Majors

Departments: Biological Sciences, Chemistry & Biochemistry, and Economics.

The major in Agricultural Biotechnology provides background for a diverse range of activities such as graduate study in the life sciences and career development within the agricultural industry; the program is often taken as a means of completing pre-professional requirements leading to a veterinary degree. BSc Agricultural Biotechnology majors may declare a Concentration in Agricultural Business. A student who successfully completes this degree program and major may apply to the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA) to be registered as a Professional Agrologist within Alberta.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Agricultural Biotechnology, visit Grad Studies.

Department: Economics

Agricultural Studies is a broad multidisciplinary program encompassing a purposeful blend of the physical sciences, economics, and other social sciences. The aim of the program is to improve the understanding and practice of activities that transform natural capital, plants, and animals to satisfy myriad human wants. The curriculum enables aspiring agriculturalists to explore and learn about the physical and economic interrelationships between agricultural production, marketing and trade, nutrient management, water, grazing, rangeland, and riparian management. The program provides the foundation for a wide variety of career alternatives related to primary production, input supply services including banking, commodity marketing and processing, and agri-food retailing. BA and BSc Agricultural Studies majors may declare a Concentration in Agricultural Business. BSc Agricultural Studies majors may declare a Concentration in Geographical Information Science. A student who successfully completes this major may apply to the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA) to be registered as a Professional Agrologist within Alberta.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate Studies for more information about the MA or MSc in Agricultural Studies.

Department: Anthropology

Anthropology is the academic study of the diversity of human life in local settings, whether in the past or present. The particulars of any local life, society, or culture, however, are not isolated from global influence. Contemporary anthropology examines the material, social, and cultural conditions of human behaviour and life from this locally global perspective. Traditionally, long-term ethnographic and archaeological fieldwork in other societies has been the hallmark of the anthropological study of the human condition, but anthropologists are also cultural critics considering issues of race, gender, power, space, and government in their own societies as well. The anthropological perspective makes significant contributions to fields as diverse as health, education, international development, religion, policy, urban studies, indigenous studies, economics, and politics.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? For more information about the MA in Anthropology, visit Grad Studies.

Departments: Mathematics and Computer Science, Economics, Geography, and Psychology

Statistics is the study of the collection, organization, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data. Application of statistical techniques is an essential part of decision making and study in a wide range of disciplines such as astronomy, biology, education, economics, geography, engineering, genetics, marketing, medicine, psychology, public health and sports, among many.

Department: Geography

Archaeology is the study of the human past based on cultural remains viewed in their spatial context. Archaeological research is often pursued using spatial and environmental models developed within the field of Geography. The major in Archaeology and Geography allows students to combine theoretical and methodological approaches, in tandem with advanced studies of particular cultures through conventional lecture courses and field work. BA & BSc majors in Archaeology and Geography may declare a Concentration in Geographical Information Science.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate Studies to learn more about the MA and MSc in Archaeology.

Departments: Biological Sciences, and Chemistry & Biochemistry
Biochemistry is the study of all living systems at the molecular level. It looks at the chemical and physical basis of life and how these microcosms interact with their environments. The Biochemistry program will help students develop a strong background in the basic sciences and extensive laboratory skills. Thereby, the Biochemistry program provides background for a diverse range of careers in the life sciences, including professional programs such as medicine and veterinary medicine.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Biochemistry, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Biological Sciences

The Biological Sciences delve into the world of living organisms–from microbes, to human beings, to entire ecosystems–on, under, and above the earth. Exploring the nature of life leads biologists out into the world to study how organisms interact with their environment, how they function, and how they evolved. The curriculum provides basic studies in molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, and ecology and evolutionary biology during a student's first two years, with subsequent opportunities for specialization. Advanced courses also offer opportunities for independent laboratory or field research projects in the three areas. The program provides background for a diverse range of careers in the life sciences, and a gateway to professional programs such as medicine and veterinary medicine.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate Studies to learn more about the MSc in Biological Sciences.

