Unifor-McMaster Labour Studies Certificate

We will be offering only one course in the upcoming spring semester.

Please scroll down to learn more and stay tuned for Fall 2026 course line up which will be announced early August.

Unifor-McMaster Labour Studies Certificate courses are designed specifically for Unifor members. Created by labour experts, certificate courses combine theoretical knowledge with practical information to help members develop critical thinking skills through a learning process built on a commitment to participants that focuses on a respect for prior experience, skill and activism. This certificate is only offered on a part time basis and individuals can enroll at any point in the year.

Education plays an important role in building a knowledgeable membership and in strengthening workplace leadership. Whether your goal is career advancement, you’re working towards a degree or are interested in self-development, the Unifor-McMaster Labour Studies certificate will help you succeed in today’s complex world of work.

The certificate is designed to be completed at your own pace. Courses are now all being offered online so that you can participate from the comfort of your home.

Registration for the first course of Fall 2026 will open on August 31st

Program Information

Requirements and Timelines

All classes are delivered through online learning and video conferencing.

Students are required to complete 36 units in order to be eligible to graduate. Courses range from 1 to 4 units depending on the class. (each session equals 1 unit. For example, a 2 sessions course is equal to two units)

To receive your certificate, make sure to complete at least six, 4-Units courses.

Registration

Unifor members employed at Ford, GM, and Chrysler can continue to enroll in courses at no direct cost. Inform your area Unifor-McMaster Coordinator that you are interested in enrolling in a course, and complete the registration form.

If you have completed your Paid Education Leave (PEL) – 4 Week Basic Training Program you’re eligible to receive extra credit towards the completion of the Unifor-McMaster Certificate. Please send us a copy of your Basic Training PEL Certificate along with your name and student number. Upon receipt of your documentation, 8 additional units will be added to your student record.

For more information or if you would like to be notified of new course announcements, please contact us at: lbstcert@mcmaster.ca

Financial Information

Contact your UNIFOR local for funding information.

Fall 20226 Courses

Labour History: How did workers fight to build unions?

Sit-downs, standoffs, and ordinary workers who refused to back down. The fights that built our unions — and the battle for power on the shop floor. A real people’s history of fighting back against the 1%.

Registration for this course opens Aug 31, closes Sept 17

4 sessions:  Sept 24, Oct 1, 22, 29

Does auto work wear us down?

Stress, burn-out, injuries at work; anxiety and self-doubt while on lay off. Worries about money, mortgage payments, family responsibilities. How does being an autoworker, whether at the plant or on long term lay off, effect our minds, bodies and sense of who we are?

Registration for this course opens Sept 17, closes Oct 1

4 sessions; Oct 8, 15, Nov 5, 12

Autoworkers Movie Night (pt. 4): Matewan (1987)

A legendary, action-packed film, based on real life events, about mineworkers heroically fighting their employers, government, and strike-breakers, to win basic rights and dignity. They actually took up arms and fought the army!

Registration for this course opens Nov 12, closes Nov 26 

2 sessions; Dec 3, 10

Resources

Program Brochure Fall 2026

Contact Us

Labour Studies Certificate Program Coordinator
Email: lbstcert@mcmaster.ca

Office Location

School of Labour Studies
Kenneth Taylor Hall, 171
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4M4

Campus Map & Driving Directions

Office Hours

Our office follows a hybrid model, with staff available either in person or remotely during regular office hours.

Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM