Academic Calendar

Sociology - Bachelor of Arts

Overview

By investigating social inequality, patterns of behaviour, forces for social change and resistance, and how social systems work, sociologists shed light on a broad scope of social phenomena – family life, street and corporate crime, media influence, employment and unemployment, youth subcultures, peace and war, criminal justice system reforms, multiculturalism, and globalization, just to name a few.

As a liberal arts discipline, sociology provides students with a breadth of knowledge, abilities, and skills—a ‘tool kit’ that can be used in a considerable range of careers, as well as in other roles in life. Graduates develop an understanding of how people’s experiences vary by race, class, gender, age, and other ascribed statuses; an understanding of the impact social institutions have on individuals; the ability to develop evidence-based arguments and write reports understandable to non-sociologists; the ability to use statistics software; and the ability to evaluate different research methods.

Students at MacEwan can graduate with a general Arts degree in Sociology or specialize in the Criminology Steam.

MacEwan also offers a competitive Honours degree, which allows students to develop and implement their own research project.

Contact Information

Department of Sociology
Room 6-398, City Centre Campus
10700 - 104 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5J 4S2
T: 780-633-3653

Arts and Science Academic Advising
Room 6-211, City Centre Campus
T: 780-497-4505
E: artsandscience@macewan.ca

The Bachelor of Arts

Faculty of Arts and Science
MacEwan.ca/BA

MacEwan University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) provides a liberal arts education that allows students to explore a variety of academic disciplines and acquire a broad knowledge base that will prepare them for employment or future post-secondary studies. The degree provides students with breadth, depth, and diversity in the humanities, sciences, social sciences, analytical studies, and fine arts, as well as courses focused on language and literature. BA students study subjects in major and/or minor disciplines and must be familiar with the academic and Faculty regulations and procedures published herein.

General Program Information

The BA program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. The degree emphasizes breadth and depth and has been designed for exceptional flexibility and customization. Students can complete a major and a minor, a double major, or a major and two minors. Students can choose a secondary major in an Arts or Science discipline, but the primary major must be in an Arts discipline.

All newly admitted students enter the BA program as “Undeclared.”  Undeclared means a student has not yet chosen their major(s) and minor(s). Students may declare at any time after being accepted to the BA, and typically, they declare after completing a minimum of 45 credits. The Arts and Science Academic Advising Office will send information about majors and minors via email and newsletters; please contact the Advising Office if you require further assistance with this decision.

Arts Disciplines

Discipline Major Minor Honours
Anthropology ⦿ ⦿ ⦿
Classics - ⦿ -
Creative Writing - ⦿ -
Economics ⦿ ⦿ ⦿
English ⦿ ⦿ ⦿
Film Minor for Arts and Science ⦿
French - ⦿ -
Gender Studies - ⦿ -
History ⦿ ⦿ -
Philosophy ⦿ ⦿ -
Political Science ⦿ ⦿ ⦿
Psychology ⦿ ⦿ ⦿
Sociology ⦿ ⦿ ⦿
Spanish - ⦿ -

Science Disciplines 

Discipline Major Minor
Applied Statistics ⦿
Biological Sciences ⦿ ⦿
Chemistry ⦿ ⦿
Computer Science ⦿ ⦿
Cybersecurity Studies ⦿
Earth and Planetary Sciences ⦿
Environmental Sciences ⦿
Mathematics ⦿ ⦿
Physics ⦿
Planetary Physics ⦿
Statistics ⦿

Out of Faculty Minors

Discipline Minor
Accounting Minor for Arts and Science ⦿
Arts and Cultural Management ⦿
Business Law ⦿
Business Studies ⦿
Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies ⦿
Digital Experience Design ⦿
Finance Minor for Arts and Science ⦿
Human Resources Minor for Arts and Science ⦿
Marketing Minor for Arts and Science ⦿

Laddering a Diploma into the Bachelor of Arts

Students with an accredited diploma can ladder into the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and use some of their diploma coursework towards their degree requirements. If you have questions about the diploma laddering, please visit www.macewan.ca/bastudent or contact artsandscience@macewan.ca.

Preparing for Professional Studies

Students intending to enter professional programs at other universities, such as law and education, can take their pre-professional studies in the Faculty of Arts and Science at MacEwan University. For example, a selection of courses facilitates the transition to an after-degree education program or, if the student prefers, transfer to a Bachelor of Education program after completing as many as 60 credits of coursework. Students are advised to consult the admissions requirements for the universities and programs of their choice and to select their MacEwan University courses accordingly. Completing pre-professional courses at MacEwan University does not guarantee admission to the subsequent professional program. Each professional program requires a separate application, and entry is competitive, not automatic.

Degree Requirements

Breadth Requirements

 All Bachelor of Arts degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for the major(s), minor(s), Honours, or options. 

Breadth Element Description Credits
Literacy ENGL 102 and 3 credits in university English (not including ENGL 111, ENGL 108, or ENGL 211), and 6 credits in a single language other than English or 6 credits in world literature (COMP 102 and COMP 103) 12
Humanities CLAS, HIST, HUMN, or PHIL 6
Sciences ASTR, BICM, BIOL, BOTN, CHEM, CMPT, EASC, GENE, PHYS, PSYC, SCIE, or ZOOL 6
Social Sciences ANTH, ECON, GEND, POLS, PSYC, or SOCI 6
Analytical Studies LING 101, MATH, PHIL 125, or STAT 3
Fine Arts AGAD, ARTE, CRWR, DESN, DRMA, INTA, MUSC, THAR, THPR, CLAS 252, or CLAS 353 3

Bachelor of Arts Degree 

Program Element Description Credits
Primary Major The Arts major will range from 42 to 60 credits with a minimum 36 credits taken at the senior-level.1 42-60
Secondary Major or Minor(s) Students have the option of completing a second major in an Arts or Science discipline, or one or two minors. Minor courses must be completed at the senior-level.1 18-60
Options Students can choose from Arts and Science courses or up to 18 credits in out-of-faculty options.2 Up to 60
Total Degree Credits Including Breadth 120
1

Multi-disciplinary majors consist of 60-84 junior- and senior-level credits. Students who declare a multi-disciplinary major may pursue a minor but are not required to do so.

2

Students can take up to 3 credits from Physical Activity (PACT), Emergency Communications and Response (ECRP), Travel (TRVL), or Office Assistant (OAAS, OADM, OALS, or OAMS) to fulfill out-of-faculty options.

 

Bachelor of Arts Honours 

Program Element Description Credits
Minimum Honour Requirements Honours requirements are determined by each discipline. 63
Option Courses, Non-Compulsory Honours Courses, and/or a Minor Students have the option of completing a minor from outside of the Honours discipline. Some disciplines may require a minor. 57
Total Degree Credits 120

The minimum passing grade for a course at MacEwan University is a D unless otherwise noted next to the appropriate course in the program of study. In the Faculty of Arts and Science, students typically require a minimum grade of C- to use a course as a prerequisite. Please check course descriptions for more information.

Cross-Faculty Course Recognitions 

Cross-Faculty course recognition represents an agreement between programs within MacEwan University and consists of a number of approved courses that have the potential to be recognized within another degree. These courses are not considered transfers or equivalents as the original course will show within a student's transcript and their Academic Planning and Progress Report (APPR). How the courses listed below might be used within a student’s degree are determined by the student’s program of study. They are dependent on a number of factors including year of declaration, year of completion, and individual program requirements.

