Arts co-op programs

Students in Waterloo’s Accounting and Financial Management program build a strong background in accounting and financial management that prepares them for a CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or CBV (Chartered Business Valuator) designation. With any of these designations, students are prepared to immediately enter the workforce.

The program provides a blend of arts, business and accountancy training so students build strong numeracy skills as well as communication, research and analysis skills.

Students who specialize in the chartered accounting co-op stream in Waterloo’s Accounting and Financial Management program receive an education that is designed specifically to help them achieve success with public accounting firms.

While students who specialize in the business and finance area of Waterloo’s Accounting and Financial Management program they also receive an education that is designed specifically to help them achieve success with industry employers, government, and not-for-profit agencies.

Students from the Accounting and Financial Management program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

• strong leadership abilities
• well-developed communication and teamwork skills
• technical skills directly related to the field
• practical experience gained through course work
• preparing financial statements
• critical thinking and problem-solving skills

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Students in Waterloo’s Anthropology program study human evolution and cultures while learning to apply techniques of research design and field methods. They also learn about the diversity of human adaptations around the world historically and today. To further enrich the learning experience, the program enhances classroom learning opportunities with teaching labs, slides and films, field trips, and fieldwork opportunities so students can experience and apply their studies comprehensively.

Students in Waterloo’s Anthropology program build on these transferrable skills by participating in the study of human evolution and of human cultures, past and present. This education prepares them for further study in specific fields in archaeology, sociocultural anthropology, archaeological anthropology, and biological (physical) anthropology positions in an array of industries, including government.

Students of anthropology develop strong research skills that can be utilized in the business world for market researching. Understanding of human cultures may also prove beneficial in a variety of workplaces.

Students from the Anthropology program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

• research skills that can be utilized in the business world
• marketing research skills
• in-depth understanding of human cultures and human adaptations
• 'anthropological sensibility' that builds knowledge and skills for life
• blend of fieldwork and classroom learning
• in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge

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Waterloo’s Arts and Business program is specifically designed for students of the Arts program who may wish to pursue a career in a business environment. Students gain a strong grounding in the humanities, social sciences, languages, fine and performing arts, politics, history and English. They are also able to study a set of business-related topics such as accounting, economics, computer science, marketing, communication and statistics.

By combining the strengths and features of an arts major with a focus on business-oriented courses, students are provided with an enriched academic background designed for the work environment. This unique and comprehensive program produces intelligent, versatile and highly capable individuals equipped to confront challenging employment experiences as they pursue a wide range of careers

Students from the Arts and Business program bring a broad range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

• strong business-oriented skills
• working knowledge in a second language
• enhanced oral and written skills in English
• an understanding of Canadian historical, political and economic institutions and structures
• an awareness of how changing technological developments impact Canadian society
• above-average computing ability
• highly motivated

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Waterloo’s Classical Studies program provides students with an understanding of the ancient world. This world is a parent of the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and our modern way of life. Students gain knowledge of people, art, literature, political institutions, customs, language and ways of thinking, so they become aware of how civilizations are built and run.

Classical Studies reveals many ideas and customs that are with us today and have greatly influenced how we think and act and how our society is structured. Students of classical studies learn to analyze and consider the implications and impact of the past on the present and future. Because students are asked to examine many different aspects of culture, a degree in classical studies prepares them to respond intelligently to the demands of modern society.

Classical Studies students typically pursue positions in education, art, writing, law, and culture, working in schools, museums, libraries, and publishing companies.

Students from the Classical Studies program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

• strong communication skills
• the analysis of complex problems and mental liveliness
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• responding to the demands of complex modern society
• strong social and intercultural understanding
• ability to apply critical thinking, learn new information, and meet professional demands efficiently

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Communication Studies provides students with a unique opportunity to explore how our everyday forms of communication create meaning and shape our perspective of the world. Students in this program develop the skills necessary to understand diverse audiences and effectively communicate with them. This degree is unique within Canada for our experience-based study of verbal, non-verbal, visual, and digital communication practices.

Over the course of this degree, students hone their written and oral communication skills while developing expertise in teamwork, research, visual and digital literacy, and critical analysis - just the kind of skills set employers are looking for.

Communication Studies students can excel in various fields including:

• Public administration
• Digital communications
• Software publishers
• Business development
• Marketing

Students from Communication Studies bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

• communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language
• write and convey complex ideas
• problem solving and critical thinking
• organizational leadership and collaboration
• research, analyze and synthesize data from multiple sources into meaningful information
• intercultural awareness
• small group deliberation and building interpersonal relationships

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Our PhD in Political Science is the most innovative program of its kind in Canada, offering students considerable flexibility in core research activities, formal professional development for both academic and non-academic career paths, an experiential option and a teaching option (including mentored teaching experiences and formal pedagogical training). This unique program offers students the option of choosing from three major fields: Canadian Politics, International Relations, and Political Economy.

This program provides a comprehensive and well-rounded experience to students with opportunities to specialize in their major and secondary fields of study. Additionally, students will receive Professional Development training which gears them to both academic and non-academic job markets, fostering skills enhancements in research methods, communicating to non-academic audiences, fieldwork, conferencing best practices, and career planning.

These graduate students develop the analytical and professional skills required for success in both public and private sector job markets.