Department: Chemistry & Biochemistry

Chemistry is the central science of matter, dealing with the 118 known elements from which everything is made. It studies the transformations and properties of all substances, natural and synthetic. Chemistry students develop a strong background in theory and practice and acquire extensive laboratory skills. Chemistry is an experimental science, and students are strongly encouraged to perform original research in partial fulfillment of the degree requirements. The Major in Chemistry leads to professional certification (P.Chem.), and graduates are prepared for careers in industry or the public sector. The degree is also suitable for advanced study in chemistry and can be used to prepare for other professional programs (medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine).

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Chemistry, visit Graduate Studies.

Departments: Geography, and Mathematics & Computer Science

Geographical Information Science (GIS) involves the use and analysis of digital maps, databases, models, and mobile applications as well as navigation and spatial integration tools. Major GIS application areas include remote sensing, geographical information systems, computer graphics, image processing and mapping, and spatial modelling. These rely on advanced computer science algorithms and software development, platform integration, hardware design, and operating system principles. The major provides applied training coupled with a solid theoretical and developmental foundation. Graduates have the choice of a wide range of employment opportunities that involve applications, development, or both.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Computer Science & Geographical Information Science, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Mathematics & Computer Science

Computer Science is the study of algorithms and data structures and their applications in designing new and efficient solutions to industrial, technological, environmental, or social problems. The program is designed to enable students to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, and includes access to state-of-the-art hardware and software. The minor in Computer Science is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Computer Science, the major in Computer Science & GIS, and the General Major in the Sciences if Computer Science is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Computer Science, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Economics

Economics is the study of the allocation of scarce resources by societies to meet individual and social wants. The major includes a number of courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics. These provide the theoretical framework within which contemporary issues, such as pollution, non-renewable natural resources, free trade, agricultural subsidies, interest rates, government deficits, unemployment, inflation, poverty and third world development can be analyzed and appropriate policies can be recommended. The minor in Economics is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Economics and the General Major in the Social Sciences if Economics is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more abou the MA in Economics, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: English

English is the study of the properties and powers of English language and literature as the fundamental means by which we communicate our values, ideals and vision. Courses in the fundamentals of the three main literary genres of poetry, prose, and drama prepare students for the close study of major works and periods of literature from the British, American, Canadian, and Post-Colonial traditions. In addition, the curriculum includes a variety of special courses in rhetoric, the history of language, literary theory, gender, children's literature, and creative writing. At the senior level, courses concentrate on specific topics such as particular authors and are conducted in small seminar classes which stimulate open and intensive discussion between students and instructor. The minor in English is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in English and the General Major in the Humanities if English is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in English, visit Graduate Studies.

Departments: Biological Sciences and Geography

Environmental Science focuses on understanding the Earth's natural systems and how we, as humans, interact with them. Environmental scientists study the impact of these interactions on the biosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere using an interdisciplinary approach. They provide us with the information we need to address some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today–like climate change. The Environmental Science program will provide students with the natural and physical science background needed to understand a multitude of environmental systems, as well as the broad perspective required to appreciate the role of humanity in global environmental change. Environmental Science majors in the BSc degree program may declare a Concentration in Geographical Information Science.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about he MSc in Environmental Science, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Modern Languages

French is the study in French of the language, literature, and culture of the francophone world. Upper-level students may choose to focus on language and linguistics, language and literature, or language and culture. In the course of their studies, students are encouraged to take French courses at a francophone university in Canada or abroad. The minor in French is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the majors in French, French/Spanish, and the General Major in the Humanities if French is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in French, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Modern Languages

The French/Spanish major combines a core of French courses with an equal number of courses in Spanish. Students majoring in French and Spanish will study the language, literature, and culture of both the francophone and Spanish worlds in their respective languages. Upper-level French students may choose to focus on language and linguistics, language and literature, or language and culture. Upper-level Spanish students will study the language and literature of Spain and Latin America. In the course of their studies, students are encouraged to take university classes in francophone Canada or abroad in countries where French and Spanish are national languages.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in French/Spanish, visit Graduate Studies.

