BA in Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies (Honours) - Human Services Practicum in Waterloo Canada | University of Waterloo

Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies (SMF) is a multidisciplinary field that explores the connections between human sexuality, intimate relationships, and family structures through theoretical, research-based, and practical approaches. Grounded in principles of social justice and anti-oppressive practices, SMF fosters thoughtful, analytical, and inclusive dialogues about matters affecting all individuals in society. This program especially benefits those pursuing or engaged in human services professions such as healthcare, counseling, therapy, or education. Students can opt for a four-year general major, honours major (available in co-op and regular formats), honours major with Honours Arts and Business (co-op and regular options), an honours double major, or a minor. The program also offers a Diploma in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies for those seeking specialized knowledge without pursuing a full degree or for degree holders looking to expand their expertise.

As Canada's only program of its kind, SMF delves deeper than fundamental biological aspects of sexuality. It employs diverse viewpoints to examine relationship dynamics, communication patterns, parenting approaches, media influences on perceptions of gender and intimacy, cultural impacts on sexual norms, and other topics—all through a social justice lens. The program fosters a close-knit academic environment, with small class sizes and a supportive community at St. Jerome's University, one of Waterloo's affiliated colleges. Graduates with a Waterloo degree in SMF can pursue various meaningful careers in education, counseling, social work, community development, and beyond. The co-op option provides early career exploration opportunities in these fields.