Bachelor of Science Construction Project Management

Construction Presentation Graphics studies the fundamentals of graphic language used by construction professionals, helping you develop the skill to express concepts in visual form and read architectural and engineering construction drawings. You will examine structural systems, line convention, geometric constructions, orthographic projection, isometric metric pictorials, sectional drawings, imperial units and metric SI units of measurement. You will use hand-drawing and drafting software to design with emphasis on standards and techniques used in preparation of working drawings. You will employ architectural design and drafting techniques, and apply construction practices and current building codes.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • CIVL 1010
  • CPMT 1010

This course will provide you with foundational knowledge of the properties of construction materials,  their composition, manufacture, selection, and specification with emphasis on wood, metal, masonry, concrete, glass, roofing and finishing materials. Methods of construction involving the use of these materials including sustainability and safety will also be discussed.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • CIVL 1010
  • CPMT 1010

This course provides you with an overview of structural analysis. You will be introduced to the different types of structures and the roles of structural analysis and design in construction projects. You will compute reactions, shear forces, axial forces, bending moments, and deflections of determinate and indeterminate structures. You will apply influence lines to determine the effects of moving loads on structural members. You will study methods of analysis such as double integration and moment distribution. You will learn to idealize and analyze structures using a computer software and interpret the results. In this course, you will also construct prototype of a structure, analyze the structure using a software, build the prototype and test its structural strength. You will also identify structural systems and use computer software to analyze structural models.

Pre-requisites:

• SMTL 1010
• One of:
  • MATH 1110
  • MATH 1111

 This course introduces you to the construction industry and various stakeholders that are involved in a construction project. It also describes the project lifecycle in terms of its initiation, planning and execution, monitoring and controlling and closing as well as the tasks and factors that should be considered to ensure the successful completion of construction projects. This course emphasizes the project manager as an effective leader in managing and directing construction projects at each stage of the project lifecycle. You will discuss economic and financial aspects of a construction project, delivery methods, health, safety and environmental considerations for projects, codes and regulations, and the management of the predesign, design, planning, procurement, construction and closing of various types of construction projects such as residential, commercial, infrastructure and industrial structures.

Equivalents:

• CIVL 315

Project Cost Estimation introduces to the processes and tools used to develop project cost estimates.  The course covers the principles of measuring and pricing construction work, it also covers the applications of electronic takeoff, Building Information Modeling (BIM) and estimating software during the preparation of cost estimates. The course introduces the bidding process and activities performed in the owner and contractor organizations, discusses the evolution of project cost estimates over the project lifecycle. Tools and methods used at each stage of a project lifecycle will be discussed and the process of developing conceptual and detailed estimates will be examined.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 1110
• ARCH 1020
• One of:
  • MATH 1011
  • MATH 1010

In the Statics and Strength of Materials course, you will study loads, forces and their effects on rigid bodies and structures at rest. Topics include: computations of equilibrium reactions, internal forces, shear, moments, couples, stress, strain and deformation, along with finding centroids and moments of inertia. You will study the characteristics and properties of construction materials, as well as the elastic behaviour of flexural members. Practical structural laboratory demonstrations will be performed to illustrate the theoretical concepts.

Pre-requisites:

• PHYS 1011
• One of:
  • MATH 1010
  • MATH 1011

In Construction Surveying, you will compare the practical applications of surveying to the practice of construction project management. Distance, grade and angular measurement, surveying equipment and their application to construction layouts and control will be part of your studies, along with surveying documentation, field work, and an introduction to other three-dimensional (3D) measurement and positioning systems.