Students from the Political Science PhD program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

Waterloo’s Sociology Department provides a supportive, friendly, and intellectually vibrant environment to cultivate a sociological analysis of the most pressing issues confronting societies today. Our PhD in Sociology program combines rich sociological theory with practical applications in several key research areas, including: Crime, law, and security Knowledge, education, and digital culture Migration, borders, and transnationalism

Social inequality and public policy Students in Sociology gain a strong understanding of social, political, economic, and cultural relations through sociological theory and methods, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary research training. Our graduate program offers courses and research expertise in topics that confront societies today and helps develop the tools to create solutions to local and global challenges.

Students in this field excel in a wide range of industries, including social service departments, government positions, counselling centers, and a wide variety of businesses.

Students from the Sociology PhD program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes they bring include:

• problem solving skills
• research skills
• global awareness
• critical thinking skills
• communications skills both written and oral
• ability to apply sociological theory to various institutions and organizations

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Economics analyzes the factors that influence income, wealth and well-being. It provides useful analytical, mathematical, and statistical measurements and examines the economic dimension of wider social, political and environmental issues.

Recent research and global events have challenged the traditional confines of the discipline. Waterloo’s Economics program equips students with contemporary skills that are applicable to the private and public sectors as well as for further studies.

An arts education emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and research. The Economics program teaches these highly transferable skills together with the added benefit of concentrated study in the specialized area of economics. The extensive mathematical and analytical components of these courses provide practical tools for students to use in a variety of work settings.

Students in Waterloo’s Economics program take concentrated courses in the study of economics. These include learning in the following areas:

Waterloo’s English Literature program gives students insight into our world, our culture and our human identity through an analysis of historical and contemporary literature and theory. Students gain this knowledge through a critical and in-depth analysis of British, American, Canadian and post-colonial literature.

Students of English build these skills while also delving deeper into the English language and its literature. They become more sensitive to language and its uses, and they hone their writing skills.

English students have highly transferrable skills that are effective and relevant in any workplace. They are experts in writing and conveying complex ideas, are skilled in communication and have developed the ability to research and critically analyze ideas and texts.

Students in this field commonly pursue careers in writing, publishing, communications, and education. They often work in the media, schools, financial institutions, health care centers, and a wide variety of businesses.

Students in the English Literature program learn skills that include:

An arts education helps students develop their ability to think clearly, critically and creatively as well as problem solve. Arts students can critically examine a number of topics and areas in a workplace.

English students build these skills while also delving deeper into the English language, its literature and its usage. They become more sensitive to language and its uses and hone their writing skills. They also develop skills of influence through studying rhetoric, which is the art and practice of persuasion through written communication.

The English Literature and Rhetoric program gives students the benefit of an education in the dual strengths of the English department. Students gain insight into our world, our culture and our human identity through an analysis of historical and contemporary literature and theory. Students also explore the history and theory of rhetoric, the nature of professional writing and information design, and digital media.

Students in this field commonly pursue positions in grant writing, technical communication, journalism, and public relations. Students in this program learn skills that include:

• strong skills in research and analysis of complex problems
• strong interpersonal communication
• analytical, creative and critical capacities
• effective oral and written communication
• creative and critical thinking
• experts in writing and conveying complex ideas

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The Creative and Professional Writing (CPW) is a unique program providing students with instruction and practice in a variety of writing fields, allowing students to pursue or combine a broad range of writing-focused careers. Students have the opportunity to explore a diverse array of writing genres, including fiction, drama, graphic narratives, business communication, editing, and digital design.

This program aims to bring these often separated but complementary modalities of Creative Writing and Professional Writing together to train students to be skilled, well-rounded and agile writers - their writing will be animated by their distinct voice and creative energy, which will not only prepare them for the job market but set them apart.

Students who pursue this program excel in fields such as:

• Creative arts
• Publishing
• Public relations
• Business communication

Students from Creative and Professional Writing bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes include:

The Rhetoric, Media, and Professional Communication (RMPC) program offers students both intellectual challenge and practical insight into rhetoric, professional writing, information design and digital media.

Students who choose to major in English have these skills as well as the added benefit of concentrated study in a specialized field. Students in this program receive in-depth training in written and verbal communication. They become a valuable resource for a wide variety of employment situations.

An arts education is designed to emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and research. This program provides students with highly transferable skills, well-honed writing skills and basic computer literacy. The program cultivates students who are versatile and capable, empowering them to make significant contributions within the work environment.

They work in the following industries:

• Grant writing
• Technical communication
• Journalism
• Public relations.

Students from Rhetoric, Media, and Professional Communication bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes that they bring include:

• analytical, creative and critical capacities
• editing technical publications
• drafting press releases and newsletters
• writing and updating end-user information products
• leading ESL (English as a second language) tutoring and conversation groups
• researching and proofreading
• developing and maintaining communication systems

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Waterloo’s Fine Arts program provides a learning environment that enables its students to think creatively and intellectually while achieving work of high standards. Through exhibitions and visits with professional artists, students have the opportunity to discover how what they learn through their studies can be applied in a relevant way to the working community.

Fine Arts students build a solid foundation in the visual arts and gain experience that is analytical and thought-provoking in a creative nature. These students are part of a program that focuses on spirit and individuality. Students are encouraged to develop individual approaches to their work rather than simply follow current trends.

