phd social justice online

Justice Studies, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Justice Studies

The PhD program in justice studies at the nation's first School of Social Transformation invites all qualified applicants.

The diverse community of scholars unites students and faculty across academic boundaries to strategically create social change that is democratic, inclusive and just. The interdisciplinary doctoral program in justice studies prepares future scholars and change agents to address complex social problems and become tomorrow's leaders.

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (6 credit hours) JUS 620 Justice Research Methodology (3) JUS 640 Theoretical Perspectives on Justice (3)

Other Requirement (3 credit hours) JUS 630 Data Analysis for Justice Research (3) or JUS 650 Advanced Qualitative Data Analysis (3) or SST 691 Topic: Qualitative Methods for Qualitative Researchers (3)

Electives and Research (63 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) JUS 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information For the other requirement course, students may take JUS 630, JUS 650, SST 691 or other methods course at ASU approved by the justice studies graduate director.

Students entering the doctoral program with a master's or JD degree may complete a minimum of 54 credit hours for the program. In addition to the requirements listed above, coursework includes 15 credit hours of elective classroom hours (nine of which must have a JUS prefix) and 18 credit hours comprising any combination of additional elective courses, reading and conference courses, or research courses.

Students entering the doctoral program without a master's or Juris Doctor degree are required to complete 84 credit hours. In addition to the requirements listed above, the coursework includes 12 credit hours of 500-level foundation courses, 24 credit hours of elective classroom hours (15 of which must have a JUS prefix) and 27 credit hours comprising any combination of additional electives courses, reading and conference courses, or research courses.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• personal statement
• writing sample
• three letters of recommendation (academic references are preferred)
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

The personal statement should be 1 1/2 to 2 pages, double spaced, and outline the applicant's areas of interest, educational and career goals. The writing sample should be 10 to 15 pages and discuss the research that best represents the applicant's academic thinking and writing skills.

The PhD/JD option allows qualified students to earn a Juris Doctor from ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law while simultaneously earning a transdisciplinary doctoral degree in justice studies. Students must apply separately to both programs. Applicants should contact the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law for its requirements.

Flexible Degree Options

Concurrent degree program.

Students can choose to create their own concurrent degree combination to match their interests by working with their academic advisor during or after their first semester of study. Some concurrent combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum; students should speak with their academic advisor for more details.

This degree is also offered as a concurrent program with the following:

Juris Doctor of Law, JD -->

Juris doctor of law, jd.

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Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, learning outcomes.

• Graduates of the PhD program in justice studies will demonstrate knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Graduates of the doctoral program in justice studies will demonstrate the ability to differentiate various theoretical perspectives of justice in their written work.
• Graduates will be able to demonstrate intersectional knowledge of justice and use an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach to address societal problems and generate solutions in their dissertations.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the doctoral program in justice studies are prepared to work in justice-related organizations, teach in community colleges and universities, and conduct research in the justice field.

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-7682

Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Social Justice

• Request Info

This interdisciplinary program will elevate your expertise in social justice. You will build on your current knowledge of theory, research, methods, and approaches to its practical and professional applications.

Become a leader who addresses pressing issues of social justice

Dominican’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Social Justice program prepares and educates professionals, especially individuals from historically excluded groups, to take on equitable, just, and liberatory frameworks to address society’s most pressing issues. You will learn to assess the roots of inequity, injustice, and disempowerment through an intersectional identity lens that accounts for the diverse social identities within and across racial and ethnic groups. 

A PhD program designed for the busy professional

As a Catholic Hispanic-Serving Institution, Dominican intentionally designed this PhD program to broaden access to the doctoral pathway, especially for working professionals from diverse Hispanic and Latine backgrounds. All classes are offered online, allowing you to significantly advance your professional education without stopping your career and personal goals. You can choose our program without traditional decision-making parameters, such as location. And because it is online, the cost is much lower than in-person programs at larger universities. Uniquely, Dominican’s PhD program can be completed in just four years, enabling graduates to elevate their work and contributions to communities affected most by social inequalities.

There will be a two-day, in-person weekend orientation in August. More information will be provided to your Dominican email should you be accepted into the program.

Experience the Dominican difference

Our faculty come from across the country and around the world. They bring visionary approaches to advancing the complex and flourishing field of social justice. Our cohort model ensures deep intellectual engagement and powerful professional development within a close-knit, collaborative learning environment. A team of advisors, professors and peers will accompany you as you work to achieve your academic, research and professional development goals. We will push each other to explore individual identities, how these affect our work and our work for others, and the relative positions of power and privilege they can put us in within U.S. culture. We will aim for you to achieve the following outcomes: greater understanding of self and your positionality, greater liberation for yourself, your family, and your community, equitable academic attainment, and improved leadership for social justice. The skill set you earn will not only prepare you for greater and longer success professionally, but it will also guide you toward helping others.  

Commit to a more just and humane world

As a student of applied social justice, you’ll partake in the first known social justice doctoral program in the U.S. You will work alongside a cohort of peers who share a desire to redress injustices, resolve inequities, and heal communities harmed. Our graduates' work reflects the university's mission and their responsibility to provide compassionate service and promote a more just and humane world. At Dominican, you’ll immerse yourself in interdisciplinary learning directly connecting to real-world needs.

Online Social Justice Programs in America

1-12 of 12 results

Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business

Murray, KY •

Murray State University •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: I am an international student from Nepal. I came to MSU in January 2019 for my MBA program. I was overwhelmed as I had never been away from family and friends. I found Murray State University to be my other home as everyone made me feel so comfortable. The city is small but people are quite friendly here. Everyone is ready to help you and wherever you go, you get a homely feeling. Many international students come to MSU every semester and there is a warm welcome by faculties and students. I made a lot of international friends here and they have taught me diversity. My experience with national and international friends has been tremendous. I come from a developing country where education is still not available to everyone and everywhere. I came to the USA to develop my self-confidence, grow myself, and learn those things that I would not have been able to learn in my home town. MSU has helped me explore my thinking and given me opportunities to learn more. ... Read 2 reviews

Murray State University ,

Graduate School ,

MURRAY, KY ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am an international student from Nepal. I came to MSU in January 2019 for my MBA program. I was overwhelmed as I had never been away from family and friends. I found Murray State University to be... Many international students come to MSU every semester and there is a warm welcome by faculties and students. I made a lot of international friends here and they have taught me diversity. My... I come from a developing country where education is still not available to everyone and everywhere. I came to the USA to develop my self-confidence, grow myself, and learn those things that I would... .

Read 2 reviews.

College of Liberal Arts - University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR •

University of Central Arkansas •

University of Central Arkansas ,

CONWAY, AR ,

Southeastern University College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Lakeland, FL •

Southeastern University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Alum: I learned so much from the (social work) professors who had lots of experience out in the field. I got lots of connections for jobs through my internship and field instructors. ... Read 2 reviews

Southeastern University ,

LAKELAND, FL ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I learned so much from the (social work) professors who had lots of experience out in the field. I got lots of connections for jobs through my internship and field instructors. .