Out-of-Faculty Course Course Recognition Course Used For
ACUP 117 ARTOP 1XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ACUP 209 SCIOP 2XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
ACUP 220, ACUP 303, and ACUP 304 (must complete all three) COSL 200 (6 credits) Options
ACUP 320 SCIOP 3XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
AGAD 300 COSL 300 Options
AGAD 435 WINL 300 Options
ARTE 104 ARTOP 1XX Options
ARTE 214 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 224 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 225 ARTOP 2XX Options
ARTE 234 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 304 ARTOP 3XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 314 ARTOP 3XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 324 ARTOP 3XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
CORR 102 SOCI 1XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 104 SOCI 1XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 110 SOCI 225 Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 120 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 202 ARTOP 2XX Options
CORR 208 ARTOP 2XX Options
CORR 214 COSL 200 Options
CORR 218 SOCI 321 Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 224 COSL 200 Options
CYCW 100 PSYC 2XX Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science or Science Breadth
CYCW 108 and CYCW 112 SOCI 1XX Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 114 ARTOP 1XX Options
CYCW 115 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 201 PSYC 2XX Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science or Science Breadth
CYCW 204 COSL 200 Options
CYCW 205 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 206 ARTOP 2XX Options
CYCW 208 COSL 200 Options
CYCW 211 PSYC 2XX Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science or Science Breadth
CYCW 302 ARTOP 3XX Options
CYCW 303 ARTOP 3XX Options
CYCW 339 ARTOP 3XX Options
CYCW 340 SOCI 3XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 350 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 360 SOCI 3XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 361 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 466 ARTOP 4XX Options
DESN 270 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
DESN 271 ARTOP2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ECCS 110 PSYC 1XX Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science or Science Breadth
ECCS 115 ARTOP 1XX Options
ECCS 160 PSYC 2XX Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science or Science Breadth
ECCS 180 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 220 COSL 200 Options
ECCS 255 ARTOP 2XX Options
ECCS 260 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 270 COSL 200 Options
ECCS 310 SOCI 3XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 355 SOCI 3XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 360 SOCI 3XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 425 SOCI 4XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECDV 160 ARTOP 1XX Options
ECDV 220 COSL 200 Options
ECDV 255 ARTOP 2XX Options
ECDV 260 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECDV 270 COSL 270 Options
ECDV 280 PSYC 2XX Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science or Science Breadth
FNCE 301 ECON 3XX Options or Economics program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breath
HAPR 101 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
HAPR 104 ARTOP 1XX Options
HAPR 114 WINL 200 Options
HAPR 201 ARTOP 2XX Options
HAPR 212 WINL 200 Options
HEED 110 ARTOP 1XX Options
HEED 120 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
HLSC 104 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
HLSC 105 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
HLSC 120 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
HLSC 124 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
HLSC 126 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
HLSC 128 BIOL 2XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
HLST 150 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
HLST 210 ARTOP 2XX Options
HLST 290 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
INFM 101 ARTOP 1XX Options
INFM 202 ARTOP 2XX Options
INFM 208 ARTOP 2XX Options
INFM 209 ARTOP 2XX Options
INFM 210 ARTOP 2XX Options
INFM 260 COSL 200 Options
INTA 210 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
INTA 362 ARTOP 3XX Options
MTST 120 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
MTST 122 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
MTST 125 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
MTST 126 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
MTST 151, MTST 162, MTST 260, MTST 261, and MTST 262 COSL 200 Options
MUSC 104 ARTOP 1XX Options; fulfills Analytical Studies Breadth
MUSC 123 ARTOP 1XX Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
MUSC 124 ARTOP 1XX Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
PEDS 100 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 101 BIOL 1XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 103 BIOL 2XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 109 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 200 BIOL 2XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 203 SCIOP 2XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 206 BIOL 2XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 207 BIOL 2XX Options or Biological Sciences program requirements; fulfills Science Breadth
PEDS 209 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Analytical Studies Breadth
PEDS 240 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
PERL 104 ARTOP 1XX Options
PERL 204 ARTOP 2XX Options
PERL 207 ARTOP 2XX Options
PSSC 102 ARTOP 1XX Options
PSSC 112 ARTOP 1XX Options
PSSC 121 SOCI 1XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
PSSC 203 ARTOP 2XX Options
PSSC 204 ARTOP 2XX Options
PSSC 212 ARTOP 2XX Options
PSSC 252 ARTOP 2XX Options
PSSC 253 ARTOP 2XX Options
PSSC 272 COSL 200 Options
PSSC 273 COSL 200 Options
SOWK 101 ARTOP 1XX Options, fulfills Humanities Breadth
SOWK 111 ARTOP 1XX Options
SOWK 112 ARTOP 1XX Options
SOWK 203 ARTOP 2XX Options
SOWK 204 SOCI 2XX Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
TAST 101 ARTOP 1XX Options
TAST 129 and TAST 130 COSL 200 Options
THAR 240 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Analytical Studies Breadth
THAS 101 ARTOP 1XX Options
THAS 102 SCIOP 1XX Options; fulfills Science Breadth
THAS 115 ARTOP 1XX Options
THAS 203 COSL 200 Options
THAS 210 COSL 200 Options
THAS 211 COSL 200 Options
THAS 215 COSL 200 Options
THAS 222 ARTOP 2XX Options
THPR 205 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
THPR 206 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
THPR 214 ARTOP 2XX Options; fulfills Analytical Studies Breadth
THPR 224 COSL 200 Options
 

Sociology Major

Sociology Honours

Sociology Minor

Sociology Major

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. In addition to the Sociology Major, students will complete one of the following:

  • one minor,
  • two minors, or
  • a secondary Arts major

Students are required to complete option courses and the major(s) and minor(s). All BA degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for the major(s), minor(s), or options.

The Sociology major is 42 to 60 credits with a minimum of 36 senior-level credits. Students must complete a minimum of six SOCI credits at the 400- level. Students can use a maximum of 3 credits from SOCI 496, SOCI 497, and SOCI 498 to fulfill the minimum 400-level requirement.

SOCI 496, SOCI 497, and SOCI 498 can be taken up to two times each, but cannot be used in combination more than four times to fulfill the minimum requirements of the Sociology major or the Criminology Stream.

Students majoring in sociology can complete the General Sociology Major or the Criminology Stream. 

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology Major
Specific Major Requirements
SOCI 100Introductory Sociology3
SOCI 215Introduction to Social Research Methods3
SOCI 232Classical Sociological Theory3
SOCI 310Introduction to Social Statistics3
or SOCI 318 Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
SOCI 333Contemporary Sociological Theory3
General Sociology Major Requirements
Choose 27 to 45 from junior- or senior-level SOCI27-45
Secondary Major or Minor(s)
Students have the option of completing a second Arts or Science major, or one or two minors. Minor courses must be completed at the senior-level.18-60
Options
Students can choose from Arts and Science courses or up to 18 credits in out-of-faculty options. 10-60
Total Credits120
1

Students can take up to 3 credits from Physical Activity (PACT), Emergency Communications and Response (ECRP), Travel (TRVL), or Office Assistant (OAAS, OADM, OALS, or OAMS) to fulfill out-of-faculty options.

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology Major, Criminology Stream
Specific Major Requirements
SOCI 100Introductory Sociology3
SOCI 215Introduction to Social Research Methods3
SOCI 232Classical Sociological Theory3
SOCI 310Introduction to Social Statistics3
or SOCI 318 Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
SOCI 333Contemporary Sociological Theory3
Criminology Requirements
SOCI 225Criminology3
SOCI 227The Canadian Criminal Justice System3
Choose 15 credits from Criminology and Deviance with a minimum of six credits at the 400-level:15
Deviance and Conformity
Contemporary Issues in Criminology
Crimes of Power
Youth, Crime and Society
Critical Criminology
Surveillance, Crime and Society
Restorative Justice
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Victimology
Sociology of Law
Special Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Quantitative Research Methods 1
Qualitative Research Methods 1
Sociology of Punishment
Indigenous Peoples and Justice
Advanced Topics in Deviance, Normality and Social Control
Police and the Community
Criminal Law and Sentencing
Gender, Crime, and Social Justice
Independent Research Proposal
Independent Research Project
Advanced Independent Study
Choose 6 to 24 credits from junior-or senior-level SOCI6-24
Secondary Major or Minor(s)
Students have the option of completing a second Arts or Science major, or one or two minors. Minor courses must be completed at the senior-level.18-60
Options
Students can choose from Arts and Science courses or up to 18 credits in out-of-faculty options. 20-60
Total Credits120
1

Only 3 credits from either SOCI 416 or SOCI 418 may be used to fulfill one of the Criminology and Deviance courses. The other 3 credits are used to fulfill the General Criminology Stream Requirements.

