reputation quality university of alberta
arts
arts.ualberta.ca
innovation
challenge
opportunity
tradition innovation challenge quality reputation opportunity
welcome to more than U expected humanities > social sciences 3
Whether you have the goal of working in international relations or becoming a great writer, psychologist or pianist, the U of A Faculty of Arts has something for you. Students with aptitudes ranging from mathematics, to art, to social studies and more can find their place in Arts.
arts = liberal arts In ancient Roman times, only free persons were allowed to learn the arts and skills that would prepare them for a lifetime of learning and participation in society as imaginative and literate citizens. In fact, the term liberi means free person. The liberal arts allow you to understand the components of the world around you and approach them from an informed and open-minded viewpoint. Let the liberal arts free you and take you where you want to go!
innovaOPPOR- tion TUNITY
reputation 4 welcome!
four areas of study make up the arts at the u of a:
fine arts Delve into the visual and performing arts with courses that deal with everything from art history and acting to printmaking and world music.
humanities
Explore human-constructed concepts such as language, philosophy and religion. Humanities courses look at everything from the ancient world to the modern representations of human culture through film.
social sciences Courses in the social sciences examine institutions and the functioning of human society. They explore politics, economics, social interactions, psychology and more.
interdisciplinary studies Interdisciplinary courses cross traditional boundaries between disciplines or schools of thought, helping to form new ways of understanding and develop new methods for achieving that understanding.
quality
Arts is the perfect opportunity to build a framework of knowledge, confidence and adaptability that will stay with you throughout your working and personal life.
why choose arts at the u of a? “I was scared at first to go to such a big academic institution. I thought a place with smaller class sizes would be better. Then I saw the wide variety of classes the University had to offer. My classes were never overwhelmingly large, and my professors were amazing. I am lucky I didn’t let my fear get in the way of going to the U of A.”
tamara gross
U of A arts student
size matters
reputation
A large research institution means millions of dollars in scholarships, many Student services and facilities, Canada’s second largest research library (great for all those papers), and more than 300 student groups. It also means:
As one of the founding Faculties on campus, the Faculty of Arts boasts over 100 years of history, and now it has its sights on leading the U of A to become one of the top 20 universities in the world by 2020. We’re well on our way, judging by some of the recent national and international recognition we’ve received:
> 380 full-time faculty to teach and guide you > A large scholarship pool > Many education abroad opportunities including our campus in Cortona, Italy!
options The U of A Faculty of Arts offers you diversity, flexibility and opportunity. > 20 departments and institutes representing 37 majors and minors > Paid research at the undergraduate level through the Roger S. Smith Student Researcher Award > Individualized Majors and Minors
> Recently Professors David Kahane (Political Science) and David Barnet (Drama) have won 3M National Teaching Fellowships. > Our Industrial Design program had the distinction of being the first and only Canadian design school to be accepted in the history of New York’s International Contemporary Furniture Fair. > In 2008, Professors Lois Harder (Political Science) and Paul Hjartarson (English & Film Studies) received awards from the prestigious Canada-US Fulbright program.
results and careers In today’s knowledge-based economy, the most valuable employees are critical, adaptable, creative thinkers. An arts degree sharpens those skills, trains you to think and learn, and prepares you for the one thing you can always expect – the unexpected. > We have a Faculty of Arts Career Development Officer dedicated to helping you connect with the career you desire. www.arts.ualberta.ca/careers > As an internationally accredited institution, our grads have a degree that is recognized and prized worldwide! Come join the Faculty of Arts and let us help you explore and achieve your goals in a supportive and innovative environment.
why choose arts? 5
tradition innovation 6 humanities > social sciences
n
table of contents welcome to more than u expected
3
why choose arts at the u of a?
5
interdisciplinary studies
table of contents u of a arts and your career
Alaine Mackenzie, a recent graduate of our Bachelor of Design program (2009), produced the winning design during a semester-long class project and was awarded the final contract to redesign the Faculty of Arts recruitment material. Alaine sees the project as a valuable opportunity to work on a commercial design from beginning to end. “I think that [the BDes] program does a really good job of bringing in outside clients and outside designers… you really do get to work on real projects and have a real sense of what your career will be like when you graduate.”
8
u of a campus in italy !
10
fine arts
12
Music
13
Art + Design
14
Drama
16
humanities
did you know this publication was designed by a u of a student ?
7
18
Classics
19
Film Studies
20
English + Creative Writing
21
East Asian Studies
22
Modern Languages + Cultural Studies Philosophy
23 24
social sciences
26
Anthropology
28
Economics
29
History
30
Human Geography
31
Linguistics
32
Political Science
34
Psychology
36
Women’s Studies
37
Sociology
38
39
> Criminology
40
Comparative Literature
41
Science, Technology + Society
42
Middle Eastern + African Studies
43
Religious Studies
44
Individualized Major or Minor
45
International Studies Minor
45
other opportunities
46
Math
46
Sciences
46
Native Studies
46
certificates
48
Translation Studies
48
Middle Eastern + African Studies
48
Peace + Post-Conflict Studies
48
Globalization + Governance
48
Community Service-Learning
49
affiliated colleges
50
how to join us
51
u of a arts and your career An Arts degree provides opportunity, variety and flexibility both in and outside of the classroom. The skills you develop are invaluable in life and your future career, but don’t take our word for it…
the faculty of arts and CAPS: your u of a career centre
what arts grads are saying
CAPS provides Arts-specific events, services and resources to help you explore your options and navigate your career path.
coolest thing my arts degree has done for me:
As an Arts student you’ll be able to:
“Opened the doors to the world through best-in-class education and exchange opportunities.”
> Hear from and interact with Arts grads who share your major > Connect with a broad spectrum of employers
vanessa aiello, Partnership Marketing Manager,
> Access the Arts-focused HUB Career Centre
International Olympic Committee, ‘97 BA (Japanese)
> Seek guidance from career advising staff
“Sparked my interest in investigating unexplained events and gave me communication skills that I use every day.”
jared zsombor, Investigator, Alberta Justice, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, ‘99 BA (Anthropology)
…and much more!
Whether you check out career options on the Arts website (www.arts.ualberta.ca/careers), ask us questions via email (artscareers@ualberta.ca) or visit us in person at the HUB Career Centre (8917 HUB Mall), we look forward to helping you discover your own career story.
connections
SUPPORT 8 arts and your career
“As an employer of choice, we value an Arts background, which equips prospective employees with valuable skills such as writing, analytical thinking and a high degree of organizational skills.” chris bruce, district vice-
president of Scotiabank
fun fact what do these people have in common?
preston manning, Founder of the Reform
what employers who hire arts grads are saying:
Party of Canada
beverley mclachlin, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada
gerard protti, Executive Vice-President, Encana Corporation
ray protti, Former Director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service rona ambrose, Minister of Labour & Member of
“In a rapidly growing industry such as renewable energy technology, I seek out Art grads to hire. Graduates with Arts degrees can recognize trends in the market and adjust at entrepreneurial speed better than any other group I have worked with.”
kyle kasawski, Managing Director, Conergy
Parliament
ruth kelly, Publisher of Alberta Venture magazine darryl katz, Owner of the Edmonton Oilers don iveson, Edmonton City Councillor jim edwards, former Chair of the U of A Board of Governors
kevin taft, former Leader of the Alberta Liberal Party
marty chan, Playwright, Author & Writer paul gross, Actor & Director paula simons, Edmonton Journal Columnist todd babiak, Edmonton Journal Columnist and Novelist
“Catholic Social Services has embraced the broad range of skills the Arts program instills in its graduates. Critical thinking, clear communication and problem solving are among the core requirements we have in both our font-line and leadership roles. These skills help us to provide the high-quality supports that we are known for.” Human Resources, Catholic Social Services “The ability to research, create solutions and articulate thoughts are highly sought after skills. The Arts degree can be a cornerstone in the development of these skills and an asset to a successful career with the Alberta Public Service.” Human Resources Consultant, Government of Alberta
….you guessed it, they all have u of a arts degrees!
arts and your career 9
our very own u of a campus in italy!
“The perfect place, the perfect program, the perfect classes!”
maya gordon
The University of Alberta’s School in Cortona can give you the unique opportunity to explore Italy while completing coursework towards your undergraduate degree. The School in Cortona is a satellite campus of the Faculty of Arts, and students enrol in courses that take advantage of the unique setting.
what can you study at cortona? > art history > classics (ancient history) > Italian history (from the fall of Imperial Rome to present day) > Italian language courses > unique, one-time offerings in rotating subject areas like European Union politics, mortuary archaeology, or Italian detective fiction
program highlights > Fall and Winter terms offered > All courses are taught in English, with the exception of the language courses > A school week that runs from Monday to Thursday, making every weekend a long weekend! > Professors supplement lectures with field trips. This means that instead of only studying from a textbook, you travel to see masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David.
10 cortona
“Going on the program has opened my eyes to many new things making me much more aware of the world and the people in it. I learned a lot while I was there and am really grateful for the chance to experience the world from a new vantage point.”
exploration
ainsley miller “I think good education is nothing if not humbling, and there is something profoundly humbling about being welcomed into the Italian culture the way we are as we study in Cortona. I feel quite at home here. The Italian culture is beautiful and I feel honoured to have experienced it in this meaningful way.”
MILAN VENICE
leah trueblood FLORENCE
CORTONA Do you want to know more? Explore our website at: www.arts.ualberta.ca/cortona. In addition to admission requirements and course offerings, you can go through our photo gallery, read a blog from a recent student and also watch a video filmed while the Winter term was in progress.
ROME
NAPLES
We invite you to come and explore our little corner of Italy. Cortona is waiting for you!
other study abroad opportunities SICILY
Did you know the University of Alberta has over 100 international learning opportunities for students?! Whether you want to learn French in La Rochelle, continue your studies in Australia or explore African culture in Ghana we have an opportunity for you. For more information on study abroad opportunities visit www.international.ualberta.ca/goabroad.
cortona 11
what are fine arts? The fine arts encompass a range of performing and visual arts. At the University of Alberta we offer Music, Drama and Art & Design. All three departments offer valuable practical training for performers, designers and artists, but their in-depth courses in the history and theory related to their respective fields mean that a fine arts degree will give you a well-rounded introduction to the professional world. Whether you are interested in being an actor or a pianist, or if you want to design furniture or study the history of visual culture, we have something for you.
fine arts at the u of a There are three areas of study within the Faculty of Arts that make up the fine arts. Explore each of these in the pages that follow!
art
+ design
www.ualberta.ca/artdesign Offering Bachelor of Arts, Fine Arts and Design degrees, the Department of Art & Design has a diverse offering of concentrations. Students can explore everything from the history of art to printmaking, sculpture, graphic and industrial design. Many students interested in areas such as architecture and visual communications are drawn to this department.
12 what are fine arts?
