Academic collaboration just got a boost at McMaster, with the launch of the School of Integrated Social Sciences (SISS).
Launched by the Faculty of Social Sciences on July 1, 2026, the school brings together programs in Globalization, Public Policy and Social Psychology under a shared umbrella while maintaining the distinct identity of each program.
The new structure will support future faculty hiring, provide shared administrative resources and create opportunities for collaboration.
The school’s inaugural leader, Acting Director Clifton van der Linden, said that SISS will encourage collaboration across the university.
“SISS creates a centre of gravity for interdisciplinary education and research,” he said.
“It allows us to share expertise and infrastructure, recruit scholars whose work crosses conventional boundaries, develop new academic offerings and present a more open and accessible face to partners elsewhere in the university and beyond it.”
“An undergraduate student in Social Psychology might discover an interest in globalization or public policy; a graduate student might find new methodological expertise, research collaborators, or opportunities for public and community engagement elsewhere in the School,” said van der Linden.
The first phase of the project will see the creation of the school and the strengthening of the three programs housed within.
The second phase will focus on building a vibrant academic community through research seminars, public events, collaborative projects and new opportunities for cross-program engagement.
Finally, the school will aim to create carefully chosen academic offerings such as programs, certificates and minors.
“Ultimately, success will mean a school that is more connected, inventive, and consequential,” said van der Linden. “One known for preparing students to move confidently between theory, evidence, and practice, and for bringing diverse forms of expertise to bear on some of the most difficult challenges facing society.”