2

Students can take up to 3 credits from Physical Activity (PACT), Emergency Communications and Response (ECRP), Travel (TRVL), or Office Assistant (OAAS, OADM, OALS, or OAMS) to fulfill out-of-faculty options.

Sociology Honours

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) Sociology Honours degree program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. The Sociology Honours program is comprised of 63 to 84 credits. Students can choose from General Sociology Honours or the Criminology Honours Stream.  

Students have the option of completing a minor within the requirements of the Sociology Honours program. Minors are comprised of 18 senior-level credits. 

For consideration of admittance/acceptance into Sociology Honours, students must present the following:

  1. Completion of a minimum of 45 university-level credits applicable to the program of study, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
  2. 24 of the 45 credits must have been completed in the last 12 months
  3. A minimum of six SOCI credits completed at the senior-level
  4. A minimum GPA of 3.3 across all senior-level SOCI courses

Students accepted and enrolled in the SOCI Honours program must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. As well, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 across all junior- and senior-level SOCI courses for every 12 consecutive months following acceptance into the Honours program. Failure to maintain a 3.3 Honours GPA will result in the student's program status reverting to a BA Sociology Major.

All BA degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for Honours, minor(s), or options.

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology Honours
Specific Honours Requirements
SOCI 100Introductory Sociology3
SOCI 215Introduction to Social Research Methods3
SOCI 232Classical Sociological Theory3
SOCI 310Introduction to Social Statistics3
or SOCI 318 Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
SOCI 333Contemporary Sociological Theory3
SOCI 398Independent Study3
SOCI 416Quantitative Research Methods
or SOCI 418 Qualitative Research Methods
SOCI 496Independent Research Proposal3
SOCI 499AHonours Thesis I3
SOCI 499BHonours Thesis II3
General Sociology Honours Requirements
Choose 33 to 54 credits from junior- or senior-level SOCI33-54
Option Courses and/or Minor
Students can choose from Arts and Science courses or up to 18 credits in out-of-faculty options.136-57
Total Credits120
1

Students can take up to 3 credits from Physical Activity (PACT), Emergency Communications and Response (ECRP), Travel (TRVL), or Office Assistant (OAAS, OADM, OALS, or OAMS) to fulfill out-of-faculty options.

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology Honours, Criminology Stream
Specific Honours Requirements
SOCI 100Introductory Sociology3
SOCI 215Introduction to Social Research Methods3
SOCI 232Classical Sociological Theory3
SOCI 310Introduction to Social Statistics3
or SOCI 318 Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
SOCI 333Contemporary Sociological Theory3
SOCI 398Independent Study3
SOCI 416Quantitative Research Methods3
or SOCI 418 Qualitative Research Methods
SOCI 496Independent Research Proposal3
SOCI 499AHonours Thesis I3
SOCI 499BHonours Thesis II3
Criminology Honours Requirements
SOCI 225Criminology3
SOCI 227The Canadian Criminal Justice System3
Choose 15 credits from Criminology and Deviance with a minimum of 6 credits at the 400-level:15
Deviance and Conformity
Contemporary Issues in Criminology
Crimes of Power
Youth, Crime and Society
Critical Criminology
Surveillance, Crime and Society
Restorative Justice
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Victimology
Sociology of Law
Special Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Quantitative Research Methods 2
Qualitative Research Methods 2
Sociology of Punishment
Indigenous Peoples and Justice
Advanced Topics in Deviance, Normality and Social Control
Police and the Community
Criminal Law and Sentencing
Gender, Crime, and Social Justice
Independent Research Project
Advanced Independent Study
Choose 12 to 33 credits from junior- or senior-level SOCI12-33
Option Courses and/or Minor
Students can choose from Arts and Science courses or up to 18 credits in out-of-faculty options. 136-57
Total Credits120
1

Students can take up to 3 credits from Physical Activity (PACT), Emergency Communications and Response (ECRP), Travel (TRVL), or Office Assistant (OAAS, OADM, OALS, or OAMS) to fulfill out-of-faculty options.

2

Only 3 credits from either SOCI 416 or SOCI 418 may be used to fulfill one of the Criminology and Deviance courses. The other 3 credits are used to fulfill the Specific Honours Requirement. 

Sociology Minor

The Sociology Minor requires 18 senior-level SOCI credits with a minimum of nine credits at the 300- or 400-level. SOCI 496, SOCI 497, and SOCI 498 can be taken up to two times each, but cannot be used in combination more than two times to fulfill the minimum requirements of the Sociology minor.

Minor Requirements
Choose 18 credits from senior-level SOCI18
Total Credits18

Degree Regulations

Students are strongly encouraged to seek advice from the academic advisors about academic planning for completing degree requirements at MacEwan University.

Academic Residency - Credit Requirements

In addition to the academic residency requirements of the University, while enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts (BA), students also must complete at MacEwan University:

  • A minimum of 24 credits at the senior-level in the major discipline, with 12 of those senior credits completed at the 300- or 400-level. All 400-level requirements are to be completed at MacEwan University.
  • If applicable, a minimum of nine credits at the senior-level in a minor, with at least three of those credits at the 300- or 400- level.

Students with a previous MacEwan University credential are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits while enrolled in the BA.

Students who hold a baccalaureate degree from another post-secondary institution must complete a minimum of 60 additional MacEwan University credits applicable to the BA. Forty-five of these credits must be completed while the students is enrolled in the BA. This credit requirement applies to students who began their studies at MacEwan University and completed a credential at another institution.

Students who interrupt their program and who must apply for readmission to the program will be required to comply with any new regulations upon resumption of their studies.

Breadth Requirements

Courses taken to fulfil major, minor, or option requirements can also be used to satisfy breadth requirements.

Declaration of a Major and a Minor

Students are advised to declare a primary major and a minor, a primary major and secondary major, a primary major and two minors, or a multi-disciplinary major by the time they have completed 45 credits. Primary majors are selected from Arts disciplines and consist of 42 to 60 junior- and senior-level credits; multi-disciplinary majors consist of 60 to 84 junior- and senior-level credits. Students who declare a multi-disciplinary major may pursue a minor but are not required to do so. Secondary majors can be from an Arts or a Science discipline. Except for those students in an Honours program, a maximum of 60 credits may be completed from any one discipline for credit towards the degree. A major and minor cannot be in the same discipline and students may not declare more than one out-of-faculty minor. Students can re-declare their major(s) and/or minor(s) if required.

For students completing multiple majors or minors, the Faculty cannot guarantee a schedule of classes that will permit the student to complete their degree in eight consecutive fall and winter semesters. Furthermore, depending on the configuration of the student's degree, meeting the requirements for the degree may require the completion of more than 120 credits for graduation. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with an academic advisor in the Faculty of Arts and Science Advising Office and a discipline advisor in their major and minor disciplines prior to declaration.