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• Masters in Social Work Programs
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College of Rural and Community Development - University of Alaska Fairbanks

Fairbanks, AK •

University of Alaska Fairbanks •

University of Alaska Fairbanks ,

FAIRBANKS, AK ,

College of Health and Human Services - Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY •

Western Kentucky University •

• • Rating 3.75 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: My experience thus far has been excellent. Living 3 hours away from my school is a difficult barrier to get over mentally but my teachers make themselves available whenever needed and respond to my questions in a very timely manner. The coursework is rigorous and robust and I have enjoyed my experience so much thus far! ... Read 4 reviews

Western Kentucky University ,

BOWLING GREEN, KY ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My experience thus far has been excellent. Living 3 hours away from my school is a difficult barrier to get over mentally but my teachers make themselves available whenever needed and respond to my... .

Read 4 reviews.

College of Education and Human Sciences - Delta State University

Cleveland, MS •

Delta State University •

Delta State University ,

CLEVELAND, MS ,

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Penn State World Campus

University Park, PA •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   97 reviews

Other: Penn State World Campus offers me the flexibility I need to be in school while working full-time and raising two children. I love the flexibility I have to work on school when I can. My instructors work hard to motivate students and are very encouraging. Overall, my experience with online learning at Penn State has gone very well. I was nervous to return to school. After all, it has been ten years since I have been in school. Penn State has a very extensive online orientation and even offers a Smart Track to Success course. I have enrolled in the Smart Track to Success course to help me stay on track and earn additional scholarships. I have a GPA of 3.67 because Penn State has been such a wonderful program and offers me the flexibility needed to do school work outside of my work hours. I am very confident I will achieve my goals with Penn State World Campus! ... Read 97 reviews

UNIVERSITY PARK, PA ,

97 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says Penn State World Campus offers me the flexibility I need to be in school while working full-time and raising two children. I love the flexibility I have to work on school when I can. My instructors... .

Read 97 reviews.

College of Arts and Sciences - Louisiana State University - Shreveport

Shreveport, LA •

Louisiana State University - Shreveport •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   6 reviews

Master's Student: I am enjoying my program in MHA thus far. I am excited to overcome this milestone in my life. The cost of school should not make one broke! ... Read 6 reviews

Louisiana State University - Shreveport ,

SHREVEPORT, LA ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am enjoying my program in MHA thus far. I am excited to overcome this milestone in my life. The cost of school should not make one broke! .

Read 6 reviews.

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN •

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   960 reviews

Master's Student: As a passionate advocate for addiction recovery and mental health, pursuing a Master's in Addiction Studies at Capella University has been a transformative experience for me. The program has not only equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills but has also provided me with a supportive and enriching learning environment. One of the key aspects that sets Capella University apart is its commitment to online education. Being able to study from the comfort of my own home has allowed me to balance my academic pursuits with my personal and professional responsibilities. The flexibility of the online format has enabled me to engage in meaningful discussions with fellow students from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wealth of perspectives to the virtual classroom. In conclusion, I am confident that with the education and experiences I have gained at Capella University, I am well-prepared to contribute positively to the lives of individuals and communities struggling with addiction. ... Read 960 reviews

MINNEAPOLIS, MN ,

960 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says As a passionate advocate for addiction recovery and mental health, pursuing a Master's in Addiction Studies at Capella University has been a transformative experience for me. The program has not only... .

Read 960 reviews.

Carson-Newman University

Jefferson City, TN •

• • Rating 4.71 out of 5   14 reviews

Master's Student: I am very passionate about nursing and this program is an amazing program because of their passion for nursing. The good thing about this program is that everyone is either a ApRN or have a PHD in nursing so this means that everyone have been through what the student are currently going through. The only bad thing about this program is they use other programs for different classes such as statistics, this program does not detect the information the students put in for answers therefore you don’t get the credit for those grade. ... Read 14 reviews

Blue checkmark.

JEFFERSON CITY, TN ,

14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am very passionate about nursing and this program is an amazing program because of their passion for nursing. The good thing about this program is that everyone is either a ApRN or have a PHD in... .

Read 14 reviews.

Claremont Lincoln University

Claremont, CA •

Current Master's student: I am just beginning but their enrollment staff and fin aid staff are easy to navigate with through the processes. ... Read 2 reviews

CLAREMONT, CA ,

Featured Review: Current Master's student says I am just beginning but their enrollment staff and fin aid staff are easy to navigate with through the processes. .

Future Generations University

Franklin, WV •

FRANKLIN, WV ,

• Masters in Human Services Programs
• Online Social Work Programs

Showing results 1 through 12 of 12

Doctor of Philosophy

NYU Silver School of Social Work’s PhD program prepares students to become leading researchers and educators in the promotion of social justice and the health and well-being of marginalized communities nationally and globally.

Our intensive doctoral training competitively positions graduates for top-tier academic and research opportunities—such as faculty positions at leading research universities—cultivating the next wave of independent investigators, scholars, and social work leaders. Building on Silver’s nationally recognized strength in intervention and implementation research and our focus on addressing inequities, the PhD program prepares students to make their own unique contributions to the field of social welfare. 

Our rigorous coursework educates students in classic and contemporary theory, cutting-edge quantitative, qualitative and mixed methodologies, and specialized learning in their substantive areas. The opportunity to take electives within the larger university allows students to explore further their areas and methodologies in an interdisciplinary classroom. NYU Silver also prepares students to be educators through training, including in anti-racist pedagogies, and hands-on experience teaching BSW and MSW level courses.

At the heart of our program is the mentored research practicum offering students the opportunity to put their learning into practice. NYU Silver PhD students are paired from day one with a research mentor as part of our  personalized mentoring program , helping them develop competencies in core research, scholarship, and teaching areas.  NYU Silver  Faculty  are renowned for their expertise in several key research areas, including racial and social justice, behavioral health services, child welfare, and aging. Being part of a large Global Network University and located in the diverse and dynamic city of New York, NYU Silver offers an unparalleled environment for the study of areas critical to local, national and global well-being. 

Associate Professor of Social Work and PhD Program Director

“I chose NYU Silver for my PhD . . .

because of the program’s emphasis on preparing students to become leading researchers and educators in the health and well-being of marginalized communities and in the promotion of social justice.”

Sabrina Cluesman, PhD candidate and recipient of a NIDA Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (F31)

In an Emerati Women’s Day video from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Washington, DC, first year PhD student  Layla Al Neyadi  discusses her inspiration to seek her degree at NYU Silver and her aspiration to improve mental health policy and services for her fellow Emiratis:

Please email the doctoral program office or call (212) 998-5941 for additional information.

