Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Professional Communication

at Toronto Metropolitan University Canada

Students in the Criminology and Sociology double-major will have the opportunity to develop proficiency with a range of theoretical and methodological tools used within both Criminology and Sociology, allowing them to think critically about the complexities and structural nature of social inequality and justice. Students will develop a critical understanding of power, inequality, and justice in the social world. Students will engage with theoretical perspectives that allow them to challenge social structures and institutions. Qualitative and quantitative methodological tools will be used to rigorously understand the social and legal foundations of crime, injustice, and social regulation. Successful students will have the capacity to question the status quo and contribute towards social change.

The core goals of the double major are to graduate students who will be able to:

• Identify the implications of cultural and social diversity for justice and equity within and outside of the criminal justice system, as well as the important role of communities, not-for-profit and private-sector agencies in delivering justice;
• Understand the impact of structural inequalities (e.g., gender, race, class, legal status) on individuals, communities, and criminal justice outcomes.
• Use sociological and criminological theoretical frameworks to think critically about access and barriers to justice
• Demonstrate knowledge of the socio-historical and global context of contemporary social relations and knowledge production, including ways in which a) structural inequalities and social injustice are manifested in individual and group identities; and b) social injustice, inequalities and identities have been legitimated, normalized, and institutionalized over time and c) people individually and collectively resist discrimination and inequality.
• Critically read, interpret, assess, conduct and evaluate research methods and methodologies used within sociology and criminology, while demonstrating an informed knowledge and respect for epistemological and ethical issues.
• Demonstrate social engagement by bridging academic thought and research in relation to practical challenges, policies and strategic organization in local, national and global communities and forums. Express the intellectual breadth to allow sociology and criminology specialists to explore new perspectives on identities, social relationships and the organization of social institutions.

The computer revolution has created vast industries and countless jobs that employ professionals educated in electrical and computer engineering, computer science and information technology- all closely related disciplines involving the understanding and design of computers and computational processes. Computer profession specialties constitute a continuum. At one pole is computer science, which is primarily concerned with theory, design and implementation of software- the product being a computer program. At the other pole is computer engineering, primarily concerned with firmware (the micro-code that controls processors), hardware (the processors themselves, as well as entire computers), software (system-level and user/application-level) and interfacing systems (both at hardware and software level) that will allow computer systems to communicate with the outside world as well as with each other. It is not possible, however, to draw a clear line between the two disciplines; many practitioners function to at least some extent as both computer engineers and computer scientists. Computer Engineers distinguish themselves with their versatile set of skills: they can design and build computers, interface them with the outside world and make them talk to each other, develop firmware and also create system-level and user/application-level software.

The Department of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering offers highly structured programs that emphasize not only the theoretical fundamentals but also the practical aspects of the engineering profession. The first-year courses will provide the students with grounding in engineering science fundamentals such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science and the theory of electric circuits. The second year of the program introduces discrete mathematics, data structures and engineering algorithms, and electrical engineering core subjects such as analog and digital electronic circuits and systems. In the third year, students will further study computer architecture, microcomputer systems, object-oriented analysis and design, digital electronics, communication systems and control theory.

In the final year of the program, students will take courses in data communications, digital systems engineering, real-time operating systems, VLSI design and numerical techniques. The fourth year curriculum also allows students further specialization in a variety of subject areas through an extensive technical electives list. During this final year of the program all students must complete a mandatory group design project. The key objective of the Design Project is to encourage students to plan, design and implement their project while developing the skills to make key decisions independently.

Software Engineering Option
Students entering the 5th semester will have a choice as to whether they would like to continue on the regular Computer Engineering curriculum or to enroll in the Software Engineering option. Students in this option will gain training in software engineering concepts through a set of seven software focused and intensive courses spread over 3rd and 4th year.

The Department of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering also offers graduate degree programs in Electrical and Computer Engineering. These graduate degree programs allow students to pursue advanced studies and independent research in the areas of signal processing and communications, computer systems engineering, and power engineering.

