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University launches new programs for fall

Language and intercultural relations, entrepreneurship among topics covered
September 15, 2016

The Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures’ new bachelor of arts in Language and Intercultural Relations is one of several new programs launching at Ryerson University this fall.

The Language and Intercultural Relations program—the first of its kind in Canada—explores the connection between language, identity, and behaviour. It also teaches students to acknowledge cultural differences to help build bridges, and shows how learning a new language helps us know ourselves better.

“Language shapes culture, and vice-versa,” said Marco Fiola, program director. “Our worldview is expressed, in part, through our language. The way we see things, the way we understand the world around us, is manifested in the way we speak, and the environment will shape the language that we speak.”

He continued, “For example, I lived in Yukon for a number of years and worked with indigenous groups, and the number of words they have to express ‘kinship’ or ‘family relationship’ is very high—because family connections are extremely important in those cultures. But in French, we don’t have as many words to express kinship: we just qualify generic words such as ‘aunt.’”

In addition, Ryerson is launching five new graduate programs, including the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science’s Master of Engineering Innovation and Entrepreneurship program. This unique program will prepare scientists and engineers for the emerging entrepreneurial economy, helping students develop tech-based startups in biomedical engineering, emerging technology, or energy and sustainable innovation.

Other new graduate programs are Child and Youth Care (MA), Data Science and Analytics (MSc), Mathematical Modelling and Methods (PhD) and Biomedical Engineering (master of applied science, master of engineering, or PhD degree).
 

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