Bachelor of Arts in Society, Culture & Religion
Studying society, culture, and religion offers a diverse perspective for comprehending the history, current state, and potential future of humankind. Throughout history, religion has wielded profound influence over civilizations, cultures, and nations. It has been instrumental in the creation of institutions such as temples and schools, serving as a source of inspiration for extraordinary literary and artistic achievements.
Religions have orchestrated intricate rituals that not only mark significant life transitions but also imbue them with profound meaning and symbolism. These rituals often serve as communal rites of passage, guiding individuals through key milestones such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death. Beyond these cultural contributions, religions have also played pivotal roles in legitimizing political systems and inspiring revolutions.
Our professors’ expertise across diverse disciplines, including anthropology, political philosophy, ethics, and history, ensures a comprehensive understanding of how society, culture, and religion shape individuals’ perceptions of reality and significance in the world. Through a comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on essential soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, students are well-prepared to excel in various professional fields.
Program Details
Typical Entry Term
Fall (September)
Program Options
Full-time or part-time
Program Length
Three years (full-time)
Program Format
Course-based
Expandable List
Completion of any Level 1 program with a Grade Point Average of 3.5 (C-) and a grade of at least 4.0 (C-) in three units from SCAR 1B03, 1SC3, (or Level 1 Religious Studies).
The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the BA Society, Culture & Religion.
Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)
Level I Courses
- SCAR 1B03: What on Earth is Religion?
- SCAR 1SC3: The Big Questions: Introduction to Society, Culture & Religion
- SCAR 1GL3: The Good Life
Level II Courses
- SCAR 2AP3: Apocalypse, Then and Now
- SCAR 2EE3: Prophets, Priests, and Sorcerers
- SCAR 2GR3: Evil
Level III Courses
- SCAR 3F03: Approaches to the Study of Religion
- SCAR 3LL3: Being Human in the Anthropocene
- SCAR 3R03: Death and the Afterlife in Early Judaism and Christianity
BA Society, Culture & Religion graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom
Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.
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Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.
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Student Research Learn More
Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.
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Minors View Minors
Add a minor to your studies to differentiate yourself in the workplace.
Questions about the BA Society, Culture & Religion?
Contact Us
Undergraduate Studies and General Inquiries
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: askrs@mcmaster.ca
Academic Advising Office
Goals, program changes, academic support
Email: socscfac@mcmaster.ca
Phone: (905) 525-9140 ext. 23613
Office Location
Department of Religious Studies
Kenneth Taylor Hall, 123
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4K1
Office Hours
Monday – Friday:
9:00AM – 12:00PM & 1:00PM – 4:00PM