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.
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.
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
Health & Society Specialization in Mental Health and Addiction (BA) graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom
Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.
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Customize Your Studies
Our flexible degrees let you study your way.
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Study Abroad STUDY ABROAD
Take your studies beyond Canada. McMaster has exchange agreements with 100+ universities.
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Internships Learn More
Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.
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Student Research Learn More
Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.
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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
Office Hours
Monday – Thursday:
8:30AM – 4:30PM
Friday:
8:30AM – 4:00PM.