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Applied Sociology & Social Justice (PhD)

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PhD in Education and Social Justice

This unique PhD in Education and Social Justice (by thesis and coursework) is a part-time structured PhD programme that is undertaken entirely online, over a minimum of 4 years.

It provides a well-defined and supported route to a PhD for people around the world. The programme is designed so that participants can study entirely from home and whilst in full or part-time employment.

Key information

Tutors are internationally renowned researchers/practitioners, based in one of the best Education Departments in the UK, in a University ranked in the top 200 world-wide and top 10 in the UK. The Department has an established and excellent reputation for doctoral provision. There are close links between the Education and Social Justice doctoral programme and the Department's Centre for Social Justice and Wellbeing in Education . We also offer an online MA in Educational and Social Justice which you can join from anywhere in the world.

We have designed the programme to enable issues, theories, methods and evaluations to be applied specifically to the particular concerns, contexts and priorities of the organisations and environments in which participants are working. The programme builds a mutually supportive spirit among participants who all have overlapping professional and academic interests. This means that participants benefit tremendously from studying within a cohort of students who act as critical friends and an informal support network during the programme, and a continued network throughout their careers.

The programme is for professionals world-wide who are working to promote social justice in or through education (in its broadest sense).

The programme will be of benefit to a wide range of people, including, but not limited to:

• teachers working in schools, further education, higher education, and lifelong learning; policy makers; managers; researchers working with social justice issues; youth workers;
• activists and advocacy workers;
• people with equity or social justice portfolios in a variety of institutions; education support personnel;
• consultants; researchers and workers in charities and NGOs; and civil servants;
• people who are retired from, or taking a break from, professional educational work.

The programme and assignments are mainly designed for participants to focus on, and research, issues that are at the heart of their own professional practice and concerns. Non empirical library based assignments can also be undertaken.

If you have any questions, or would like further information about this programme, please contact the Programme Co-ordinator, Sheila Walton. Tel: +44 (0) 1524 593189 Email: [email protected]

Find out what our graduates say about studying on our PhD programmes

Several students have published journal articles arising from their module assignments and theses.

How to Apply

The next start date is 1st October, 2024 .

Entry requirements

Apply online, what to include.

For admission to this programme applicants should normally have:

• a good honours degree from a British university or CNAA, and a good taught Master's degree; or
• qualifications of a comparable standard from a university or recognised degree awarding body in another country.

Preference will be given to applicants who have degrees in cognate areas (normally social science).

As this is a PhD by coursework and thesis we do not require a research proposal at this stage, but your Personal Statement (max 1,000 words) should outline your potential research interests and purposes and also explain why you wish to join this programme and how you hope to benefit from it. Please see the "What to include" tab for further information.

Language proficiency

Applicants will need to have an acceptable fluency in written and spoken English.

For students whose first language is not English, an English Language Test Certificate will be required, that is, IELTS Academic with an overall score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 for reading and writing.

Further information can be found at: English Language Requirements .

The next start date is 1st October, 2024.

Typical Cohort Number: 30

Initial Closing date for applications: 29th February, 2024.

Please note that any applications received prior this date will be held for consideration during March/April 2024.

Applications received after the end of February will be considered on a first come-first-served basis until the Cohort is full.

Please visit Applying for postgraduate study to apply.

As this is a PhD by coursework and thesis we do not require a research proposal at this stage, but you should explain why you wish to join the programme and how you hope to benefit from it.

Paper application forms can be obtained from: Postgraduate Admissions Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Lancaster University LANCASTER LA1 4YL

Telephone: +44 (0)1524 510880 Fax: +44 (0)1524 510857 E-mail: [email protected]

As this is a PhD by coursework and thesis we do not require a research proposal at this stage, but your Personal Statement ( max 1,000 words ) should outline your potential research interests and purposes and also explain why you wish to join this programme and how you hope to benefit from it.

Personal statement

This should contain the following:

• A statement of reasons for applying for this programme in particular;
• A statement of how you will benefit from this programme;
• A statement about your work experience trajectory and how it relates to the kind of research you are likely to undertake;
• A statement about potential research interests and purposes.

Find out more about how ESJ researchers’ work made a difference for them, their workplace and the world in our 10th anniversary year, 2023.

View a list of some of the PhD theses from the ESJ programme.

Fees and funding

The fee for each cohort is set annually by the University and represents the part-time fee for that academic year. Once a student is on the programme the fee will be increased in line with inflation for each subsequent year of the course.

The course fee for:

• 24/25 is £5,410 per academic year, for four years minimum, for UK students and £9,670 per academic year, for four years minimum, for international students.

Fees are subject to a small increase each academic year.

To help finance your postgraduate study at Lancaster, you can apply for funding from charities and other funders: further details are available on the Fees and Funding webpage.

Applicants from the European Union can read more information about Research Fees (from Lancaster University) following the 2016 Referendum.

When you apply you will need to indicate your likely source of funding for your fees. If you are not self-funding you should investigate possible sources of finance as soon as you can for the full period of your study. Many students have been supported by their employing institutions.

Structure and modules

The programme is divided into two parts and has a modular structure. All modules are compulsory. The five modules in Part One, a thesis proposal, and the final thesis are assessed.

• Part One (years 1 and 2) - consists of five modules that offer participants guided study in key areas of education and social justice nationally and internationally.
• Part Two (year 3 onwards) - participants carry out an original piece of research under the supervision of a member of staff and produce a thesis (45,000 words). There is also a module aimed at supporting you in Part Two.

Whilst this programme is undertaken entirely online, the Certificate produced on successful completion of the course will say "Doctor of Philosophy in Education and Social Justice", with no mention of the mode of delivery.

Online and Distance learning

The Educational Research Department has considerable experience of supporting online and distance learners and we aim to make all our students feel that they are full members of the Department and part of the postgraduate community. Wherever possible we facilitate online participation at events and seminars organised by the Department.

All students have access to Moodle which is our Virtual Learning Environment. Many resources, for example, journal articles; required for postgraduate study, will be available online through the OneSearch facility offered by the Library . Additionally, the Library provides extra services for Distance Learners.

Visit our Computer requirements for studying online page for further information.

Rebecca Marsden is the Online Learning Support Officer for the Department of Educational Research and she can be contacted with queries about online learning.

The Academic skills webpages provide a wide range of online study opportunities across a range of topics. These include digital skills, referencing, research training and critical thinking.

Programme staff

The staff who teach and supervise programmes and modules can vary due to staff changes including research and other types of leave.

Dr Richard Budd

Centre for Higher Education Research and Evaluation, Centre for Social Justice and Wellbeing in Education

Dr Kathy Chandler

Centre for Technology Enhanced Learning

Dr Melis Cin

Centre for Social Justice and Wellbeing in Education

Dr Bethan Garrett

Professor Carolyn Jackson

Centre for Gender Studies, Centre for Higher Education Research and Evaluation, Centre for Social Justice and Wellbeing in Education

Dr Christopher Marlow

Dr Carmen Martinez Vargas

Professor Jo Warin

Centre for Gender Studies, Centre for Social Justice and Wellbeing in Education, Richardson Institute for Peace Studies

PhDs in Educational Research

PhD - Traditional Route

PhD Educational Research - Higher Education

PhD Higher Ed: Research, Evaluation & Enhancement

PhD E-Research and Technology Enhanced Learning

Doctor of Education in Social Justice Leadership

Our vision imagines a region and world in which everyone has access to an inspiring education and the psychological tools and support to propel them toward flourishing lives of meaning, purpose and connection.  our education is characterized by strong values, social justice, transformative, diverse community..

Rooted in the Jesuit tradition at Santa Clara University, the mission of the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Social Justice Leadership program is to educate and prepare leaders of competence, conscience, and compassion. Our EdD graduates will be leaders who work across a broad spectrum of fields, from schools to universities and nonprofit entities whose focus is to promote the common good as they transform lives, schools, organizations, and communities.

We prepare leaders by cultivating the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to lead complex organizations. Our Jesuit tradition leads us to a set of core values, including “cura personalis” – or care for the whole person, developing men and women for others, centering our actions in social justice and equity, and engaging in a cycle of learning and collaboration, action, and reflection in our work.

The EdD in Social Justice Leadership equips graduates with the 21st-century knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to lead complex organizations with the goal of  building a more humane, just, and sustainable world .

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION OFFERED:

Higher Education Leadership   Focus is on issues and complexities related to higher education, with particular attention to building and sustaining effective colleges and universities.

PreK-12 Leadership Focus is on the specific issues and complexities related to PreK-12 schools.

Social Impact Leadership   Focus is on the specific issues and complexities related to the communities served by social impact or community-based organizations. 

Doctor of Education Highlights

• Classes held at SCU and online
• 3-year program
• 77 Quarter units
• Applicants should already possess a M.A.

Course Sequence

Admissions information.

• Early admissions applications are due February 1, 2023 for Summer 2023
• Students must possess an MA  in a related field - Students without an MA will be considered on a case by case basis, but will be generally required to complete an additional year of course work unless they have extensive prior graduate work (e.g., a teaching credential based on graduate coursework). 
• 3 to 5 years of work experience
• Interview with program faculty 
• The Ed.D. program is not open to international applicants requiring an F-1 student visa. 
• A minimum 3.5 GPA in their graduate coursework.
• Transfer Units. As a “post-MA” degree program, students will not be able to transfer in “units” from prior coursework, but can petition to waive specific course requirements if they have taken very similar classes before, allowing them to enroll in more advanced coursework.

Pedro Nava, PhD, Associate Professor of Education, Director of Educational Leadership

Dr. Pedro Nava has a bachelor's degree from CSU Fresno (1996) and received a Masters degree in Administration, Planning, and Social Policy from Harvard University (2003). In 2012, Dr. Nava completed his doctoral studies at the University of California Los Angeles Graduate School of Education in Urban Schooling.  The focus of his research and teaching are in urban and rural schooling inequality, critical pedagogy and critical race theory, immigration and education, family-school-community engagement, and participatory action research.

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• university of new orleans
• ph.d. in justice studies

  Justice Studies

Concentrations

Social Justice

Educational Justice

Environmental Justice

Transformative Justice & Carceral Studies

APPLY now    REQUEST INFORMATION   EMAIL US   PROGRAM HANDBOOK

Application deadline for the fall 2024 cohort: march 15, 2024, ph.d. program requirements, this graduate research degree will help you advance justice in both theory and practice., 57 credits beyond the bachelor’s:.

• Two seminars in foundations of justice: Theories of Justice, Justice and Law
• Two seminars in interdisciplinary research methods: Justice Research I & II
• 33 credits in relevant graduate courses, including six credits directly related to one of the four concentrations
• Written comprehensive exam
• 12 credits (minimum) of dissertation research
• Dissertation Defense
• Up to 27 credits may be transferred from a prior graduate program towards elective requirements, with approval.

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Educational Leadership for Social Justice (Ed.D.)

The Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice is designed for current and aspiring leaders who want to create a more just and equitable future in a variety of educational and community settings. Centered on values-based education, the curriculum connects theory with practice, equipping practitioner-scholars to lead meaningful change in their organizations. Our innovative three-year Ed.D. program is offered Online to accommodate working professionals while they acquire the knowledge and skills to become critically-conscious leaders ready to make a positive impact in education.

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION                  ATTEND INFORMATION SESSION

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The LMU Ed.D. Experience

Leadership that makes a difference.

This three-year program is designed to empower its graduates to lead the call for equity in community and educational settings. Our faculty and leadership are renowned for their advocacy work.

Here, alumna Laura McGowan-Robinson Ed.D. ’16 describes how LMU supported her aspirations and led her to found the Diversity in Leadership Institute , a non-profit organization that identifies, develops, and supports racially diverse public school leaders to serve as change agents and to build talent pipelines for excellence in school leadership and advocacy.

Join Our Community of Change-Makers

Our students and alumni are a dynamic group of experienced educators and community leaders who are transforming educational communities to foster just and equitable learning environments. Review our admission requirements  before applying.

• Application deadline for Online Ed.D. Program: September 10, 2024

Community Research and Action (Ph.D.)

Interested in community psychology, community development, social program evaluation, organizational change, health or mental health policy, prevention, urban change and social policy? Join an intellectual community that enhances your knowledge and field skills.

Quick links

• Admissions Checklist
• Request More Information
• Request Information

Program Overview

The Ph.D. program in Community Research and Action is an interdisciplinary program combining community psychology, urban sociology, human geography, applied anthropology, and human and community development. It trains action-researchers committed to promoting social justice in rigorous theoretical analysis and research methods to prepare them for careers in academia, research, and public policy. The Ph.D. degree includes (a) a core set of courses covering inequality, diversity and social justice, community intervention and change, community inquiry (social research methods), public policy and advocacy, and organizational theory and change; (b) advanced research methodology covering quantitative, qualitative, and critical methods, action research, field research, and program evaluation; and (c) minor concentrations that are designed individually, drawing from Human and Organizational Development Department courses (in community organizing and development, community health, human development and prevention science) and from other departments and specializations within Peabody College (e.g., quantitative methods, urban education) and throughout the university (e.g., anthropology, divinity, gender and sexuality studies, global health, political science, sociology). Planning is done with the major professor and approved by the student’s committee. Students receive practical training and experience in teaching, grant-writing and applied research, and program or policy work in collaboration with nonacademic partners. In addition to the required courses listed below, students must complete a grant or graduate fellowship proposal and appropriate field experience.

