Sociology 345/Women's Studies 345: Women and Work in Canada comprises three study units. These units are described briefly below.

Unit 1
Historical and Theoretical Perspectives on Women's Work

In Canada, as in other countries, women's work makes an invaluable contribution to our economy, our families, our communities, and to the broader society in which we live. This is as true today as it was a hundred years ago. Yet, in many ways, we are only beginning to recognize and appreciate the value and meaning of this work-for women personally and for Canadian society as a whole.

Unit 2
Gender and Work in Contemporary Canada

Over the past few decades, women's work in Canada has undergone dramatic transformations. Not only are women working in paid jobs in unprecedented numbers, but their presence in traditionally male-dominated areas such as management, law, medicine, and business has also increased significantly. Social attitudes toward working women have also shifted, and women now have better legal protection against many of the discriminatory practices they faced in the past.

Unit 3
Transforming Women's Work

Canadian women have a long record of fighting to improve their rights and the conditions in which they work and live. Throughout Canada's history, women have challenged and transformed their status in society, demanding their political, social, and economic rights.