“Amazing instructors, inspiring classmates, and wonderful opportunities to put my training into practice are what I have enjoyed most about my time in the Faculty of Arts.� tess degenstein, BFA Acting Student
drama www.drama.ualberta.ca Since its inception in the 1940s, the University of Alberta’s Department of Drama has been a visionary leader in Canadian theatre. It is recognized as one of the foremost university theatre programs in Canada. The only university in Canada to have a playwright-in-residence, the Department of Drama is home to a roster of expert faculty members with extensive professional credentials. The fully-equipped theatre facilities are first-rate. The department offers a wide variety of Bachelor of Arts and Fine Arts degrees in areas ranging from stage management to theatre design, as well as a combined degree with Education.
music www.music.ualberta.ca The Department of Music offers programs in a range of fields: the academic fields, including music history, music theory and world music studies, and the performance fields, mostly in classical music, but also in jazz. You may choose to earn credits by participating in one or more of our 15 performing ensembles, which include orchestras, concert choirs and bands, jazz choirs and bands, opera workshops and world music ensembles. We also offer courses to nonmusic students in the areas of music appreciation, basic theory, jazz history and popular music history. Music offers Bachelor of Music as well as Bachelor of Arts degrees and a combined program with Education.
department of music what is music ?
courses and programs
career info
The Department of Music is committed to fostering excellence in the creation, performance and study of music. Our students study with performers of national and international reputation, perform in award-winning ensembles, learn from scholars who are recognized leaders in their fields and work with composers on the cutting edge of developments in acoustic and electro-acoustic music.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Music (no audition)
You can find our graduates in orchestras, bands, choruses, opera companies, recording studios, music schools and universities around the world. You will also find them in fields such as:
music at the u of a The Department of Music offers programs in a range of disciplines: the academic fields, including music history, music theory and world music studies, and the performance fields, mostly in classical music but also selectively in world music and jazz. You may choose to earn credits by participating in one or more of our many performing ensembles, which include orchestras, concert choirs and bands, jazz choirs and bands, opera workshops and world music ensembles. We offer courses to non-music students in the areas of music appreciation, basic theory, jazz history and popular music history. Edmonton is a thriving multicultural city that provides rich musical opportunities of all kinds, and we contribute to the community a varied program of outstanding concerts. We also explore and record the diversity of society through the activities of the Canadian Centre for Ethnomusicology and its folkwaysAlive! initiative in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution.
bachelor of arts (honors) – Music (no audition) bachelor of music (bmus) (audition required) Our most performance-intensive program, the BMus requires a performance audition and rudiments/aural skills tests for admission.
routes
> education > arts administration > music retailing > community music making
> General Route
> music therapy
> Performance Route (Piano, Organ, Voice, Strings and Harp, Wind and Percussion)
> radio, television and recording industries
> Music History > World Music
committment
> Composition and Theory > School Music Route (see also Combined Degree)
bachelor of music/bachelor of education (bmus/bed) (audition required) opportunities for students The study of music often leads to international travel. The Department of Music offers classes in Ghana and advanced study opportunities in Vienna, while many Music students take advantage of summer festivals across Canada and around the world.
fast fact Edmonton-born violinist Andrew Wan, who studied music at the U of A, is rapidly establishing himself as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestral musician. A graduate of the Julliard School in New York, he won the $17,000 Montreal Symphony Orchestra Grand Prize in 2007. In August of 2008, he was named concertmaster of that orchestra, becoming the youngest concertmaster of a major North American orchestra.
expression contact information www.music.ualberta.ca music@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.3263 University of Alberta Department of Music 3-82 Fine Arts Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2C9
fine arts > music 13
department of art + design what is art
fast fact: Tim Lee, ‘99 BDes, received the 2008 Sobey Art Award, an annual prize valued at $50,000 that is given to an artist under 40 who has exhibited in a public or commercial art gallery within 18 months of being nominated.
+ design?
Whether you want to become an informed industrial designer or visual communication designer, train to be a painter, sculptor or printmaker, study the history of art, design and visual culture of our era, or even just explore your artistic side, the Department of Art & Design will help you fulfill your ambitions.
art
+ design at u of a
The Department of Art & Design is one of the largest departments in Canada devoted to the study of both the practice and the history and theory of the visual arts and design. Today, it is the only university department in Canada that provides BDes and MDes degrees in Visual Communication Design (VCD) and Industrial Design (ID); BFA and MFA degrees in the disciplines of Drawing/ Intermedia, Painting, Printmaking and Sculpture; and BA and MA degrees in the History of Art, Design & Visual Culture.
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Art & Design or the History of Art, Design & Visual Culture (no portfolio required) You can combine available courses from any of the various areas of the discipline, including: Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Drawing, Industrial Design, Visual Communication Design, History of Art, Design & Visual Culture.
bachelor of arts honors – Art & Design (no portfolio required)
bachelor of fine arts (bfa) – Art & Design (portfolio required) Offers concentrated studies in three studio disciplines: > Painting > Printmaking > Sculpture
bachelor of design (bdes) (portfolio required) Offers specializations in Visual Communication Design and/or Industrial Design In addition to your design courses, you will have the opportunity to take a four year program of study in one of the six following routes: > Business/Marketing
risk-taking
collaboration 14 fine arts > art and design
> Engineering > Computing Science > Social Sciences > Printmaking, > General Route, which allows you the freedom to take a variety of options
opportunities for students Students in Art & Design programs may register in practicum courses for credit in the fourth year of the program. This gives students an opportunity to work in the creative design field while benefiting from the guidance of a supervisor in the department. Opportunities also exist for studying abroad at the University of New South Wales or the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology for both Industrial Design and Visual Communication Design students. Internship opportunities in Germany are also open to students in Design Studies.
career info
Design students can find strong career positions within the industry. Visual Communication Design graduates often work their way up through junior designer positions to become intermediate or senior designers, with specialized skills in digital media, information design, communication design for interactive media and design management. Industrial Design graduates are well-versed in all aspects of computer aided design. They find employment as: > product designers
contact information: www.ualberta.ca/ARTDESIGN artdes@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.3261 University of Alberta Department of Art & Design 3-98 Fine Arts Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2C9
> furniture designers > interpretative exhibition designers in the cultural sector
Fine arts graduates have found career opportunities such as: > professional artists (painters sculptors, printmakers, installation artists) > art administrators > teachers of fine art studio courses > curators > art critics History of Art, Design & Visual Culture graduates have found careers as: > curators of exhibitions > managers of art collections > managers of commercial and/or public galleries > art administrators > art educators
dedication
creativity fine arts > art and design 15
department of drama what is drama?
drama at the u of a
courses and programs
Live theatre is an art form of endless possibilities. It has the power to transport people through time and space, to tell stories that reflect on the human condition, and to entertain, provoke and move audiences to change social, cultural and political attitudes.
In the Department of Drama at the U of A, we study and practice everything that has to do with theatre and live performance.
Drama students discover by doing – all our programs offer a hands-on combination of practical and critical skills.
Live theatre is made up of so much more than just the actors you see on the stage. Try your hand at solo and collective creation, as well as playwriting. Run the show. Take your place at the helm as director. Learn technical, behind-thescenes skills with production and stage management. Create the magic and design the scenery, costumes and lights as you study theatre design. Explore the dramatic theory and history behind how and why live performance moves audiences.
develop
> Drama has 22 full-time faculty members and more than 30 guest artists and instructors. > More than 25 in-house productions involving students from all the undergraduate and graduate programs are mounted in the department each year. > There are many extracurricular opportunities with ABBEDAM – a student-run production company – and the annual New Works Play Festival and Quick and Dirty Performance Festival. > The Timms Centre for the Arts is considered one of the top five professional theatre training facilities in North America. Within the Timms Centre and Fine Arts Building there are four fully-equipped theatres. Students have access to an extensive wardrobe department, properties and scenic workshops, production offices, dressing rooms, rehearsal and classroom space, design studios and the department’s Guberman Library. If you love theatre, this is the place to be!
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Drama bfa drama programs: Intensive, conservatory-style programs resulting in internationally-recognized degrees. All U of A BFA Drama programs have small class sizes to ensure a great deal of personal interaction with expert instructors.
technical theatre production or stage management: Technical Production majors acquire a vast array of technical theatre skills such as stage carpentry, video projection, digital sound mixing, welding, computerized lighting boards and scenic flying. Stage management majors learn to manage time, people, space, materials and information to support a director’s vision of a live performance.
theatre design: Targets entire production design to develop skills in lighting, costume and set design, utilizing the most cutting-edge digital design techniques, as well as traditional theatre design methods.
acting: Nationally recognized as the foremost university acting program in Canada. One year of pre-professional university/college study required for admission. Auditions take place in February each year. bachelor of arts (drama)/ bachelor of education (secondary)
CHALLENGE 16 fine arts > drama
opportunities for students
career info
in the ba program:
You will be stimulated to examine the nature of theatre itself, while you gain the professional skills and tools needed to work as:
> Dramatic Monologue and Solo Performance – create and perform individual one-person performances > Intergenerational Theatre – a Community ServiceLearning course that brings university students together with the GeriActors, a senior acting troupe, to create new theatre that addresses aging and ageist stereotypes.
> actors (stage, film, television, musical theatre, improvisation)
> Production / Performance – working as an ensemble theatre company, the class researches, selects, rehearses, designs, stages, promotes and performs a play.
> directors
> arts and cultural administrators > critics > designers > fight directors > playwrights > production and stage managers > teachers
all bfa programs: > studio theatre, the Department of Drama’s resident theatre company, showcases the work of the graduating BFA classes in Acting, Theatre Design and Technical Theatre with six mainstage shows each year.
in tech/stage management: > Cirque du Soleil teaches an arena/trapeze rigging workshop in the department exclusively for our Tech drama students. Stage Management majors earn apprenticeship credit recognized by the Canadian Actors’ Equity Association during their program of study.
courage exploration
fast facts > Per capita, there are more theatre organizations and theatrical performances in Edmonton than anywhere else in Canada. > The University of Alberta is the only university in Canada with a Playwright-In-Residence, available to consult with emerging student writers and established playwrights alike.
> technicians > voice-actors for commercials, animation and video gaming, Your Drama degree can also open the door to careers or further education in business, communications, counseling and arts therapy, education, event management, law, politics, social work and activism – to name only a few of the diverse directions taken by our alumni.
contact information: www.drama.ualberta.ca drama@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.2271 University of Alberta Department of Drama 3-146 Fine Arts Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2C9
fine arts > drama 17
what are humanities? Humanities are the branches of learning that investigate concepts developed by people, as opposed to naturallyoccurring processes and relationships. These areas of study explore everything from the ancient world to modern representations of human culture through film. So if you love your English class, enjoy pondering philosophical questions and learning about the Greek and Roman mythology, or believe that film and media are shaping the way we think and interact, then humanities subjects might be right up your alley.
english /creative writing
“My appreciation of the world is much richer than when I began my degree here and it’s because I dared to choose Arts when most people only think ‘what are you going to do with that?’”
www.arts.ualberta.ca/efs/
david burke, Film Studies Major and
Discover the pleasure of reading and learn how to write clearly, persuasively and creatively. Develop your analytical and critical thinking skills, and maybe even write the next great Canadian novel! Learn to analyze, organize and communicate research results.
