Bachelor of Arts and Science - Sociology & Physics (Optional Co-op)

For the Bachelor of Arts and Science, students must complete two majors: an Arts major, and a Science major.

Sociology

Sociology is the study of society, including the interaction between individuals, groups, and institutions. Sociological study helps develop original ways of looking at the world and the individual’s place within it.

The application of sociological thinking can lead to a better understanding of social problems and issues and suggestions about how these issues may be overcome in real-world terms.

By studying sociology, students will gain insight into how people interact with one another and how values and beliefs both shape and are shaped by the structures and processes in society. The primary goal of the discipline is to stimulate sociological thinking — applying imagination and critical analysis to the many facets of social life.

Students of sociology will be exposed to a wide variety of alternative theories of social behaviour, structure, and change through a wide range of courses on topics such as: crime, religion, work, gender, age, ethnicity, politics, culture and health.

Physics

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. It is evident in the world in everything from the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky and the weather, to lasers, electronics and the technology society relies on today.

Physics is very much a “hands-on” science, so the most effective way for students to learn the subject is to actually do physics. Astronomy teaches students how to study objects at a distance and interpret the information gathered. This helps to begin to understand the universe. The skills students will learn in astronomy are also applicable to remote sensing and its application to environmental problems.

The department offers a comprehensive physics major. The foundation of this program is built in the first two years, as students study mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics and modern physics.

In the third and fourth years, students will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals and delve into more advanced and specialized areas. Specialized topics may include the research interests of department faculty members, as all faculty members are involved in rigorous research programs.

Faculty members also ensure students are provided with a wide view of physics, exposing them to all areas of the subject and describing a wide variety of applications. This enables students to make informed decisions when choosing the areas they may wish to pursue in the future.