A General Major in Humanities, unlike a single discipline major, allows you to customize your course selection to your interests and abilities. Where you compromise depth of focus in one area, you gain breadth of knowledge in a few key areas, thus increasing your flexibility. This multidisciplinary approach provides access to the "big picture" or the wider context of any subject area. Conversely, the courses you choose can enhance your focus and provide a cross-discipline perspective on one particular theme. The General Major in the Humanities is a broad major that supports an ideal of liberal education. You will choose three disciplinary streams from Classical Languages (Greek, Hebrew, Latin), History, Fine Arts (Art, Dramatic Arts, Music), English, Modern Languages (French, Spanish), Native American Studies, Philosophy and Religious Studies.

A General Major in the Sciences, unlike a single discipline major, allows you to customize your course selection to your interests and abilities. Where you compromise depth of focus in one area, you gain breadth of knowledge in a few key areas, thus increasing your flexibility. This multidisciplinary approach provides access to the "big picture" or the wider context of any subject area. Conversely, the courses you choose can enhance your focus and provide a cross-discipline perspective on one particular theme. The General Major in the Humanities is a broad major that supports an ideal of liberal education. You will choose three disciplinary streams from Archaeology, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Kinesiology, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology.

A General Major in the Social Sciences, unlike a single discipline major, allows you to customize your course selection to your interests and abilities. Where you compromise depth of focus in one area, you gain breadth of knowledge in a few key areas, thus increasing your flexibility. This multidisciplinary approach provides access to the "big picture" or the wider context of any subject area. Conversely, the courses you choose can enhance your focus, and provide a cross-discipline perspective on one particular theme. The General Major in the Humanities is a broad major that supports an ideal of liberal education. Students choosing a general major in the social sciences select three disciplinary streams from the following: Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Kinesiology, Native American Studies, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology and Women & Gender Studies.

Department: Geography

Geography involves the study of human activities and natural systems with a focus on spatial relationships and the nature of places. The discipline stresses integration and synthesis, so students graduating with a major in Geography possess a firm understanding of environmental stewardship in the context of complex interrelationships between nature and humankind. Geography students also learn many practical skills and techniques essential to a diverse range of employment opportunities. After completing a set of core foundational courses, students will select additional upper-level courses which focus on human-related systems and phenomena. BA, BSc and BASc geography students with an interest in geographical techniques such as cartography, geographical information systems (GIS), or remote sensing can pursue those interests either by choosing such courses as options or by completing a specified set of courses to satisfy the Concentration in Geographical Information Science. Students interested in Geology or GIS, should consider a degree in Geography.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate Studies to learn more about the MA and MSc in Geography.

Department: History

History is a discipline that examines evidence to reconstruct and understand the past. It is our collective memory and our possible future. Encompassing a wide range of human events and historical conditions, History necessarily complements other disciplines in the University. The program offers instruction in aspects of the social, economic, political, and cultural histories of societies ranging from ancient Greece to modern-day Japan. Students pursuing a major in History will develop strong skills in critical reading, writing, and analysis. The minor in History is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in History and the General Majors in the Humanities and Social Sciences if History is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in History, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Indigenous Studies

The Native American Studies program was developed and formalized by representatives of Southern Alberta's Native communities and the University of Lethbridge. The major in Native American Studies is multidisciplinary and comprehensive in nature and consists of courses in First Nations' history, art, law, politics, language, literature, and contemporary issues, all taught from a First Nations' perspective. It aims to foster the study of these various dynamics of North American Native culture and to further a deeper awareness of First Nations' issues.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in Indigenous Studies, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Kinesiology & Physical Education

Kinesiology is the study of human movement from a multidisciplinary perspective. BA = more electives; BSc = more science.