Soil Mechanics and Foundations examines the mechanical and physical properties of soils and their relation to soil action. You will study soil types found on construction projects, properties and classification of soil, embankment control, dewatering, excavation supports, shallow and deep foundations, piers, pilings and shoring.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 1110

Mechanical and Electrical Systems introduces a number of building systems including heating, cooling and air conditioning systems, plumbing and fire protection systems, electrical and telecommunication systems, lighting and acoustical systems, conveying systems and renewable energy systems. You will study methodologies for the evaluation and integration of various building systems in order to foster an understanding of the inter-relationships among the design, construction, operation and maintenance processes of buildings, and to develop a total approach to building performance and evaluation. The course will also introduce you to the key components and systems of process plants with focus on the design, construction and operation requirements.  

Pre-requisites:

• PHYS 1110
• One of:
  • MATH 1111
  • MATH 1110

This course builds on the fundamental concepts of structural analysis introduced in Structures I. The course incorporates the fundamentals of structural engineering that apply to the design of structures and structural elements for various building materials: steel, wood, reinforced concrete, and masonry.  Applied optimization for the design of steel structures such as pipe racks, multi-storey wood and concrete buildings will be undertaken using computer design software.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • CIVL 2010
  • CIVL 2020

Building Codes and Specifications introduces you to the building codes used in the construction industry, emphasizing the understanding of the practical implementation of code requirements. You will be introduced to Building Codes in international, national and provincial levels and, more specifically, to the structure of Alberta Building Code and its application in specifying building projects, as well as development and building permits procedures.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 1110

Project Planning and Scheduling introduces you to the planning, scheduling and control of construction projects, using Critical Path Method (CPM), and Project Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT). You will study resource levelling, scheduling with limited resources, time-cost tradeoffs, introduction to complex networks, short interval production scheduling and related computer applications.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 1110

Equivalents:

• CIVL 315

Quality Management provides you with the processes and activities of quality management in the construction industry. You will examine the quality standards in relation to construction, supervision, and management. You will discuss different approaches, tools, and strategies for quality assurance in construction. You will apply the quality management processes, tools and strategies in construction and also in the decision making of project management.

Pre-requisites:

Manual Prerequisite

• STAT 3110
• One of
  • CODE 3010
  • CODE 3011

This course examines the continuous evolution of project delivery, the roles of procurement and contracting methods in project success, and the strengths and weaknesses of the contemporary delivery systems. You will focus on current trends in project delivery systems such as Construction Management (CM), Design-Bid-Build (DBB), Design-Build (DB), Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC), Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and Public Private Partnerships (PPP). You will study when to use each system, process variations, procurement, contracts and contracts language, multi-party agreements, performance specification, roles of parties,  organization and management, conceptual estimating, lean construction, and computer applications.  

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • CPMT 1010
  • CPMT 2030

The Project Procurement Management course advances your knowledge in best practices of acquiring products and services required to complete a construction project. The planning, executing, monitoring and closing of project procurement will be discussed. You will study the types and organization of construction contracts along with the roles and responsibilities of the parties involved. Contract strategy, in terms of procurement and risk allocation, standard forms of contract, documentation, claims management, dispute management and insolvency will also be studied.

Pre-requisites:

• ESTM 2010
• One of:
  • CIVL 2110
  • CPMT 3020

Regulatory requirements, corporate standards, stakeholder concerns, the public and media interest, financial limitations, technological and environmental issues and risk communication are some of the risk factors that contribute to, and affect, management decisions. In this course, you will learn risk assessment, risk analysis, risk mitigation and risk managment planning with a focus in the construction industry. You will also learn about managing conflicts, managing change orders and resolving disputes in the construction projects.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • STAT 3110
  • STAT 2040
• One of:
  • CPMT 2030
  • CPMT 3020

In the Heavy Construction Equipment and Methods course, you will study construction engineering fundamentals, equipment economics, selection and efficient application of equipment, design and simulation of construction operations, analyzing production outputs and cost, computer applications in construction equipment, and methods. You will discuss management principles applicable to the selection of construction equipment, operation and safety, and develop the necessary skills to select an equipment mix to yield maximum productivity and best value.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 1110

As part of the Cost Planning and Control course, you will study a variety of issues in cost management, including evaluating investment alternatives, life cycle costing, cost analysis methods, cost control and computer applications. You will learn the application of scientific principles and techniques to the problems of cost planning and cost control.