The Business Management program provides students with a specialization in their chosen vocation, a practical and comprehensive knowledge of all basic functions of business, an awareness of social, political, and economic issues facing contemporary society, a questioning attitude to encourage and assist change, an ability to employ analytical skills for decision-making, and a desire to continue to learn and develop. It is considered important that all students in the Business Management program demonstrate an ability to write in clear and correct English. A lack of competence in written work submitted may be reflected in the final grade. Further development of writing and communication skills can be obtained through the elective English and Communication courses.

The first two semesters are common to all students. The curriculum provides students with a general overview of business in society, introduces them to all the basic business functions, and develops their awareness of social, human and economic issues through the introduction of the liberal studies.

In third-semester students enter their major in one of: Economics and Management Science, Entrepreneurship, Global Management, Human Resources Management, Law and Business, Marketing Management or Real Estate Management. The Marketing Management Major has a specific entrance requirement which is outlined within the curriculum. In addition, students continue studies in general business courses and the liberal studies area to broaden their perspective. The major started in the third semester is continued throughout the program.

The Marketing Department in the Ted Rogers School of Business Management co-ordinates an interdisciplinary Minor in Sales Management and Service Quality. This Minor provides students with the knowledge, skills and tools to manage customer relationships and to work effectively as a member of a sales team.

A limited number of students who have completed a three-year Business Administration diploma program with a minimum 'B' average from a recognized Community College, are admitted each year. These students are usually approved directly into the third year of the program. This opportunity is available on either a full- or part-time basis.

Experience has shown that our graduates are well-equipped to offer valuable services to the business community. Many graduates will go into the business world and will find complete satisfaction in their progress to greater responsibilities. The students are not simply learning to react to business pressures. They are prepared to operate pro-actively. Students work in the classroom and on real-life projects, learning how the process of solving problems works. The professors immerse the students thoroughly in their disciplines and then add the dimension of experience making Business education at Ryerson more relevant in the business world.

The International Economics and Finance program combines the theoretical aspects of economics and quantitative methods with the practical skills and social awareness needed to apply this knowledge in an effective manner. It is the only Economics degree of its kind in Canada - combining a mandatory internship/co-op as a degree requirement, helping students build careers in the public sector, financial markets, international organizations, healthcare, big data and much more.

Internship
Integral to the degree is an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical context. All students in the program are required to participate in a three-month internship between the programs third and fourth years*. The benefits of this work placement are considerable. Students gain a valuable employment record while forging vital professional contacts for their future careers. They also deepen their understanding of real world opportunities and challenges as they refine their career goals. Moreover, the internship’s position between the third and fourth years of the program means it will help enrich each student’s final year of study.

* Students may be offered the opportunity by some employers to extend their internship to 16 months.

Internship courses are graded on a pass/fail basis. Participation and successful completion of an internship course, however, appears on the student’s academic transcript.

The Ted Rogers School of Management has consistently provided top-notch accounting and finance course offerings to their students, and the School of Accounting and Finance continues to hold itself to a standard of excellence.

Accounting and Finance classes have long been an important part of the Ted Rogers School of Management. With the creation of a separate school, we are better able to hone the skills required of accounting and finance professionals in today’s ever-changing business world.

In their first two years, accounting and finance students take general courses in each specialization before choosing their academic destination. Students choosing to specialize in accounting will take courses toward a professional accounting career. Students choosing to specialize in finance will be prepared for a career in the financial industry. Finance is becoming increasingly complex with advances in information exchange and the continued growth of the mutual funds industry. The graduates of the School of Accounting and Finance will be able to stand up to the challenge.

Optional Co-Operative
The School of Accounting & Finance offers an optional co-op program which provides graduates with 16 months of work experience integrated into their academic program.

Students wishing to be considered for this program must apply for admission into the co-op option upon completion of the first year of the program. Admission to the co-op program is based on the following four items:

• Recommended CGPA of 3.00 (or higher) and a Clear Standing. Subject to competition, candidates may be required to present a CGPA above the minimum.
• All first year courses must be successfully completed (including AFA 100, QMS 130 and AFF 210)
• Resume, Cover Letter and Application must be completed and submitted by the deadline date.
• Interview

Students begin work terms during second year of the program and the co-op program extends the Accounting & Finance program to five years from four. The School of Accounting & Finance cannot guarantee work term jobs, but the Business Career Hub and the School will prospect for employers and make every effort to locate suitable positions, as well as be available to advise students on their search for program-related jobs. The co-op program enables students to earn prevailing wages for the level of responsibility and contribution of the jobs they perform and thus finance at least part of their university education.

