Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology
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Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (Optional Co-op)
Waterloo
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, social institutions, and societal dynamics. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, research opportunities, and optional co-op placements, students explore diverse topics such as social inequality, globalization, culture, gender, race, and social change. The program equips students with critical thinking skills, research methods, and analytical perspectives to understand and address complex social issues.
Curriculum:
1. Introduction to Sociology: The program begins with foundational courses introducing students to the discipline of sociology. Students learn about key concepts, theories, and methods used to study society and social behavior. They explore topics such as socialization, social interaction, social institutions, and social change. They also examine the relevance of sociology in understanding contemporary social issues.
2. Sociological Theory: Students delve into classical and contemporary sociological theories that provide frameworks for understanding social phenomena. They study the works of influential sociologists such as Karl Marx, Max Weber, Emile Durkheim, and Michel Foucault. They analyze theoretical perspectives such as structural functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and feminism, and apply them to analyze social structures and processes.
3. Research Methods: Students learn research methods used in sociology to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They gain skills in designing research studies, conducting surveys, interviews, and observations, and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data. They learn about ethical considerations in sociological research and critically evaluate research findings and methodologies.
4. Social Inequality: The program examines patterns of social inequality based on factors such as class, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and age. Students analyze the causes and consequences of inequality in areas such as education, employment, income, healthcare, and criminal justice. They explore theories of stratification and social mobility and assess policies aimed at reducing inequality and promoting social justice.
5. Culture and Identity: Students study the role of culture in shaping individual and collective identities, beliefs, and behaviors. They explore cultural diversity, cultural change, and the transmission of cultural norms and values. They examine how cultural factors influence socialization, social interaction, and social institutions such as family, religion, media, and popular culture.
6. Globalization and Social Change: Students explore the social implications of globalization, including economic, political, cultural, and technological dimensions. They examine processes such as urbanization, migration, transnationalism, and environmental degradation, and their impact on individuals, communities, and societies worldwide. They analyze social movements and resistance to globalization and assess prospects for social change.
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 research institutes, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private sector companies. Students have the opportunity to apply sociological concepts and research skills in real-world settings, gain professional experience, and develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
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 Sociology program at the University of Waterloo are well-equipped for a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors. With their understanding of social structures, inequalities, and dynamics, as well as their practical experience gained through optional co-op placements, sociology graduates possess valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers.
1. Social Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as social researchers, conducting studies on social issues, trends, and phenomena. They may work for research institutes, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private sector companies, designing research projects, collecting and analyzing data, and producing reports to inform policy-making, program development, and strategic planning.
2. Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as policy analysts, evaluating social policies and programs and making recommendations for policy reforms. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, advocacy organizations, or consulting firms, analyzing the impact of policies on marginalized populations, assessing policy alternatives, and advocating for evidence-based solutions to social problems.
3. Community Development Worker: Graduates may pursue careers as community development workers, facilitating community-based initiatives and programs aimed at improving quality of life and promoting social inclusion. They may work for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or community-based organizations, collaborating with residents to identify needs, mobilize resources, and implement projects related to housing, education, health, and social services.
4. Human Resources Specialist: Graduates may work in human resources departments, applying their understanding of social dynamics to support organizational effectiveness and employee well-being. They may work in roles such as diversity and inclusion specialists, employee relations managers, or training and development coordinators, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and addressing issues such as workplace conflict, harassment, and discrimination.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Market Research Analyst: Graduates may work as market research analysts, studying consumer behavior and market trends to inform business decisions. They may work for market research firms, advertising agencies, or corporate marketing departments, conducting surveys, focus groups, and data analysis to help companies understand consumer preferences, develop marketing strategies, and launch new products or services.
8. Education and Training Specialist: Graduates may work in education and training roles, designing and delivering programs to promote social awareness, diversity, and inclusion. They may work for educational institutions, non-profit organizations, or corporate training departments, developing curricula, facilitating workshops, and providing training on topics such as cultural competence, social justice, and conflict resolution.