All entering doctoral students receive financial support covering tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for up to five years, depending on their degree level (Bachelor's or Master's) when starting doctoral studies.

Program Facts

Director of Graduate Studies: Brian Christens Admissions Coordinator: Tonya Beaird Brown Admission Term: Fall Credit Hours: 72 Application Deadline: December 1

Program Curriculum

The program is 72 credit hours structured into the following sections:

• Core (15+ semester hrs)
• Methods (15+ semester hrs)
• Advanced Content/Minor(s)/Specialization Areas/Electives (30+/- semester hrs)
• Individual Projects: M.S. thesis, Internship, Dissertation (12+/- semester hrs)

The core curriculum covers the theoretical and empirical bases of community research and action. Required research methods courses include both qualitative and quantitative approaches and emphasize an applied, field research orientation, including program evaluation, policy analysis, needs assessment, quasi-experimental, as well as more phenomenological designs. As ecological theory deserves commensurate methodology, multiple methods (e.g., survey, systematic and participant observation, existing records, social indicators, ethnography, and content analysis) and multiple levels of analysis (e.g., individual, family/group, organization/community, policy jurisdiction) are encouraged.

The program's interdisciplinary aims are reflected in the core curriculum, the required qualitative and quantitative methods courses, and the list of electives and possible minors. Minors are possible in virtually any field related to Community Research and Action, including (but not limited to) quantitative psychology, leadership and organizations, sociology, political science, religion, and economic development.

Basic Requirements

Out of the 72 required credit hours, a minimum of 42 semester hours in formal didactic coursework is required. The remaining credit hours may be met with electives and/or research and field hours. Specifics are determined by students in consultation with their advisor and program of studies committee. In addition, each student must pass all required core and methods courses, write a master's thesis by the fifth semester (or have a previously completed thesis approved), write a fundable-quality grant proposal, complete a fieldwork requirement, write and defend a major area paper (which serves as the qualifying exam for doctoral candidacy) and propose, complete, and defend a doctoral dissertation. The grant proposal will generally be focused on the dissertation topic and may elect to be submitted to one or more funding agencies to support the dissertation research.

Ph.D. Student Handbook

A copy of the handbook for doctoral students can be found here .

Cohorts and Graduate Placements

Photos of past CRA cohorts can be viewed here .

A list of program graduate placements is available here .

Newbrough Graduate Award

Each year the Department of Human and Organizational Development acknowledges the year's best scholarly work by a graduate student with the Newbrough Graduate Award. For more information on the award, click here .

• Application Process

Affiliated Faculty

Brooke Ackerly , Professor of Philosophy in Political Science. Her research interests include democratic theory, feminist methodologies, human rights, social and environmental justice. She integrates into her theoretical work empirical research on activism.

Joe Bandy , Assistant Director of the Center for Teaching and affiliated faculty in the Department of Sociology at Vanderbilt University. He  oversees programs dedicated to public scholarship and community engagement in the academy, particularly junior faculty development, service learning and community engagement, sustainability education, and issues of difference and power in teaching. Joe also specializes in the sociology of development, globalization, and U.S. class relations and labor, as well as environmental problems and movements.

Ted Fischer , Professor of Anthropology and Director of the  Center for Latin American Studies at Vanderbilt University  . He is also the founder of  Maní+ . His research combines cultural anthropology and political economy with a geographical focus on highland Guatemala and Germany. His ongoing fieldwork is centered in the Kaqchikel town of Tecpán, and he has also worked extensively with the leaders of Guatemala's pan-Maya movement. His most recent research looked at consumer behavior, labor relations, and moral models in Germany.

Gina Frieden , Assistant Professor of the Practice, Department of Human & Organizational Development. Her teaching and research interests are in adult development, life transitions and counselor training.

Mark Lipsey , Research Professor, Department of Human & Organizational Development. His professional interests are in public policy, program evaluation research, social intervention, field research methodology, and research synthesis (meta-analysis). His recent research interests have been in the areas of risk and intervention for juvenile delinquency and substance use, early childhood education programs, and issues of methodological quality in program evaluation research.

Richard Lloyd , Associate Professor of Sociology. His teaching and research interests are in urban sociology, sociology of culture, social theory, sociology of art, work and occupations, social change, and political sociology.

Holly McCammon , Professor of Sociology. Her teaching and research interests are in social movements, women's legal rights, historical sociology, and political sociology.

Melissa Snarr , Associate Professor of Ethics and Society, Graduate Department of Religion, Divinity School. Her interests are intersection of religion, social change and social-political ethics.

PhDs in Human Rights (Fully Funded)

If you are interested in pursuing your academic career in human rights, there are Universities that offer a variety of funding and financial assistance opportunities for prospective PhD students. Fully funded opportunities are allocated through an university or external funds. Depending on the program, scholarships cover full tuition costs, living expenses and monthly stipends. The following is an overview of 5 fully-funded PhDs in human rights.

International Joint PhD Programme “Human Rights, Society, and Multi-level Governance”

“Human Rights Society and Multi-level governance” is a three-year doctoral joint academic program with interdisciplinary approach. It is coordinated by University of Padova in Italy in partnership with Universities in Australia, Croatia and Cyprus. The goal of this doctorate program is to form researchers with multi-interdisciplinary profile. Thus, during the programme students will have an opportunity to implement various legal, political, social, philosophical and economic approaches and methodologies in the area of human rights.

While students carry out their research and attend courses at the University of first enrolment, they need to spend at least one semester at one of the partner Universities. During that time, they will be supervised by their mentor from the home University and co-mentor from host University, if the student desires to choose co-mentorship. Additionally, students will be required to do internships at both universities.

When applying, students need to send a research proposal together with other needed documents. If approved by the Academic board, the student will be admitted and then undertake his/her research during the next three years. The program includes teaching, courses (mandatory and free of choice), research and training within the area of human rights studies.

The call for admission to this PhD programme for the academic year 2020/2021 is now open! The deadline for submission of application is June 16 th 2020 by 1 pm Italian time. The first preselection meeting of the Evaluating Commission will be held on 6 th July 2020 and by the 8 th of July the Commission will publish the results of the of evaluation qualifications on the following website. In order to be admitted to the examination, the candidate must get a score of at least 7/10 in the preselection.

More information regarding the fees and scholarships can be found on the University of Padova website. Generally, students can apply for full-tuition funding through their home university, while other types of funding are available as well at the Western Sydney University in Australia, Zagreb University Faculty of Law in Croatia, Panteion University – Athens in Greece and University of Nicosia in Cyprus.

PhD in Security, Conflict and Human Rights – University of Bristol

This program is one of the five South West Doctoral Training Partnership interdisciplinary programs, provided in partnership with the Universities of Bath and Exeter. The PhD in Security, Conflict and Human Rights aims at delivering traditional approaches of the security and conflict discourse, together with interdisciplinary perspectives on protection of human rights. Therefore, students are required to articulate clearly their proposed research which must be interdisciplinary in nature.