Pre-requisites:

• CPMT 2010
• ESTM 2010

The Scope and Design Management course is designed to provide you with an appreciation of the roles of both design and the designer on projects. You will examine the concept of design for value, significance of project scope, scope management skills, integrated designs, the client's brief, design evaluation and the impact of design on procurement and production.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • ARCH 1020
  • CPMT 2030

In this course, you will apply the principles of construction project management with a global perspective. Your study will include issues that arise in managing international projects, such as the use of international standard forms, project charter, procurement strategies (including joint ventures), supply chain management, cultural differences, risk allocation, human resource issues and project finance. In this course, you will also research cases of global construction projects and develop a project management plan for a global construction project.

Pre-requisites:

• CPMT 3030

In the Project Organization and Supervision course, you will study the principles of construction project administration, systems for efficient operation of office and field personnel, and dispute avoidance and resolution procedures. You will track the construction process, from project inception to closeout. Communication and coordination between project participants is emphasized.

Pre-requisites:

• MGMT 3010
• CPMT 3110

Construction Safety Management examines safety in construction projects and why it is a key part of effective construction management. You will discuss the at-risk young/new worker, occupational health and safety legislation, health and safety committees, hazard awareness and risk management and review health, safety and hygiene in various hazardous environments. You will focus on the recognition, evaluation and control of: air pollution (indoor and ambient), noise pollution, and physical, chemical, biological and ergonomic hazards. You will study specific recommendations to overall improvement of construction safety and learn steps to reduce accidents in construction site. A review of the available safety software will be part of your work.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 1110
• CPMT 3110

E-Project Management introduces you to the tools and techniques to manage construction projects using technology. You will develop an appreciation of the issues and challenges associated with management of distant projects. You will apply problem solving strategies, collaboration skills and effective communication techniques and tools associated with e-project management.

Pre-requisites:

• CPMT 4110

The Capstone Project aims to integrate and showcase the knowledge and learning acumen acquired throughout the BSc CPM Program, resulting in an applied research project relevant to the construction industry. In conjunction with an industry sponsor, you will apply specialty knowledge to solve issues pertinent to the construction sector and the built environment. This major program activity is expected to contain some elements that are deemed to be innovative, experimental or exploratory in nature. Learners are expected to initiate, plan, execute, and manage key deliverables for the research project.

Pre-requisites:

• Manual Prerequisite

• 90 credits must be completed (fourth year standing)

The Sustainable Construction course addresses the application of sustainable development principles in the built environment. It discusses ethical, environmental, economic, and social dimensions and their implications for the construction sector. Participants will gain knowledge of a wide range of construction management planning tools, such as environmental impact assessments, ecological design principles, low-impact development strategies, and green building certification tools. The course also provides an understanding of basic LCA and LCCA concepts to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly infrastructure solutions. Additionally, it includes an introduction to Canadian environmental legislation and the energy code, as well as practical applications in sustainable buildings, such as energy saving and building information modelling (BIM). Through theoretical knowledge, case studies, and hands-on projects, participants will be prepared to adopt sustainable practices in real-world building projects and to contribute successfully to the construction industry's sustainability initiatives.

Pre-requisites:

• CIVL 2130
• CIVL 1110

As part of the Internship (15 weeks) of the program, you will work with a construction or construction related company to provide you with exposure to construction-related activities, and management issues. You will be required by the school to prepare daily logs, monthly reports and a final report, signed by your industry supervisor.

Communication and Presentation Skills provides you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to compose business documents and give engaging, formal presentations. You will learn how to effectively communicate in a professional environment and consider different aspects of spoken, written and nonverbal communication (e.g., channel, content, organization, style, tone, format and mechanics) in order to share clear and concise messages with your audience. You will be required to work in both individual and collaborative settings.

