College Transfer Students

Step Into A New Academic Journey

As a college transfer student, you’re embarking on a transformative journey within one of Canada’s leading institutions for social sciences education. At McMaster, we foster a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, innovative research, and active community engagement.

Our faculty is dedicated to providing a supportive and collaborative atmosphere, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of disciplines, from sociology to psychology, economics to political science.

Join us at McMaster’s Faculty of Social Sciences, where you can turn your passion for understanding society into a meaningful and impactful academic experience.

Explore Our Departments

Anthropology Anthropology

Economics Economics

Environment & Society Environment & Society

Globalization Globalization

Health, Aging & Society Health, Aging & Society

Indigenous Studies Indigenous Studies

Labour Studies Labour Studies

Political Science Political Science

Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour

Religious Studies Religious Studies

Social Psychology Social Psychology

Social Work Social Work

Sociology Sociology

Frequently Asked Questions

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Do I Need To Apply For Transfer Credit?

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How Do I Apply For Scholarships & Bursaries?

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How Do I Enroll In Classes?

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens After You’re Admitted? Connect With An Advisor

Welcome to the Faculty of Social Sciences! Your next step is to connect with an Academic Advisor, who can help you plan your courses and map out your transition to McMaster.

Do I Need To Apply For Transfer Credit?

No – transfer credit is assessed automatically when you apply for admission. If you receive an offer, you’ll also get a separate letter outlining the credits you’ve been granted.

How Do I Enroll In Classes? Visit The Registrar's Office

Before you start choosing courses, it’s a good idea to connect with an Academic Advisor to make sure your plan aligns with your program and transfer credits.

You can also find step-by-step enrolment support on the Registrar’s Office website.

What If A Mandatory Course Is Full?

If a required course is closed, reach out to the department that offers it and ask about permission to enroll. If they approve, they’ll update Mosaic so you can add the course yourself.

If permission isn’t available, keep checking Mosaic – seats may open as students adjust their schedules.

What Prerequisite Courses Do I Need? Explore The Undergraduate Calendar

All prerequisite and antirequisite information is listed in the Undergraduate Calendar.

Check the course descriptions in the most recent Course Listings to see what you need before enrolling.

When Do I Choose My Major?

If you’re admitted to Social Sciences I or Social Sciences 2, you’ll choose your major once you’ve completed enough units:

  • 18 units (6 courses) to enter a 3-year BA program
  • 24 units (9 courses) to enter a 4-year Honours BA program

Major applications open in April, so you can select your program at that time.

How Do I Get Academic Accommodations? Register For SAS

Student Accessibility Services (SAS) supports students with documented disabilities by providing academic accommodations and related services.

Visit the SAS website to learn how to register and access the support you need.

How Do I Apply For Scholarships & Bursaries? Visit McMaster Aid & Awards

You can explore and apply for scholarships and bursaries through the McMaster Aid & Awards website, where you’ll find details on eligibility, deadlines, and available funding.

Student Supports Quick Links

Tranfer Student Info Learn more

Find everything you need to understand transfer pathways, credits, and next steps for joining McMaster.

Transfer Credit Search Learn more

Check potential McMaster credit equivalents for your previous college or university courses.

Academic Calendar Explore the calendar

Search for courses and find degree and program information.

Important Dates & Deadlines View important dates & deadlines

Enrolment dates, aid and award deadlines, and sessional dates.

Connect With An Advisor Learn More

Reach out to an Academic Advisor for support with planning your transition and building your degree at McMaster.