Students who enrol in the Kinesiology major for the BA will take a broad range of theoretical courses in the social science and humanities dimensions of the discipline. The Kinesiology major for the BA offers students the opportunity to investigate those psychological, social, cultural, economic, and political influences that shape and limit opportunities for activity across the lifespan as well as to study the tremendous potential of sport and leisure activities to bring pleasure and meaning to individuals and community.

Students who enrol in the Kinesiology major for the BSc will take a broad range of theoretical courses in the science dimensions of the discipline. The Kinesiology major for the BSc offers students the opportunity to investigate the anatomical, biomechanical, neurological, and physiological characteristics that underlie human movement across the spectrum from basic tasks such as reaching and walking to elite sport performance. Students are also required to complete physical activity courses as part of their program.

Interested in studies beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate studies to learn more about the MA and MSc in Kinesiology.

Department: Mathematics & Computer Science

Mathematics is the study of structure and patterns in numbers and shapes. It is an active research area, providing a language, theories, and models to solve complex problems across a wide variety of scientific, industrial, and economic sectors. The program offers courses in four main areas: algebra, analysis, number theory, and geometry, as well as statistics. Many students opt to combine mathematics with courses in physics, computer science, chemistry, economics, management, or other areas of interest. The minor in Mathematics is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Mathematics and the General Major in the Sciences if Mathematics is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams. Students interested in Statistics should apply for Mathematics!

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Mathematics, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Neuroscience

The Neuroscience major explores how nervous systems work and requires courses from a range of departments. These courses investigate the processes by which information is transmitted within cells and between cells, and how particular neural systems produce perceptions, learning, memory, and behaviour. Brain and behavioural change during evolution, individual development, and pathology are all used to gain insight into how the nervous system functions.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate Studies to learn more about the MSc and PhD in Neuroscience.

Department: Philosophy

"Philosophy" means "love of wisdom." Philosophers study the deep intellectual problems that underlie or unify other disciplines in the sciences and humanities. Courses in the reality stream inquire into the nature of knowledge, mind and matter, space and time, language and mathematics, religious beliefs, and the basis of science. Courses in the values stream probe the distinction between right and wrong, the nature of beauty, the assumptions behind political theories, and current ethical dilemmas. Logic studies the art and science of reasoning. All philosophy and logic courses place strong emphasis on developing the skills of clear writing and sound argumentation, and the ability to see beneath the surface of the apparently obvious. BA or BASc philosophy students may declare an optional Concentration in Legal Reasoning. The minor in Philosophy is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Philosophy and the General Major in the Humanities if Philosophy is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in Philosophy, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Physics & Astronomy

Physics is the study of matter and energy at all scales, from the sub-nuclear to the dimensions of the universe. It is the fundamental science–all other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics. Physics involves observing and understanding natural phenomena evident in the world around us: the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky, and the weather. The curriculum provides a comprehensive Physics major, built on a foundation of courses in the first two years which lead to more advanced and specialized areas in the senior years, preparing students for postgraduate studies, or for careers in academia, industry, and the public sector. The minor in Physics is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Physics, the major in Remote Sensing, and the General Major in the Sciences if Physics is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MSc in Physics, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Political Science

Political Science is the study of government institutions, political behaviour, and political theory. You need no  political ambitions to take it. Political Science is both empirical (qualitative and quantitative) and theoretical. Empirically the focus is on Canadian politics (from national to local), comparative politics (of differing regimes in selected regions of the world), and international relations. Theoretically the focus is on the ideas and visions of justice and the good life that political leaders and citizens aspire to and even stake their lives on. Emphasis is placed throughout on critical reading, writing, and analytical skills, encompassing the study of a wide array of materials, including legal, philosophical, literary, and historical documents, as well as statistical analysis. The minor in Political Science is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Political Science and the General Major in the Social Sciences if Political Science is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in Political Science, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Psychology

Psychology seeks to understand the causes of behaviour in humans and other animals. Such behaviour can range from the automatic, unconscious, and reflexive sucking and grasping behaviours of infants through largely unconscious behaviours such as finding food and choosing a mate, to sophisticated, conscious behaviours such as medical decision making. Students will investigate the nature of human and animal thought processes as well as the evolutionary, social, and cultural factors that frame the development of human capacities. We consider the best preparation, at the undergraduate level, for graduate study in all areas of psychology, whether research or applied, to be a strong and broad background in experimental psychology.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Visit Graduate Studies to learn more about the MA and MSc in Psychology.

