Program description

The Labour Studies Program explains the issues that shape our world: globalization, social and economic equality, power and resistance. We explore how the workplace has changed, why workers organize, and what ordinary people can do about social injustice. We ground theory in practice, with strategies for exercising your rights at work, improving your working conditions, and getting the respect to which all are entitled. Labour Studies provides essential tools and basic knowledge for teachers, union activists, managers, worker advocates, human resource managers, and all working people.

Program options

Degree options

B.A. Bachelor of Arts (General) - 3 years
B.A. (Adv.) Bachelor of Arts (Advanced) - 4 years
Diploma in Labour Studies - 30 credit hours

Interesting courses and unique opportunities

Interesting courses

• Human Rights at Work 
• Political Economy of Labour
• Globalization and Labour 
• Global Sweatshops, Global Struggles 
• Workplace Health and Safety
• Labour and Employment Law 
• Racism and Work
• Collective Bargaining
• Working for a Living

Placement option

4th-year Field Placement option in a government office, union, business, community organization, or NGO 

Professional opportunities

• Worker Advocate
• Policy Researcher
• Employment Standards Officer
• Health and Safety Officer
• Human Rights Investigator
• Human Resources Manager
• Labour Relations Board Officer
• Workers' Compensation Board Caseworker
• Worker Advisor
• Legislative Assistant
• Union Representative
• Union Organizer
• Labour Lawyer
• Affirmative Action Co-ordinator
• Placement Manager
• Training Specialist
• Personnel Consultant
• Conciliator
• Employment Counsellor
• Labour Educator

Admission requirements & prerequisites

Advanced entry option

24 credit hours in U1 (or approved bachelors program).

This entry option is open to students who have completed either a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level study or one of the certificate programs specified on each program’s application page.

High school prerequisites

High school prerequisites: None

Many programs will require or recommend specific high school courses over and above their admission requirements. These high school prerequisites are not always required to enter the program, but they must be completed to enrol in certain university courses within it. If a student does not have a particular prerequisite when they enter the program, they may complete an equivalent upgrading course at university that will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.

More details on admission requirements, application dates and how to apply is available on the Faculty of Arts apply for admission page.

What is unique about this program at the U of M?

4th year Field Placement course offers students an opportunity to get real-world experience in the field, make useful contacts with practitioners, and develop career skills by working alongside labour professionals in unions, government offices, NGO's, community organizations and businesses.

Labour Studies offers two scholarships, the Charles Biesick Memorial Scholarship and the People's Co-op Award

Important links