Society, Culture & Religion Programs
Studying cultures and religions help us understand the root causes of what’s going on in our world, whether we are concerned with international affairs or our everyday experience in multicultural cities like Hamilton. The study of society, culture and religion is one of the most comprehensive ways of understanding humankind and human visions of reality. Our programs allow students to meet challenges in fields such as law, politics, teaching, healthcare, business, journalism and social services.
We offer a wide range of courses and programs tailored to individual student interests that will provide a strong understanding of how society, culture and religion have shaped peoples’ ideas of what is real and important about themselves and the world. Our professors’ expertise in multiple disciplines, including: anthropology, political philosophy, ethics and history, contributes to our focus on cultivating critical thinkers, engaged citizens and effective communicators.
About First Year
Students entering into the Faculty of Social Sciences in their first year take a general program. This allows students to explore various options and experience a wide range of courses. At the end of the first year, students can then choose to major in a Society, Culture & Religion program.
Program Overview
Program Type:
Course-based
Program Options:
Full-time, Part-time
Length:
Honours BA programs: 4 years
BA programs: 3 years
Typical Entry:
September
For More Information:
Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Religious Studies, Undergraduate Program
University Hall, 123
(905) 525-9140, ext. 23109
Required Credential:
Combined Honours in Society, Culture & Religion and Another Subject (BA)
- Completion of any Level I program Grade Point Average of 5.0 (C) including a grade of at least 5.0 (C) in three units of Level 1 Religious Studies; student will be required to complete three more units of Level 1 Religious Studies prior to the completion of their degree.
Honours Bachelor of Arts in Society, Culture & Religion (BA)
- Completion of any Level I program with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 (C) including a grade of at least 5.0 (C) in three units from SCAR 1B03, 1SC3 (or Level 1 Religious Studies); student will be required to complete three more units of Level 1 Society, Culture & Religion prior to the completion of their degree.
Bachelor of Arts in Society, Culture & Religion (BA)
- Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 3.5 (C-) and a grade of at least 4.0 (C-) in three units from SCAR 1B03, 1SC3, (or Level 1 Religious Studies).
- Minor in Muslim Studies
- Minor in Jewish Studies
- Minor in Asian Studies
- Minor in Religion & Diversity
- Minor in Health, Well-Being & Religion
- Minor in Japanese Studies
For More Information:
Department of Religious Studies, Undergraduate Program
University Hall, 123
(905) 525-9140, ext. 23109
Length:
Minor may be declared when completing convocation information
Required Credential:
Enrolment in an Honours program
Program Type:
Course-based
Program Options:
Full-time, Part-time
Typical Entry:
NA
Current Deadline:
April
For academic support, the department provides the following resources:
- McMaster Society, Culture and Religion Scholars (S.C.a.R.S.)
- Department of Religious Studies Chair: Celia E. Rothenberg, rothenb@mcmaster.ca
- Department of Religious Studies Undergraduate Administrative Assistant: Miranda MacDougall, askrs@mcmaster.ca
Academic Advising
The Academic Advising office is run through the Office of the Associate Dean. The primary goal of the Advising Office is to provide all Social Sciences undergraduate students with the information and guidance they need to succeed in their academic careers.
Advisors can help you make the right academic decisions by explaining policies and regulations as well as presenting different options and supports available in your studies.
An academic advisor can assist you with:
- Course requirements, dropping and adding courses
- Program selection, application and changes
- Studying abroad
- Transfer credits
- Petitions for missed term work, deferred examinations and special consideration
- Appeals procedures
- Referral to other campus services
The Faculty of Social Sciences offers additional advising and support for students. Book an appointment to speak with an Academic Advisor.
Programs (by Degree) and Minors
Additional details of each program are available through the Academic Calendar.
Program Information
Undergraduate Courses & Course Outlines
View your undergraduate courses and outlines to find assignment due dates, assessments and more.
Society, Culture & Religion Course Calendar
The Society, Culture & Religion course calendar is an essential resource for choosing your courses.
Awards & Scholarships
Hundreds of awards and scholarships are available to McMaster students. Discover awards and find out how to apply.
The Freeman Family Foundation Bursary
A Bursary for McMaster University students to study for a summer, semester, or academic year at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Ready to Join Us?
Find a Social Sciences Expert
Researchers
Dr. Ameil Joseph
Associate Professor, Social Work
Criminological theories, Aging, Social work