This PhD program equips researchers and responds directly to challenges. As the focus is put on interdisciplinary, students are required within their proposal to clearly and substantively articulate how and in what ways the proposed research is interdisciplinary in nature. The offer of a place to the program depends on the availability of co-supervision from two staff members from different disciplines, in relation to the student’s proposal. Students are required to identify this in the ‘proposed supervisor’ section of their application.

When it comes to the funding and fees, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law allocates 1+3 and +3 ESRC scholarships, while students can also apply for other types of funding from the University of Bristol scholarship fund or alumni PhD scholarship fund. Funding is quite competitive and it is available for exceptional research proposals. The tuition fee is $20,152 per year for international students and $5,441 for EU or EEA citizens. However, University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a ten per cent reduction in tuition feels for postgraduate study. The application deadline is not fixed for students who wish to apply as self-funded, while the closing date for ESRC scholarships is usually open until the end of January.

The PhD in Security, Conflict and Human rights equips students for a number of different careers. During the years, the students got employment in areas of academia, international security, development and conflict issues, and they have worked as policy researchers, consultants, policy civil servants or the military.

Human Rights PhD – University of Sussex

This PhD program in Human rights goes beyond a narrow legalistic approach. Admitted students are supposed to work under the supervision of faculty experts, while focusing on human rights area in the fields of poverty, violence, identity, globalization, the emergence of global forms of governance etc. Duration of this PhD program is 4 years if enrolled full time or 6 years if enrolled part time. Students may also choose when they want to start – in September, January or May.

In order to apply, prospective students need to write an outline research proposal four to five pages long, stating the nature, ambition, research questions and the methodology of a research proposal. On the website of the University instructions on how to write a research proposal can be found.

Students can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. These degrees are different in duration and in the extent of research work. The PhD requires research work that will make a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in a chosen field, whereas for an MPhil, student’s work is considered to be an independent piece of research but in less depth compared to PhD. Students graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy and are able to change to a PhD while studying for an MPhil.

University of Sussex offers various types of scholarships and interested students should check application deadlines for funding opportunities.

PhD in Human Rights and Global Politics – Scuola Superiore Sant’ Anna

PhD in Human Rights and Global Politics is considered to be strongly interdisciplinary, aiming at providing the knowledge which will enable students to carry out systematic academic research and make them professionals in the field of human rights. After three-year’s program, doctoral students can undertake career within international, national and regional entities, both in private and public sectors. When writing an application, prospective students need to indicate main and complementary research area, choosing between Political Philosophy, Public International Law, Agri-food and Agri-environmental Law and Political Economy. They are strongly advised to explore the website pages of these faculties and research profiles of faculty members and prospective supervisors.

Deadline for application to this PhD program is 4 th June 2020 by 12:00 Rome time. The number of positions eligible for scholarships is four and amongst four scholarships available, two are reserved for students with an academic title earned from a non-Italian University. Application requires research proposal written by following specified guidelines. If admitted, doctoral students will carry out the research during the next three years.

There are no positions opened for self-funded students. Admitted students will receive monthly stipend and all fees covered. The Program accepts application from all over the world, while one or more places are usually reserved for students residing outside European Union. For further information about application process, fees and funding visit the official website.

PhD in Human Rights – Centre for Applied Human Rights – University of York

The University of York offers full funded PhD program in Human rights within its Centre for Applied Human Rights. The Centre undertakes researches on various topics – human rights defenders, human rights practice, human rights and development, legal empowerment, refugee law and policy, responsibility to protect, transitional justice etc. PhD program is supported by the Department of Politics and York Law School and inter-departmental Development and Conflict Working Group and York Law School’s Socio-Legal Research group as well. Besides regular courses, Centre often organizes lectures, workshops and conferences on the topic of human rights issues.

Interested students are invited to make online application, choosing the option of “PhD in Politics” or the “PhD in Law”, depending on their preferences. Potential supervisor should also be stated during the application. Finally, draft dissertation proposal should be submitted following the template provided on the website.

There are different funding opportunities for students who have been accepted into the program. Both University of York and external funders offer financial assistance. There are also part-time employment opportunities as tutors or lecturers. Potential scholarship opportunities and other forms of assistance are discusses with students who have been admitted. Nevertheless, students should keep in mind that many scholarships have early application deadlines.

During past few years, the Centre has successfully nominated and advocated on behalf of prospective students for an awarded and ESRC scholarship funding. In the case of UK students, this funding covers tuition and provides a basic stipend. For international students, this funding is limited and usually covers a certain percentage of tuition. Nevertheless, students seeking funding should apply early in the academic year since ESRC funding decisions are by April. Therefore, to be considered for funding, students should submit their applications by the end of January.

PhD in Social Policy

In this section.

• Current Students
• PhD Student Life
• Degree Requirements
• What We Look For

The joint PhD Programs in Social Policy combine the disciplinary depth of a PhD in political science or sociology with multidisciplinary perspectives and problem-driven research on questions of social policy.

As a joint venture between the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences'  Government and Sociology departments and Harvard Kennedy School, the program is designed for students like you who have broad interests in social policy problems and solutions, spanning topics such as:

• Economic inequality
• Wealth distribution (including high-end wealth accumulation)
• Race and ethnicity
• Poverty and social mobility
• Family dynamics
• Workplace inequities
• Health disparities
• Crime and criminal punishment
• Immigration
• Local politics, neighborhoods, and segregation
• Educational access and inequality
• Political participation and political inequality  

The “discipline-plus” model

The PhD Programs in Social Policy are grounded by a “discipline-plus” structure. You will build a strong foundation in either political science or sociology before embarking on a sequence of multidisciplinary seminars and advanced research in social policy—all of which will focus primarily on the United States and Western Europe.

Research at the core

The joint PhD Programs in Social Policy are targeted toward producing scholars whose research puts them at the forefront of studying key problems in social policy. The skills and cross-disciplinary insights you develop will allow you to identify important unanswered questions and create research strategies that improve our understanding of social problems.

Graduates of the joint PhD Programs in Social Policy leave the program well equipped to pursue careers in leading political science or sociology departments, public policy schools, law schools, think tanks, nonprofit organizations, and in the public sector. 

• Doctor of Philosophy in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (PhD)
• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Canadian Immigration Updates

Applicants to Master’s and Doctoral degrees are not affected by the recently announced cap on study permits. Review more details

Go to programs search

The PhD in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice is an interdisciplinary program which allows students to explore their interests in diverse areas while employing feminist, intersectional, and decolonizing methodologies. It is intended to be flexible and to accommodate the needs of individual students.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

I decided to pursue my doctoral studies at UBC because The Social Justice Institute is an ideal place for the advancement of my research, as it provides me with a stimulating interdisciplinary academic environment and with the theoretical and methodological foundations to advance my work.

