Explore how societies are shaped, how people interact, and how ideas, information, and culture circulate. 

The Joint Honours in Sociology and Communication combines the study of social forces, institutions, and inequalities with the analysis of media, technology, and human communication. Through this interdisciplinary program, you will develop a deeper understanding of how communication influences social relationships, cultural identities, political life, and organizational practices—and how social contexts, in turn, shape the ways we communicate.

By connecting sociological theory and research with the study of media and communication, you will learn to critically examine contemporary social issues, interpret messages and representations, and understand the role of communication in a rapidly changing world. The program combines theoretical perspectives with practical research and analytical skills, preparing you to engage thoughtfully with complex social realities and contribute to meaningful social change.

Why choose this program

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Understand society and communication.
Explore the connections between social forces, media, identities, institutions, and communication practices. Understand how communication shapes relationships, political life, and organizations, and how social contexts influence the ways we communicate.

Develop an interdisciplinary perspective.
Study issues such as inequality, social justice, globalization, power, media and cultural industries, political communication, and strategic communication.

Build research and analytical skills.
Learn to apply theoretical approaches to real-world situations and use quantitative and qualitative methods, including interviews, focus groups, discourse analysis, and surveys.

Connect theory to practice.
Opportunities for internships, volunteer work, professional development, and engagement with local organizations will allow you to apply your learning and explore connections between local and global realities.

Prepare for your future career.
Develop skills valued in a wide range of fields, including media, journalism, public relations, political and strategic communication, social research, public policy, human resources, and community organizations.

Browse program options

Joint Honours in Communication and Sociology

4 years - 120 units

Admission requirements and deadlines for Joint Honours in Communication and Sociology

After your studies

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The program provides access to a wide range of careers such as:

  • Social sciences researcher
  • Public policy analyst
  • Corporate communications officer
  • Community manager
  • Human resources manager
  • Social justice organizer
  • Diversity consultant
  • Consultant on indigenous or women’s issues
  • Human rights officer
  • Social media strategist
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Career development and experiential learning

Discover ways to gain valuable experience during your studies, through both in-program and extracurricular opportunities, including co-op and experiential learning.

Student experience

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International opportunities offered by the Faculty

Starting in your third year of study, you can experience: International internships, Field research courses, A Model United Nations Course

Contact us

FSS Student Experience and Outreach

Social Sciences Building
120 University Private, room 3001
Ottawa, Ontario  K1N 6N5
Canada (maps)

[email protected]