Roger S. Smith Undergraduate Researcher Award Winner 2009
film studies www.arts.ualberta.ca/efs/
humanities at the u of a There are six areas of study in the Faculty of Arts that make up the Humanities. Explore each of these in the pages that follow!
Have you ever thought about the effect that movies have on our lives and the roles they play in defining our culture? In less than a century, films have become one of the most important influences on our society. Develop an understanding of the moving image in its aesthetic modes, and within its social, cultural and historical contexts.
classics www.ualberta.ca/historyandclassics Learn about the beginnings of medical science and how it has influenced modern medicine. Find out how Greek and Roman mythology remains an important basis for modern pop culture. Read some of the world’s great literature in its original form, such as Homer’s Odyssey or the writings of Julius Caesar.
east asian studies www.eastasianstudies.ualberta.ca Learn about the diversity of an area that represents more than one-quarter of the world’s population, and discover its languages, scripts, histories, literature, religions and art. Acquire an East Asian language and re-examine assumptions you may have had about other cultures, as well as your own.
18 what are humanities?
modern languages cultural studies
+
www.mlcs.ca Learn how to communicate with people around the world. Discover the cultural diversity of other societies while talking with native speakers and studying written materials. Improve your language skills and realize the value of learning foreign languages as you develop a richer academic understanding. Experience a greater range of employment opportunities after graduation.
philosophy www.ualberta.ca/philosophy Explore what it means to be human — our institutions, our ideas, our beliefs. Learn how ancient Greek philosophy shaped our ideas of today. Study great minds like Socrates and Nietzsche. Delve into the ethical questions behind cyberspace and artificial intelligence. Realize your own philosophies surrounding reasoning, risk and rationality.
“It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” aristotle
classics what is classics?
courses and programs
career info
In Classics, you learn what life was like in ancient times by studying the people, places and events that shaped much of the modern world. Learn about the beginnings of medical science and how it has impacted modern medicine. Find out how Greek and Roman mythology remains an important basis for modern pop culture. Read some of the world’s great literature in its original form, such as Homer’s Odyssey or the writings of Julius Caesar. Or you may wish to conduct archaeological fieldwork in Italy or Greece!
bachelor of arts – major in Classics, Classical Studies or
Education
classics at the u of a The department offers courses in many aspects of Greek and Roman life; teaching of ancient Greek and Latin languages and literature; Greek and Roman history; art and architecture; medicine, science and technology; myth and religion; women’s studies; and literature in translation (poetry, drama and prose). > Annual Undergraduate Classics Conference > Past Imperfect: Journal of the History & Classics Graduate Students’ Association > Numerous Awards for Excellence in various areas of Classics (e.g. The “Dr. Geneva Misener Memorial Scholarship in Classics”)
Classical Language
bachelor of arts – minor in Classical Studies or Classical Languages
bachelor of arts honors – Classical Studies or Classical Languages Examples of Classes Offered > Ancient Science, Technology and Medicine > Classical Myth and Religion > Topics in the Methodology, Theory and Practice of Classical Archaeology
> universities and colleges > public and private schools Non-Profit > museums and historical sites > cultural heritage organizations > historical projects Curatorial and Archival management > historical homes > art galleries
> Women in the Ancient World
> libraries
> Techniques of Classical Field Archaeology
> universities and colleges
> Greek/Roman Literature in Translation
> research institutes Communications
opportunities for students In conjunction with the Faculty of Arts, we offer Classics courses at the University of Alberta’s satellite campus in Cortona, Italy. During the summer the department also offers archeology digs in Cortona, Italy and Kallithea, Greece.
> The WG Hardy Classics Museum
> publishers > magazines > newspapers > tv stations > advertising Business > corporate research
contact information
fast fact The Classics Department is one of the oldest departments on campus, celebrating its centennial along with the University in 2008.
www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/historyandclassics/ histclass@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.3270 University of Alberta Department of History & Classics 2-28 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
humanities > classics 19
film studies what is film studies? Have you ever thought about the effect that movies have on our lives and the roles they play in defining our culture? In less than a century, they have become one of the most important influences on our society. Students in this program will develop an understanding of the moving image in its aesthetic modes, and within its social, cultural and historical contexts. As a student of film studies, you will be better equipped to understand the message behind the medium, and better able to understand why it matters. In a world dominated by moving images and rapid culture change, a degree in film studies provides many opportunities.
film studies at the u of a Courses in the program examine cinema in North America and other parts of the world, exploring the moving image both as a medium of artistic expression and as a carrier of social values. Specialties of instructors include Hollywood and popular culture, Canadian film and culture, film authors, film theory, marginal cinemas and cultural studies, experimental film, film exhibitions and small gauge films.
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Film Studies
opportunities for students > Film screening sessions independently organized by students. > In the past, some students have taken part in the Telluride Film Festival Student Symposium.
career info Our graduates have become > film critics > film classification officers > journalists > arts administrators > directors
contact information www.arts.ualberta.ca/efs/programs/film/index.php
efs@mail.arts.ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.7842 University of Alberta Department of English & Film Studies 3-5 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
Examples of Classes Offered > Film History > Gender and Film > Asian Film > Indian Film > Experimental Film > Documentary Film > Hollywood genres including science fiction, gangster movies, westerns, animation and melodramas 20 humanities > film studies
fast fact In 2009, the University of Alberta Film Studies Program was host to the national graduate student conference of the Film Studies Association of Canada.
discussion
mentorship
n
english + creative writing what is english ? The discipline of English undertakes to study a rich body of literature and to develop critical thinking and writing skills necessary to communicate in and to understand our increasingly complex world. You will learn about the way language makes meaning and how words create worlds. This analytical framework will expand and enhance your comprehension and will prepare you for today’s knowledgebased economy where the most valuable employees are critical, adaptable, and creative thinkers and communicators. Discover the value of reading and learn how to write clearly, persuasively, and creatively. Develop your analytical and critical thinking skills. Learn to analyze, organize, and communicate research results. Write the next great Canadian novel!
english at the u of a From award-winning creative writers to internationallyrenowned scholars, our faculty has been nationally recognized as constituting one of the best English programs in Canada. Our large size allows us to offer courses in the most cutting-edge cultural theories and practices, from cyberculture to the graphic novel, as well as courses covering the diverse traditions of writing across the ages, from Beowulf to Virginia Woolf and beyond. If you are interested in writing, our creative writing courses let you develop your own poetry and prose – fiction or nonfiction – in a smallgroup workshop format. We now also offer a variable content course, Projects in Genre, which explores new writing genres. Our faculty members include major Canadian authors such as novelist Thomas Wharton and poet Bert Almon as well as Governor General’s Literary Award non-fiction nominees Ted Bishop and Christine Wiesenthal. Our Writer-in-Residence Program has a wellestablished reputation for promoting writers of national stature and has as its primary emphasis outreach to anyone who can benefit from consultations with an important
Canadian writer. Writers holding this post over the almost four decades of the Program’s existence have included Marian Engel, Elizabeth Smart, David Adams Richards, Marilyn Dumont, Camilla Gibb, and Lynn Coady.
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in English
opportunities for students Our department provides a unique and vibrant context for students to hear local as well as international writers and scholars read and discuss their work: over the course of the year, students and faculty have the opportunity to hear from many distinguished speakers such as Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott.
bachelor of arts honors in English bachelor of arts combined honors with Creative Writing Examples of Classes Offered: > Social and Cultural History of Language > Aboriginal Literatures > Literature and Religion > Postcolonial Texts and Theories > American Minority Literature > Contemporary Canadian Cultural Texts > Early 20thCentury Drama > Issues in Popular Culture > Literary Computing
career info Our graduates in English and Creative Writing have gone on to diverse careers as: > authors > journalists > copywriters > lawyers > consumer researchers > public relations specialists > technical writers > marketing managers > public policy analysts
> Women’s Writing
fast fact
contact information: www.arts.ualberta.ca/efs/programs/english/index.php www.arts.ualberta.ca/efs/programs/write/index.php
The Writer-in-Residence program in English at the U of A is the longest-running program of its kind in Canada, hosting major Canadian authors every year since Matt Cohen served as the first WIR in 1975-76.
efs@mail.arts.ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.7842 University of Alberta Department of English & Film Studies 3-5 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
humanities > english 21
east asian studies what is east asian studies? East Asian Studies explores the rich cultural histories of East Asia. Learn about the diversity of an area that represents more than one-quarter of the world’s population, and discover the area’s languages, scripts, histories, literature, religions and art. Acquire an East Asian language and re-examine assumptions you may have had about other cultures, as well as your own. Immerse yourself in another culture through a study abroad program, while you practice and perfect your new language with the local residents.
reputation
quality
Some Examples of Course Areas > language courses > pre-modern and modern literature
east asian studies at the u of a As the only university department between Toronto and Vancouver devoted solely to the study of East Asia, we provide our students with a valuable opportunity to build a solid foundation for a career involving this exciting and economically vigorous part of the world. Many of our students already have a strong interest in East Asian cultures, either through their own heritage or through popular culture. Many also seek to learn about other societies to challenge their own notions of the West. Others are inspired by the challenges and opportunities that East Asia faces as a crucial part of the Pacific World, or by the chance to explore why East Asia has produced such successful economies.
courses and programs The Department of East Asian Studies offers undergraduate degree programs in Chinese, Japanese and East Asian Studies.
bachelor of arts –major and minor in Chinese, Japanese or East Asian Studies
bachelor of arts honors – Chinese or Japanese, Chinese and Japanese, or one of Chinese or Japanese and East Asian Studies
22 humanities > east asian studies
> cultural studies > linguistics > religious studies > art history
career info Students not only learn to communicate effectively in an additional language but also to think analytically about the cultures of East Asia. An appreciation of the dynamics of cultural difference is a vital skill for learning and working in the increasingly global community.
Students go into graduate studies and such fields as: > education > business > international trade > law
opportunities for students
> consulting
Students have opportunities to demonstrate their language skills through speech contests, and students of Japanese can pursue a Certificate in Translation Studies. Those interested in the art of East Asia can gain firsthand exposure through the university’s Print Studies Centre and Mactaggart Art Collection. In addition, the department, the China Institute and the Prince Takamado Japan Centre regularly invite visiting East Asia experts to give presentations to faculty and students.
> tourism
fast fact The 13 professors in East Asian Studies come from seven different countries and cover six different disciplines and over 2,000 years of Chinese and Japanese cultures.