Equivalents:

• COMN 220
• COMM 238
• COMM 260

Technical Mathematics I covers a variety of mathematical methods for solving problems in architectural, structural and construction applications. The study of ratios and variation, algebraic functions, and plane analytic geometry is addressed. Trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions and graphs are analyzed and applied to solving problems. Systems of linear equations are solved using Gaussian methods and matrices. The evaluation of limits and calculation of rates of change using first principles are also explored.

Equivalents:

• MATH 1010
• MATH 237
• MATH 262

Technical Mathematics II examines the derivative, application of the derivative, integration and its application, differentiation of transcendental functions and methods of integration. Numerous applications will be addressed, primarily to indicate where and how mathematical techniques are used.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • MATH 1010
  • MATH 1011
  • BLCK 1001

Equivalents:

• MATH 1110

This course focuses on basic business operations, skills and processes in a goal-directed organization. It covers topics including business cycles, business ethics, and quality assurance. Students will analyze the managerial functions of planning, organizing, leading and controlling, theory and styles of leadership, organizational management principles, management models, and best business management practices. Students will also develop a business plan at the end of the course.

This course provides an introductory survey of the kinematics and dynamics of mechanical systems. Topics include Newton's Laws of Motion, Conservation of Energy and Momentum, Fluid Mechanics, and Static Equilibrium. Lecture topics will be reinforced by laboratory experiments. Upon completion, the learner will be able to apply basic physical concepts to real world applications.

Equivalents:

• PHYS 1010

Emphasizing descriptive statistics, data analysis, and the calculus of probability, Statistics for Science and Engineering also investigates discrete and continuous probability distributions (for example, binomial, Poisson, normal, exponential). You will study sampling distributions, parameter estimation, hypotheses testing, goodness-of-fit tests, one-way analysis of variance, linear correlation and regression, and sampling and quality control. Software will be used for statistical analysis.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • MATH 1110
  • MATH 1111

This course will review basic contract and tort law and its application to the construction industry. You will examine Canada's contract-based approach to tendering and requests for proposals. You will differentiate the two models and the substantial body of jurisprudence that has developed in the bidding and tendering area, the relevant duties of each party, the conduct of the parties and the consequences for any breach or failure to comply with applicable obligations. Each province has lien legislation that requires statutory holdbacks, creates lien rights and can trust claims. Holdback percentages, trust rules, lien registration deadlines (which are generally strictly enforced) will differ depending on the province. Most provinces also have limitation legislation that limits the duration of liability for breaches of contract and tort claims. The law relating to limitation of liability clauses has been reviewed by the Supreme Court and the true construction approach adopted by the courts necessitates express and unambiguous drafting regarding limitations of liability. The role of the project management profession will be reviewed and you will consider legal, professional liabilities, responsibilities as well as ethics owed by a professional.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • CIVL 2110
  • CPMT 3020
• One of:
  • BLAW 2030
  • BLAW 300
  • CLAW 1011
  • CLAW 1010

Physics II extends the survey of introductory physics topics to electromagnetic and optical phenomenon. Topics include electric and magnetic fields and forces, electric circuits, electromagnetic induction, electromagnetic waves, image formation in optical systems, interference and diffraction, heat and thermodynamics. Lecture topics will be reinforced by laboratory experiments.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • PHYS 1010
  • PHYS 1011

Research Methodologies introduces you to the scientific method and its application in the research process. You will explore topics such as literature review, hypothesis formulation, research design, quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, referencing, research report writing, and peer review. You will develop an ability to conduct research in an ethical and thorough manner using appropriate research strategies, and to critically assess the reliability and validity of common research tools.

In this course, you will study the components of the construction productivity system. You will investigate measurements of productivity such as work sampling, craftsman's questionnaire, foreman delay survey and related techniques, and construction methods improvements such as crew balance, chart, flow diagram and process chart, quality circles, safety worker's motivation and productivity improvement programs. You will learn to apply these techniques to real construction projects and computer applications.

