SEXUALITY, MARRIAGE, AND FAMILY STUDIES
St. Jerome’s University at the University of Waterloo
Courses
SMF includes a variety of diverse and interesting courses.
Here's a few to get you started!
This list is based on past experiences in these courses, for a full list and official course descriptions, refer to the undergraduate calendar.
SMF 204
Introduction to Human Sexuality
Do you know the difference between vagina and vulva? Do you know what the vas deferens is, or the biology behind the menstrual cycle? If not, then this is the class for you! Not only will you learn about anatomy – your body and those of others – you will also learn about STI’s, sexual positions, and much, much more.
SMF 205
The Dark Side of Sexuality
Sometimes sex can be a lot of fun, but if you are a student that is curious about the ways that it isn’t, then this course is for you. The content illustrates how sex can be harmful and lead to forms of abuse. The highlight of this course (for some of us) was learning about paraphilias and how they come about! This class will keep you engaged from start to finish and is completely manageable with its course load expectations.
SMF 207
Parents, Children and Family Relations
Do you wonder how to handle your annoying smaller sibling? Do you find the teenage years to be extremely exhausting when interacting with family members? Are you worried about being a parent and failing? Worry no more! This course shows you that failing is essential in succeeding as a parent, because no one is perfect. You will learn about different parenting styles and how they impact children’s growth and development, and a really cool aspect of this course is being able to raise a virtual child.
SMF 208
Introduction to Systemic Therapies and Anti-Oppressive Practices
This course will push you to limits you never knew you had. It will show you that there are multiple ways to get to your destination. You will learn to have a deeper understanding of what intersectionality is, how power and privilege operate in relationships, families, and social systems, and how people move within the world. The key to success in this course, and in life, is to trust the process.
SMF 211
Dynamics of Dating
The dating world is a complex one, and this course helps to unpack it by exploring the history and changes of dating culture throughout the years, taking a closer look at short-term relationships and hook-up culture, and critically challenging myths related to modern romance.
SMF 212
Navigating Sexuality and Relationships in Mid/Later Life
Why does thinking about older adults being sexual make so many people uncomfortable? This course explores this taboo topic and encourages students to reflect on their personal biases regarding older generations and sexuality, while considering where these biases may have come from.
SMF 215
Sexuality and Popular Culture
Why does Instagram make me feel badly about myself? Why are my targeted ads so gender-specific? Have you ever wondered about how the media impacts your identity and how you view others? This course teaches skills that will help you to critically analyze subliminal messaging in popular culture, and how to be intentional about the information you absorb!
SMF 301
Communication and Counselling Skills
Are you worried about whether you are destined towards a future in counselling or therapy? Or are you interested in becoming a better communicator in your work and personal life? If so, look no further - this is the course for you! This course helps you zero-in on those communication skills you already have in order to assist you in your own relationships and maybe even on your road to a career as a therapist.
SMF 306
The Formation and Maintenance of Close Relationships
This course takes a holistic approach to exploring all types of relationships and explores areas such as communication, love, friendship, attraction, social cognition, and so much more. The content will support you in navigating your way through forming and maintaining positive relationships. Believe us, it’s right there in the name!
SMF 307
Conflict, Crisis, and Dissolution in Close Relationships
This course will apply to any and every relationship you have had and will have in your life. Conflict is part of every relationship – you need to know how to handle it well and this course is a must! Many SMF students are still speaking about the impact this course has had on their lives. You will learn much about yourself and leave feeling excited and ready to tackle all the conflict in your lives and those of others.
SMF 309
Sex Therapy
Sex Therapy is more than just a song by Robin Thicke. Take this course and learn all about the field of sex therapy. Learn about the G spot and debate whether or not it exists and discover innovative approaches to help people get the best from their sexual experiences.
SMF 400
Capstone
If you are looking to connect all your experiences in SMF together and create an even deeper sense of community, take the Capstone course. Even though it’s mandatory, you will not regret showing up to class and having the experience of a lifetime. This course helps you unpack all of your SMF knowledge, better understand your emotions, and helps you transition from your SMF family into the real world. No matter where our futures take us, we will always have SMF in our hearts. Most importantly, this course reminds us to “trust the process.”