Restricted Enrolment Courses

The Faculty of Arts and Science strives to accommodate all students wishing to enrol in a given course when it is appropriate to their own program: however, classes in some courses must, for academic reasons, be restricted in size. If such a course is found to be oversubscribed, priority in registration will be given to those students whose programs may require it (e.g., majors, Honours, and/or minors) and then to other students as space permits.

Graduation Grade Point Average

As part of the Graduation Grade Point Average regulation, Bachelor of Arts students must obtain an overall GGPA of 2.0 or higher, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all courses credited toward the major(s) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all courses credited toward the minor(s).

Graduation Requirements

Graduation requirements are governed by the date on which students declare their major(s) and minor(s). Students who declare their major(s) and minor(s) on or before the published deadline are bound by the requirements of the current academic year. Those students who declare after the published deadline are bound by the programs of study and degree requirements of the upcoming academic year as published in the MacEwan University Academic Calendar.

Junior- and Senior-Level Courses

Courses numbered from 100 to 199 are considered junior-level and courses numbered from 200 to 499 are considered senior-level.

Major or Minor 300- and 400-Level Requirements

The 300- and 400-level requirements in the major or minor cannot consist solely of project, field placement, and/or individual study courses.

Maximum Independent Courses

The maximum number of credits for independent work (project, field placement, and/or individual study courses), excluding the Honours Thesis, is 15 credits. Specific disciplines may have further restrictions.

Maximum Junior-Level Courses

A maximum of 48 credits at the 100-level are permitted in completion of the BA degree. Additional courses at the 100-level will be declared extra to the 120 credits required to complete the BA degree and will not be counted toward fulfilment of graduation requirements.

Minimum Arts Courses

Students are required to complete successfully a minimum of 72 credits from Arts courses.

Minimum Passing Grade

A minimum grade of D or credit (CR) is required for all Arts degree courses unless otherwise noted next to the appropriate course in the program of study. 

Minimum Transfer Grade for Credit

A minimum grade of D is required on any transfer credit granted for the program. Unless otherwise stated, Arts and Science courses require a minimum grade of C- when the course is used as a prerequisite. Transfer credit decisions made by the university are final and cannot be appealed.

Out-of-Faculty Options Requirements

Students may take a maximum of 18 credits from courses offered by a MacEwan University Faculty or School other than Arts and Science. Students completing an out-of-Faculty minor or laddering students who have met the minor requirements with a MacEwan University diploma must complete their degree requirements from courses offered within the Faculty of Arts and Science or from the list of Cross-Faculty Course Recognitions in the Academic Calendar. Courses deemed as Cross-Faculty Course Recognitions are used to fulfill in-Faculty courses within the BA and do not count as out-of-Faculty options. Fine arts courses taken to fulfil breadth requirements count as in-Faculty credit.

Progression of Studies

Students are responsible for ensuring they meet the prerequisite and/or co-requisite requirements as noted on all courses that may fulfil Bachelor of Arts or Arts Honours program requirements.

Honours Regulations

Overall Requirements

The Honours program of study consists of 63 to 84 credits as determined by the discipline. Students in the Honours program may choose to complete a minor outside of the Honours discipline. Some disciplines may require a minor.

Acceptance to Honours

For consideration of admittance/acceptance into Honours, students must present a minimum of 45 university-level credits applicable to the program of study, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must complete 24 of the 45 credits in the last 12 months; however, exceptions to this rule may occur with the approval of the Honours discipline advisor. Individual departments may have additional requirements noted in their program of study.

Course Load

Students accepted into an Honours program must complete 24-credits in each twelve consecutive months they are in the program. Exceptions to this rule may occur with the approval of the Honours discipline advisor.

Grade Point Average Requirement

Students accepted and enrolled in the Arts Honours program must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 across all courses in the degree. As well, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 across a set of courses designated by each discipline for each twelve consecutive months following acceptance into the Honours program. Failure to do so will result in the student’s program status reverting to a BA with a major in the previous honours discipline.

Graduation Grade Point Average

In order to graduate, students must obtain an overall GGPA of 3.0 or higher, with a minimum GPA of 3.3 across a set of courses designated by each discipline.

Program Learning Outcomes

Faculty of Arts and Science Degree-Level Learning Outcomes

Thinking about knowledge is at the core of University education and learning within the Faculty of Arts and Science. Students develop capacities to “think-through” - to practice wonder, reflection, and engage in thoughtful inquiry and dialogue. Thinking-through involves questioning beyond the confines of one's immediate personal, social, and disciplinary surroundings. First, knowledge is acquired and understood. Learning moves beyond acquiring information and data to a formally disciplined manner of thinking about knowledge. Next, knowledge is interrogated by asking and answering questions, distinguishing between opinion and knowledge, and developing tools to assess reasons and evidence. Finally, knowledge is synthesized as students develop coherent arguments, and link ideas together beyond what is immediately apparent. Learning is a lifelong creative process of discovery and action that happens beyond the classroom and the degree. Our graduates interact with and contribute to their community by integrating and applying the research and communication skills and ways of knowing developed through their education. Learning outcomes capture the observable knowledge, skills, and abilities graduates acquire that are the foundation of learning.

Graduates will demonstrate their ability to “think-through” by:

  1. Analysing puzzles, problems, concepts, and theories.
  2. Conceptualizing questions based on disciplinary knowledge.
  3. Evaluating knowledge within and across disciplines in ways that acknowledge historical, cultural, and social contexts.

Graduates will demonstrate research and scholarship skills by:

  1. Applying appropriate research skills and ethical principles.
  2. Interpreting results appreciating the value and limits of conclusions.
  3. Recognizing how research involves an ongoing process of reflection, dialogue, and reassessment.

Graduates will demonstrate diverse skills for communication by:

  1. Conveying complex ideas coherently in a variety of formats.
  2. Appraising information in ways that consider context and audience.
  3. Interpreting the ideas and arguments of others in ways that reflect their knowledge, judgement, and comprehension.

Graduates will demonstrate durable skills necessary for learning beyond their degree by:

  1. Collaborating with diverse groups.
  2. Examining different perspectives and challenging biases and preconceptions.
  3. Exploring the continuous impact and limitations of disciplinary knowledge and expertise.

Sociology Major Learning Outcomes

1. Develop and synthesize sociological knowledge

  1. Describe the mechanisms by which societies function
  2. Discuss the social forces and agents of socialization that influence human behaviour
  3. Identify and describe key sites of power in society
  4. Outline and describe the history of sociology and the discipline’s major theoretical perspectives

2. Examine sociological research

  1. Distinguish between academic and popular knowledge
  2. Compare and contrast quantitative and qualitative research
  3. Access and evaluate disciplinary literature
  4. Demonstrate an ability to read primary sociological works
  5. Appraise sociological research

3. Demonstrate competency in sociological thinking and methods

  1. Use sociological theory to inform the research process
  2. Outline the process of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis
  3. Conduct statistical data analysis
  4. Interpret statistical and qualitative research results
  5. Formulate and defend a scholarly argument

4. Apply sociological knowledge

  1. Identify and analyze social problems
  2. Identify both the underlying philosophies and the implications of social policies, regulations, and laws
  3. Explain the relevance of sociological theories for understanding and addressing social problems
  4. Critically evaluate the social and political processes by which power is exercised and social inequalities are generated and perpetuated
  5. Critically evaluate social institutions and social policies

Student Plan

  • The student plan provides a suggested course sequence with the minimum number of credits required for the major
  • The suggested course sequence depends on course availability, the student's schedule, and the student's choice of minor(s) or secondary major
  • It is highly recommended that students complete their Breadth Requirements by the end of year 2
  • Students can use a maximum of 3 credits from SOCI 496, SOCI 497, and SOCI 498 to fulfill the minimum 400-level requirement
  • SOCI 496, SOCI 497, and SOCI 498 can be taken up to two times each, but cannot be used in combination more than four times to fulfill the minimum requirements of the Sociology major or the Criminology Stream
  • Only 3 credits from either SOCI 416 or SOCI 418 may be used to fulfill one of the Criminology and Deviance courses. The other 3 credits are used to fulfill the General Criminology Stream Requirements

