Sociology Major (HBA)
Admissions Category: Social Sciences & Humanities
Program Overview
Sociology challenges us to see the world in new ways to solve social problems, build resilient communities, and nurture democratic structures. Sociology asks complex questions. It seeks to explain how society is ordered and disordered, what accounts for social cohesion, cooperation, and conflict and the causes of social inequality. Sociology programs teach students how to design and carry out quantitative and qualitative research, and analyze evidence to arrive at understanding and explanation. Students acquire a diverse set of transferable skills. Students will learn to use theoretically informed and evidence-based arguments to assess concrete social problems.
Complementary Programs:
, Health & Society, , , , Mental Health Studies, Public Law,
Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills
- Research Methods & Design
- Data Collection and Analysis
- Critical Thinking & Evaluation
- Communication Skills
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Qualitative Reasoning
- Problem-Solving Skills
Careers for Graduates
- Researcher (Government & NGO)
- Public Policy Analyst
- Public Relations Consultant
- Crime Prevention Specialist
- Counseling and Social Worker
- Marketing and Business Analyst
- Social Services
Further Education
- Law School
- Graduate School
- Teaching
- Social Work
- Public Health
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4Choose Your Courses Wisely
- Take .
- Explore different types of courses; this will also help fulfill the breadth requirements and electives.
- Use to plan your courses and program of interest.
- See the for course requirements.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- First year course introduces students to the field of Sociology.
- We encourage you to meet your Program Librarian for in-depth research assistance with your assignments.
- Book sessions with to develop academic and writing skills.
- Join .
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
- Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities on the .
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Meet with the campus Indigenous Elder.
- Join and explore other relevant student clubs and activities on campus.
- Volunteer in program to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development; explore other DSL programs.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on .
- Attend the in September and register with to explore opportunities.
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- Complete the core courses comprised of 2.0 credits: , , , and .
- Apply for admission in the .
- Meet with your Program Advisor to strategize for your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Reach out to your Faculty members and inquire about research opportunities.
- Refine your interests in Sociology subfields.
- Explore the .
- Attend workshops offered by the and Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) to develop academic skills.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Look for Research Assistantships.
- Participate in the .
- Connect with campus events.
- Attend the in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions.
- Get involved in relevant opportunities on and/or off campus; apply to Work Study, or other jobs on .
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Attend research seminars on campus and in the community.
- Check to search for Work Study or volunteer positions on campus to gain experience and to get involved.
- Join one of DSL鈥檚 Community Action Projects to apply academic learning and take action for social change through engagement opportunities in the Scarborough community.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via
- Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
- Explore careers through the AA&CC鈥檚 and programs.
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- Refine your writing with 0.5 credit from designated Applied Writing Skills courses: , , , , , , , , , .
- 2.5 additional credits in SOC courses. Get hands on research experience with research practicums or .
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Take a qualitative or quantitative research practicum course and carry out your own original research project.
- Join the .
- Consider participating in the to showcase your work in an interdisciplinary setting.
- Consider competing for the .
Apply Theory to Practice
- Submit a paper to Undergraduate Research Day.
- Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Volunteer to be a in DSL鈥檚 First Year Experience Program.
- Attend the to learn about local and international opportunities.
- Look into volunteering or working overseas to expand your network through the International Student Centre鈥檚 (ISC) .
Plan for Your Future Career
- Plan a career path with a staff member at the .
- Check for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
- Attend the UTSC in September.
- Consider the AA&CC鈥檚 Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning to work or further education.
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 1.5 additional courses from C- or D-level.
- Delve deeper into specific specializations in Sociology.
- Use to ensure you are on track to graduate.
- Register your Intent to Graduate on by the deadline.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Speak with a faculty member about possible Research Assistantships.
- Consider an independent research course.
- Attend or participate in the Sociology Undergraduate Research Day.
- Apply for an Academic Travel Fund through Department of Student Life (DSL) to research, present at a conference, or engage with the international academic community.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Explore summer internships or job opportunities in Sociology.
- Attend the in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for relevant summer and full-time positions.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Participate in the AA&CC鈥檚 program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.
- Use to search for Internships.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Attend the AA&CC鈥檚 job search conference in April/May.
- Attend the Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search 鈥渃rash course鈥. Find job opportunities on CLNx.
- If you are considering grad school, discuss your plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors
- Get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.
- If you are considering grad school, consider applying for a SSHRC award.