“For the changemakers”: Royal Roads launches new Undergraduate Diploma in Social Sciences

Learn more about the Undergraduate Certificate in Social Sciences and the Undergraduate Diploma in Social Sciences.

Diverse cultural perspectives and a vision for a more inclusive, sustainable world is the driving force for students in Royal Roads University’s new Undergraduate Certificate in Social Sciences and Undergraduate Diploma in Social Sciences programs. Classes begin this September at RRU Langford, John Horgan Campus, and will offer a deeply interdisciplinary experience that blends political science, media studies, literature, justice studies, and community engagement.

The one-year certificate and two-year diploma program provide on-campus classes designed for students who want to understand the world—and change it. Students will explore global issues, social justice, and humanitarianism through interconnected courses that emphasize real-world application. The program includes hands-on learning opportunities where students volunteer and conduct research in local communities.

Upon completion of the one-year certificate, students have the option to ladder into an undergraduate diploma, with future opportunities to achieve a bachelor's degree after completion of a third and fourth year. 

Though the certificate is designed to prepare students for an undergraduate diploma or degree, they will have plenty of pathway options post-certification with their strong foundation in writing, research, analysis, interpersonal communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

“This program is intentionally designed to help students connect ideas across disciplines,” says Shelley Jones, program head of the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies program and undergraduate programs. “It’s about learning how to think critically, communicate effectively, and take meaningful action.”

The Undergraduate Certificate in Social Sciences and Undergraduate Diploma in Social Sciences programs emphasize personal growth, global citizenship, and career readiness, explains Jones. “We want students to understand the tangible skills they’re gaining. Not just for their future careers, but for how they show up in the world.”

With a focus on small class sizes, students have an excellent opportunity to engage one-on-one with their instructors in addition to active learning experiences like flipped classroom approaches where students review materials prior to class and then engage in activities based on the readings.

“This is a program for students who want to make a difference,” says Jones. “It’s about learning, growing, and engaging with the world in meaningful ways.”

The Social Sciences program is one of three undergraduate programs now available to first-year students at the new RRU Langford, John Horgan campus. Students can also apply for the Business and Sustainability and Applied Environmental Science programs. Applications for the first semester this fall are open until August 18, 2025. 

 

Learn more about the Undergraduate Certificate in Social Sciences and the Undergraduate Diploma in Social Sciences.