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Honours Health & Society

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, designed to foster an understanding of health issues in different contexts, both in Canada and internationally. Issues ranging from perspectives on disability and chronic illness to unequal healthcare access are examined using a diversity of theoretical and methodological approaches.

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 HLTH AGE 1AA3 or 1ZZ3.

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.

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 2GG3: Mental Health and Society
  • HLTHAGE 2L03: Drugs, Sex and Alcohol: Society and its Addictions
  • HLTHAGE 2B03: Social Identity, Health and Illness

Level III Courses

  • HLTHAGE 3N03: Aging and Mental Health
  • HLTHAGE 3T03: Health and Incarceration
  • HLTHAGE 3R03: Health Inequalities

Level IV Courses

  • HLTHAGE 4D03: Health, Culture and Diversity
  • HLTHAGE 4B03: Death and Dying in Later Life
  • HLTHAGE 4T03: Gender, Sex and Health

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?

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.