Labour studies examines the social, economic and political realities of work. Students explore the past, present and future of the labour movement and the effects of globalization on daily lives. Social justice and fundamental rights, the way work is organized, the dynamics of power in the workplace and the political economy of labour are examined critically. Theory is grounded in practice, as we examine the forces that shape working people’s lives and responses to them.
Labour studies offers students the opportunity to understand the relationship between work and society, looking at ‘big picture’ questions like “can work be organized differently?” and “how does the global political economy affect workers in Canada and around the world?”
Labour Studies offers a co-op option to students in the Advanced degree program. There is also a fourth year field studies placement course available. Both provide opportunities to make useful contacts with practitioners and develop on-the-job sills.