Sociology Major

Year 1Credits
SOCI 1003
ENGL 1023
Breadth Requirements24
 30
Year 2Credits
SOCI 2153
SOCI 2323
Choose 9 credits (3 courses) from senior-level SOCI9
Breadth, Option, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements15
 30
Year 3Credits
Choose 3 credits (1 course) from the following:3
SOCI 3333
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from senior-level SOCI6
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements18
 30
Year 4Credits
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from 400-level SOCI6
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from senior-level SOCI6
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements18
 30
Total Credits 120

 Sociology Major, Criminology Stream

Year 1Credits
SOCI 1003
ENGL 1023
Breadth Requirements24
 30
Year 2Credits
SOCI 2153
SOCI 2253
SOCI 2273
SOCI 2323
Choose 3 credits (1 course) from senior-level SOCI3
Breadth, Option, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements15
 30
Year 3Credits
Choose 3 credits (1 course) from the following:3
SOCI 3333
Choose 9 credits (3 courses) from the list of 200- and 300-level Criminology and Deviance courses:9
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements15
 30
Year 4Credits
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from the list of 400-level Criminology and Deviance courses:6
Choose 3 credits (1 course) from senior-level SOCI3
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements21
 30
Total Credits 120

Expected Course Offerings

Following is a list of expected course offerings for fall 2025 and winter 2026. While some courses may change, we will ensure that required courses will be available. This list was accurate at the time of publication. For an up-to-date schedule, please check MyStudentSystem before registration opens.

Fall 2025
Introductory Sociology
Introduction to Social Research Methods
Deviance and Conformity
Criminology
The Canadian Criminal Justice System
Classical Sociological Theory
Media and Society
Population and Society
Social Inequality
Globalization and Canadian Society
Introduction to the Family
Introduction to the Sociology of Health and Illness
Sociology of Gender and Sexuality
Current Issues in Sociology
Contemporary Issues in Criminology
Introduction to Social Statistics
Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
Crimes of Power
Youth, Crime and Society
Restorative Justice
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Victimology
Sociology of Law
Contemporary Sociological Theory
Race and Ethnic Relations
Citizenship and Identity
Youth, Culture and Identity
Religion, Culture and Society
Politics and Social Change
Special Topics in Sociology
Special Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Qualitative Research Methods
Sociology of Punishment
Police and the Community
Criminal Law and Sentencing
Advanced Topics in Canadian Society
Advanced Topics in the Sociology of Families
Winter 2026
Introductory Sociology
Introduction to Social Research Methods
Deviance and Conformity
Criminology
The Canadian Criminal Justice System
Classical Sociological Theory
Media and Society
Social Psychology
Social Inequality
Globalization and Canadian Society
Introduction to the Family
Introduction to the Sociology of Health and Illness
Sociology of Gender and Sexuality
Current Issues in Sociology
Contemporary Issues in Criminology
Current Issues in Family, Youth and Diversity
Introduction to Social Statistics
Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
Youth, Crime and Society
Critical Criminology
Sociology of Law
Contemporary Sociological Theory
Organization of Work
Mental Health and Society
Race and Ethnic Relations
Youth, Culture and Identity
Religion, Culture and Society
Senior Seminar
Special Topics in Sociology
Special Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Quantitative Research Methods
Advanced Topics in Deviance, Normality and Social Control
Criminal Law and Sentencing
Gender, Crime, and Social Justice
Advanced Topics in Social Inequalities
 

Admission Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to one of the following:

Regular Admission 

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicants must have a minimum overall average of 65 percent, with no course grade lower than 50 percent, in the following high school courses:

  1. ELA 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B, C, or D

Notes:

  • Applicants are strongly encouraged to present a broad range of subjects in order to benefit from the breadth of learning and to increase flexibility of future program and course choices.
  • A maximum of two Group B subjects may be presented; they must be from different disciplines.
  • A maximum of one Group D subject may be presented. Group D subjects used for admission must be 5-credit or any credit combination of at least 5 credits (e.g., two 3-credit subjects).
  • Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 is required for a major in Economics.
  • Mathematics 30-1 or 31 is required for Economics Honours.
  • Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 is required for a major in Psychology.

Applicants with nine to 23 university-level credits must also present a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with 24 or more university-level credits will be considered under Previous Post-Secondary Work.

Mature Admission

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicants must be Canadian Applicants, 20 years of age or older, and have been out of full-time high school at least one year by the beginning of the intake term. Applicants must have the following:

  • ELA 30-1 with a minimum grade of 65 percent (or equivalent)

OR

  • Three credits of university-level English, including ENGL 111 from MacEwan University, with a minimum grade of C.

Applicants with nine to 23 university-level credits must also present a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with 24 or more university-level credits will be considered under Previous Post-Secondary Work.

Previous Post-Secondary Work

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Admission in this category does not imply or guarantee the transfer of any coursework and/or credential unless a block transfer agreement (internal or external) is in effect and published in the calendar by the Office of the University Registrar. In addition, transfer of coursework does not imply or guarantee that an applicant will be admitted.

Applicants must have successfully completed the following from a recognized institution:

  • A minimum of 24 university-level credits with a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Additional Admission Criteria

All applicants must meet the following:

1. English Language Proficiency

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicable to all admission categories

All applicants must meet an acceptable level of English language proficiency. We will require official documents such as high school or post-secondary transcripts or proof of successful completion of standardized language evaluation. Full details are available in MacEwan University’s academic calendar or online at MacEwan.ca/ELP.

2. Other Admission Criteria

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicable to all admission categories

Applicants who have been assigned two unsatisfactory academic records within the past five years will not be considered for admission or re-admission to the program until a minimum three years from the date of the assignment of the last unsatisfactory academic record. For the purpose of admission or re-admission, an unsatisfactory record is defined as a transcript with the notation ‘required to withdraw’ or equivalent.

Sociology Courses

SOCI 100
Introductory Sociology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course consists of an analysis of the nature of society, the interrelationships of its component groups, and the processes by which society persists and changes. Society is analyzed in terms of its structure and culture, interrelationships between various institutions (e.g. family, religion, school, government) and the process whereby an individual is socialized into society.

SOCI 201
Canadian Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course analyzes major dimensions of Canadian Society including ethnic diversity (through historical immigration), Indigenous rights, the evolution of Quebec nationalism, the economic, political and cultural dominance of the USA, multinational/transnational corporate control, and globalization. Regional differences within the country are also discussed (e.g. state policy, uneven development, and elite control) as well as the sustainability of Canadian nationalism. Note: Credit can only be obtained for one of SOCI 101 and 201.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 215
Introduction to Social Research Methods
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course is an introduction to social science research. Social research methods are techniques used to obtain information that answers questions about the social world. This course covers different ideas of how we know (epistemology) and different approaches to research (methodology). Key ethical considerations in social science research will be explored. This course introduces both quantitative and qualitative methods for collecting data. Students can only receive credit for one of SOCI 215 or SOCI 315.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 224
Deviance and Conformity
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course is an introduction to the study of deviance, conformity, and social control. The course will explore processes and factors which influence the definition of deviance and conformity. Theory and research on a wide range of specific topics will be analyzed, and may include topics such as sexuality, addiction, religion, youth, mental disorder, and physical appearance.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 225
Criminology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