The growth of the sport industry in Canada has been the result of the exponential growth of new sport media outlets. Sport media companies are providing content on multiple traditional and digital platforms. The industry requires motivated and well trained individuals who possess a passion for sport and wish to enter the field in a production, on-air or executive position.

An appropriate academic background for this program would include required skills developed in a traditional secondary/post-secondary curriculum along with media courses of interest and a demonstrated passion for sport, from direct participation or activities related to sport.

The Sport Media program provides an integrated series of courses to equip students with practical skills and a foundation of theoretical knowledge.

The first two years of the program provide foundation in both production and theory, combining hands-on production training with study in sport theory, marketing, business and journalism.

During the latter two years students begin to specialize in areas of interest, taking advanced courses in all areas of the sport industry. Students may concentrate on writing/journalism, video/audio production, business, broadcast or marketing.

The fourth year provides both practical experience while continuing to develop in students a sense of their place in the sport industry, their community and the world-at-large. A variety of sport projects in the practical courses will apply theoretical elements from other courses to allow student to effectively communicate ideas across all media platforms.

The curriculum is designed to foster the development of a high level of competency in a focused specialization while providing every student with a macro understanding of all facets of the sport industry. Student will leave the program equipped with the ability to produce quality sport content on multiple platforms within a group dynamic. Sport Media courses are taught concurrently with Open Elective and Liberal Elective courses which serve to enhance and enrich a student's four years of study.

This program will prepare you to drive economic progress by leveraging cash flow and creating wealth. You’ll acquire in-depth knowledge of economics, financial instruments and statistical techniques, and establish a foundation in modern mathematics, financial accounting, managerial finance and computer science. Participate in case studies, an optional paid co-op, industry-relevant research projects be prepared to make an immediate impact in the financial sector.

The Bachelor of Commerce in Retail Management prepares the next generation of leaders for professional careers in a dynamic and evolving sector of the global economy. A B.Comm in Retail provides a solid foundation in buying, merchandising, strategic planning, retail technologies, operations management, customer experience design through in-store, online, and mobile channels, global issues, brand or category management, and much more. As well, the program will prepare those students interested in postgraduate studies in this, or related areas.

Retail Management Co-Operative Program (Optional)
The School also offers an optional co-op program which provides graduates with up to 16 months of work experience integrated into their academic program. Students wishing to be considered for this program must apply for admission into the co-op option upon completion of the first year of the degree.

Admission into the co-op program is based on the following:

• Minimum CGPA of 2.80 (or higher), subject to competition
• Evidence of superior oral and written communication skills.
• An application that includes a letter & resume to be followed by an interview with the Faculty Advisor

Students commence work terms upon completion of second year of the program and the co-op program extends the Retail B.Comm program to five years from four. The School cannot guarantee work term jobs, but the Business Career Hub (BCH) and the School of Retail Management will prospect for employers and make every effort to locate suitable positions, as well as be available to advise students on their search for program-related jobs. The co-op program enables students to earn prevailing wages for the level of responsibility and contribution of the jobs they perform and thus finance at least part of their university education.

Information & Communication Technology (ICT) is crucial to the innovation and productivity of every industry, including energy, health care, life sciences, media and culture, publishing, advertising, natural resources, financial services, construction, retail or education. It is a critical tool for every level of government. It impacts the daily lives of every Canadian. ICT is an essential contributor to the creativity, innovation, customer satisfaction, productivity, safety, and competitive advantage of Canadian businesses.

