Social Sciences I

Not Sure What To Major In? That’s Okay - Start Here.

Social Sciences I is designed for students who want to explore before committing to a major. If you’re curious about how people think, behave, organize, and connect – this is your space to ask big questions and find your fit.

In your first year, you’ll explore a wide range of disciplines – from sociology and anthropology to political science and social psychology. These courses introduce key ideas and help you figure out what excites you, what challenges you, and what feels like the right fit.

You won’t be doing it alone. You’ll be surrounded by people who care – professors who challenge you to think deeply, advisors who help you navigate your options, and peers who are figuring it out alongside you.

It’s a flexible, curiosity-driven starting point – designed to help you build confidence, ask meaningful questions, and shape your academic journey on your own terms.

Program Details

Social Sciences I is a direct-entry program that gives you the freedom to explore your interests before choosing a major. Here’s what you need to know:

OUAC Application Code: ML
Anticipated Admission Average: Low-to-mid 80s
Target Enrolment: 855 students
Admission Requirements (Ontario):
- Six 4U/M courses
- Must include English 4U

No supplementary application is required for Social Sciences I.

Wondering about costs? McMaster’s tuition and fees estimator can help you get a clearer picture of what your first year might look like financially.

What You’ll Study In First Year

Your first year in Social Sciences I is designed to help you explore broadly while building a strong foundation for your degree.

You’ll take six core Social Sciences I courses from the list below – these are required and serve as prerequisites for many Honours BA programs within the Faculty. They introduce key concepts across disciplines and help you develop essential academic skills.

The remaining three to four courses can be electives from across McMaster. You’re free to choose from the 12 departments within Social Sciences, or explore courses in Humanities, Sciences, or other Faculties – as long as you meet the enrolment requirements.

Sample Social Sciences I Schedule

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
Introduction to Anthropology Sex, Food and Death Lecture: 10:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour Lecture: 2:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. An Introduction to Social Psychology Lecture: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.	Government, Power and Politics Lecture: 10:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour Tutorial: 12:30 p.m. – 1:20 p.m. An Introduction to Social Psychology Tutorial: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.	Introduction to Anthropology Sex, Food and Death Lecture 9:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour Lecture: 12:30 p.m. – 1:20 p.m.	Government, Power and Politics Lecture: 1:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.Government, Power and Politics Tutorial: 2:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.	Inquiry in the Social Sciences Seminar: 11:30 a.m. – 2:20 p.m.

Get a closer look at course topics, assignments, and learning goals - so you can explore your options and feel confident about your choices.

Browse Course Outlines

Explore Our Program Brochures

Curious about where Social Sciences can take you? Browse our program brochures to learn more about each area of study – from Anthropology to Work & Labour Studies – and imagine where your interests might lead.