Fine Arts students pursue fields such as marketing, design, and education. They commonly work in art galleries, banks, schools, media companies, and more.

Valuable skills and attributes that they learn include:

• ability to approach problems and challenges with innovative and creative solutions
• capacity for resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges
• ability to balance calculated decision-making and risk
• keen observational skills, especially with attention to details
• skills to excel in a variety of artistic mediums including ceramics, painting, print media, and photography.
• exposure to cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing, digital imagery and DSLR filmmaking
• strong communicational skills in professional contexts

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The Department of French offers students opportunities to specialize in French for career purposes or to simply improve their understanding and use of French. An arts education also helps students develop their ability to think clearly, critically and creatively as well as problem-solve. Students of Waterloo’s French program receive a well-rounded and thorough education during which they are immersed in the linguistic and cultural aspects of the French language.

In Canada, a vast number of employers require or benefit from working with students who are experts in the French language. Linguistics and cultural diversity are vital in a rapidly globalizing world in which bilingual individuals are expected to play a crucial role.

Students in Waterloo’s French program develop strong abilities in communication, which is essential in any work environment. These students typically pursue careers where they can exercise their multi-language skills such as in communications roles, sales, translation, and education.

Students from French bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes that they bring include:

• communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language
• listen attentively to others
• integrate ideas from across contexts
• demonstrate integrity and ethics
• proactively seek to build good relationships
• adapt to culturally diverse situations
• demonstrate curiosity

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Gender and Social Justice teaches students about social justice, broadly construed, with particular attention to the role of gender. Students learn to put intersectional feminism into practice in diverse ways as they work to build inclusive, just, sustainable communities, locally and globally.

Students, whether they are majors or minors, or taking Gender and Social Justice courses as electives, will find our courses timely, accessible, relevant, varied and surprising. In the first instance, these courses seek to cultivate awareness of the experiences of people marginalized by such features as gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, and class.

More than this, students will learn to use the theoretical framework of intersectional feminism to critically analyze systems and representations, locally and globally. Students in this program pursue positions in law, social policy planning, community action, counselling, teaching, human rights, or many other fields.

Students from the Gender and Social Justice program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes that they bring include:

• applying a social justice perspective
• value diversity and inclusion
• work effectively with others
• demonstrate integrity and ethics
• develop the ability to analyze and evaluate complex issues related to gender and social justice
• explore gender and social justice issues on a global scale
• analyze and evaluate social policies
• are advocates for equity, justice, and positive change

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Global Business and Digital Arts (GBDA) is a one-of-a-kind program combining courses in creative design, technology and business. Students in this program will gain a solid foundation linking creative design, globalization, business ethics, economics, and marketing. With access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, students develop design-driven solutions to social problems and create new forms of cultural expressions in a global context.

The Global Business and Digital Arts program equips students with the skills to effectively engage with and manage multidisciplinary teams - a skill that employers say is vital in today’s ever-changing digital economy.

Our project-based learning environment asks students to explore varied disciplines and practices, while connecting them to challenges that exist in the real world. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities.

Global Business and Digital Arts (GBDA) combination of creative design, technology, and business equips students to pursue a variety of positions, including:

• User experience design
• Graphic design
• Technology sales and marketing
• Web development, management, and marketing
• Project management

Students from Global Business and Digital Arts bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes that they bring include:

Students in Waterloo’s German program specialize in the study of language, applied linguistics, literature, and film and visual culture. Students in this program investigate the culture, literature and linguistics of these societies through courses which are taught in German or English. Students also benefit from the unique interdisciplinary nature of the program.

While students build their knowledge of German language and culture, they can participate in courses in Russian, Croatian, Dutch and Polish as well. German is one of the four main languages of the western world, so students in this program can offer employers a high level of skill in translation and understanding of a culture that plays a significant role in business.

Students are equipped to understand different cultures and people’s needs. These students pursue positions in communications, business development, project coordination, and teaching. They often work for government departments, technology companies, and schools.

Valuable skills and attributes that they learn include:

• critical thinking and analytical skills
• strategic and analytical thinking with a creative edge
• well-developed communication and teamwork skills
• communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language
• listen attentively to others
• integrate ideas from across contexts
• proactively seek to build good relationships
• adapt to culturally diverse situations
• demonstrate curiosity

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History students deepen their understanding of the world while enhancing analytical skills and powers of expression. They investigate many aspects of life and culture, from economics to philosophy, politics, art and music. Through this exploration, students gain the ability to analyze causes of change and continuity, providing insights into the past, present, and future. Students develop these skills through studying Canadian, European, American and international social, political and cultural history.

An understanding of the evolution of relationships between nations, government and governed, men and women, and parents and children, is vital for understanding our society today. Students in Waterloo’s History program can use their understanding and analysis of these complex topics to the benefit of a variety of employers.

Waterloo History students commonly pursue positions in writing, teaching, and research, often working in museums, universities, public administration, schools, and various roles within the public and private sector.