Criminology is the search for and explanation of general patterns or regularities characterizing the law-breaking behaviour of individuals. The course is an introduction to the sociological study of crime and a critical appraisal of theoretical explanations and methods of conducting research. Students can only receive credit for one of SOCI 225 or CORR 110.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 227
The Canadian Criminal Justice System
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course emphasizes the three components of the criminal justice system: police, courts, and corrections. Specifically, the course examines the roles and functions of the police, the evolution of law and public policy, models and templates of justice, the procedural court processes, as well as research dedicated to reforming our community and institutional based correctional system. Note: This course was previously numbered SOCI 327. Students can receive credit for only one of SOCI 327 or SOCI 227.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 232
Classical Sociological Theory
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course provides an in-depth analysis of the emergence and development of classical perspectives on society and human nature, as well as on the social changes brought by modernity. Emphasis is placed on the sociological theories of important figures such as Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim, and Max Weber, although the contributions of others may be discussed. Social theories are compared and assessed in terms of issues such as the following: the individual versus society; idealism versus materialism; and conflict versus consensus. Note: Credit can only be obtained for one of SOCI 232 and SOCI 332.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 237
Media and Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course addresses the multidimensional relationship between changing media technologies and society. Students critically examine the ways that legacy media, digital media, and information technologies are intertwined with other social institutions and processes. Students analyze the many facets of media such as their roles in interpersonal relationships and understandings of self; their embeddedness in the everyday workings of education, family, government, healthcare and the economy; the way they are used to reproduce dominant ideologies and social inequality; and the way they facilitate social change and resistance.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 241
Social Psychology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course provides an introduction to the study of a variety of individual and group behaviours observed in social processes. In addition to addressing the nature of social psychological research, this course covers an array of topics including social cognition, social perception and the power of social influence. Furthermore, the course explores the development and processes of self-knowledge, self-evaluation, attitude formation, deindividuation, groupthink as well as other facets of social psychology. Note: SOCI 241 and PSYC 241 may not both be taken for credit.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100 or PSYC 104 or PSYC 105.

SOCI 251
Population and Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines population trends and problems in Canada and the rest of the world; social and cultural factors underlying fertility, mortality, and migration patterns, urbanization, population explosion, population theory, and policy concerns.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 261
Social Inequality
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course explores the structures and institutions within which people reside and which determine systems of social inequality. Students examine the ways in which people in particular social groups have power over those in other social groups. Issues of racism, sexism, sexuality and income inequality among other social inequalities are central to this course. The emphasis will be on Canada, but literature from other countries may be included. Students cannot receive credit for SOCI 261 and SOCI 361.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 269
Globalization and Canadian Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course introduces students to the processes and implications of globalization within a Canadian and international context. It emphasizes the key organizations and institutions at the centre of contemporary globalization, the implications of globalization in relation to political, economic, socio-cultural, ecological and ideological relations, and the role of globalization in the opportunities and constraints felt by individuals in society.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 271
Introduction to the Family
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course is a survey of sociological perspectives on, and research into families. While the emphasis is on current trends and institutional characteristics in Canada, marriage and families are examined in the context of cross-cultural and historical elements.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 290
Introduction to the Sociology of Health and Illness
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course addresses sociological approaches to the study of health and illness, including relevant theoretical frameworks. Specifically, it details the social determinants that affect a person’s ability to create and sustain health, and examines the social inequalities of health, illness, and healthcare in Canada. This course also examines contemporary issues in the sociology of health and illness, including medicalization, the framing of health as a personal responsibility, and the corporate influences of illness. Moreover, it critiques the biomedical frameworks that underpin contemporary western notions of health and illness.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 100.

SOCI 301
Sociology of Gender and Sexuality
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course analyzes some of the social constructs of gender and sexuality in Canadian society. It looks historically at changing beliefs and practices regarding gender and sexuality as well as cross-culturally to analyze differences and similarities among cultural groups. The course pays particular attention to agents of gender and sexual socialization including but not limited to work, sport, health, and the media.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in at least one 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 302
Current Issues in Sociology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines a substantive topic or topics of relevance to contemporary sociology. The topic for the course varies and is announced prior to registration. This course may be taken up to three times provided the course topic is different.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in any 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 303
Contemporary Issues in Criminology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines a substantive topic or topics of relevance to contemporary criminology. The topic for the course varies and is announced prior to registration. Students can take this course up to three times, provided the topic is different.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 304
Current Issues in Family, Youth and Diversity
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines a substantive topic or topics of relevance to contemporary sociology, particularly focused on issues pertaining to family, youth, or diversity. The topic for the course varies and is announced prior to registration. This course may be taken up to three times provided the course topic is different.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 271, SOCI 261, or SOCI 361; course instructors may have additional prerequisite requirements.

SOCI 310
Introduction to Social Statistics
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course introduces students to the varied applications of statistics in sociological research. The key principles behind statistical techniques and the rationales for choosing between them are addressed. In this course, students learn the basic statistical concepts associated with both descriptive and inferential statistics including the following: central tendency, dispersion, frequency distributions, bar charts, group mean differences, correlation and regression. Interpretation of statistical results is an integral component of the course.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 215 or SOCI 315.

SOCI 318
Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

In this course, students learn to investigate the social world using a variety of qualitative research approaches. Students explore the principles underlying qualitative inquiry and acquire a general understanding of the theoretical positions that underlie qualitative methodologies. Students explore the strengths and limitations of various approaches, develop the skills to design a qualitative research project, gather qualitative data, and begin to analyze qualitative research.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 215.

SOCI 320
Crimes of Power
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

Crimes of power encompasses the role of individuals and/or groups that work collaboratively to exert power and/or attain monetary benefits. This course builds on the premise that crime evolves and flourishes under the appropriate economic, political and social conditions which may cross borders. This course uilizes a comparative and international approach to defining and recognizing the scope of crimes of power. Discussions may include how gang activity, cybercrime, political activism/terrorism, arms/drug/human trafficking evolve within both a local and global context.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 321
Youth, Crime and Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course is a survey of the understanding and treatment of youth in the Canadian criminal justice system. It examines the nature, extent and regulation of youth crime in Canada as well as historical and contemporary youth justice. Students can only receive credit for one of SOCI 321 or CORR 218.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and one of SOCI 227, PSSC 121, or PSJS 121.

SOCI 323
Critical Criminology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

Critical criminology is a broad umbrella term for a wide variety of scholars, theories, and topics. The unifying feature of this branch of criminology is the attention paid to power, social inequality and social justice. Critical criminologists argue that we live in a society marked by numerous inequalities, including class, race, and gender. They examine how the criminal justice system and criminology itself reflect, reinforce, and compound these inequalities. This course covers critical criminology theory and research, with a particular focus on contemporary work being done by Canadian scholars.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 324
Surveillance, Crime and Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines sociological and criminological approaches to surveillance and provides a theoretical basis for how surveillance impacts our relationships with each other and with social institutions. This course also outlines the nature and dynamics of surveillance in different organizational settings, demonstrating how surveillance helps reinforce and maintain structures of inequality. Case studies may include the interaction between surveillance practices and policing, prisons, community supervision, artificial intelligence, public health, and online security.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 325
Restorative Justice
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course is an introduction to the practice of restorative justice. It describes the theory and history of restorative justice as well as the challenges restorative justice poses to conventional forms of justice. The course uses a sociological lens to examine both the strengths and weakness of this approach.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 326
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

The rights contained in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms are violated daily, especially for members of minority and marginalized communities. Nonetheless, Canada is consistently viewed as a world leader in human rights protection domestically and globally. This contradiction rightly calls for socio-legal analyses of the Charter’s impact on the criminal justice system in Canada. This course critically appraises how the Charter protects and/or constrains both individual members of society as well as the agencies of criminal justice (police, courts, corrections). The operation of the Charter since its inception is placed in historical and social context using a case study approach. Supreme Court decisions and academic articles on topical societal issues (free speech, sex work, abortion, etc.) allow for critical discussions about the difference between rights in theory and rights in practice under the Charter.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 328
Victimology
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

The course takes a comprehensive look at the incidence and prevalence of victimization in Canada. This includes examining the evolution of legislation and public policy that advocate for the protection of victims of crime. In particular, the course will use an interdisciplinary framework to introduce students to the criminal event with a priority and focus on the victim, rather than the offender.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 329
Sociology of Law
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines conceptual, practical and philosophical relationships between law and society. The key emphasis is on processes by which legal rules are created, maintained and changed, and law as an instrument of social control and change.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and SOCI 227.

