Get Work Experience
Work Opportunities For Every Stage
Whether you’re just starting your degree or already deep into your studies, there are paid work opportunities available to help you build experience, earn income, and explore your interests.
From first-year roles to upper-level placements, Social Sciences students can find meaningful work that fits their academic journey.
Level I
You don’t need to wait until upper years to get involved – there are paid roles designed specifically for first-year students. These opportunities help you build confidence, develop transferable skills, and connect with the campus community early on.
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Co-op Explore Co-Op
Level I students considering Social Sciences program options for Level II and beyond can apply to co-op program options involving paid, full-time work terms.
McMaster Work Programs Visit AwardSpring
McMaster creates a number of on-campus job opportunities for eligible students, in the form of part-time working during the academic year, or full-time work during the summer.
External Jobs On OscarPlus View Resources
From the very start of your studies, all Social Sciences students, like all McMaster students, have access to job postings compiled by the campus Student Success Centre on the OscarPlus digital system.
McMaster Jobs On Mosaic Discover Mosaic
Students are also eligible for many of the part-time, summer, and ongoing jobs posted on the university’s main administrative platform, Mosaic.
Level II & Beyond
As you progress in your degree, more specialized roles become available. These positions often align with your academic interests and career goals, offering deeper experience in research, administration, peer support, and more.
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SOCSCI 2EL3 Learn More
SOCSCI 2EL3: Career Preparation in the Social Sciences, is a for-credit university course that illuminates career options, nurtures resumé and cover letter skills, and prepares students to ace the interview and excel on the job.
Internships Learn About Internships
Paid and transcript-recognized internship opportunities are available, on an elective basis, to all Social Sciences students who opt in to the application program after completing a prerequisite course such as SOCSCI 2EL3.
External Programs Worth Exploring
Looking to gain paid experience, build your resume, or contribute to meaningful projects? These external employment programs are open to current Social Sciences students and offer valuable opportunities in government, research, and education.
Whether you’re interested in public service, collaborative design, or policy research, these programs can help you take the next step in your career journey.
Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) Explore FSWEP Opportunities
Gain part-time or full-time experience working with Canada’s federal government in a variety of departments.
Ontario Summer Opportunities View Ontario Summer Jobs
Apply for summer roles with the Ontario Public Service to build skills and gain experience in government settings.
Student Partners Program Learn About SPP
Collaborate with McMaster instructors or researchers on teaching and learning projects that build your design and research skills.
Research Affiliate Program (RAP) Explore RAP Roles
Work part-time on research projects with the Canadian federal government and contribute to evidence-based policy.
Related Areas
Job Search Learn more
Find tools, platforms, and strategies to help you search for part-time, summer, co-op, and post-grad jobs – on campus and beyond.
Get Experience Learn more
Explore paid work, volunteer roles, research placements, and hands-on learning opportunities designed for Social Sciences students at every level.
Career Planning Learn more
Discover resources to help you explore majors, identify your interests, and map out a career path that fits your goals.