> journalism and communications > diplomacy and foreign affairs
contact information www.eastasianstudies.ualberta.ca/ eastasia.undergrad@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.2836 University of Alberta Department of East Asian Studies 3-31 Pembina Hall Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H8
v
modern languages + cultural studies (mlcs) what is modern languages + cultural studies? Learn how to communicate with people around the world. Discover the cultural diversity of other societies while talking with native speakers and studying written materials. Improve your language skills in countries such as France, Russia, Spain and Ukraine. Realize the value of learning foreign languages and their cultures as you develop a richer academic understanding. Experience a greater range of employment opportunities after graduation.
mlcs at the u of a From introductory courses to intensive culture, literature and linguistic study, our strength is the teaching of cultural literacy. Students may also choose to pursue a Certificate in Translation Studies (French, German, Spanish or Ukrainian) while completing their degrees. In MLCS we study the human drama as it unfolds on the pages of both fiction and non-fiction, in film and other forms of representation. MLCS is the only department in Canada which offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Scandinavian, a Bachelor of Arts Combined Honors degree in Scandinavian and a Bachelor of Commerce degree/major in European Studies-Scandinavian. We also have the largest and best enrolled Ukrainian program in Canada.
bachelor of arts
opportunities for students
Majors and minors in:
Many of our courses have a Community Service-Learning component to expose students to ways in which learning a foreign language and its culture can benefit both the local and global communities. There are also a number of opportunities for students to complete some of their studies abroad.
> Latin American Studies Ukrainian (Culture, Language & Literature; Folklore) > French > German > Greek and Latin > Italian Studies
career info
> Polish (combined only)
Our graduates have gone on to careers in:
> Russian > Scandinavian > Spanish > Ukrainian
bachelor of arts honors > Spanish and Latin American Studies
> education > the foreign service > business > translation > journalism > Law
> Italian Studies > French > German > Greek and Latin > Russian > Scandinavian (combined only) > Spanish
courses and programs
> Ukrainian
MLCS is a diverse department, offering languages as popular as French, German, Italian and Spanish, and as unique as the less commonly taught Arabic, American Sign Language, Hungarian, Polish and Swahili. We pride ourselves on the diversity of languages and cultures that interact under one roof.
> Ukrainian (Culture, Language & Literature; Folklore)
fast fact MLCS is the only department in Canada that offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Scandinavian, a Bachelor of Arts Combined Honors degree in Scandinavian and a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in European Studies-Scandinavian.
contact information www.mlcs.ca mlcs@ualberta.ca Tel: (780) 492-4926 Department of Modern Languages and Cultural Studies 200 Arts Building University of Alberta Edmonton, AB T6G 2E6
humanities > mlcs 23
department of philosophy what is philosophy ?
courses and programs
Reasoning is one of our most important capacities for coping with our world. What does good reasoning involve? How can we apply it to central questions of human life, questions about the nature of truth, knowledge, reality and values? In which kinds of answers can we have confidence? These are some of the central questions addressed by philosophy.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Philosophy
Different branches of philosophy focus on the ways we think and reason about different aspects of the world and ourselves. You can study the philosophy of art, artificial intelligence, ethics, language, law, reality, science, sexuality… the list goes on. Through the study of classic and contemporary philosophies, our students develop their own perspectives on how to negotiate the central questions of human life.
bachelor of arts honors Examples of Classes Offered: > Practical Logic > Metaphysics > Theory of Mind > Philosophy of the Environment > Equality and Social Justice > Philosophy and Healthcare > Existentialism > The History of Ancient, Medieval and Modern Philosophy > Philosophy of Computing
philosophy at the u of a At the University of Alberta, the study of traditional approaches to philosophical questions provides the basis to explore vital contemporary issues. Students investigate the theories of historical figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Kant, Nietzsche, Sartre and Foucault, then move on to contemporary theories through courses in aesthetics, bioethics, cognitive science, cyber-philosophy, decision theory, feminist philosophy and philosophy of science, among many others. Philosophy prizes clarity of thought, critical reasoning, and the ability to present one’s ideas clearly. These skills are also valued by a wide range of professional fields, including law, public policy, journalism, civil service, education and administration. Philosophy is learned through dialogue with instructors and other students – often in small seminars – so students cultivate communication and collaboration abilities, which are highly valued in the workplace.
24 humanities > philosophy
> Philosophy of Art
opportunities for students The department’s colloquium series brings international speakers in throughout the year. Philosophy students are eligible for a number of awards and can apply to carry out summer research projects with faculty members, through the Roger S. Smith Undergraduate Student Researcher Award program.
career info Whatever your interests, you will find philosophy both challenging and inspiring. You will also develop the kind of reasoning and communication skills that help philosophy students excel on LSATs, MCATs and GREs. Workshops on applying to graduate and professional schools are offered annually.
support fast fact: The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, has a BA(hons) and an MA degree in philosophy from the University of Alberta.
contact information www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/philosophy wendy.minns@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.3307 University of Alberta Department of Philosophy 2-40 Assiniboia Hall Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E7
“I know I might be one of thirty thousand students here, but I never feel alone in my program! There is such a feeling of community.� caleigh dingwall,
U of A Arts Student
what is social science ? Did you enjoy your social studies classes in high school? Do you have aspirations of working internationally, understanding how society and its institutions function, or getting a better idea about what motivates behaviour? If any or all of this applies to you, then the social sciences may be right up your alley. Social Science is a branch of science that deals with the institutions and functioning of human society, and with the interpersonal relationships of individuals as members of society (Mirriam-Webster Dictionary). These areas of study explore everything from economics to politics, psychology and more!
economics www.economics.ualberta.ca Are we using energy efficiently? Why do financial crises occur? Why are some nations poor? Economists are always called upon to answer questions such as these. Economists are concerned with how a society manages, produces and distributes its wealth, both material and immaterial. In a nutshell, economists are concerned with the conditions that contribute to a society’s well-being.
history www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/historyandclassics
social science at the u of a There are 10 areas of study within the Faculty of Arts that make up the social sciences. Explore each of these in the pages that follow!
anthropology
Believe it or not, history is not all about memorizing names and dates. It is an exciting field that uncovers the experiences and cultures of people from the past. As a history student, you will learn the approaches and methods employed by expert historians. You will also take special senior-level seminar courses that will allow you to specialize in your areas of interest, and even conduct extensive undergraduate historical research.
www.anthropology.ualberta.ca/ Anthropology addresses the world around you and helps you better understand your place in it. It views individuals and societies within their environmental, biological and cultural contexts. Studying anthropology at the University of Alberta prepares you for a career in our increasingly connected world. There are four streams of anthropology at the U of A: Archaeology, Linguistic Anthropology, Social/Cultural Anthropology and Physical Anthropology.
26 what is social science?
human geography http://easweb.eas.ualberta.ca/page/56 Human geography is a branch of social science that focuses on the relationship between human societies and the built and natural environment in which they operate. Human geographers believe that location, space and scale of phenomenon are crucial factors that must be taken into account when developing or applying academic theory.
linguistics
sociology
www.linguistics.ualberta.ca
www.sociology.ualberta.ca
Linguistics is the scientific study of human language. It explores the infinite number of rules that govern and structure all human languages and teaches methods of analyzing individual language structures. Linguistics also offers understanding of the physical, mental and social processes that surround all verbal and non-verbal human communication.
Sociology examines the social forces behind individual and group behaviour. As a sociology student, your possibilities are almost unlimited. Excellent instructors engage with students in courses on cultural studies, globalization, social theory, social policy, urban spaces, inequality, gender, aging, population studies, work, health, crime and corrections, immigration, families and youth.
political science
criminology
www.politicalscience.ualberta.ca
www.sociology.ualberta.ca
Political scientists study how human beings share or fight for power and authority, how governments work and don’t work, and how citizens can engage in the politics that shapes society and day-to-day life. Political scientists study ideas that are key to political action and organization, such as representation, democracy, justice, equality, liberty, rights and emancipation. The Department of Political Science offers courses in four subfields of the discipline: Political Philosophy, Comparative Politics, Canadian Politics and International Relations.
Criminology studies the causes of criminal behaviour and the variety of social responses to it. The program includes courses in sociology and other disciplines such as anthropology, native studies, political science and psychology. Two field placements involving supervised work experience in criminal justice settings are also included.
psychology www.psych.ualberta.ca The study of psychology is possible in both the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science. If you are interested in specializing in the physical, biological and mathematical sciences, you may choose to study with the Faculty of Science. If you are more into studying the social science aspect of psychology, such as social psychology, child development, or personality and abnormal psychology, then the Faculty of Arts is the place for you!
“At first, I didn’t know I wanted to be in the Faculty of Arts. But after taking some Arts courses, I knew that was it. It just felt so right for me taking these courses that I absolutely love. And it’s such a great feeling to know that you’re actually “excited” going to class and actually “learning” something when you walk out. It’s great.” petros kusmu, Economics Major, Political Science Minor
women ’s studies www.womensstudies.ualberta.ca Women’s Studies explores how societies have created different roles for men and women, and how those roles have evolved over time and in various parts of the world. You will learn about the contributions women have made to the entire range of disciplines, and study research methods that don’t discriminate based on gender. You don’t have to be a feminist to see the world in a new way. And you don’t need to be a woman to take courses in Women’s Studies.
what is social science? 27
department of anthropology
discovery
curiosity
what is anthropology ?
opportunities for students
The simple answer is that it is the study of humans across time and space. But anthropology is much more than that. Anthropology addresses the world around you and helps you better understand your place in it. It views individuals, societies and cultures within the matrix of their environmental, social, biological and psychological conditions. Anthropologists look for answers to questions that we have been asking for ages: Where did we come from as humans, and where are we going? What influences lifestyle and physiological variations among historical and contemporary societies and people? How does a culture influence a language, and how does a language help to shape a culture?
Many students have taken the opportunity to work on field projects alongside their professors. In the past we have held field schools in Greece, Italy, Southern Alberta and Russia.
anthropology at the u of a Studying anthropology at the University of Alberta prepares you for a career in our increasingly global economy. The Department of Anthropology provides an integrated fourfield approach: > Social/Cultural Anthropology > Linguistic Anthropology > Archaeology
The Anthropology Department also has a very active student association which you can get involved in as a student in the department.
career info Anthropology students graduate with a unique sense of cultural awareness and understanding, enabling them to work in careers such as: > archaeological field worker > community development officer > foreign service officer > non-profit manager > park guide / interpreter > international trade and business > government > ethnic and cultural organizations > non-governmental organizations
> Biological Anthropology
courses and programs
fast fact Faculty members in the Department of Anthropology conduct research literally all over the world – they work in over 20 countries on all seven continents.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Anthropology
contact information
bachelor of arts honors – Anthropology
www.arts.ualberta.ca/anthropology anthropo@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.3879
Examples of Classes Offered > Gender, Age, and Culture > Forensic Anthropology > Anthropology of Food > Health and Healing > Plains Archaeology
28 social sciences > anthropology
University of Alberta Department of Anthropology 13-15 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
department of economics what is economics?
courses and programs
Economics is the study of how our limited resources can be used to produce goods and services to satisfy unlimited human wants. Economists address questions such as: Why do gasoline prices increase or decrease?
