Collaborative Specializations

Students in our MA and PhD programs have the opportunity to earn a specialization in the following collaborative programs.  Application to a collaborative specialization should be made early in the first term of study.

Migration and Ethnic Relations

The Collaborative Graduate Specialization in Migration and Ethnic Relations (MER) at Western University brings together graduate students and faculty to study questions of migration, ethnic relations, cultural diversity, conflict, acculturation and the integration of migrants, from the perspective of various social science disciplines. The collaborative experience for students is an add-on to existing well-established graduate programs in Anthropology, Geography, Hispanic Studies, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Women's Studies and Feminist Research. Students choose their courses and research paper or thesis topic (and for PhD students, one of their comprehensive exams) in line with the collaborative program requirements. In addition to the degree in Sociology, the diploma will indicate 'specializing in Migration and Ethnic Relations.' Please visit the Migration and Ethnic Relations website for further details.

Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Reconstruction

The Centre for Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Reconstruction brings together experts from across the Western community whose teaching and research focuses on issues including reconciliation, criminal accountability, post-colonial legacies, legal reconstruction, the environment, human rights, economic justice, healing circles, democratization, and more. Students choose their courses and research paper or thesis topic (and for PhD students, one of their comprehensive exams) in line with the collaborative program requirements. In addition to the degree in Sociology, the diploma will indicate 'specializing in Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Reconstruction.' Please visit the Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Reconstruction website for further details.