SOCI 333
Contemporary Sociological Theory
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course follows the continued development of sociological theorizing since the mid-20th century. Theoretical perspectives to be analyzed may include symbolic interactionism, dramaturgy, neo-functionalism, critical theory, world systems theory, feminist theories, poststructuralism, postmodernism, cultural theory, post-colonial and anti-racist theories, and more. The application of these theories to contemporary critical debates and societal issues is emphasized.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 232.

SOCI 362
Organization of Work
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course explores the meaning and organization of work, with a specific focus on Canada. Areas covered include properties of work organization (division of labour and specialization), technology and working knowledge, and social inequality that results from a polarized labour force.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in at least one 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 363
Mental Health and Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course offers a sociological approach to the study of mental health and illness. Topics may include:  sociological theories of mental health and illness, the organization of the Canadian mental health system, medicalization, power and the medical model, the pharmaceutical industry, and mental health social movements. Topics are examined through historical, legal and theoretical approaches and students are encouraged to work beyond the conceptualization and treatment of mental illness in the fields of psychology and psychiatry.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in any 200-level course in SOCI.

SOCI 368
Race and Ethnic Relations
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity, and the causes and effects of racial and ethnic inequalities in Canada and other nation-states. The historical, political, and social impacts of race and ethnic relations are explored in a global context, with an emphasis placed on how these relations impact national identities. Topics that are covered in this course may include the following: formation of ethnic and racial identities, theories of racialization, racism and white privilege, immigration trends and policies, multiculturalism, and national identity formations.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in any 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 375
Citizenship and Identity
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

Society has been confronted with questions relating to citizenship and identity either as a response to or a product of contemporary globalization. This course examines the history of citizenship and identity and their contemporary manifestations in both the Global North and South. Of particular importance is the theoretical and practical contestations as well as consequences of citizenship and identity for specific ethnic groups in an era of globalization.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in a 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 377
Youth, Culture and Identity
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course focuses on the comparative analysis of youth in various types of societies, with special emphasis on Canada. Analysis includes investigation of the ways in which youth experiences and identities are embedded within a network of social structures, social interactions, and cultural characteristics.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in a 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 387
Religion, Culture and Society
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines the relationships between religion, culture and society from a number of sociological, historical and comparative perspectives. The course addresses a variety of topics including the following: defining religion, individual and collective meanings, identity, conversion, religious authority and leadership, religious pluralism, alternative religions, apocalypticism, religious fundamentalism and secularism.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in a 200-level SOCI course.

SOCI 393
Politics and Social Change
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course explores the process of social change, focusing on how institutions shape and are shaped by collective organization in an effort to bring about social change. Social change is broadly defined to include economic, political, environmental, and technological change. Students examine a variety of groups pursuing social change and their relationship to key social institutions, such as the media and the state.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in a 200-level course in SOCI.

SOCI 394
Canadian Sociological Field School
6 Credits          Total (45-0-45)

Using sociological theories, concepts and research methods, students study a social issue of relevance within Canada. Over the course of the field school, students meet and collaborate with Canadian agencies and institutions. The course provides students with the opportunity to travel to an organization or site and through immersion within the site, consider its policies, culture, and social practices. Note: This course combines lectures with experiential learning opportunities in a national setting. Students are expected to attend and participate in pre-departure lectures at MacEwan University as well as travel to and attend lectures delivered in a field site (which may or may not be within Alberta). Acceptance into the field school is competitive and subject to an application process.

Prerequisites: A minimum of third-year standing and consent of the Department; students with a minimum grade of C- in at least one 300 level Sociology course will be given preference; individual instructors may require specific prerequisite.

SOCI 395
International Sociological Field School
6 Credits          Total (45-0-45)

Using sociological theories, concepts and research methods, students study a social issue of global relevance in a country other than Canada. The course provides students with the opportunity to travel to another country and compare its laws, policies, culture and social practices with those of Canada. Note: This course combines lectures with experiential learning opportunities in an international setting. Students are expected to attend and participate in pre-departure lectures at MacEwan University as well as travel to and attend lectures delivered in another country. Acceptance into the field school is competitive and subject to an application process.

Prerequisites: A minimum of third-year standing and consent of the Department; students with a minimum grade of C- in at least one 300 level Sociology course will be given preference; individual instructors may require specific prerequisite.

SOCI 396
Sociological Field Placement
3 Credits          Total (15-0-30)

In this course, students are assigned to a public, private, or non-profit community organization where they apply their knowledge and skills in sociology and sociological research methods (quantitative and/or qualitative) in supervised research, evaluative, or analytical project.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 215 or 315 and consent of the department; individual instructors may require specific prerequisites.

SOCI 398
Independent Study
3 Credits          Total (0-0-45)

This course offers an intermediate-level student the opportunity to work with an instructor to explore a specific topic in depth through research or directed reading in primary and secondary sources. The student plans, executes and reports the results of their independent research or study project under the direction of a faculty supervisor. To be granted enrollment in the course, the student must have made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise his or her project. This course can be taken twice for credit.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

SOCI 400
Senior Seminar
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

A capstone course is one in which students synthesize and apply the knowledge they have acquired in theory, methodology, and substantive subject-matter, in preparation for advanced education or entry into professional careers. In Sociology, this synthesis of knowledge reflects the "sociological imagination" (C. Wright-Mills, 1959) - the ability to recognize the interplay between individual experiences and public issues. In this course, students use their sociological imaginations in self-directed analyses of current societal issues, social problems, or controversies, building a body of diverse work that illustrates the knowledge and skills they will be carrying into their future educational, professional, and/or leadership roles within a dynamic, multicultural society.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in a 400-level SOCI course or department consent if concurrently enrolled in a 400-level SOCI course.

SOCI 402
Special Topics in Sociology
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of a selected topic in sociology. The topic for the course varies from year to year and is announced prior to registration. Possible topics include the following: sport and gender, sociology of aging, sociology of religion, sociology of health and illness, critical media studies, race and racism, and sociology of globalization.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in a 300-level SOCI course; individual instructors may require specific prerequisites.

SOCI 403
Special Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of a selected topic in criminology. The topic varies and is announced prior to registration. Possible topics include youth and crime, comparative criminology, substance use, issues around mental illness, and the effects of race/ethnicity within the context of the Canadian criminal justice system. Students can take this course up to three times so long as the topic is different.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 227 or SOCI 327 and one of SOCI 303, SOCI 320, SOCI 321, SOCI 323, SOCI 324, SOCI 325, SOCI 326, SOCI 328 or SOCI 329.

SOCI 416
Quantitative Research Methods
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines quantitative research methods in Sociology. Topics covered include: advanced measurement and design issues, probability sampling issues, ethical issues, systematic observation, survey construction, experimental design, secondary analysis of existing information, and unobtrusive measures. Restricted to Sociology Majors or with the consent of the Sociology Department.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in SOCI 310.