Pre-requisites:

• One of:
  • CPMT 3020
  • CIVL 2110

The Real Estate Principles and Construction Finance course comprises a study of financial methods and instruments utilized in the construction, rehabilitation, development and purchase of real estate. You will explore terms, contracts, valuation, brokerage, taxation, risk and interest rate analysis.

Pre-requisites:

• STAT 3110

In this course, you will explore value engineering concepts, function analysis system techniques (FAST), diagramming, creativity, matrix evaluation, design-to-cost, and life cycle costing. You will also study human relations, and strategies for organizing, performing and implementing value engineering, and computer applications for value engineering.

Pre-requisites:

• ESTM 2010

Human Resource Management covers project/organization goals and how they can be supported by staffing, job analysis and design, recruitment and selection, career planning, succession planning, performance evaluation, and training and development activities. Your focus will be on best practices for the management of human resources in construction projects and the construction industry.

Facilities Management focuses on knowledge of planning, designing, constructing and managing of spaces for various activities. Your studies will focus on co-ordination of the physical workplace with the people and work of the organization. You will explore the facilities management framework, with the need for co-ordination between workflow and space, and facilities management systems and tools, such as procedures, required data and traditional tools versus automation, along with comprehensive integrated facilities management systems.

The History of Architecture course introduces you to the chronological development of architecture from prehistory to Egyptian, Greek, Byzantine, Early Christian, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Industrial and Modern eras, highlighting the development of structural systems, materials, construction and other building systems. You will focus on developing an understanding of material use, styles of architecture and an appreciation of the unique architectural legacies of various cultures.

This course will examine intercultural communication and its relationship to personal, organizational and societal identity and influence. The ability to communicate with people from diverse cultures will promote increased understanding of cultural differences, challenge perceptions and develop tolerance for differences. Developing intercultural communication skills will enable you to work successfully and collaboratively in a global marketplace.

Equivalents:

• COMM 300

Critical Reading and Writing students explore a variety of literary and visual texts, and demonstrate an understanding of literature, primary and secondary material, and referencing techniques. Development and demonstration of skills in comprehension and critical analysis in written and oral assignments are required.

Participants in this course will explore types of creative nonfiction (CNF), examining its history and development while recognizing its role in improving understanding of individual and cultural experiences. Students will also discuss using storytelling in the workplace and writing creative nonfiction as a means of empowerment.

HUMN 2010 - Introduction to Humanities - offers insight into people and culture. We explore the artistic and philosophical legacies that have shaped our perspective as a contemporary society. We consider art, literature and music through an historical lens and interdisciplinary approach to understand how humanity has been molded. The emphasis will be on analysis and discussion of the concepts, critical reading of the texts, and persuasive writing and oral presentations of your ideas.

In the 21st century, creative and innovative thought are essential skills. Creativity isn't an innate ability that only artists are born with. Creativity and innovation are skills that can be learned and developed. In this course, participants will form an appreciation and understanding of creativity as a genre worthy of academic study. We will think about generative thought and the expression of emotion as part of the creative process. We will discuss the importance of taking risks and making mistakes as vital to innovative thought. We will consider the behaviors, techniques, and practical tools that students can use to nurture creativity and innovation. Learners from all disciplines will gain an understanding of how to integrate the processes of creativity and innovation into their professional and personal lives.

The purpose of this course is to introduce you to fundamental skills in critical thinking. You will develop skills in identifying fallacies, evaluating formal arguments, and diagnosing the appropriate form of argumentation in a variety of areas, including science and morality. Your skills in argumentation will be honed both in evaluating others' arguments and in making your own.

Equivalents:

• PHIL 241

Ethics in Technology provides an introduction to ethical theory as it applies to the assessment of current issues related to advancing information technology. Issues covered include intellectual property, network security and privacy focusing on ethical issues in both the fundamental problems and the approaches to mitigate or solve them.

