Faculty of Social Science and Humanities

Why study social science and humanities at Ontario Tech?

• Cutting-edge research

  Our internationally recognized professors are at the forefront of cutting-edge research on the human and social condition, with projects, publications and forms of public outreach that critically examine how technology shapes and reshapes society and culture. We tackle pressing social issues such as environmental sustainability, democracy, human rights, and equity, diversity and inclusivity. Join our leading researchers and public intellectuals, and question, analyze, and work with new and emerging technologies to build a better and different future.

  Ontario Tech was ranked #1 in Canada in social science and humanities research grants at a primarily undergraduate university according to Maclean's Magazine university rankings, 2024. A repeat from 2023. 

• Innovative teaching

  Our award-winning professors are at the forefront of teaching and learning in the digital age. We are home to teachers who care deeply about students and harness technology to enhance the educational experience, ensuring our students can navigate the digital world to empower themselves and enrich their communities.

• Innovative programs and formats

  Our inter-disciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs offer a wide range of exciting courses and modules through in-person, online, and hybrid forms that foster critical thinking about the social and human condition, and encourage the creative use of technologies to solve social problems. Learn how to understand and change the world through our engaging curriculum! Take one of our innovative minors and diversify your education.

  Starting Fall 2024:

  Policing in Society Specialization

  Science, Technology and Society Specialization 

  Victimology and Victim Studies Specialization 

  Our newer programs and minors:

  Creativity, Digital Arts and Entertainment Industries Specialization

  Strategic Communications, Social Media & Society specialization

  Global Studies Specialization

  Business and Sociaty Specialization

  Creative Industries and Popular Culture Minor

  Online Creators: Digital Entrepreneurship, Work and Society Minor

  Social Media Advocacy & Activism Minor

  Digital Media Politics & Policy Minor

  Professional Communication Minor

  Science, Technology and Society Minor

  Global Studies Minor

  Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Minor

  Fun fact: Ontario Tech University is one of a few universities in Canada that offers Forensic Psychology at the undergraduate level.

• Technology for the good

  We don't just study technology as related to society and culture; we use it and even create it for the social good. In line with Ontario Tech University's “tech with a conscience,” our faculty is passionate about imagining, designing, and applying innovative solutions to pressing social and human problems.

  Check out our new Creators4Change Studio, a digital storytelling hub that supports podcasters, streamers and online creators who have a mission to make the world a better place.

• Creative expression

  In our faculty, creativity knows no bounds. Professors and students alike use new and emerging digital technologies to craft new artistic, symbolic, and cultural works. From digital stories to podcasts to interactive games, we're creatively reshaping culture and society for the better.

• Digital communication

  We empower our students to use the apps, platforms and sites of the global digital age to catalyze social change. Whether it's using YouTube or TikTok, creating memes or powerful online stories, our students and faculty actively engage with digital communications technologies to raise awareness about the problems of the world, and drive positive change.

• Smaller class sizes
  We offer a small institution feel, with smaller class sizes and professors who know your name. 
• Community engagement

  We believe in the power of collaboration with the communities our teaching and research intersects with. Our partnerships with community stakeholders, NGOs, activists, and industry players enable us to address urgent techno-social problems within communities, head-on. 

   

• Experiential learning

  All students enrolled in one of our programs who meet the requirements have an opportunity to engage in experiential learning in fourth year.

  "Many students, including myself, often grapple with understanding how our degrees will translate into tangible careers post-graduation. My Practicum experience, guided by the exceptional Dan Walters, was a transformative journey. Within my placement opportunity at Community Justice Alternatives of Durham Region and through enriching class discussions, it not only bridged the gap between academic theories and their practical applications, but also illuminated a clear path for how I can utilize my degree in a meaningful and impactful way in the field of community justice. Experiential learning has not only provided invaluable insights and practical skills, but has also highlighted the crucial role of hands-on education in developing competent, empathetic professionals ready to make a significant impact in their fields." 
  Emily Martins-Torres, Criminology and Justice, Class of 2024

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  "My practicum experience has provided me with transformative skills and a great opportunity for personal and professional growth. The experience has given me a place to utilize my classroom knowledge and put it into real-world situations that has allowed me to foster a deeper understanding in my field of study. I have engaged with diverse populations, those involved in the criminal justice system and experienced individuals which has expanded my perspectives and influenced my skills. This experience has been valuable in shaping my future career and instilling a sense of confidence in my abilities to make meaningful contributions in my chosen field." 
  Alexa Findlay, Criminology and Justice, Class of 2024