Department: Religious Studies

Religious Studies aims to enhance critical understanding of the phenomenon of religion and the diversity of religious experience and expression from antiquity to the present in both Eastern and Western traditions. This field of study uses a wide range of tools and methods to describe, analyze, and understand religion in human experience. Fundamental issues such as belief, texts, worship, ritual, concepts of the divine, the human condition, and the historical development of particular religions are examined. The academic study of religion requires a measure of neutrality, whereby no particular religious tradition is privileged. A major in Religious Studies provides a broad-based understanding of the diverse religious world and requires students to study general themes and issues as well as specific traditions from both Eastern and Western religions. The minor in Religious Studies is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Religious Studies and the General Major in the Humanities if Religious Studies is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in Religious Studies, visit Graduate Studies.

Departments: Geography, and Physics & Astronomy

Remote Sensing involves the acquisition and analysis of photographs and images from airplanes, satellites, and other platforms for obtaining important information about the Earth's land, oceans, and atmosphere, as well as other planets and bodies. The Remote Sensing Major provides applied training in laboratory and field settings coupled with a solid theoretical and experimental foundation. This is the only remote sensing program of its kind in Canada, therefore graduates have unique qualifications for direct employment in private industry, government, and universities, as well as for entry to advanced graduate-level studies.

Department: Sociology

Sociology provides the conceptual and methodological tools with which to understand society. Its primary goal is to stimulate sociological thinking, which involves the application of imagination and critical analysis to the many facets of social life. Ideally, this encourages not only the development of analytical insight, but also the application of sociology to social problems and issues. The program provides instruction for both the liberal arts student and the student planning advanced studies or a career related to Sociology. A wide range of courses is offered in sociological theory, methods and topics reflecting a variety of contemporary social issues.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more abou the MA in Sociology, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Geography

The multidisciplinary major in Urban and Regional Studies includes courses in disciplines that have traditionally focused on cities, such as Anthropology, Economics, Geography, Political Science, Sociology, and Statistics. It provides a broad range of conceptual and practical tools for students to understand and play a role in the planning, administration, and governance of human settlements from towns to metropolitan regions. Courses delve into the physical, social, spatial, economic, political, and planning factors that shape urban areas. Topics such as architecture and the city, urban and regional planning, urban systems, globalization, and issues such as immigration, aging, homelessness, and environmental sustainability may be included.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in Urban & Regional Studies, visit Graduate Studies.

Department: Women & Gender Studies

Women & Gender Studies examines the historical and contemporary conditions of women and men in society. By using feminist theories and research methodologies, students will broaden their knowledge of various power relations shaping women's lives, bodies, experiences, labour, and scholarship. Students will explore feminism as an important influence in political and societal change. The program draws on a vibrant community of women scholars, contemporary research, and activism inside and outside the University to explore a breadth of social issues. In Women & Gender Studies classes, students will develop an in-depth understanding of how current and historical events, ideas, and institutions have been structured by gender, ethnicity, race, age, ability, class, and sexuality. The minor in Women & Gender Studies is available as an adjunct to all majors in the BA, BSc, and BASc except the major in Women & Gender Studies and the General Major in the Social Sciences if Women & Gender Studies is chosen as one of the disciplinary streams.

Interested in learning beyond your undergraduate degree? Learn more about the MA in Women & Gender Studies, visit Graduate Studies.