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Economics
> How are we going to pay for health care? > Why does the value of the dollar fluctuate? > What will be the effect of a carbon tax? > Why do financial crises occur? > Why are some nations richer than others? > Do free trade and globalization promote economic growth?
bachelor of arts honors – two options available: one for students interested in graduate studies and one for students with other career objectives. In addition, joint programs in Economics and Mathematics are offered through the Faculty of Science. Examples of Classes Offered: > International Economics > Natural Resources, Energy and the Environment > Economic Development > Tax Policy
economics at the u of a The Department of Economics is home to over 30 fulltime faculty members whose research activities cover a broad spectrum of topics. Many of our faculty members have worked with such organizations as the International Monetary Fund, the Canadian International Development Agency, the Federal Minister of Finance and the Capital Health Authority, to name only a few. In 2007-08, a total of 8,190 students enrolled in 81 Economics courses.
> Law and Economics > Economics of Financial Markets > Health Economics > Economics of Professional Sport
A 2006 study ranked economics majors first out of 12 disciplines in terms of performance on the LSAT (a key law school entrance examination).
career info Economists work for every level of government, in private industry, for labour organizations, financial institutions, colleges, universities and “think-tanks,” and as consultants. Study towards an economics degree also develops strong analytical and mathematical skills which are useful in many other careers, especially law and business. Careers available to people with degrees in economics include: > economist > statistician
opportunities for students
> financial analyst
There are plenty of opportunities for students to enhance their learning through study and work abroad or travel to conferences. Some examples:
> policy analyst
> The Canadian Consulate General (with other agencies) sponsors a Student Conference each year to study Canada-US issues. Information is available at: http://www.spu.edu/depts/csfd/borders1.html > The Alberta Smithsonian Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to develop professional skills working in the summer for the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. Information is available at http://www.advancededucation.gov. ab.ca/IntlEd/internship.asp.
inquiry
fast fact
> management consultant > broker > foreign-exchange dealer
contact information www.ualberta.ca/economics/ Tel: 780.492.3406 University of Alberta Department of Economics 8-14 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
social sciences > economics 29
department of history
challenge
tradition what is history ?
courses and programs
The study of history involves much more than learning names and dates. In the broadest sense, it is the study of the human past. It uncovers and explores our history by studying the records, writings and relics that people have left behind.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in History or Ancient &
> teachers (post-secondary and primary)
Medieval History
> national archives and records officers
bachelor of arts honors – History
> foreign services officers
Examples of Courses Offered
> public interest/advocacy groups
Historians employ some of the most exciting tools and techniques available to scholars in any discipline; they are detectives and forensics experts, literary theorists and Bible scholars, political analysts and statisticians. They ask questions about the past in an effort to deepen our understanding and experience of the present and future.
history at the u of a The Department of History at the U of A offers many courses in a number of fields: chronological eras (ancient history, medieval history, early modern history and modern history), geographical areas (Africa and the Middle East, Asia, Canada, Europe [including Britain], Latin America and the United States) and thematic fields (history of science, medicine and technology; history of religion, women and gender, and perspectives on empire). Students are encouraged to explore the various fields and avoid undue concentration in any one field. Our department is particularly strong in the history of Eastern Europe and Western Canada.
30 social sciences > history
> The History of the World in the Last 10 Years > Russia from Reform to Revolution > Topics in History at the Movies > History of Alberta
opportunities for students > In conjunction with the Faculty of Arts, we offer history courses at the University of Alberta’s satellite campus in Cortona, Italy. > Annual History & Classics Graduate Student Conference > Past Imperfect: Journal of the History & Classics Graduate Students’ Association > Numerous Awards for Excellence in various areas of Classics (e.g. the Prairie History Medal)
career info
> lawyers > museums and historical sites employees > cultural heritage organizations > historical projects > curatorial and archival managers > publishers
fast fact The History Department is one of the oldest departments on campus, celebrating its centennial along with the University and the Faculty in 2008.
contact information www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/historyandclassics/ histclass@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492-.3270 University of Alberta Department of History & Classics 2-28 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
innovation
human geography what is human geography ? Human geography is a branch of social science that focuses on the relationships between human societies and the built and natural environments in which they operate. As a human geography student, you will take courses that provide you with an understanding of academic theories applied in relation to real world issues, as well as practical skills that are in high demand by employers.
> how humans design, plan and construct the built environment and the impact of these environments upon human health and well being, environmental sustainability and economic sustainability; > how location of services, infrastructure, employment, commercial activities, retail activities, housing and recreation sites impact travel patterns, transit choices and accessibility for diverse groups of people.
human geography at the u of a
courses and programs
Human geography students take a core set of human geography courses as part of their program. They also have the flexibility to take courses in science, arts and other disciplines and faculties to support the development of both knowledge and skills.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Human Geography
Geographers study: > the hazards facing human societies, such as tornadoes, terrorist threats, wildfires and floods, and the way in which humans prepare for them; > the different and contested meanings that people attach to places; > the ways in which human societies interact with the natural environment, including their dependence upon and management of natural resources; > an integrative approach to achieving economic, social and environmental sustainability at local, regional, national and global scales; > the concept of ‘community’ and how communities use both conflict and cooperation to address issues such as local environmental degradation, homelessness, security, economic development and landscape aesthetics;
Examples of Courses Offered:
helping to draft the next major environmental regulation that protects an endangered species, or being on a board that revolutionizes your city’s public transit system to improve it for future generations. Imagine helping to provide villages across Southern Africa with schools, or being part of a community eco-tourism initiative in the South Pacific. Some examples of jobs held by Human geographers are: > political advisor > sustainability coordinator > community development officer
> The Urban Environment
> international trade consultant
> Health, Space and Place
> policy development officer
> Human Dimensions of Environmental Hazards
> GIS (Geographic Information System) analyst
> Natural Resources and Environmental Management
> environmental assessment agent
> Research Methods in Human Geography > Resource Management and Environmental Policy
opportunities for students The Human Geography field school, offered each spring, provides a unique opportunity for students to apply social science and geographical analysis skills to the practical study of contemporary human geography issues. The location of the field school and sites visited vary from year to year.
fast fact The Canadian Association of Geographers, which promotes the use and development of geography in Canada, currently includes 1,135 members – and 67% of these members are human geographers!
contact information career info Human geography can be the gateway to a range of rewarding careers. Imagine walking down a major downtown street and thinking “I helped make this neighbourhood the exciting and vibrant community that it is today,” or seeing thousands of homes saved from a wildfire and knowing that a community outreach program you worked on helped homeowners reduce the risk to their property. Imagine
www.ualberta.ca/eas Tel: 780.492.2030 University of Alberta Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences 1-26 Earth Sciences Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E3
social sciences > human geography 31
department of linguistics what is linguistics? Linguistics is the scientific study of human language. It explores the infinite number of rules that govern and structure all human languages and teaches methods of analyzing individual language structures. Linguistics also offers understanding of the physical, mental and social processes that surround all verbal and non-verbal human communication. Discover how infants learn to speak. Help protect and restore endangered languages. Explore the workings of the brain while it processes words. Gain an in-depth understanding of how people communicate. Survey world languages and compare them to your own first language.
linguistics at the u of a “The faculty is outstanding in quality, with ground-breaking research programs…Members of the Department, be they faculty, student, or staff, are fully committed and giving everything that they have to make linguistics a vibrant and exciting area of research and place to work.” 2008 Academic Unit Review of the Department of Linguistics Our professors’ research includes work in Forensic Linguistics, a relatively new field which is becoming more and more important. Forensic linguists do everything from analyzing speech patterns and matching them with suspects, to testifying in copyright infringement cases.
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Linguistics bachelor of arts honors – Linguistics
32 social sciences > linguistics
Examples of Courses Offered: > Child Language Acquisition > Neurolinguistics > Sociolinguistics > Psycholinguistics > Language and Gender > Historical Linguistics
opportunities for students Our Department of Linguistics is one of the most unique in Canada. Since our faculty members engage in experimental research, undergraduates have the opportunity to participate in active research, which usually only occurs at the graduate level. For example, fourth-year student Krystin Emmerzael (photo at right) was awarded a Roger S. Smith Undergraduate Student Researcher Award in 2008, which enabled her to work on cutting- edge research on language acquisition.
career info A degree in linguistics serves as a solid foundation for any career path since it provides understanding and skills in the field of human communications. Students have gone on to careers in:
engage fast fact Linguistics excels at attracting large-scale research funding, both within the Faculty of Arts and across universities within Canada. This success facilitates an impressive record of research activity, especially internationally, and the acquisition of first-class research equipment and other resources. Linguistics has an outstanding record of community service. This includes service to Aboriginal communities, local immigrant communities and stroke victims.
> journalism > marketing
contact information
> law
www.linguistics.ualberta.ca/ lingundergrad@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.3434
> teaching English as a second language > communications and publicity > technical writing, media work > computer language development > speech pathology
University of Alberta Department of Linguistics 4-32 Assiniboia Hall Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E7
c
challenge
opportunity
department of political science what is political science ?
political science at u of a
courses and programs
Political science is about much more than the study of elections and government. Students of politics are interested in understanding how our everyday lives are shaped by existing social and economic structures, conflict and political ideologies. Political scientists study the meaning of important political concepts such as representation, democracy, justice, equality, rights and emancipation. They investigate the relationship between politics and economics and government, as well as the forces that stimulate political action, such as social movements, interest groups and political parties. The concerns of political scientists include the role of the courts in shaping public policy; the news media’s impact on political behaviour; and the politics of knowledge, gender, race, environmentalism, indigenous rights, colonialism and globalization.
At the University of Alberta, we balance the traditional aspects of the discipline with transformative questions, approaches and subjects of inquiry. For example, our areas of research strength include cutting-edge work on citizenship, globalization and governance, North American politics, foreign and domestic policy, peace and post-conflict studies and the politics of gender.
Students interested in the study of politics have the following degree and program options to choose from:
Courses are offered in the four major subfields of Political Science:
> political philosophy: Courses examine and analyze political thinkers, ideas and theories, from the classics in political thought to contemporary political theory.
> canadian politics: Courses concentrate on Canadian political life, including city politics, women and politics, political parties, public policy, federalism and the constitution, and provincial and regional politics. > international relations: Courses focus on conflict and cooperation among nation-states, theories of international relations, international organizations, the international political economy and foreign policy.