Valuable skills and attributes that they learn include:

• ability to analyze topics thoroughly while broadening their perspectives and judgment
• engaging in discussions and actively participating to think critically about the world around them
• developing important and highly transferrable skills
• analytical, creative and critical capacities
• strong research analysis skills
• effective communication
• well-developed worldly perspectives

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The Faculty of Arts helps students develop their ability to think clearly, critically and creatively, as well as problem-solve. Students in Waterloo’s Legal Studies program learn how law is a central part of how society functions, from how we conduct business, to how we treat the environment, to how we shape our governments and deal with people.

The Legal Studies program provides students with a comprehensive undergraduate education. It provides an excellent academic background for further studies or training for students who have aspirations of a future in law.

Students in Waterloo’s Legal Studies program may complete their education in a variety of ways. Students may specialize in sociology or criminology, or complete a joint honours degree in most arts disciplines.

Students in the Legal Studies program are well-educated and have inquiring minds. They are trained to analyze all aspects of an issue before identifying conclusions.

They are capable of analytical and critical thinking, and can offer skills like communication, analysis, research and other highly transferrable skills.

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Liberal Studies gives students the opportunity to explore many different subjects in the humanities, social sciences, languages and cultures, and fine and performing arts - plus courses from some of Waterloo's other faculties. Liberal Studies students have the opportunity to choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas Waterloo offers, empowering students to develop a well-rounded skillset.

This program's flexibility fosters student curiosity to explore a wide array of subjects, enhances their interdisciplinary thinking, and spark new perspectives. Students possess the wide range of skills to excel in numerous professional fields, making them highly marketable.

Here are just a few areas that students in this program are equipped for:

• Educational institutions
• Financial sector
• Software publishers
• Communications firms
• Administration, and more.

Students from Liberal Studies bring a range of transferable skills to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes that they bring include:

• critical thinking
• leadership, communication, and collaboration
• analytical reasoning
• constructing persuasive arguments
• interpersonal and team-building skills
• adaptability

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Economics analyzes the factors that influence income, wealth and well-being. It provides useful analytical, mathematical, and statistical measurements and examines the economic dimension of wider social, political and environmental issues. Recent research and global events have challenged the traditional confines of the discipline.

Waterloo’s Economics program equips students with contemporary skills that are applicable to the private and public sectors as well as for further studies. An arts education emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and research. The Economics program teaches these highly transferable skills together with the added benefit of concentrated study in the specialized area of economics.

The extensive mathematical and analytical components of these courses provide practical tools for students to use in a variety of work settings. Students in Waterloo’s Economics program take concentrated courses in the study of economics. Students in this field commonly work in government agencies, financial companies, consulting firms, and more.

Students in Economics program have a strong understanding of theory, superior research skills and an ability to apply this training to issues relevant to the public and private sectors. Valuable skills and attributes include:

• excellent numeracy and problem-solving skills
• ability to perform research
• collect statistics and make mathematical calculations
• high level competence in spreadsheet, word processing and graphic software
• ability to conduct specialized economic analysis
• strategic thinking skills
• presentation skills
• quantification and design skills
• ability to frame problems

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The Collaborative Water Program promotes the development of interdisciplinary perspectives on water. This unique program allows students to complete their specialist training in the Department of Economics while collaborating with 11 other departments and schools from across all six University of Waterloo faculties. Co-ordinated and supported by the Water Institute, this program provides students with the opportunity to study complex water problems, learning how to work in interdisciplinary teams to better understand and address these water issues.

Collaborative Water Program students complete their specialist training in their respective home department or school while working with students from a variety of disciplines in two interdisciplinary courses.

These courses capture both theoretical and practical components, including in-class lectures, fieldwork, interdisciplinary group work, and individual research seminars. Students graduate from the Collaborative Water Program as future water leaders, able to communicate and work within across disciplines and within interdisciplinary teams in the water sector.

Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag) Water Resources Engineering Intern within the Waterloo Region at Ecosystem Recovery Inc.

Students from Collaborative Water Program bring a range of valuable skills and attributes to the workplace. At the end of the collaborative program, students will be able to:

• Effectively communicate with other water-related discipline experts
• Understand and use basic data from other disciplines
• Apply their disciplinary knowledge in a multi- or interdisciplinary setting
• Effectively communicate project analyses and results to classmates and faculty
• Work cooperatively with experts from other disciplines
• Understand the importance of multi- or inter-disciplinary approaches in the water sector
• Identify the role of their discipline expertise in multi- or, interdisciplinary problem solving

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Students in Waterloo’s Experimental Digital Media program are dedicated to exploring the creative and critical processes provided by new digital media. These students receive an education that focuses on a lab-based and hands-on approach to digital technology. Students in this program learn to use the digital media as a critical tool combining theory and practice in the production of “objects-to-think-with.”

Students in this program must have an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in English or a degree that supplements an English major with another area of study. The program’s rich mix of theoretical and practical study prepares students for research in digital media and a variety of careers in the media industries. Students spend time completing work and research in the Critical Media Lab, a centre for the experimental production of digital objects and exhibitions where students, faculty and local digital artists interact.

Students with a background in experimental digital media have highly transferrable skills gained through their English degree that are effective and relevant in any workplace. These students pursue areas that require persuasive communications, such as advertising, technical writing, document design and digital media.

