Canadian Studies | Career Centre

Are you passionate about Canada? Do you want to explore the meaning of being Canadian? Majoring in Canadian Studies will introduce you to the rich history and culture of Canada and its continually developing society. You will tackle current and developing issues facing Canada at home and in the international arena. The interdisciplinary approach will delve into various facets of Canadian heritage, history, contemporary politics and art. The program at York is offered in three targeted forms, focusing on "Time and Place", "Culture" and "Society".

Career Options in Canadian Studies

This list is not exhaustive but it provides a solid idea of what fellow graduates have gone on to do and what potential careers a Canadian Studies degree can offer. Some options are more directly associated with specific areas of Canadian Studies than others.

Aboriginal Activist
Archivist
Art Dealer
Author
Brand Strategist
Canadian History Professor
Communications Consultant
Corporate Developer
Diplomat
Economist
Entrepreneur
Ethics Board Director
Event Planner
Fundraising Coordinator
Historian
Immigration Officer
Journalist
Lawyer
Legislative Aide

Librarian
Lobbyist
Marketing Director
Media Correspondent
Mediator
Museum Curator
Non-Profit Administrator
Political Advisor/Consultant
Public Policy Researcher
Public Relations Representative
Publisher
Social Service Worker
Speech Writer
Statistician
Teacher
Television Producer
Translator

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through a Canadian Studies Degree

A background in Canadian Studies ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

In depth knowledge of Canada's history and what it has meant and what it means to be Canadian
An understanding of the cultural, societal and political economic issues dominating debate in Canada and the growing importance of multiculturalism
An introduction to various forms of art and artistic expression that have emanated from Canada, including study of everything from Aboriginal contributions to contemporary works and art movements

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and written opinion pieces
Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project's intended and successful end result
The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field. The following is a selection of organizations related to the field of Canadian Studies that you may want to visit as you research career options for Canadian Studies graduates.