This course examines the main concepts and issues in contemporary migration studies by employing historical and international perspectives. The course will examine the Canadian response and the evolution of a post-war system implemented to deal with refugees and immigrants. Case studies of immigrants to Canada and to other parts of the world are used to illustrate theoretical concepts and to promote an understanding of the contextual nature of contemporary migration processes. Comparisons with other societies such as Australia, the United States and to the European Union will be discussed. The course will use a critical social sciences approach to address the implications of the North-South, and South-South relationship in the creation of refugees and immigrant populations.