• Application Deadline: 
    March 1, November 1
  • Profile Code: 
    300.GA
  • DEC in: 
    Social Science
  • Program Length: 
    2 years

Freedom to choose courses is why many students choose the General Studies Profile. Dawson's Social Science Program has 11 social science disciplines and more than 150 teachers who are experts in their field. Students in General Studies forge their own academic path by selecting courses to suit their interests, satisfy their intellectual curiosity or take university prerequisites in biology and math (up to three courses). Students who are undecided about their future studies or career can explore the social sciences by taking introductory and enrichment courses in up to seven different disciplines. Participating in a Learning Community or taking a Certificate are additional ways a student can choose to enhance their learning.

My program gave me the chance to sample a variety of subjects. Now I know what to focus my studies on in the future.
— Faisal H.

What you will learn?

  • To explain social phenomena and human behaviour using theories, perspectives, and approaches specific to the disciplines of social science
  • To integrate methodologies, perspectives, and approaches of inclusion, equity, diversity, decolonization, and anti-oppression when analyzing social phenomena and human behaviour
  • To conduct an interdisciplinary, individual research project
  • To explain how differences in social identities and world views could influence opinions, beliefs, values, and social interactions
  • To integrate an understanding of the root causes of environmental crises to take actions both locally and globally

Where will this program lead you?

A DEC in Social Science offers solid preparation for a wide variety of university degrees in the Social Sciences as well as in fields such as Education, Law and Humanities. Following university, graduates may pursue careers in social service, education, law, governmental and non-governmental organizations, business, the economic sector, finance and psychology. A Social Science DEC signifies to future employers that the individual has acquired a vast number of skills and knowledge that are easily transferable to a multitude of industries.

What else you should know?

  • While a DEC in Social Science means you can apply to a wide variety of university programs, graduates must verify that they have completed the required prerequisites before applying. For example, many Commerce programs require mathematics prerequisites
  • The Profile Coordinator organizes social events for students so that they can develop a strong sense of community in the profile
  • Social Science Week happens in the Winter Semester and offers the opportunity to learn from distinguished researchers, academics and public personalities
  • You can enhance your learning by taking a certificate in: Decolonization and Indigenization Studies, Environment and Sustainability, Hellenic Studies, Peace Studies, SPACE: Arts and Sciences Certificate and Women’s/Gender Studies.

What do you need to apply?

  • A Diploma of Secondary Studies (DES) or academic background judged equivalent to the DES
  • Secondary IV Mathematics: Cultural, Social & Technical option 563-404/414

Application Deadline

March 1

November 1



Last Modified: November 8, 2023