Students from the Experimental Digital Media program bring a range of valuable skills and attributes. At the end of the program, students will have these skills and attributes:

• analytical, creative and critical thinking
• exploring the creative and critical processes provided by digital media business and technical communication
• ability to integrate ideas from across contexts
• write and convey complex ideas
• editing and digital design
• researching and proofreading
• ability to pursue a broad range of writing genres
• critical research and analysis of ideas and texts

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Students in Waterloo’s Literary Studies program learn about historical and contemporary areas of British, American, Canadian and English-language post-colonial literatures and relevant theories. Students in this program must have an honours degree in English or a degree that supplements an English major with another area of study.

Students have the option of completing their degree by coursework or by a combination of coursework and a major project or a thesis. Students with this background have highly transferrable skills gained through their English degree that are effective and relevant in any workplace. The additional training they receive through Waterloo’s Literary Studies program enables them to become experts in writing and conveying complex ideas, communication, critical research and analysis of ideas and texts.

Students in this field pursue careers in diverse areas such as publishing, private industry, government, educational organizations, and non-governmental organizations.

Students from the Experimental Digital Media program bring a range of valuable skills and attributes. At the end of the program, students will be able to:

• gain insight into our world, our culture and our human identity through an analysis of historical and contemporary literature and theory
• well-developed communication and teamwork skills to communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language
• listen attentively to others integrate ideas from across contexts
• knowledge through a critical and in-depth analysis of British, American, Canadian and post-colonial literature

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Students in Waterloo’s Rhetoric and Communication Design program supplement a core graduate course in rhetorical theory and criticism with projects or course work in the areas of rhetoric, discourse analysis, semiotics, multimedia design and critique, composition pedagogy and professional writing. All students in this program take at least one course in literary studies. Students in this program must have an honours degree in English or a degree that supplements an English major with another area of study.

Students build on skills they learned in their undergraduate degree, becoming experts of influence through studying rhetoric, which is the art and practice of persuasion. Students with this background have highly transferrable skills gained through their English degree that are effective and relevant in any workplace.

The additional training they receive through Waterloo’s Rhetoric and Communication Design program enables them to become experts in writing and conveying complex ideas, communication, critical research and analysis of ideas and texts. These students understand and pursue areas that require persuasive communications, such as advertising, technical writing, document design and digital media.

Students from the Rhetoric and Communication Design program bring a range of valuable skills and attributes. At the end of the program, students will be able to:

• analytical, creative and critical thinking
• business and technical communication
• ability to integrate ideas from across contexts
• write and convey complex ideas
• researching and proofreading
• ability to pursue a broad range of writing genres
• critical research and analysis of ideas and texts

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Students in Waterloo’s Political Science program develop a deep understanding of political landscapes that range from the historical to the contemporary, from the Americas to Europe to the Middle East and on to the expanding economies of China and Asia.

Students are encouraged to develop knowledge in a research area that meets their individual interests. Students may consider the following areas:

• Canadian state and society (students gain information and resources on federal and provincial voting behaviour through the department’s Centre for Election Studies)
• conflict and conflict resolution
• political economy
• contemporary political theory

These graduate students develop the analytical and professional skills required for success in both academic and non-academic job markets.

Students have an in-depth understanding of a variety of political climates and situations and have developed strong skills in analysis and research. Their skills are highly transferrable, and include:

• problem-solving and decision-making skills
• ability to perform critical analyses
• analytical versatility
• familiarity of policy-making and legislation
• social awareness
• communication skills
• Canadian political system knowledge
• public policy development abilities
• research skills
• ability to analyze information and data to support or reject theories and principles

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The Sociology and Legal Studies program promotes research and teaching excellence by providing an intellectually vibrant setting for sociological and socio-legal scholarship. Through this integrated approach, students delve into the complexities of sociology by exploring the social, economic, and political dynamics and dimensions of social relations and social change.

In this program, students gain a comprehensive foundation in the theoretical frameworks and methodologies required to conduct socio-legal research and critically evaluate the effects of law and policy in our social world. Combining Sociology and Legal Studies, students cultivate a socio-legal perspective to analyze some of the most pressing issues confronting societies today.

This program is committed to developing students' sociological imagination and the research skills they will need for their future careers. Our students gain a deeper understanding of one’s place in society, to understand the complex social, political, economic, and cultural environments within which we live, and to value a diversity of ideas and perspectives.

Our students can make meaningful contributions in both public and private sector organizations. Roles in policy development, law, and research analysis are examples of positions where they can show their skillset.

Students from Social and Legal Studies bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes include:

• understanding of research methods, analysis and statistical techniques
• strong oral and written communication
• knowledge of social, public and civil policy
• ability to apply sociological theory to various institutions and organizations
• appreciation of complex and diverse social situations
• interdisciplinary thinking
• analyzing sociological and socio-legal issues

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Students in Waterloo’s Sociology program participate in diverse research opportunities and rigorous training in contemporary and classical sociological theory and in quantitative, qualitative and interpretive methods. They receive grounding in a range of theoretical orientations.

Students of this program explore areas of research that include theory, criminology, family, gender, social stratification, politics, knowledge and religion, health, work and recreation, social psychology/symbolic interactionism and research methods. Students hone skills they developed through their undergraduate career that include critical thinking, problem solving, analysis and research.

Students in Waterloo’s Sociology program are capable of analytical, critical and creative thinking, writing and research. They have an expert understanding and perspective on how to build, examine and maintain different relationships in our society. This understanding is relevant and vital in a variety of workplaces.