For these reasons, demand for ICT-based solutions are projected to continue outpacing overall economic growth. This means a continued above-average demand for workers. However the nature of these jobs is changing. The popular image of an ICT worker as some sort of "nerdy" technologist is outdated and does not reflect today's reality. Canadian ICT industry leaders project that almost half of the future jobs demands in ICT will be for people who combine two sets of competencies such that they are:

• Business professionals who have the knowledge, skills and personal qualities to lead and support the effective, competitive use of information technologies; and
• Specialized technologists - IT-focused and/or multidisciplinary - who operate at the leading edge of innovation in every field.

The Ted Rogers School of Information Technology Management is a leader in providing a degree that meets this need and, in 2010, it began offering Canada's newest and world-leading ICT degree - The Bachelor of Commerce in Business Technology Management. This degree has been developed with the close participation of Canada's leading employers and provides students with the education - the knowledge, skills and experience - that sets them up for success in their careers in this exciting field.

Students build their knowledge and skills on two foundations. They study the core business disciplines, such as marketing, operations, accounting, finance, human resources, and law. They receive a solid grounding in the world of ICT in subjects such as systems analysis and design, ICT architecture and infrastructure, and privacy and security. In their senior years, students integrate the knowledge from these two foundations to learn how ICT can make a difference in every business studying the strategic application of ICT, the role of ICT in activities such as supply chain, sales and customer relations. They learn about project management and the integration of ICT into business.

In addition to providing a broad and deep understanding of both business and ICT, the program also has an emphasis on building personal and interpersonal skills and on providing students with real-life work experience, with case competitions, in-depth consulting projects with real clients and employment opportunities in the field, including internships, part-time work practica and an optional Co-op program. In addition, students have access to a wide range of Minors, including Marketing, Accounting, Finance, Law, and Human Resources.

BTM graduates will learn how to analyze business needs, design appropriate technology-based processes and solutions, and communicate these effectively. They will learn to lead work-based teams, participate effectively in projects and understand best practices of organizational change. They will develop skills in interpersonal communications, collaboration, and leadership. Graduates will be ready for high demand jobs in business analysis, project management, sales, consulting, customer and supplier management, and marketing support.

Through the student International exchange program, opportunities are available for students to spend a semester studying abroad. International experience gained in this way gives undergraduates a significant advantage in the competitive global economy. The school's international partners include universities in England, Holland, Italy, Scotland, France, Germany, Austria, Denmark, and Australia.

The graduate of this program is a hybrid business and ICT specialist who can define business objectives clearly, identify technology options to meet those needs, develop appropriate systems, implement and manage them.

Typical employment areas include both profit and nonprofit organizations, which use information systems as well as large and small information technology, telecommunications, and multimedia product and service providers. Some typical job titles of the graduates of the program include:

• Business Analyst
• Marketing Specialist
• Systems Architect
• ICT Product & Service Sales
• Project Leader/Manager
• eBusiness Analyst
• Information Systems Consultant
• Telecommunications Analyst
• Management Consultant
• Systems Integrator
• Database Analyst/Administrator
• User Support Specialist
• Network Administrator
• Business & ICT Educator/Trainer

The Department of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering offers highly structured programs that emphasize not only the theoretical fundamentals but also the practical aspects of the engineering profession.

The first-year courses of the Electrical Engineering program will provide the students with grounding in engineering science fundamentals such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science and the theory of electric circuits. The second year of the program introduces discrete mathematics, data structures and engineering algorithms, and electrical engineering core subjects such as analog and digital electronic circuits and systems. In the third year of the Electrical Engineering program, the emphasis will shift to advanced subjects such as communication systems, electromagnetics, microcomputer systems, electrical devices and systems, and control theory. The fourth year curriculum provides a wide range of technical elective courses. Students can further specialize in Digital Hardware Design, Communication Systems, Signal Processing, Control Systems and Power Systems by selecting appropriate courses in the fourth year of the program. During this final year of the program, all students complete a mandatory group design project.

Optional Co-operative Internship Program
Third year full-time students may be eligible to enrol in the optional Co-operative Internship Program. Upon successful enrolment in the program and securing an approved co-op job, students are required to spend a period of 8-16 consecutive months in a work placement. After completing the requirements of the co-operative internship work placement, students return to the academic program to complete their final year of studies. Enrolment in the Co-operative Internship extends the program length to five years.