Dora Alejandra Gaviria Serna

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, 1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 90

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 6.5

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (PhD)

Criminal record check, citizenship verification.

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

From September 2024 all full-time students in UBC-Vancouver PhD programs will be provided with a funding package of at least $24,000 for each of the first four years of their PhD. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships. Please note that many graduate programs provide funding packages that are substantially greater than $24,000 per year. Please check with your prospective graduate program for specific details of the funding provided to its PhD students.

Average Funding

• 5 students received Teaching Assistantships. Average TA funding based on 5 students was $13,835.
• 3 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 3 students was $8,236.
• 6 students received Academic Assistantships. Average AA funding based on 6 students was $2,826.
• 13 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 13 students was $20,210.
• 1 student received external awards valued at $23,333.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

15 students graduated between 2005 and 2013. Of these, career information was obtained for 11 alumni (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016):

Sample Employers in Higher Education

Sample employers outside higher education, sample job titles outside higher education, phd career outcome survey, alumni on success.

Luna Ferguson

Job Title Actor, Writer, Producer

Employer Turbid Lake Pictures & Self-Employed

Lauren Hunter

Job Title Head, IN.spire Innovation Hub, Natural Resources Canada

Employer Government of Canada

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

This program went through a name change in previous years that may have included curriculum changes. It was previously known as: Doctor of Philosophy in Women's Studies and Gender Studies until 2013, Doctor of Philosophy in Women's Studies and Gender Relations until 2011. Historical data on this page may include data collected under the previous name(s) of the program.

ENROLMENT DATA

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Angeles, Leonora (Gender analysis, gender mainstreaming and other gender planning related tools, including feminist critiques and perspectives on the intergration of gender and other social axes of difference and diversity in community planning and international development work)
• Catungal, John Paul (queer of colour geographies, critical race and ethnic studies, diaspora and transnationalism, critical pedagogy, the scholarship of teaching and learning, and the lived geographies of sexual and racial minorities in educational spaces)
• Chaudhry, Ayesha (Islam, Muslims, religion, gender, human rights, family and children, discrimination, social justice )
• Ferreira da Silva, Denise (ethical questions of the global present and target the metaphysical and ontoepistemological dimensions of modern thought; Critical Racial and Ethnic Studies, Feminist Theory, Critical Legal Theory, Political Theory, Moral Philosophy, Postcolonial Studies, and Latin American & Caribbean Studies)
• Harris, Leila (Critical identity, ethnic and race studies; Gender, sexuality and education; Human rights, justice, and ethical issues; Africa; Development Policies; Drinking Water; Environmental justice; equity and social justice; Ethics and Fundamental Issues of Law and Justice; Fresh Water; Gender Relationship; gender and social difference; Ghana; International development; participatory resource management; Resources Management; Social Contract and Social Justice; Social and Cultural Factors of Environmental Protection; South Africa; Turkey and Middle East; Water; water governance; water politics)
• Harris, Mark (Indigenous rights; land claims; the stolen generations; intellectual property; criminal justice issues; Cultural Heritage; postcolonial legal theory)
• Mahtani, Minelle (critical mixed race theory; cultural forgetting; Social justice)
• Patterson, Christopher (Transpacific discourses of literature, games, and films)
• Pierre, Jemima (relationship of political economy to race; migration, transnationalism, and diaspora; ethics and politics of western knowledge production and disciplinary formation)
• Puar, Jasbir
• Riano-Alcala, Pilar (Lived experience of violence, Historical Memory and the politics of commemoration and witnessing, Forced migration (internal displacement and refuge), Critical and participatory methodologies, Community organizing, everyday resistance and social repair, Public art)
• Sia, Rosanne (Sociology; Cold War cultural history; Performance studies; critical race studies; queer studies)

Doctoral Citations

Sample thesis submissions.

• Gendered and reproductive becomings : trans people, reproductive experiences and the B.C. health care system
• Philosophy now! : genealogies of philosophical journalism & the question of the present
• Embodied encounters : Afro-Latin dance and Dutch cultural identity
• Studio practice : experiments in objectless and objectiveless artmaking
• Non-binary trans subjects : exiting the attachment to the transgender metanarrative of man/woman
• Moving outside spacetime : clay and creative praxis

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Master of Arts in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (MA)

Further Information

Specialization.

Faculty expertise in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice include gender and development, critical studies in sexuality, decolonizing and post-colonial methodologies, race, gender and cultural studies (including Asia), critical race theory, gender and Canadian history and literature (in English and French), transgender studies, gender issues in health, and feminist legal studies.

UBC Calendar

Program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, social media channels, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

Allison Campbell

Vancouver is my home, and I have been involved in health education at UBC for over a decade. I am grateful to now have the opportunity to bring together my experience in midwifery practice and education with my long-held interests in prison- and reproductive justice, and join a community of...

V. Pauahi Souza

My interest to study at UBC was and is due to the Social Justice Institute and the faculty within the program. I specifically wanted a degree geared towards Social Justice. In 2018, at the time I was thinking of PhD studies, UBC was the only school in North America with a program that offered a PhD...

Fabiola Bazo

I decided to study at UBC because it provides the exact combination of knowledge and expertise that I need for my dissertation research: from gender, to music, to Latin American studies. And I am lucky enough to live in this beautiful campus located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded...

Romina Tantalean-Castaneda

I came to UBC as a master's student and am now a doctoral student because I consider the Social Justice Institute's (Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Social Justice) interdisciplinary doctoral program the most suitable environment for re-imagining and advancing my graduate goals. It provides specific...

Curious about life in Vancouver?

Find out how Vancouver enhances your graduate student experience—from the beautiful mountains and city landscapes, to the arts and culture scene, we have it all. Study-life balance at its best!

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PhD in Social Justice Education

The PhD in social justice education is 52 credits. All candidates are expected to have a master’s degree prior to starting the PhD. To be considered a full-time student, you must be taking at least six credits a semester, though some on-campus jobs require you take nine credits. The program is designed for students to take three to five courses each semester. Courses listed in the program of study are all in person and on campus. Eighteen of these credits are required foundational coursework for all students. EDUC 797C does not count towards the four research methods courses that are required. Individual students can choose to follow the youth specialization or college specialization track, with 6 required theory credits, 12 research credits, 6 elective credits, and 10 dissertation credits to meet the minimum 52 credits required for degree conferral.

Application information & deadlines

Please consult the program .

Become a more innovative educator, a leading educational professional, or an effective public policymaker committed to social justice and diversity in education

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Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership for Social Justice Program

Over the past year, the UHart EdD program has undergone several exciting changes including a more focused commitment to social justice and belonging.  With this change in program focus, we are seeing increased interest from both internal and external candidates potentially limiting the number of seats that can be offered to internal candidates in future cohorts. As such, we wanted to create a fair and equitable process for internal candidates to apply for the EdD program if interested. Outlined below is the application process for internal UHart candidates interested in applying for the EdD program. The internal process outlined below is geared toward those who believe they meet the 3-year minimum work requirement for doctoral-level tuition remission as outlined on the  HRD website .