Through readings, writing, discussion and analysis in this course, you will compare the thinking of some influential philosophers on topics such as knowledge, existence, the mind and morality with your own views. You will learn to formulate arguments and theories, examine them critically, and come to a better understanding of your own beliefs and their justification. You will also be better equipped to analyze and judge the theories of others, especially those of the philosophers studied in this course.

The philosophical study of morality - ethics - provides a foundation upon which laws and definitions of acceptable behaviour are built. Understanding the theory and application of ethical reasoning provides insight into the functioning and differences between societies. This comprehensive introduction to ethics will provide an overview of the major ethical schools of thought and their application to a diverse range of contemporary ethical questions.

This course will expand on the learner's experience with critical thought and challenging of ideas and acquaint students to concepts of systems thinking. Emphasis will be on defining a systems perspective, solving problems with that perspective, describing and modeling a problem, and designing and improving upon system solutions.

This course is a philosophical exploration of the nature and role of money in shaping our lives, our understanding of the world, and our lived experiences. After examining the history of money from its early forms as commodities to modern incarnations like cryptocurrency, we will look at how it is used and how it affects how people understand both the world around them and their own identity. We take up a philosophical lens to identify the metaphysical and ethical implications of what we do with money, and a monetary lens to look at philosophy and expand our understanding of what it means to exist and how our interactions using money shape our perceptions of ourselves, others, and the things that we value.

Pre-requisites:

One of:

• PHIL 241
• PHIL 1011

Business Law outlines the Canadian legal system in the context of a business environment and empowers students to apply the law and make informed decisions concerning their legal affairs. Emphasis is placed on the construction of the judicial system, the resolution of disputes, tort law, contract law, business structures, and employment law. These legal principles are applied to personal and business scenarios. Upon completion, students will have an understanding of when to seek legal advice.

Equivalents:

• BLAW 300

In today's fast-changing global business environment, an understanding of the legal requirements in the construction industry is critical for project management professionals. This course provides a thorough understanding of laws, regulations and standards applicable to the environmental area through case studies and analysis. Emphasis is placed on federal and provincial environmental regulatory frameworks. An overview of international laws, treaties and conventions will be completed.

This course examines the various considerations and components which interact with building systems. The student will not only determine how best to integrate building systems with each other but also consider the sustainability and resilience of building systems. The student will explore new technologies in building systems and perform simulations to determine the design of the final semester project.

Pre-requisites:

• ARCH 305
• ARCH 303
• ARCH 301
• ARCH 300

From the smallest cell to the largest animal, this course examines the diversity and complexity of life as we know it on Earth. Using a phyletic classification system, you will learn about the similarities and differences that unite all life on this planet. You will trace the human lineage and learn about your shared heritage with the simplest of organisms. The relationships between taxonomic groups will be emphasized, and the characteristics that allow organisms to thrive in their ecosystems will also be explored using Darwinian evolution.

This theory and lab-based course introduces the fundamentals of concrete technology starting with the ingredients and properties of concrete, and common terminology used to describe plastic and hardened concrete. Manufacture of Portland cement and the different types of Portland cement available in Canada are discussed, including Portland Limestone Cement. The classification and types of aggregates used in concrete are discussed along with their properties. Supplementary cementitious materials and chemical admixtures are introduced and their importance for concrete strength and durability reviewed. The culmination of the course will involve how to design a concrete mix for a specific application and exposure type.

This course provides an introduction to the scientific process and the disciplines involved in understanding our global environment. The course will explore our human impacts on the earth's atmosphere, water, soil and biotic systems. Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to identify sustainable options to reduce our collective impact on the global environment. At the completion of the course students will be able to explain how human activities cause impacts to the environment and the changes required to move toward environmental sustainability.

In this course, you will examine the physiological and psychological aspects of health and wellness. Topics include physical fitness, musculoskeletal health and cardiorespiratory health; nutrition and weight management; mental health and stress management; infectious and chronic diseases; the effects of consumerism on health and health care; and the promotion of healthy lifestyles and healthy aging.

