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Honours Health & Society Specialization in Mental Health and Addiction

Health and healthcare are evolving globally at a rapid pace. New diseases emerge, medical breakthroughs are being discovered and societal healthcare needs are constantly shifting. This four-year degree program brings a multidisciplinary approach to the study of health, and adds a mental health and addiction specialization to equip you with the knowledge about how mental health, addiction and society interact.

The specialization explores the relationship between mental health and marginalization, the construction of illness, and the social determinant of health. You will understand how social and non-biomedical interventions can impact mental health and addiction as well as promote wellbeing.

This program prepares students for success in a variety of fields such as health policy research, care coordination, education, marketing, and public health. This program provides comprehensive support and resources to students as they embark on their professional journeys, including opportunities for research, internships, and networking with industry professionals.

Did you know that you can combine Honours degrees?

A combined honours degree provides a unique and enriched academic experience, allowing students to pursue two disciplines simultaneously. This interdisciplinary approach enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, creating well-rounded graduates with expertise in multiple fields, providing you with a competitive edge in the job market.

If you have specific questions or need more information about combining honours degrees, feel free to ask!

Program Details

Typical Entry Term

Fall (September)

Program Options

Full-time or part-time

Program Length

Four years (full-time)

Program Format

Course-based

Expandable List

Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of at least 5.0 (C) including a grade of at least 5.0 (C) in both HLTH AGE 1AA3 or 1ZZ3 and HLTH AGE 1CC3.

Learn more about Level II Selection

The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the Honours BA Health & Society Specialization in Mental Health and Addiction.

View the Academic Calendar

Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)

Level I Courses

  • HLTHAGE 1AA3: Introduction to Health and Society
  • HLTHAGE 1BB3: Introduction to Aging and Society
  • HLTHAGE 1CC3: Introduction to Mental Health and Illness

Level II Courses

  • HLTHAGE 2L03: Drugs, Sex and Alcohol: Society and its Addictions
  • HLTHAGE 2N03: Treatment Within the World of Mental Illness: Desperation and Debate
  • HLTHAGE 2B03: Social Identity, Health and Illness

Level III Courses

  • HLTHAGE 3M03: Approaches to Mental Health and Resilience
  • HLTHAGE 3YY3: Indigenous Community Health and Wellbeing
  • HLTHAGE 3R03: Health Inequalities

Level IV Courses

  • HLTHAGE 4J03: Narratives of Illness
  • HLTHAGE 4O03: Soundscapes of Wellbeing in Popular Music
  • HLTHAGE 4Q03: Representations of Mental Illness

Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.

70% Employed in 6 months
12% Graduates pursuing additional schooling

Customize Your Studies

Our flexible degrees let you study your way.

Study Abroad STUDY ABROAD

Take your studies beyond Canada. McMaster has exchange agreements with 100+ universities.

Internships Learn More

Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.

Student Research Learn More

Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.

Minors View Minors

Add a minor to your studies to differentiate yourself in the workplace.

Questions about the Honours BA Health & Society Specialization in Mental Health and Addiction?

Contact Us

Undergraduate Studies and General Inquiries
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: hasdept@mcmaster.ca

Academic Advising Office
Goals, program changes, academic support
Email: socscfac@mcmaster.ca
Phone: (905) 525-9140 ext. 23613

Office Location

Department of Health, Aging & Society
Kenneth Taylor Hall, 226
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4M4

Campus Map & Driving Directions

Office Hours

Monday – Thursday:
8:30AM – 4:30PM

Friday:
8:30AM – 4:00PM.