Beginning with the fall 2024 semester, current UHart employees (internal applicants) may apply to the EdD program for entry into a fall cohort. 

• Internal applicants must submit and complete their application to the EdD program by June 15.
• Applicants who have completed their application by June 15 will be asked to meet with a  program director or a program faculty .
• Applications will be reviewed by the program faculty for candidate selection. 
• Applicants will be notified of a decision by July 15.
• As per the University doctoral benefit guidelines, applicants are accepted based on space availability in the program.
• Internal candidates hoping to receive tuition remission as a university benefit must have a minimum of 3 years of employment with the university.
• The selection process will be based on the strength of the application, supporting documents, and interview process. 
• Applicants can expect to receive an admissions decision of accept, waitlist, or deny.
• Internal admitted candidates must accept their seat in the program by July 30. If the seat is not accepted by July 30, the seat will be offered to the next internal candidate on the waitlist.
• Internal candidates offered admission are not able to defer their application to a future term. If a future term is desired, the candidate must reapply for the next cohort.
• Internal candidates who are waitlisted and are not offered entrance into the program must reapply to the program in a future term if desired.
• Internal candidates who are denied and wish to be considered for a future cohort must reapply to the program in a future term.
• Internal candidates who decide to apply again for a future term do not need to resubmit official transcripts.

UHart’s  Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership for Social Justice  program reflects the latest thinking and research on higher education leadership, organizational dynamics, and institutional change through the lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging (DEIJB) values. The program offers advanced training to mid-career adult leaders interested in shaping their postsecondary education work environments into dynamic learning communities.   If you would like to learn more about the EdD program, please reach out to Christopher Stuck, Assistant Director of Graduate Success at  [email protected] . Questions regarding tuition remission benefit eligibility should be referred to  [email protected] .

Social Justice Graduate Certificate

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Online and On Campus Options

Explore theoretical and practical questions of economic, political, and social rights through a variety of lenses.

Through this graduate certificate, you'll learn about core themes of social justice, including philosophy, economics, the environment, religion, politics, ethics, sociology, and law.

What You'll Learn

• Build knowledge of classical and contemporary theories of justice and explore interrelated topics, such as human rights, affirmative action, income distribution, and the role of markets.
• Develop an understanding of the economic systems, such as capitalism, socialism/egalitarianism, and the welfare state, and societal structures conducive toward cultivating a just community.
• Gain insight into policy and social justice issues that drive human actions and responses to global challenges, such as the environment, poverty, and development.
• Understand principles of social justice as they relate to topics such as education, government, health, media, and religion.

Our Community at a Glance

Going back to school doesn’t have to mean putting your life on hold. We’ve designed our courses and certificates to give you the flexibility to pace your studies to fit your schedule.

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Certificate Courses

The liberal arts graduate certificate in social justice requires four courses or 16 credits:

• Social justice foundational course (choose one course from select group)
• Electives (choose any three courses from select group)

Search for Courses

You can browse courses by term — fall, spring, or summer — in the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.

Upcoming Term: Summer 2024

Summer course registration is open through June 20. Learn more about how to register →

Fall 2024 courses and registration details will be live in June.

Earning Your Certificate

To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:

• Complete the  four certificate courses for graduate credit .
• Earn at least a  B grade  in each course.
• Complete the courses within three years .

Learn more about  pursuing a certificate  and the process of  requesting your certificate .

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School of Criminal Justice College of Social Science

Alumni spotlight: trevariana mason.

February 22, 2024

Can you tell us about your life before coming to MSU?

I was born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan. I am the youngest of all my siblings. Prior to attending MSU, I attended Central Michigan University (CMU) where I majored in Criminal and Social Justice with a minor in Psychology. While at Central Michigan University I joined the Sigma Kappa chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

What interested you in coming to MSU for your master's degree?

Michigan State University is such a prestigious university, while applying to the master’s program I researched several Criminal Justice programs and MSU met the criteria of what I needed and wanted from a university. MSU’s CJ program is well respected throughout the country with several esteemed professors and faculty who produce impactful work. The program was highly ranked and there were several resources for students in the program. By choosing to apply to MSU and once accepted, I was confident I positioned myself within a community dedicated to scholarly achievement and societal impact, which would further serve as a rewarding and enriching educational experience.

What has been the most fulfilling part of your career?

The most fulfilling part of my career has been the experiences I have had working with marginalized communities. Since the death of Mike Brown and the uprising around his death I have always known that my life’s work would be dedicated to make communities safe and to provide spaces where Black, Brown, and disenfranchised people could share their life stories. I’ve been able to view the criminal legal system through several (spectrums) and have continued to note that there is more work that needs to be done. Each sector of the criminal legal system is interconnected and has secondary consequences for any individual directly involved in the system and their families. Much of the work I have been a part of and work I plan to complete highlights the areas in which society can be better and can band together to make communities better.

What are some of the most important skills for someone to have/learn to have a successful career as a data and policy analyst?

Successful careers in data and policy analysis, especially when dealing with system-impacted individuals, require a blend of forward thinking, compassion, effective communication, and several technical skills. It's crucial to present findings in a way that is understandable to those most affected. After all, what's the use of a report that only colleagues comprehend? If our work remains confined to academic spaces, without reaching the communities we aim to assist, its impact is limited. True progress in the field demands consistently pushing boundaries and ensuring our research serves a practical purpose. Personally, navigating tools like SPSS, NVivo, R, and Tableau has required varied levels of expertise, underscoring the importance of versatile technical skills in this journey.

How do you feel that the School of Criminal Justice has helped you throughout your career?

The School of Criminal Justice has been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory on multiple occasions. Celebrated for its excellence in the field, the university has offered me invaluable support, notably through the mentorship of Dr. Jennifer Cobbina-Dungy. Her unwavering advocacy and support have been a constant throughout my graduate studies and transition into the career field. Having a mentor genuinely invested in both student success and the advancement of the field has been truly uplifting and inspiring. Thanks to the experience provided by the School of Criminal Justice, I was not only equipped for employment but also empowered to drive meaningful change within the field.

Do you have any advice for current students?

My advice to current students is to actively contribute to the advancement of the criminal justice field; continue to push the field of criminal justice forward. There is so much work to be done and your experience at MSU and with the School of Criminal Justice will be an experience to remember. Make the most of every resource at your disposal to grow both personally and professionally. Whether you choose to enter the workforce after completing your master's degree or choose to pursue further education, recognize that your MSU experience is one of a kind and offers unique opportunities for development and impact.