Choosing Your Program
Wondering Which Path Is Right For You?
No matter which entry program you begin in, you can complete an Honours BA, a combined Honours BA, or complement your degree with a minor or affiliated certificate.
There are over 260 combinations from which you can choose.
Explore Your Options. Plan Your Path. Make It Count.
Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next academic move, this page is your go-to guide for navigating Social Sciences at McMaster. From choosing the right Honours degree to accessing career-building opportunities and personalized advising, each section below offers key insights and resources to help you thrive – inside and outside the classroom.
Why Choose A Social Sciences Honours Degree?
An Honours degree opens doors to advanced academic opportunities, global experiences, and career-ready skills that set you apart from other graduates.
- Double the Focus: Combine two areas of study with a Combined Honours program (not available in the 3-year BA)
- Expand Your Expertise: Add a minor in another subject area – exclusive to Honours students
- Small Seminars, Big Impact: Build close connections with professors and peers while sharpening your communication, teamwork, and research skills
- Lead Your Own Research: Complete an Honours Thesis, Research Project, or Capstone course
- Impress Employers: Showcase a rigorous, high-quality education and transferable skills on your résumé
Types Of Honours Degrees
Choosing a major is your first step toward shaping your academic journey. Whether you prefer a broad foundation or a focused area of study, McMaster Social Sciences offers flexible Honours pathways to match your goals.
- Honours Degree: Gain broad expertise in your major with 45–48 units of upper-level coursework
- Co-op Option: Add real-world experience through paid placements – requires an extra application and interview
- Specialist Option: Deepen your academic focus with 48–54 units and rigorous coursework – ideal for grad school prep
- Specialization: Build expertise in a specific area with 54–66 units and a comprehensive undergraduate education
- Available Majors: Explore options in Economics, Sociology, Health & Aging, Political Science, and Psychology
McMaster/Mohawk Affiliated Certificate Program Mohawk Certificate Program
McMaster Social Sciences students can earn a university degree and a Mohawk College certificate at the same time – without adding extra time or tuition. This innovative program blends academic theory with practical, career-ready skills to help you stand out after graduation.
- Use your elective credits to complete a specialized certificate – no extra fees or semesters required
- Learn from working professionals in the field through hands-on, applied courses
- All certificate classes are taught on McMaster’s campus by Mohawk instructors
- Build a unique skill set that combines university-level knowledge with college-level experience
Co-op, Internships, Careers & Experiential Education Careers & Experiential Education
The Careers & Experiential Education team helps Social Sciences students explore career paths, gain hands-on experience, and connect learning to the real world – starting as early as Level II.
- Take SOCSCI 2EL0, a free six-week course focused on career planning and job search strategies
- Qualify for paid internships – full-time or part-time – after completing 2EL0
- Get support for experiential learning through placements, fieldwork, and course-integrated opportunities
- Apply for funding and awards to support community-based or student-led initiatives
Academic Advising Academic Advising & Support
Whether you’re choosing courses, planning your degree, or navigating challenges, the Academic Advising Office is here to help Social Sciences students thrive.
Our mission: To empower you to reach your full academic and personal potential through personalized guidance and support.
Advisors can help with:
- Clarifying your academic and career goals
- Choosing programs and registering for courses
- Understanding academic regulations and policies
- Navigating academic accommodations
- Connecting with campus resources and support services
Important Links
Stay on top of your academic journey with these essential resources:
- Academic Advisement Report: Track your progress and see how your courses fit into your degree requirements.
- Grading System: Understand how your performance is evaluated and what your grades mean.
- Important Dates and Deadlines: Never miss key academic milestones like course add/drop dates or exam periods.
- Student Responsibilities: Know what’s expected of you as a member of the academic community.
Watch: How To Apply To Your Level II Program Selections
Not sure how to navigate Mosaic? This quick video walks you through the step-by-step process for selecting your Level II program in Social Sciences.
Learn how to access the application, choose your program, and submit everything correctly – so you can move forward with confidence.
Explore Your Academic Options
Curious about what each department in the Faculty of Social Sciences has to offer? These tiles give you a snapshot of each program – what it’s about, what you’ll study, and where it can take you. Whether you’re deciding on a major or just exploring your options, this is a great place to start.