> comparative politics: Courses examine and compare the politics of countries, regions and urban areas, with a particular emphasis on Latin America, the United States, Europe, Asia and Africa.
committment 34 social sciences > political science
fast fact The Department of Political Science is unique in North America because of our gender balance (close to 50% of the faculty members are female) and because of the innovative, discipline-shaping and interdisciplinary nature of our teaching and research.
bachelor of arts - major or minor Political Science bachelor of arts honors – Political Science Examples of Courses Offered > Canadian Foreign Policy > Politics in the Middle East > Managing Modern Government > The Politics of Gender > Democratic Theory > Law and Politics
opportunities for students Certificate in Globalization and Governance: Students majoring or minoring in political science, who are also specializing in the study of globalization and governance, are eligible to receive this certificate along with their degrees. The Globalization & Governance Certificate is the only certificate of its kind in Canada. The program includes undergraduate political science lecture and seminar courses that focus on the dynamics of globalization and the challenges it presents to politics, governance and public policies. It is designed to encourage critical thinking about the challenges and opportunities of globalization and governance in a complex world. Globalization & Governance Certificate courses are taught by renowned scholars in the areas of international relations, global governance, Canadian and international political economy, immigration, urban affairs, and multiculturalism and citizenship.
discussion
career info
contact information
Earning a degree in political science opens doors. Our students understand politics and government, but they are also trained to think broadly and critically about politics, society and the economy. This is why former graduates are employed in a diverse range of careers:
www.politicalscience.ualberta.ca polisci@ualberta.ca Tel: 780. 492.3555
> political aids > pollsters > lobbyists
University of Alberta Department of Political Science 10-16 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
> government policy analysts > non-governmental and social service organizations > advertising representatives > lawyers > broadcast media representative > employees in corporate offices
diversity
reputation social sciences > political science 35
department of psychology what is psychology ? Psychology is broadly defined as the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Psychology involves observing, measuring and otherwise investigating the mental processes of humans and behaviour of animals.
fast fact The first psychology course at the U of A was offered in 1909, and today psychology is one of the largest undergraduate programs on campus.
psychology at u of a The goals of the Undergraduate program in Psychology at the University of Alberta are to provide students with a comprehensive range of experiences and skills that are important for understanding mind and behavior. The study of Psychology is possible in both the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science. If you are interested in specializing in the physical, biological and mathematical sciences, you may choose to study with the Faculty of Science. If you are more into studying the social science aspect of psychology, such as social psychology, child development, or personality and abnormal psychology, then the Faculty of Arts is the place for you!
courses and programs
opportunities for students We have a highly successful undergraduate internship program in Psychology, available for qualifying students in the BA, BA Honors, BSc Specialization and BSc Honors programs. At the end of their third year, successful applicants are assisted in obtaining placements with government and industry to obtain work experience and training over 12 to 16 months. Recent Work Placements include: > Alberta Government > psychiatric hospitals > research labs
achievement
quality
> private counseling
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Psychology bachelor of arts honors – Psychology
career info
Examples of classes offered:
In order to become a psychologist, students will have to pursue graduate studies. Other students use their degree to seek further studies and gain employment as:
> Developmental Psychology > Abnormal Psychology > Culture and Cognition > Adolescent Development > Clinical Psychology
> speech and occupational therapists > physical therapists > doctors > nurses > marketing and advertising professionals > researchers > human resource officers > addiction and mental health counselors > policy development personnel
36 social sciences > psychology
contact information www.psych.ualberta.ca psyugrad@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.2970 (Undergraduate Advisor); 780.492.5216 (Department office) University of Alberta Department of Psychology P217 Biological Sciences Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E9
women ’s studies program what is women ’s studies?
courses and programs
Women’s studies is a field of study that takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of gender. Students learn about the ways that gender serves as a central organizing feature in all societies. We examine the ways in which women’s and men’s roles in society have been constructed and we consider the ways these roles have changed, and continue to change, on personal, political and transnational levels. Although gender is often the primary mode of analysis in a women’s studies classroom, we also recognize the importance of intersectional analysis – in other words, the study of women’s lives is not complete unless we pay attention not only to the impact of gender on our lives, but also the impact of sexuality, race, class, age, ability, nationality, religion and so on. Women’s Studies courses will keep you informed about, and sensitive to, issues of concern to women, including social roles and status, sexuality, labour, representation and equity. You will face these issues in your everyday lives. Women’s Studies courses will help you to understand them.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Women’s Studies
women’s studies at u of a In a Women’s Studies classroom, the opinions, experiences and thoughts of all students are valued. In our classes, students are given room to learn about and form educated opinions on the world around them. Our classes are open to all students on campus – women and men! All courses in Women’s Studies encourage students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as to develop strong writing and researching abilities. Ultimately, our program is designed to offer you a solid base upon which to enter the workforce, to pursue further education and to have an impact on the world.
fast fact The Women’s Studies Undergraduate Association (WSUA) is one of the most vibrant and active student associations on campus. Its members participate in “Take Back the Night” marches, raise money for women’s organizations, host conferences, and organize poetry readings and visual art exhibitions in the Women’s Studies gallery.
bachelor of arts honors – Women’s Studies Some Examples of Courses Offered > Representations of Girls and Women > Popular Culture/Feminist Culture > Gender Relations, Conflict Zones and Peace Building > Canadian Feminist Activisms > Feminism and Sexuality > Masculinities > Virginia Woolf and Feminism
contact information www.womensstudies.ualberta.ca/ womens@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.7078 University of Alberta Women’s Studies Program 1-05 Assiniboia Hall Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E7
opportunities for students The Women’s Studies Program works closely with the Community Service-Learning (CSL) Program to provide students with opportunities to make real-life connections between education and everyday issues in the Edmonton community. If you’re interested, contact us to find out which Women’s Studies courses are offering a CSL component this year.
career info Women’s Studies graduates have gone on to rewarding careers in the following areas: > legislative assistant > lawyer > human rights officer > social policy equity consultant > community development officer > professor > policy analyst
enthusiasm social sciences > women’s studies 37
department of sociology what is sociology ? Sociology examines the social forces underlying individual and group behaviour, making this one of the widest-ranging disciplines in the Arts. By studying sociology, you can learn about the nature and consequences of inequalities in society based on gender, race and ethnicity; increase your awareness of the impact of social movements, globalization, science and technology, and health care policies; and gain insights into family relationships, crime, youth, aging, religion and popular media.
Examples of Courses Offered > Youth, Crime and Society > Media, Culture and Society > Sociology of Death and Dying > Racism and Decolonization > Sociology of Religious Sects > Sociology of Gender > Sociology of Punishment. > Sociology of Aging
sociology at the u of a
opportunities for students
Our undergraduate programs are among the best in North America. Most faculty members and graduate students in our department focus their research interests within three broad and inclusive areas of research excellence – social structure and policy, theory-culture, and criminology and socio-legal studies. The department is committed to providing an exceptional learning environment that encourages critical thinking, develops communication skills, promotes community awareness and involvement, values discovery-based learning, rewards excellent teaching and mentoring, and leads to enhanced employability for students.
There are a growing number of Community Service-Learning courses in Sociology, which allow students to expand their classroom learning experience by performing volunteer work in a community agency.
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Sociology bachelor of arts honors – Sociology bachelor of arts – Criminology (see Criminology information on page 39)
career info With a sociology degree you will develop a number of skills including strong communication and writing skills, experience with statistics and research methods, and an understanding of social relationships and social organizations. These skills are useful in number of careers such as: > advertising or public relations professional
discussion
dedicatio
> teacher > human resources manager > data analyst
contact information
> market researcher
www.ualberta.ca/sociology socweb@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.5234
> career counselor > corrections officer
fast fact Paul Joossee, a Sociology Ph.D. student and expert in eco-terrorism is a member of an Edmonton-based reggae band, Souljah Fyah which was has been nominated for a Juno award for best reggae recording. 38 humanities > social sciences
University of Alberta Department of Sociology 5-21 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
n
on
department of sociology > criminology what is criminology ?
courses and programs
career info
What happens before the CSI investigators arrive? What makes offenders do what they do? How do victims perceive the unfolding of events that led to their victimization? How do they cope with the aftereffects? How do definitions of crime change as society changes?
bachelor of arts – Criminology
The BA (Criminology) is a highly marketable degree. Our criminology graduates now work in a variety of criminal justice careers including:
If any of these questions interest you, criminology may be for you. The discipline of criminology focuses on the causes of criminal behaviour, the shifting nature of labeling behaviour as criminal or deviant, the social responses to crime, the operation of the institutions within the criminal justice system and the methods used to measure crime.
criminology at the u of a The BA (Criminology) is a four-year program with competitive entry that combines academic course work with practical field experience. Students can begin to apply after at least one year of general study in Arts. The program maintains close ties with criminal justice organizations outside of the University in order to provide the most relevant training possible. If you decide that you would like to apply for a BA (Criminology), you should do so after your first or second year at university. If you’re thinking of pursuing this program, contact the Department of Sociology right away and find out which courses they recommend you take in your first year. In order to apply for the program, you will require:
Examples of Courses Offered > Youth, Crime and Society > Sociology of Punishment > Deviance and Conformity > Sociology of Law > Women and Crime > Sociology of Killing > Abnormal Psychology
opportunities for students One of the most exciting aspects of our program is the two field placements students participate in, providing them with real-life experience working in the criminal justice system and related fields. Some of the placements our students have participated in include: > Edmonton Police Service Gang Unit > RCMP Crime Analysis > Alberta Justice Research Unit > Business Intelligence Analysis > National Parole Board
> criminologist > crime analyst > policy development > victim services > addictions counselor > parole/probation officer > government research > police officer
contact information www.arts.ualberta.ca/socweb/ socweb@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.5234 University of Alberta Department of Sociology 5-21 Henry Marshall Tory Building Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H4
> Edmonton Drug Treatment Court > Crown Prosecutor’s Office > Edmonton Maximum Security Prison
> letters of reference > volunteer or work experience in the criminal justice system > a written statement of your career objectives > an interview (which will be set up by the department after you apply)
examine
fast fact 99% of criminology students graduate with a job already lined up!
social sciences > sociology > criminology 39
what is interdisciplinary studies? Do you like to look at a problem from different angles? Are you interested in finding out what various points of view have to say about a question? If so then Interdisciplinary Studies may be for you. Interdisciplinary Studies is a field of study that crosses traditional boundaries between disciplines or schools of thought. Primarily interdisciplinarity involves an approach rather than a particular subject. This area of inquiry looks to form new ways of understanding and develop new methods for achieving that understanding.
interdisciplinary studies at the u of a At the U of A, interdisciplinary research occurs throughout the Faculty of Arts. However, there are seven areas specifically designated as interdisciplinary which fall under the Office of Interdisciplinary Studies. Explore each of these in the pages that follow!
majors comparative literature www.ois.ualberta.ca Comparative Literature is the study of the interrelationships of literature with other cultural practices and disciplines, such as philosophy, psychology and politics. It is dedicated to the study of literature within the broadest possible framework—interlingual, intercultural and interdisciplinary. The program also includes international studies in popular culture, and is placing an increasing emphasis on popular literary genres and film.
