Sociology (BA)

Analyze how society shapes individuals, and how individuals shape society, in Wilfrid Laurier University's Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology, by examining contemporary social issues including health, government, crime and community change.

This program is ideal for students who are curious about the systems and structures that define our social experience and want to make a difference in society.

Apply to the Arts accredited co-op program to gain hands-on work experience and graduate with in-demand skills and knowledge to pursue careers in government, advocacy, education, social services, the non-profit sector and the private sector.

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you'll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose Sociology?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Advance Your Skills in Social Research
    Specialize in Applied Social Research by taking advanced methods courses in your later years. Graduate equipped to conduct impactful research on human and societal behavior.
  • Pathway to Grad School
    Pursue a Master of Social Work degree after you graduate or start your Sociology program with a conditional offer to a full-time MBA at Laurier’s Lazaridis School of Business and Economics or travel abroad to earn an MA in International Development at the University of Sussex in the UK.
  • Build a Career with Impact
    Follow in the footsteps of other successful grads and complement your Sociology major with a minor in Criminology or Policing. This combination often leads to successful admission to the Ontario Police College, opening doors to careers in law enforcement and social services.
  • Accelerate Your Degree
    Fast-track your future by completing your degree in just three years. By working with your Academic Advisor and taking courses during the summer semesters, you can graduate early and get a head start on your career or graduate studies. 

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more):

  • Apply to Co-op
    Honours Arts students in Sociology can apply to our Arts accredited co-op program and complete three work terms of four months’ duration to gain valuable experience during your studies. Develop skills and gain real-world experience in the career path of your interest. 
  • Connect Learning to Impact
    Participate in Community Service-Learning (CSL) courses through placements or projects and guided critical reflection to blend academic content with experiences outside of the classroom.
  • Meet Fellow Students
    Meet like-minded peers through co-curricular opportunities that bring your learning to life. Join student groups like the Sociology Student Association or join the Canadian Sociological Association (CSA) as a student member and attend conferences to interact with experts in the field. 
  • Ensure a Supportive Start
    Ease your transition into university with our first-year courses, AF105S: Skills and AF105W: Writing. These courses help you build the foundations for academic success, developing key skills in time management, critical thinking, research and writing. 

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore a sample weekly schedule to see what your day-to-day might look like in this program.

What Courses Will I Take? 

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree? 

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)

Career Options

It's not only about the journey; it's about the destination. Let us help you get to where you're going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our Sociology (BA) graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers. Here are just a few examples:

  • addictions counsellor
  • community development coordinator
  • criminologist
  • disability/diversity consultant
  • health care administrator
  • lawyer/paralegal
  • marriage and family therapist
  • mediator/labour relations
  • public relations specialist
  • social worker
  • victims advocate

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

How Does Arts Co-op at Laurier Work?

The Faculty of Arts' accredited co-op program at Wilfrid Laurier University offers two co-op pathways and both give you 12 months of paid career experience before you graduate. 

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Apply in first year: Join the co-op program after you start, then complete three four-month work terms during your studies.
  • Apply direct from high school: Get a head start with direct admission to co-op in select Arts programs, straight from high school.
Both pathways lead to the same strong outcome: 12 months of real-world work experience in your field.  

Interested? Learn more about co-op in the Faculty of Arts.

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99%employment rate for co‑op students – 2025 / 2026

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $6,180 $36,624
Student Fees $2,133
$4,018 with co-op
$3,082
$4,967 with co-op
Textbook Fees $500 $500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier Arts graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot. With more than 60 programs in arts, science, business and music, you can customize your degree, gain hands-on learning opportunities and join in the community beyond the classroom.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?