This course will give you a broad and first-hand experience of science. The goal is to explore the scientific method, the techniques through which it establishes its reliability, and current trends which suggest the shape that future science will take. In this course you will increase your awareness of science's growing influence on how we understand the world, as well as how science's history and underlying philosophical assumptions are essential to understanding why it is so successful.

The focal point of Indigenous Studies is the wealth and diverse nature of Indigenous histories, languages and cultures, as well as contemporary challenges and opportunities. The course is intended to provide a conceptual framework that all learners can use to enhance their understanding of the Indigenous cultures in Canada.

In this introductory course in Microeconomics, you will learn about economic principles involved in analyzing problems in the business and consumer sectors of the Canadian economy. Some of the topics covered are: economic scarcity, demand, supply, elasticity, and perfect and imperfect competition.

Equivalents:

• ECON 250

Macroeconomics introduces you to the operation of the Canadian economy. You will apply economic principles to analyze a national economy. Topics include measuring and analyzing demand and supply, economic performance, and unemployment and inflation; As well, government fiscal, trade, and monetary policies are explored.

Equivalents:

• ECON 305

Introduction to Psychology introduces you to a variety of scientific approaches to the understanding of human behaviour. This course will challenge you to think critically about actions and decisions that involve assertions or underlying assumptions about human nature. The concepts studied in the course are applicable to both your personal life and to the workplace.

Welcome to the course The Happiness Toolkit! This course will help you understand how your happiness can be influenced by your choices and actions (intrinsic forces) rather than derived from external factors (extrinsic forces). As such, this course examines the science of happiness and suggests a collection of practical tools you can draw from as you work to cultivate more happiness in your life. In this course, we will explore the following topics: 1. The Science of Happiness: What is the latest research on happiness and what factors contribute to happiness? 2. Mindfulness and Gratitude: How do practitioners cultivate mindfulness and gratitude in their daily lives to increase their happiness? 3. Positive Relationships: How are successful relationships built and maintained, and how do they affect happiness? 4. Resilience: What is the connection between resiliency and the ability to cope with adversity? 5. Purpose and Meaning: How do experts suggest we cultivate purpose and meaning in our lives?

Introduction to Sociology will introduce learners to the study of society from a sociological perspective. Participants will consider social processes such as power and agency as well concepts of the individual, the family, and groups including community, culture, and work environments.

Using a multi-disciplinary approach, students will explore and examine popular culture as one of the most significant cultural and social agents in contemporary society. Learners will study the emergence of pop culture research and a range of diverse theoretical approaches including critical studies of gender, sexuality and race. Students will consider a variety of mediums such as music, video games, social media, art, film/television, fashion and celebrity. Finally, learners will study and reflect on the role of popular culture in the development of individual identity and group/community identity and action.

The advancement of science and technology depends in a large part on the priorities and ambitions of society. By the same token scientific discoveries and the introduction of new technologies can have an impact on social structures and values. The complex interrelationship between these two forces will be explored in detail providing learners with the context to understand and evaluate our technologically-based society and the directions it might take.

In this course, you will examine the history of the Canadian workplace as well as contemporary issues that involve job satisfaction and alienation. You will study both Canadian and global employment trends. Business and political influences on the workforce, including technology use, labour laws, trade unions, and employment equity will also be explored.

Pre-requisites:

One of:

• SOCI 2010
• SOCI 2020

Do you consider yourself a conformist or a deviant? Is one better than the other? Why? The circumstances in which you adhere to or ignore standards of socially-acceptable behaviour are complex and dynamic. In this course, you will investigate these situations by focusing on the workplace. You will examine the effects, both positive and negative, of conforming and divergent behaviour; learn how marginalizing factors such as gender, ethnicity, and disability relate to these behaviours; and analyze when and why it is important to comply with or challenge established norms.

Pre-requisites:

One of:

• SOCI 2010
• SOCI 2020