40 what is interdisciplinary studies?
middle eastern
+ african studies
www.ois.ualberta.ca In the Middle Eastern & African Studies (MEAS) program, life in the Middle East and Africa is examined from cultural, historical, political and religious perspectives. Whether you want to learn Arabic, Persian or Swahili, delve into Islamic politics or religion, or study cultures and societies in Africa’s many diverse regions, MEAS offers a comprehensive look at a complex and increasingly important part of our world.
religious studies www.ois.ualberta.ca As a Religious Studies student at the University of Alberta, you experience classes from a wide variety of disciplines, examining various religions of the world from a nondenominational perspective. Explore the history of religions that have inspired art, wars, writings and followings. Delve into the philosophies and writings of some of the most influential religious figures of all time. Investigate the roles of religion in modern society and analyze religious thought and expression in history, politics, literature, art and music.
science, technology
+ society
www.ois.ualberta.ca One of the most rapidly growing academic fields today, Science, Technology & Society (STS) is an interdisciplinary field that examines the interrelationships between science and technology in our society. By studying STS, you gain an in-depth understanding of our society and its functions, and the major events of the modern world and their relation to conflict, the economy, privacy issues, democracy, education and other areas.
“I did not start with my major being in Religious Studies, but that is where I ended. I loved the fact I could study cultural practices of people all over the world. Being in interdisciplinary studies taught me diverse skills and allowed me to work with wonderful professors.” tamara gross, Religious Studies Student
individualized study www.ois.ualberta.ca A program as individual as you are! If you are interested in a special topic or theme that spans disciplinary boundaries, consider pursuing an Individualized Major or Minor. Individualized Studies offers you the chance to create a personal academic plan around a concentration.
minor only international studies www.ois.ualberta.ca Incorporate a global perspective into your Arts degree, with a minor in International Studies. Learn more about how political, economic, social, cultural and environmental forces influence the lives people lead, the choices they face and, ultimately, how these forces can change individual nations and communities.
comparative literature what is comparative literature ?
opportunities for students
Comparative literature is the study of the interrelationships of literature with other cultural practices and disciplines, such as philosophy, psychology and politics. It is dedicated to the study of literature within the broadest possible framework—interlingual, intercultural and interdisciplinary.
If you like to write, read and discuss ideas, Comparative Literature is a good place for you. It is a warm, friendly and concentrated program with wonderful courses on everything from science fiction and autobiography to popular culture and women’s writing. Our students and professors have received national and international awards. Three of our professors are fellows of the Royal Society of Canada. This gives students opportunities for training in computing, editing, publishing and the field of comparative literature. The directors of the Dimic Institute, which has its origins in Comparative Literature, both teach courses in our program.
comparative literature at the u of a Comparative Literature at Alberta is, along with the Centre at Toronto, the oldest program in the country and the only one in English Canada to have an undergraduate program. Our students who have graduated from the BA, MA and PhD have excelled. They have been or are, for instance, members of the Order of Canada, University Presidents and administrators in Canada, the United States and other parts of the world, translators, including at the United Nations, professors, teachers and lawyers.
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Comparative Literature
career info Students in Comparative Literature have gone on to become: > administrators > lawyers > teachers > foreign affairs officers > managers
bachelor of arts honors – Comparative Literature Some Examples of Courses: > World Literature
www.ois.ualberta.ca ois@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.9557
> Popular Culture > Comparative Canadian Literature > Women’s Writing > Travel Literature
fast fact The journal of the Canadian Comparative Literature Association, the Canadian Review of Comparative Literature, is housed in our program and is one of the top journals in the field (rated “A” by the European Union).
innovation contact information
> Science Fiction
> European Tradition
expression
challenge
University of Alberta Comparative Literature Program Office of Interdisciplinary Studies Faculty of Arts 1-17 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
interdisciplinary studies > comparative literature 41
science, technology + society program what is science, technology + society ? From debates on climate change to the advancement of new drug therapies, science and technology play enormously important roles in societies throughout the world. This area of study explores those roles and interactions.
science, technology at the u of a
+ society
Students in the Science, Technology & Society (STS) program at the University of Alberta take science and technology, and their social, economic, political and cultural contexts, as their objects of study. STS is an interdisciplinary program that enables students to analyze science and technology from a variety of perspectives.
community career info
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in STS Examples of Courses Offered > Anthropology of Science, Technology and the Environment
A major or minor in Science, Technology & Society helps prepare students for a wide range of careers where it’s necessary to examine and analyze the social, cultural, economic and political influences of science and technology, such as: > public policy adviser
> Computers and Society
> government administrator
> Introduction to Science Fiction
> economist
> Advanced Topics in Science, Technology and Society
> science educator
diversity
> strategic planner in private industry
contact information
> journalist
www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/arts/STS.cfm rwsmith@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.9557
> lawyer
fast fact A student in the STS program was the recipient of a Roger S. Smith Undergraduate Student Researcher Award for 2009. These awards provide $5,000 for recipients to work for 15 weeks under the supervision of a faculty member on a research project of their choice.
42 interdisciplinary studies > science, technology, and society
University of Alberta Science, Technology & Society Program Office of Interdisciplinary Studies 1-17 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
middle eastern + african studies program what is middle eastern studies (meas)?
+ african
Explore contemporary issues in the Middle East and Africa. Study this area’s history from the age of medieval and early modern empires through to the legacies of European colonial rule. Experience Middle Eastern and African culture through literature and film. MEAS courses help students appreciate the advantages of inter- and multi-disciplinary work, and illuminate the value of studying these two regions together.
middle eastern at the u of a
+ african studies
In MEAS, life in the Middle East and Africa is examined from cultural, historical, political and religious perspectives. Whether you want to learn Arabic, Persian or Swahili, delve into Islamic politics or religion, or study cultures and societies in Africa’s many diverse regions, MEAS offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary look at a complex and increasingly important part of our world. We incorporate courses from a wide range of disciplines and address issues relevant to their peoples both historically and in a contemporary context.
opportunities for students > Students often have the possibility of working with faculty members on related research projects. > Students, both undergraduate and graduate, help manage the program through representation on the MEAS Executive Committee and Advisory Council. > Expand your classroom learning by studying abroad at the University of Ghana, Accra, the University of Natal, Durban or the Middle Eastern Technical University, Ankara. > Take advantage of working with an overseas nongovernmental organization and combining it with a research project for course credit. > Participate in a special summer program in Ghana where West African music, dance, language and culture are taught both in a university and local setting. Enjoy Ghana’s famous hospitality while learning hands-on drumming and other percussion skills in the village of a master musician.
career info Some of our MEAS graduates have gone onto:
courses and programs
bachelor of arts – major or minor in MEAS bachelor of arts honors – MEAS Examples of Courses Offered > Religion and Politics of Middle East and North Africa > Muslim Societies in Middle East and Africa > Issues in Islamic Politics > Music and Islam
> teaching English abroad > working for non-governmental organizations (here and abroad) > working for provincial and federal governments/ agencies > studying law (e.g. international law, human rights law) > graduate work (e.g. international development, cultural studies, history, political science) > translation work (studying in academic programs, working for the government) > business (knowledge of other cultures and languages is very attractive to globally-based companies)
connections fast fact In January, the program hosted its fourth annual MEAS Conference. MEAS students, both undergraduate and graduate, had an opportunity to help organize the conference and present their work!
contact information www.ois.ualberta.ca/meas.cfm guy.thompson@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.9557 University of Alberta Middle Eastern & African Studies Program 1-17 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
interdisciplinary studies > meas 43
religious studies program what is religious studies ?
courses and programs
career info
“Religion” has a wide spectrum of meanings—so many, in fact, that a basic task of those working in this field is to establish a definition of the term, along with criteria for determining what ought to be called “religious.” Students can explore religion from the perspectives of anthropology, sociology, psychology, history, literary criticism or art—and that’s just a few of the possibilities.
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Religious Studies
A degree in religious studies is as “practical” as any other major in the arts. The academic study of religion is a rigorous scholarly enterprise that requires the demonstration of competence in skills that will be useful throughout your life, regardless of the profession you enter. Effective writing, the ability to articulate thoughts in speech, the analysis of texts and cultures, the study of language and the practice of critical thinking – these are all valuable skills with wide applications. And while a number of our students decide to continue their work in graduate school once they have finished their BA, there are others with a major or minor in religious studies who have entered professions outside the university, such as:
The study of religion at the University of Alberta is a public, non-denominational program that fosters the learning of techniques associated with a recognized and legitimate field of scholarly inquiry. It is a discipline open to anyone who wants to strive to meet the standards of a long established academic discipline. The issue of personal faith is not something that is considered. Whether you have a religious “belief” or don’t have one is not the issue—what matters is your commitment to learning the skills of a fascinating academic discipline.
bachelor of arts honors Examples of Courses Offered > Topics in Ethnomusicology: Music and Religion > Literature and Religion > Introduction to World Religions
opportunities for students Students in Religious studies have an opportunity to contribute to Axis Mundi, an online journal edited and maintained by Religious Studies students at the University of Alberta. Axis Mundi accepts contributions from students in any year of studies - undergraduate and graduate - in Universities and Colleges across Canada. We encourage submissions pertaining to any aspect of the academic study of religion.
44 interdisciplinary studies > religious studies
> education > journalism > museums and the arts > publishing
religious studies at the u of a Religious Studies is one of the most vibrant programs at the U of A. As an interdisciplinary unit it draws on a range of instructors from all the major departments in the Faculty of Arts. Each year instructors, along with visiting speakers from other universities, offer additional public lectures and discussions to enrich the intellectual life of our students. And it’s not all bookish: the Religious Studies Undergraduate Student Association (RSUSA) offers socials, including a “meet-your-professor” evening as well as movie nights. Undergraduates may attend the various informal seminars offered by our graduate students, who present their research projects on a regular basis.
> counseling and social work
fast facts > Canada has no official religion > in Canada today there are at least 56 distinct native traditions > the first mosque in Canada was built in Edmonton in 1938 > according to the 2001 census, there are 329,995 Buddhists in Canada > Sikhs, who have been in Canada since 1897, were among the few Asian communities who were loyal members of the British Empire
contact information www.ois.ualberta.ca/relig.cfm ois@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.9557 University of Alberta Religious Studies Program Office of Interdisciplinary Studies 1-17 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
individualized major /minor A program as individual as you are! If you are interested in a special topic or theme that spans disciplinary boundaries, consider pursuing an Individualized Major or Minor. Individualized Studies offers you the chance to create a personal academic plan around a concentration. Applications can be accessed from the Office of Interdisciplinary Studies (1-17 Humanities Centre). Completed applications are then submitted and approved by the Senior Director, Office of Interdisciplinary Studies.
tradition
achievement international studies minor Incorporate a global perspective into your Arts degree with a minor in International Studies. Learn more about how political, economic, social, cultural and environmental forces influence the lives people lead, the choices they face and, ultimately, how these forces can change individual nations and communities.
engage
www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/arts/ois.cfm ois@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.9557 University of Alberta Office of Interdisciplinary Studies 1-55 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
interdisciplinary studies 45
other areas of study for arts students math
bachelor of arts – major or minor in Math bachelor of arts honors – Math Contrary to popular belief, math and the arts are not mutually exclusive. In fact, math can be the major focus of an Arts degree. Math and the arts have a natural association. Many mathematicians consider their field to be an art as much as a science. Math combines scientific principles and liberal arts concepts in ways similar to fields such as linguistics, psychology, human geography and branches of anthropology. A Bachelor of Arts in Math is similar to a Bachelor of Science in Math, expect that it incorporates more of a liberal arts focus into a student’s core requirements.
