COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Dimensions of Health (SDH) MA program is a research-intensive, interdisciplinary degree that examines the relationship between health and society through social sciences, humanities, education, and health-related perspectives. The program is structured around a set of core courses, methodology training, electives, and a major thesis, supported by a strong cohort and faculty mentorship model. Students must complete foundational courses including SDH500A (Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Health Research), SDH500B (Interdisciplinary Methods Applied to Health Research), SDH501A and SDH501B (colloquium series focusing on perspectives and methods in health research), each worth 1.5 units. A significant portion of the program is dedicated to methodological training, requiring 3.0 units selected from a wide range of approved courses across disciplines such as public health, psychology, sociology, economics, education, geography, and Indigenous health research. In addition, students complete 3.0 units of electives chosen from diverse fields including health economics, public health, social justice, nutrition, communication, and health informatics, allowing for interdisciplinary flexibility. The program emphasizes independent research, culminating in SDH599, a 6.0-unit thesis that represents the central academic output of the degree. Students are also required to participate in a colloquium, fostering collaboration and scholarly exchange. A supervisory committee oversees each student’s progress, ensuring academic depth and research quality. Overall, the program prepares students for advanced research and professional careers in health-related fields.