Valuable skills and attributes that they learn include:

• understanding of research methods, analysis and statistical techniques
• ability to make reasoned oral and written arguments
• knowledge of social, public and civil policy
• ability to apply sociological theory to various institutions and organizations
• appreciation of complex and diverse social situations

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Waterloo’s Master of Public Service program provides students with the knowledge, skills and on-the-job experience they need for a successful career in public service. The program provides an advanced education, covering important subjects such as government structure and functions, current public issues, policy development and values and ethics. Students also develop critical and applied skills in communication, finance, leadership and project management.

This program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and experience to effectively design and implement policies and deliver services to Canadians, at all levels of government.

Hiring students in Waterloo’s Public Service program offers many benefits to government units, such as:

• gaining a pool of highly educated, skilled and motivated employees
• cost-effective solution for short-term hiring needs
• adaptable workforce to complete special projects
• evaluation of potential future recruits
• injects a fresh perspective and innovative ideas
• aligns graduate programming with public service needs

Students in this field excel in a wide range of fields including various governmental departments and experience needed to work at federal, provincial and local levels of the public service in Canada.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• critical thinking and analysis
• problem-solving and decision-making
• social awareness
• public policy
• development structure and functions of the Canadian political system
• principles of economics and cost/benefit analysis
• working effectively in diverse teams
• leadership and management
• project management
• communication styles
• media awareness

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Students in Waterloo’s Medieval Studies program gain a comprehensive understanding of medieval Europe, exploring its rich culture and history and how it continues to influence our present time. By studying this period, we gain a deep appreciation for the profound impact of Roman civilization's culture, innovations, and new ways of thinking that helped chart the course of a new world of civilizations.

Students of this interdisciplinary field of study gain knowledge from different disciplines, explore new areas of study and revisit topics that have been relegated to neglected history. This program provides students with the skills needed to examine many different aspects of a culture, helping them develop the ability to respond intelligently to the demands of complex modern society.

Waterloo Medieval Studies typically pursue positions in communications, administration, and as librarians.

They commonly work for heritage institutions, municipalities, and more. Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• strong skills in research and analysis of complex problems
• strong interpersonal communication
• understanding of cultural nuances and willingness to learn
• analytical, creative and critical capacities effective
• oral and written communication
• creative and critical thinking

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Students of the Music department at the University of Waterloo are equipped with the skills, knowledge and a multi-dimensional understanding of music. Music students embrace a liberal arts approach, combining intensive study in the traditional musical disciplines of performance, theory and history with courses offering more breadth, such as popular music, jazz, worship and music, world music, and music and gender.

Music is an intensely emotional and psychological part of our society, and students of Waterloo’s Music program are equipped to analyze its impact. A number of skills come into play as students work to achieve degrees in Music, including theory, artistic expression, mathematical analysis, and more. The knowledge that they achieve through their degrees allows them to move successfully into careers in a variety of professional areas.

Waterloo Music students often pursue positions in music, teaching, and marketing. They often work in arts schools, entertainment companies, and theatres.

Students consider and explore how and where music intersects with other parts of our lives.Valuable skills and attributes include:

• theoretical understanding of music concepts, principles, and structures
• strong interpersonal and communication skills
• understanding of music history, including music and technology, gender, and peace
• musical literacy skills
• creative and out of the box thinking
• ability to collaborate and work effectively

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Students of Waterloo’s Peace and Conflict Studies program explore why conflict and violence occurs and use the knowledge they gain to transform conflict through collaborative decision-making to accomplish constructive ends. The program educates, invigorates and mobilizes students to make use of conceptual and practical knowledge to imagine and build a culture of peace between individuals, in our communities, among nations and around the world.

These students engage conflict creatively and use it as an impetus for positive and just social change. Students in this program explore why conflict and violence occur and how conflict can be transformed to accomplish constructive ends. They also learn how peace is maintained as a whole, not as simply the absence of conflict.

This program equips students with the skills needed to excel in positions in communications, social services, human resources, and more. They often work for municipalities, humanitarian organizations, and school boards.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• proficiency in analytical skills needed to conduct practice-oriented research into issues of peace
• constructive decision-making skills
• solid grasp on theoretical and practical understanding of the holistic nature of a culture of peace
• firm understanding of ethical principles and accountability
• engaging conflict in ways that mitigate destructive dynamics and maximize the potential for social change
• practical and theoretical understanding of the culture of peace

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Philosophy addresses fundamental and difficult questions encompassing the nature of reality, free will, the meaning of a “just society” and finding the ideal way to live. Students in the Philosophy program attempt to answer these questions with a combination of creativity and analysis of ideas, careful reading and scholarship, and clear debate.

Students in the Philosophy program learn the habits of critical analysis, clear expression and careful argumentation through studying philosophy. These are skills that apply to virtually every academic and professional context. Philosophy not only tackles interesting questions, but it also helps students gain skills of reasoning and communication that are vital in any workplace.

Students in this field possess skills that make them highly successful in areas such as public relations, health care, teaching non-profit, research, law, and government.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• integrate ideas from across contexts
• demonstrate curiosity, integrity and ethics
• ability to conduct careful reading, interpretation and forming clear argumentation of texts
• communicate ideas effectively using clear and engaging language
• manage conflict and motivate others

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An arts education helps students develop their ability to think clearly, critically and creatively as well as problem solve. Arts students can critically examine a number of topics and areas in a workplace.