native studies science
bachelor of arts – science minors Why does the Faculty of Arts offer minors in the sciences? These minors are carrying on a tradition that spans much of human history. In fact, some of the world’s greatest thinkers have been those who found ways to combine arts and science. This includes people like Leonardo Da Vinci, who found time to invent pulleys, bridges, and underwater breathing devices in between painting the Mona Lisa and the Last Supper. Can I really go into medicine with an Arts degree? Absolutely! If you are not sure if you want to be a doctor or a lawyer, taking a BA program with a minor in science keeps all of your options open. Your science minor can fulfill the prerequisites to apply for medicine.
bachelor of arts – minor in Native Studies The Faculty of Native Studies provides students with an interdisciplinary academic experience that focuses on the issues identified as most vital by native communities in the Canadian West and North. These issues, along with the University’s emphasis on research, have shaped course development. Also, because native communities are dynamic, the Faculty responds to these changes and to developments in the broader Canadian society. The Faculty’s courses are interrelated and may be grouped in the following key areas of study: > Language and Culture > Land and Resources > Self-Governance
contact information www.science.ualberta.ca dean.science@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.4758 University of Alberta Student Services Office, Faculty of Science CW 223 Biological Sciences Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E9
focus 46 interdisciplinary studies > other areas of study
> Community-Based Research and Applied Skills.
contact information www.ualberta.ca/nativestudies/ nativest@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.2991
University of Alberta Faculty of Native Studies 2-31 Pembina Hall Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H8
reputation
history
certificates The Faculty of Arts offers students five different certificate programs that can be completed in conjunction with their degrees. These certificates offer you the opportunity to enhance your understanding of particular topics and gain more credentials to assist you when you enter the workforce. (Note: Certificates are only granted at the time of graduation you cannot receive a certificate without completing a U of A degree)
translation studies As with all of our certificates, a student can pursue this certificate while fulfilling the requirements of his/her major and minor. The certificate does not prepare you to be fullfledged translator but it does provide the foundation for pursuing further training in the profession. Furthermore, since the certificate puts the emphasis on cultural literacy, students who complete its requirements will have honed their skills in their area of specialization and will be ready to embark on many types of careers requiring cultural expertise (for example: the foreign service, foreign trade, business abroad or tourism). Certificate available to majors or minors in: > French > German > Japanese > Spanish > Ukrainian
middle eastern and african studies Through a certificate in Middle Eastern & African Studies (MEAS) you will gain a good foundational understanding of the culture and issues facing the people of these two highly significant regions. For more information, see the Middle Eastern & African Studies section. This certificate is open to any student in Arts and Science, regardless of major 48 certificates
peace
+ post conflict studies
Peace & Post-Conflict Studies is a certificate program that will introduce you to the world of diplomacy, humanitarian interventions and peace-building. Meet and converse with major international figures, including UN representatives, diplomats, scholars, military leaders, politicians and activists for non-governmental organizations. Go beyond the classroom while you apply your studies in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Rwanda or Ghana. Partake in major research undertakings, such as the Children and War project. Peace & Post-Conflict Studies is a certificate program that will equip you with the knowledge and expertise to deal with situations of conflict. Through interdisciplinary courses and internships, you will learn how to design strategies for building sustainable peace in war-torn areas of the world.
globalization and governance Globalization has brought fundamental changes to the conduct and study of local, national, international and transnational politics. The Certificate in Globalization & Governance is a perfect opportunity for students interested in the challenges presented by globalization to explore this area more fully and to develop a deeper understanding of the dynamics affecting governance and policy. This certificate is only available for students with a major or minor in Political Science. For more information, please explore the Political Science section.
community service-learning See entry
Are you interested in working for an intergovernmental organization such as the United Nations, or a nongovernmental organization such as Amnesty International? Would you like to work in a developing country, or in a diplomatic post? Maybe you are interested in working in government departments such as Foreign Affairs, National Defence, or Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. If these ideas sound appealing, you should seriously consider completing your certificate in Peace & Post-Conflict Studies. This certificate is open to any student in Arts and Science, regardless of major.
contact information www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/arts/ois.cfm ois@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.9557 University of Alberta Office of Interdisciplinary Studies 1-17 Humanities Centre Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E5
comm unit
mty
community service- learning what is community service-learning (csl)? Community Service-Learning (CSL) gives students the opportunity to participate in the activities of a community agency or social action group as part of a university course. By taking part, students are joining a growing number of students from across Canada who are connecting their education to what matters in their local communities. CSL provides students with the opportunity to develop intellectual and practical skills, link academic learning to social contexts, and build relationships with community members and peers.
csl at u of a Through Community Service-Learning, U of A students and their instructors leave the classroom and engage with their communities to make learning come alive. Community Service-Learning helps you to make real-life connections between your education and everyday issues in the Edmonton community. In partnership with the Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations, the Community Service-Learning Program integrates service-learning into existing Arts courses, in areas such as women’s studies, visual anthropology, creative writing, sociology of globalization, language studies, political science and many others. While each course takes its own creative path, each includes service in the community as an integral component. Through their service, students are contributing in real ways to community organizations, and gaining valuable experience at the same time.
courses and programs certificate in community service-learning Gain formal recognition of your community service-learning experience by applying for a certificate in Community
Service-Learning, the only certificate of its kind in Canada. Having this certificate on your transcript will set you apart from other graduates and indicate to employers that you’ve got what it takes to immerse yourself in their community. Some examples of CSL specific courses: > CSL 300: Theory and Practice of Community Service-Learning
career info The knowledge and experience gained through servicelearning are applicable to a wide range of careers, including those in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the volunteer sector, business, government and academic institutions.
> CSL 350: Selected Topics in Community Service- Learning > CSL 360: Community Service-Learning Practicum > CSL 480: Individual Study in Community Service-Learning Some examples of courses with CSL components: > Introduction to Women’s Studies > Philosophy of the Environment > Citizenship for Democracy
fast fact Over 1,000 students have participated in course-based CSL experiences since 2005. Through their CSL connections, graduates have engaged in international development projects, gained summer and full-time employment in nonprofit organizations, and been members of non-profit boards.
> Sociology of Health and Illness > Cultural Representations, World Media and Ethics > Advanced Spanish > Intergenerational Theatre > Youth, Crime and Society
opportunities for students
contact information
Students are involved in projects in over 80 community organizations, doing front-line work, assisting in special projects like planning events and fundraising activities, and gathering information to address social issues and improve organizational effectiveness.
www.arts.ualberta.ca/csl cslhouse@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.2420
Through CSL, you can take your learning one step further and immerse yourself in a six-week intensive course that focuses on issues of “Oil and Community.” Gain perspectives on issues unique to Alberta, and reflect critically on how the boom/bust cycle of the oil economy affects our province and cities.
University of Alberta Community Service-Learning 11039 Saskatchewan Drive Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2B4 Note: This certificate is available to students in all areas of study
community service-learning 49
faculty of arts – affiliated colleges st. joseph’s college
question
& answer
st. stephen’s college
Q. Who may take courses at St. Joe’s?
enrich your u of a experience! St. Joseph’s College is the Catholic undergraduate College on the University of Alberta Campus. It offers U of A credit courses in religious education, scripture and theology, ethics, and philosophy. > Theology for Teachers > Science and Religion > Philosophy, Theology and Ethics Undergraduate Courses Include: > CHRTC 250 – The Theological Education of the Catholic Teacher > CHRTC 350 – Science and Religion > CHRTC 341 – Contemporary Film and Christian Values > CHRTC 351 – Human Sexuality and Marriage: Christian Perspectives > PHIL 357 – Philosophy of Religion
programs
bachelor of arts – minor in christian theology academia – 1st year cohort program did you know ? st. joseph ’s college: > offers U of A credit courses > has a U of A library > has both men’s and women’s residences
50 affiliated colleges
A. Any U of A student. Q. How do I register in a course at St. Joe’s? A. Through Bear Tracks, the same way you would register for any other U of A course. Q. Do I have to be religious to take courses at St. Joe’s? A. No, students from all backgrounds are welcome. Even though courses include a Christian component, other perspectives are welcome and encouraged.
did you know ? St. Joseph’s College has a comfortable study lounge for students. Check it out!
contact information www.stjosephscollege.ca sjcdean@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.492.7681 University of Alberta St. Joseph’s College Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2J5
St. Stephen’s College is an interdenominational theological College offering Arts options for the U of A. It proudly celebrated its 100th anniversary, along with the wider university, in 2008. Courses offered at St. Stephen’s examine contemporary issues in theology at an introductory level and are open to all University of Alberta students. Explore transformative learning in an interfaith environment, connecting faith questions and everyday living. Undergraduate Courses include: > CHRTP 301 Hebrew Scriptures > CHRTP 305 Christian Scriptures > CHRTP 313 Topics in Applied Christian Ethics > CHRTP 315 Religion and Literature > CHRTP 316 Sexuality and Spirituality > CHRTP 317 New Issues in Theology Register for these courses on Bear Tracks as part of your Arts degree!
contact information www.ualberta.ca/St.Stephens/ ststephn@ualberta.ca Tel: 780.439.7311 University of Alberta St. Stephen’s College Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 1J6
how to join us in the faculty of arts
opportunity explore and get to know the faculty of arts!
achievement
Take a look at our website (www.arts.ualberta.ca), explore our course offerings and departments, and find out what our students and alumni say about us. Also find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UoAArts. Note: In addition to the course requirements outined for High School and Transfer applicants, students must also present the competitive admission average on these requirements in order to be admitted.
apply for admission Visit www.registrar.ualberta.ca to complete your online application and find out the specific requirements for the program you wish to enter (look under “Prospective Students”). High School Requirements: Five academic grade 12 subjects of which one must be English. The remaining four can come from the following: Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Languages Other Than English, Math, a maximum of one Fine Arts subject. Transfer Requirements:
apply for housing
receive an offer of admission If you have a competitive average, you will receive early admission shortly after you apply. We will offer you full admission after we receive your final transcripts and documents.
Visit www.ualberta.ca/residence. Apply early!
apply for scholarships and financial aid (NOTE: we even have scholarships for Grade 11 marks)
register and prepare for your arts experience! Choose and register for your courses on Bear Tracks (www.beartracks.ualberta.ca) and get ready for the journey to begin.
Over $25 million in undergraduate scholarships each year – visit www.ualberta.ca/awards . Other forms of financial aid: www.su.ualberta.ca/sfaic
A minimum of 24 units of transferrable course weight and have the requirements specified above in the high school section.
how to join us 51
arts.ualberta.ca
contact us Faculty of Arts Undergraduate Student Services Office 6-5 Humanities Centre University of Alberta Edmonton, AB T6G 2E5 Tel: 780.492.4295 or 888.533.5735 Fax: 780.492.6325 arts.undergrad@ualberta.ca www.arts.ualberta.ca