Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies

 Get ready to talk relationships

A couple and their child out for a walk. Learn about relationships in Waterloo's family studies and sexology degree.

The only one of its kind in Canada, this program goes far beyond basic anatomical knowledge and sexual health. Use different perspectives to explore relationships; communication; parenting; how media affects our understanding of gender, sex, and relationships; the impact of culture on sexual values; and more, all from a social justice perspective.

Meanwhile, the program itself has a real family vibe. You’ll enjoy small classes and a tight-knit community at St. Jerome’s University, one of Waterloo's on-campus University Colleges.

With your Waterloo degree, you can choose from a slew of high-impact career paths, including teaching, counselling, social services, community engagement, and more. And you can always explore them early through the co-op stream.

Program highlights

  • 15 electives = lots of choice. Our flexible curriculum includes 15 electives, freeing you up to add interests in other subjects (and opening the door to a double major, minor, or specialization). If you’re interested in counselling or social work, check out our counselling specialization.
  • Build an awesome résumé. Looking for hands-on experience? We offer an eight-month practicum in fourth year and intensive research options. You can also gain 20 months of related paid co-op work experience through Waterloo’s Honours Arts and Business or Honours Arts programs.


What will you learn?

First-year courses

During your first year, you'll take two introductory Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies courses. Plus, you'll have electives to explore an additional major of your choosing.

Learn about courses you'll take for your Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies degree.

Customize your degree

You can add additional areas of expertise by including one or more of the minors available to all Waterloo students.

Popular choices for Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies students include Communication Studies, Counselling, and Human Services Practicum.

 

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Admissions

Apply to Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business and choose Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies as your major at the end of first year.

Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including

  • Any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of at least 70%)

Admission average: Low 80s (co-op and regular)

Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements for Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business.

Connect with us

Questions about courses, programs, requirements, careers?

Please contact our Faculty of Arts recruitment team who can answer any questions you have.

 


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