SOCI 418
Qualitative Research Methods
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

This course examines qualitative research methods in Sociology. Topics covered may include: designing qualitative research, ethical issues, interviews, focus groups, ethnography, action research, unobtrusive measures, case studies, content analyses, and the use of triangulation in research.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 318.

SOCI 421
Sociology of Punishment
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course is an examination and explanation of the historical and contemporary social underpinnings of punishment and the criminal justice system. Topics may include: the social and historical context of punishment; the rationale, principles and goals of sentencing; and current trends in Canadian corrections.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 227 or SOCI 327 and one of SOCI 303, SOCI 320, SOCI 321, SOCI 323, SOCI 324, SOCI 325, SOCI 326, SOCI 328 or SOCI 329.

SOCI 422
Indigenous Peoples and Justice
3 Credits          Weekly (3-0-0)

The course is a survey of the involvement of Indigenous peoples as offenders, victims and service providers in the Canadian criminal justice system at a variety of levels, including policing, courts, corrections, and aftercare. Special attention is given to the ways that Canadian law and the criminal justice system are established through settler-colonial governing practices and how this shapes the ways in which justice and inequality are experienced by Indigenous peoples.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 227 or SOCI 327 and one of SOCI 303, SOCI 320, SOCI 321, SOCI 323, SOCI 324, SOCI 325, SOCI 326, SOCI 328 or SOCI 329.

SOCI 424
Advanced Topics in Deviance, Normality and Social Control
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of a specific topic or current issue related to deviance, normality and social control. The topic for the course varies year to year and is announced prior to registration. Possible topics include the following: sociology of alcohol; youth subcultures; medicalization of deviance; mass media and social control; sexuality; power and popular music; cults; alternative beliefs; and genetic science, deviance, and social control.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 224 and a 300-level SOCI course or consent of the department.

SOCI 428
Police and the Community
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course examines current issues impacting police services and the citizens they serve. This includes the situational aspects of police-citizen interactions which explain how discretion leads to disparities and potential discrimination.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 227 or SOCI 327 and one of SOCI 303, SOCI 320, SOCI 321, SOCI 323, SOCI 324, SOCI 325, SOCI 326, SOCI 328 or SOCI 329.

SOCI 429
Criminal Law and Sentencing
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

The seminar explores the practice of jurisprudence within the Canadian criminal courts highlighting the subsequent disparities of charging and sentencing. Practitioners’ ethics and evidentiary rules of law will provide a context to the decision-making factors within criminal court cases. Utilizing the various forms of legal interpretation as paradigms within the course will provide clarity on the evolution of legislation and public policy.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 227 or SOCI 327 and one of SOCI 303, SOCI 320, SOCI 321, SOCI 323, SOCI 324, SOCI 325, SOCI 326, SOCI 328 or SOCI 329.

SOCI 430
Gender, Crime, and Social Justice
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course critically examines key concepts, issues, and debates regarding gender, crime, and social justice. The key focus is on the study of women, crime, and criminalization and exploring the implications of crime as a gendered phenomenon. Topics include theories and approaches to female crime, the treatment of women as offenders and victims by the criminal justice system, imprisonment, and intersectional inequalities.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 225 and either SOCI 301 or GEND 219.

SOCI 449
Advanced Topics in Social Psychology
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of two or three central topics in social psychology. The theoretical, methodological and applied issues in the selected areas are emphasized. The topics for the course vary from year to year and are announced prior to registration. Possible topics include social cognition, social perception, interpersonal attraction, social psychology and health, and social psychology and the environment.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in at least one 300-level SOCI course and a minimum grade of C- in SOCI 241 or PSYC 241 or consent of the department.

SOCI 461
Advanced Topics in Social Inequalities
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of a selected topic in sociology, pertaining to social inequalities. The topic for the course varies from year to year and is announced prior to registration. Possible topics include theories of racism; migration, borders, and citizenship; education and social inequalities; poverty and wealth; food precarity; gender and identities; etc.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in one of SOCI 301, SOCI 261, SOCI 361, or SOCI 368.

SOCI 463
Advanced Topics in Canadian Society
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of a topic in Canadian Society. The topic for the course varies from year to year and will be announced prior to registration. Possible topics include colonialism and the historical development of Canada, regionalism, ethnicity and gender inequities, free trade issues, multinationals and globalization, capitalism, government policy, and/or issues relating to Canadian identity. This course can be taken up to three times provided the topic is different.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in at least one 300-level SOCI course.

SOCI 470
Advanced Topics in the Sociology of Families
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of selected topics in the sociology of families. The topic for the course varies from year to year and is announced prior to registration. Possible topics include the following: gender and family, comparative family systems, intimate family relationships, deviance and family, and family policy.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 271 and a 300-level SOCI course or consent of the department.

SOCI 477
Advanced Topics in Youth
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of a specific topic or current issue related to the sociology of youth. The topic for the course varies year to year and is announced prior to registration. Possible topics include the following: youth subcultures; comparative youth systems; youth and inequality; youth substance use; music and youth culture; and youth, media, and information technologies.

Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 377 or consent of the department.

SOCI 490
Sociology of Food and Nutrition
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-3)

This course provides an in-depth study of the sociology of food and nutrition. It analyzes socio-cultural, political, economic and philosophical factors that influence contemporary food production, distribution, and consumption. This course explores topics including but not limited to world hunger, environmental and ecological sustainability, government-issued dietary advice, food labelling, and eating disorders. An intersectional approach will be used to examine forms of social marginalization as it relates to cultural constructions of healthful eating. Conceptualizations between food and health will be moved outside of biochemical and nutricentric understandings of nutrition towards those framed within the macro structures of colonialism, patriarchy, neoliberalism, and capitalism. Food-related social movements will also be explored.

Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in SOCI 290 and a 300-level SOCI, or consent of the department.

SOCI 496
Independent Research Proposal
3 Credits          Total (0-0-45)

This course offers senior-level students the opportunity to work with an instructor to design an empirical research project in an applied or non-applied setting, and prepare a research proposal for that project. Students learn to formulate research questions, select an appropriate methodology, plan specific procedures for data collection and analysis, prepare a research proposal, and if required, submit a research ethics proposal. To be granted enrollment in the course, the student must have made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise the project.

Prerequisite: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 315 or 215 and consent of the department.

SOCI 497
Independent Research Project
3 Credits          Total (0-0-45)

This course offers senior-level students the opportunity to work with an instructor to conduct an empirical research project in an applied or non-applied setting. To be granted enrollment in the course, the student must have made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise the project.

Prerequisite: A minimum grade of C- in SOCI 315 or 215 and consent of the department.

SOCI 498
Advanced Independent Study
3 Credits          Weekly (0-0-0)

This course offers a senior-level student the opportunity to work with an instructor to conduct a critical or theoretical analysis of the existing literature on a specific topic. The student plans, executes and reports the results of the critical or theoretical analysis under the direction of a faculty supervisor. To be granted enrollment in the course, the student must have made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise the project.

SOCI 499A
Honours Thesis I
3 Credits          Total (0-0-45)

Under the direction of a faculty member, students conduct an empirical or theoretical research project culminating in the Honours Thesis and formal presentation of research findings. Note: This course is restricted to, and required of, students in the final year of the Honours Sociology program. Students must complete both 499A and 499B in consecutive terms in order to receive a credit in this course.

Prerequisites: Consent of department.

SOCI 499B
Honours Thesis II
3 Credits          Total (0-0-45)

Under the direction of a faculty member, students conduct an empirical or theoretical research project culminating in the Honours Thesis and formal presentation of research findings. Note: This course is restricted to, and required of, students in the final year of the Honours Sociology program. Students must complete both 499A and 499B in consecutive terms in order to receive a credit in this course.

Prerequisites: Consent of department.