Career Options for Work & Labour Studies
Applying a Work & Labour Studies Degree
Work & Labour Studies graduates focus on the workplace – how work intersects with our families and our communities seeking both to understand our work worlds and to find ways to make them better. As an interdisciplinary and innovative field of study, a Work & Labour Studies degree integrates sociology, political science, law, history, economics, geography and health and leaves graduates prepared to navigate the complex social world of work.
Common Occupations for Work & Labour Studies Graduates
Here are some of the most frequently-reported career categories for Work & Labour Studies graduates in Canada and at McMaster, according to census data and alumni outcomes:
Work & Labour Studies graduates in the workforce tackle a number of important issues:
- How are new technologies (like robots) impacting jobs? How to achieve gender and racial equity at work?
- Can work be organized so it is physically safe and mentally healthy?
- Why are so many new jobs temporary or precarious?
- What role do trade unions and other forms of collective organization have in promoting our rights at work and democracy in society?
Employers seek out the skills acquired by Work & Labour Studies graduates, such as:
- The ability to articulate a clear verbal and written presentation of the research findings and evidence.
- Writing for a variety of audiences, including through descriptive reports and analytical papers.
- Social research skills by conducting surveys, interviews, and fieldwork.
- Strong problem-solving, research, analysis and decision-making skills.
- The ability to analyze the root causes of social problems, and to work towards solutions with people from a wide variety of social and cultural backgrounds.
- Critical, reasoned thinking.
- Social analysis based on a well-rounded, holistic view of social and economic issues in all their complexity.
- Communication skills honed through verbal presentations, podcasts, discussions and debates and use of social media.
Common Sectors of Employment
Work and Labour Studies graduates often work in the following sectors:
Examples of Work & Labour Studies career paths:
- Human Resources Managers
- Lawyers (e.g. Human Rights and Labour Law)
- Union Representatives
- Teachers and Professors
- Occupational Health & Safety Coordinators
- Disability/Vocational Managers
- Arbitrator/Mediator (Government & private firms)
- Policy Analysts (Private & Public Sector)
- Labour Relations Managers
- International Development Officers
Related Pages
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Program Information Visit Program Site
Explore the courses and degree pathways available by visiting the School of Labour Studies program website.