Students in Waterloo’s Political Science program study relations between citizens and government and the impact these relations have on race, gender, nationalism and capitalism.

Students explore fundamental issues concerning citizenship and rights. They may specialize in areas of constitutional and criminal law, public policy and administration, and international relations.

Students in Waterloo’s Political Science program learn critical thinking, analysis and communication skills. These skills are highly transferrable to many professional worlds.

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Psychology at Waterloo is a world class department in one of Canada’s best universities. Through a wealth of educational experiences in the classroom, the laboratory and the field, students in Waterloo’s Psychology program are exposed to the cutting-edge research methods, theories and experiments in the science of the mind that now appear in news headlines on an almost daily basis.

The Psychology department conducts high-impact research in each of the six major subdivisions of psychology listed below: clinical cognitive cognitive neuroscience developmental industrial/organizational social. An educational background in psychology enables students to effectively consider why we think and behave the way we do, and why people react to certain situations.

This knowledge and understanding are beneficial not only in everyday life, but it also helps prepare students to be leaders in the workforce. Students also develop highly transferrable observational, analytical, communication and numeric skills through the investigation of minds and behaviour.

Students in this field excel in a wide range of areas such as counselling, various branches of therapy, mental health services, human relations, public education, speech pathology, research, communications, and more.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• observation, analytic, numeracy, and computer skills
• oral and written communication skills
• understanding of human action from individual and social perspectives
• critical thinking and analytical skills
• understanding of research methods, analysis and statistical techniques
• ability to communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language

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Students in Waterloo’s Religious Studies study religion in all its diversity, including challenging systems of thought, exemplary lives, rituals both familiar and unfamiliar, and patterns of social life that have played central roles in the history of humankind. These students explore the non-confessional study of religion in its historical, cultural, and social contexts.

Students can specialize in one of three main areas: world religions, Christian traditions, history, and areas of thought and practice. No understanding of modern society, history and humanity is complete without an understanding of the world’s religions. Students in Waterloo’s Religious Studies program have the ability to critically explore how aspects of society interact and impact each other.

Their understanding of the world and transferrable skills can be applicable in a variety of workplaces. Waterloo Religious Studies students commonly pursue positions such as youth ministers, teachers, life coordinators, and facilitators. They work in churches, schools, hospitals, and childcare services.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• willingness to learn and commit to professional and personal improvement
• specialization in global religions and worldviews
• communication and interpersonal skills
• strong emotional intelligence
• social awareness
• strong skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and leadership skills

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Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies is a unique interdisciplinary program in Canada that delves deeper into the realms of sexuality, relationships, marriages, and families. This program is an interdisciplinary program in which students critically question and examine all aspects of sexuality, relationships and marriages, and families.

Students of this multidisciplinary subject combine their studies with psychology, sociology and social work to develop a broad perspective on different relationships. Students take part in interdisciplinary scholarship and research in fields such as gender, reproduction and relationships. They develop a solid, scientific understanding of sexuality and the social institutions linked to intimate relationships so they can consider historical, theoretical and ethical ideas.

Students of this multidisciplinary subject combine their studies with psychology, sociology and social work to develop a broad perspective on different relationships. Students in this program pursue positions in teaching, youth support work, and sexual health education in schools, government, non-profit organizations, and more.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• strong skills in expression, numerical analysis and critical thinking
• perspectives to explore relationships; communication; parenting
• demonstrate media literacy to analyze media's impact on gender, sex, and relationships
• applying a social justice perspective
• value diversity and inclusion
• work effectively with others
• demonstrate integrity and ethics

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Students in Waterloo’s Social Development Studies program study the human condition and human and social development in relation to social issues in local, national and global contexts. Students use the knowledge they gain to explore and discover how human relations can be strengthened.

In the program, students examine the human condition using an interdisciplinary approach. The study incorporates psychology, sociology and social work. Students of this multidisciplinary subject combine their studies with psychology, sociology and social work to develop a broad perspective on different relationships.

Through these studies, students develop strong skills in critical thinking, problem solving, interpersonal relations, leadership, civic engagement and global citizenship. Our program equips students with the necessary skills to excel in fields such as support work, child and youth counselling, early childhood education, and more.

Students from the Social Development Studies bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes include:

• communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language
• leadership, communication, and collaboration
• adapt to culturally diverse situations
• evidence-based decision making
• manage conflict and motivate others
• value diversity and inclusion
• demonstrate curiosity
• work effectively with others
• demonstrate integrity and ethics

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An arts education helps students develop their ability to think clearly, critically and creatively, as well as problem solve. Arts students can critically examine a number of topics and areas in a workplace.

Honours sociology students may choose co-operative education, either through the regular departmental co-op or as part of the Arts and Business co-op program in the Faculty of Arts.

The Department of Sociology maintains active programs of research and writing. Students learn about topics including sociology, theory, criminology, family, gender, social stratification, politics, knowledge and religion, health, work and recreation, social psychology/symbolic interactionism and research methods.

