultural factors on individual and community well-being. They learn about historical and contemporary perspectives on social development and gain insights into the complexities of social issues.
2. Social Policy and Advocacy: Students study social policy and advocacy, examining the role of government, non-profit organizations, and grassroots movements in addressing social issues and promoting social change. They analyze social policies related to poverty, education, healthcare, housing, immigration, and social welfare, and evaluate their impact on marginalized communities. They learn strategies for advocating for social justice, human rights, and equitable access to resources and opportunities.
3. Community Development and Engagement: The program explores principles and practices of community development and engagement. Students learn about community organizing, asset-based approaches, and participatory methods for promoting community empowerment and social cohesion. They study strategies for fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, mobilizing resources, and addressing community needs and priorities.
4. Human Services and Social Work: Students examine human services systems and social work practice, including the provision of support and resources to individuals, families, and communities. They learn about social work values, ethics, and professional standards, as well as intervention strategies for addressing social, emotional, and practical needs. They explore roles and responsibilities of social workers in diverse settings, such as child welfare, mental health, aging services, and substance abuse treatment.
5. Diversity and Inclusion: The program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, exploring issues related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, disability, and socio-economic status. Students learn about systemic barriers and forms of oppression experienced by marginalized groups, and strategies for promoting diversity, equity, and social justice. They examine their own biases and privileges, and develop skills for creating inclusive and culturally responsive practices.
6. Research and Evaluation: Students gain skills in research and evaluation methods used in social development practice. They learn how to design research projects, collect and analyze data, and interpret findings to inform evidence-based decision-making and program planning. They study ethical considerations in research with human subjects and develop critical thinking skills to evaluate the effectiveness of social interventions and programs.
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 social service agencies, non-profit organizations, government departments, or community-based organizations. Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings, gain professional experience, and develop valuable networks in the field of social development.
Location
Waterloo
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 45000
Application Fees : CAD$ 251
Undergraduate Entry Requirements:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 Social Development Studies program at the University of Waterloo are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities in various sectors focused on social welfare, community development, and advocacy. The program provides students with a strong foundation in social development theories, policies, and practices, as well as practical experience gained through optional co-op placements.
1. Social Worker: Graduates may pursue careers as social workers, providing support and advocacy services to individuals, families, and communities facing social, emotional, or practical challenges. They may work in settings such as child welfare agencies, mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, or community centers, helping clients access resources, navigate systems, and develop coping skills to improve their well-being.
2. Community Development Worker: Graduates may work as community development workers, facilitating community-based initiatives and programs aimed at improving quality of life and promoting social inclusion. They may collaborate with community members, non-profit organizations, and government agencies to identify needs, mobilize resources, and implement projects related to housing, employment, education, health, and social services.
3. Policy Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers as policy analysts or researchers, working for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutes. They may analyze social policies, evaluate their impact on marginalized communities, and make recommendations for policy reforms to address social inequalities, promote social justice, and enhance access to resources and opportunities for all members of society.
4. Advocacy Coordinator: Graduates may work as advocacy coordinators or campaign organizers for non-profit organizations, grassroots movements, or advocacy groups. They may develop and implement advocacy strategies to raise awareness about social issues, mobilize public support, and influence policy decisions. They may advocate for the rights and interests of marginalized populations, promote legislative reforms, and engage in community organizing efforts.
5. Program Manager: Graduates may work as program managers or coordinators for social service agencies, non-profit organizations, or government departments. They may oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services aimed at addressing social needs and improving community well-being. They may manage budgets, supervise staff, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure effective program delivery.
6. Researcher/Evaluator: Graduates may work as researchers or evaluators, conducting studies on social issues, program effectiveness, and community needs. They may work in academic institutions, research institutes, or consulting firms, designing research projects, collecting and analyzing data, and producing reports to inform evidence-based practice and policy development in the field of social development.
7. Human Services Administrator: Graduates may work in administrative roles within human services organizations, overseeing operations, personnel management, and budgeting. They may work in roles such as program directors, agency administrators, or executive directors, ensuring efficient delivery of services, compliance with regulations, and alignment with organizational mission and values.
8. Community Organizer: Graduates may work as community organizers, mobilizing residents to address local issues, build community capacity, and promote civic engagement. They may facilitate community meetings, organize events and workshops, and lead collective action campaigns to address issues such as affordable housing, environmental justice, racial equity, or access to healthcare.
