What does it mean to be Canadian? What makes our society different from and similar to others around the world? How do we, as Canadians, express our identities? Understanding who we are as Canadians begins with a thorough knowledge of the places, people and ideas that form our daily lives.

The program gives you the flexibility to take courses in disciplines that interest you, while focusing on Canadian issues and Canada’s place in the world. Learn about the history, people, industry and politics of Canada, as well as our unique institutions, policies and identities.

You will be exposed to various social, religious, geographical, political, cultural, economic, educational and legal perspectives. Study complex issues such as bilingualism and biculturalism, and examine their relevance to our modern, multicultural nation.

This multidisciplinary major draws heavily on the humanities and the social sciences and is delivered by the Departments of History, Economics, English, Modern Languages & Linguistics, Indigenous Studies, and Political Science.

Canadian Studies will provide you with valuable skills and knowledge for your career — whether within the non-profit, public or private sectors. Whatever your career path, you will develop outstanding analytical skills from this multidisciplinary approach to learning.

Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Pursue a second passion by adding a minor to your degree.

Honours thesis | If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.

Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level. Transfer students can actually head out on their first work term before ever stepping foot on campus! For example, many transfer students have completed a summer work term before starting classes in September.

Skills acquired | In addition to developing exceptional written and oral communication skills in the program, you will also develop your critical and analytical thinking skills, your information acquisition and management skills, as well as your attention to detail. All of these abilities are highly sought after in the business world and can be applied to practically any working scenario.