Sociology students learn critical thinking, analysis and communication skills through their studies. These skills are highly transferrable to many professional worlds.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• strong critical thinking and analytical skills
• ability to apply sociological concepts to work and social situations
• well-developed communication and teamwork skills
• ability to research, analyze and evaluate information

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Spanish is the official language of over 20 countries across the world, and as globalization peaks, employers highly value candidates learning Spanish. Our Spanish program is devoted to preparing students for a successful career, while fostering the development of their cultural competencies. Our language-oriented stream emphasizes a fluent knowledge of Spanish, focusing on understanding, speaking, reading, and writing, including courses for business and translation.

Students in this program are valuable in many organizations not only for their teaching and translation abilities, but also because both Spain and Latin America have become important consumers of technology and manufactured goods. Latin America is focusing their interests on development, which creates a need for Spanish-speaking researchers, planners, organizers and executors of a large variety of programs.

Students in this program can offer employers a high level of skill in translation and understanding of a culture that plays a significant role in business. Students in this program are open to all kinds of fields, including business, teaching, international relations, and international development, for various positions such in communication, research, marketing, translating, business development, and more.

Students from the Spanish program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes include:

• understanding of and ability to manage change
• exposure and understanding of intercultural communication
• communicate ideas effectively using clear and concise language
• listen attentively to others
• integrate ideas from across contexts
• demonstrate integrity and ethics
• proactively seek to build good relationships
• adapt to culturally diverse situations
• demonstrate curiosity.

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Waterloo’s Speech Communication program is unique in Canada. Students explore how people create meaning and make sense of their lives, identities, relationships and world through interaction with others, and are prepared for the challenges of communicating in a globalized and pluralistic world.

Students develop a greater understanding of theories related to interpersonal communication, leadership, intercultural communication, organizational communication, conflict management, public communication and persuasion. They develop skills related to listening, interviewing, team communication, leadership, critical thinking and public speaking.

Students gain mastery and understanding in the following areas:

• Relationships: understanding of how communication creates, maintains and transforms relationships
• Contexts: the important role communication plays in community, leadership, professional and civic settings
• Diversity: respect for the role of culture and diversity in communication
• Influence: competency in self-reflection and in the analysis of arguments and discourse that influence beliefs, attitudes, values and practices
• Presentations: skills, confidence and competence in public presentations
• Research: systematic inquiry, including the process of asking questions, systematically attempting to answer them and understanding the limitations of conclusions

In addition to being the only Speech Communication program in Canada, courses involve a high level of interaction and applied learning. Students in the Speech Communication program have learned and applied their skills in business and communication settings, gaining actual experience in the application and execution of communication skills.

Valuable skills and attributes they learn include:

• leading others in the completion of projects and events
• giving and receiving feedback
• understanding of and ability to manage change
• interpersonal and team-building skills
• critical thinking and analytical skills
• exposure and understanding of intercultural communication
• understanding and experience in public relations and image management
• audience analysis and ability to craft a message to diverse audiences
• project planning, management and evaluation

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The Sustainability and Financial Management program combines extensive training in accounting and financial literacy with a focus on environmental sustainability. It is the first program in Canada integrating education in accounting and finance fields with sustainability and the environment. Students in the corporate sustainability stream work towards a Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.

Students in the Government Policy and Financial Markets pathway work towards a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Students in the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Specialization gain foundational training in financial management and sustainability.

The depth of professional knowledge and skills attained in the field of accounting and finance, coupled with a broad foundational knowledge of sustainability, enables students to synthesize the opportunities and challenges posed by changes in the natural environment and their implications for business and the economy at large.

Graduates will incorporate people, profit and the planet into the bottom line while evolving environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) reporting to lead organizations toward a greener world. Students gain skills that can benefit financial departments and corporate sustainability teams across industries.

Their education prepares them to achieve success in accounting, financial analysis, public administration, finance/insurance, manufacturing, professional, scientific, technical services, wholesale, and distribution.

Students from the Sustainability and Financial Management program bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes include:

• understanding of ecosystem structure, functions, energy flows and connectivity
• interpreting principles and practices of environmental management, environmental law and regulatory approaches
• technical skills directly related to accounting and finance
• data analysis
• problem solving and critical thinking
• leadership, communication, and collaboration
• ethical conduct and social responsibility

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Our Theatre and Performance program integrates theory and practice to explore the ways in which artists, audiences, and scholars make meaning in the medium of lived experience. Students in this program engage with theatre and performance at all levels, from the practical demands of production to its ethical consequences in our communities.

Students in this program gain a rich portfolio to take into the world of theatre, plus a range of creative, analytical, and management skills that will serve them well in any number of roles, on stage or off.

By learning to implement creative ideas in real-life situations and to analyze their impact in our rapidly-changing world, students thrive creatively as they develop new knowledge and skills for life and work beyond university.

Waterloo’s Theatre and Performance students often pursue careers in entertainment, teaching, stage management, and directing. They often work in theatres, at festivals, and in schools, and more.

Students from the Theatre and Performance bring a range of abilities to the workplace. Valuable skills and attributes include:

• proficiency in technical tools and equipment related to theater and performance
• knowledge of production processes, such as staging, lighting, sound, and costume design
• communicate clearly and effectively
• proactively seek to build good relationships
• write and convey complex ideas
• think creatively and critically
• make evidence-based decisions
• maintain a positive attitude

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