Online Master of Arts in Social Justice and Human Rights
Throughout this program, you’ll learn key issues, theories and applied practices related to global justice and humanitarianism. You’ll also address how intersecting dimensions of social identity influence human rights, including gender, race, ethnicity, class, sexuality and nationality.
While studying these topics, you’ll gain the skills needed to design research projects and write grants to support the research and practice of social justice and human rights nonprofit managers and scholars.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
This program aligns with those who have previous experience in human rights and social justice work or a general interest in these topics. However, the most important factor for interested students is a passion for understanding social injustice. As long as you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, you can apply to this program.
Why it’s worth it to get a master’s in social justice and human rights
In addition to advancing your career, earning a master's in human rights and social justice is a great way to determine what social justice and human rights issues you’re most passionate about. To graduate from this program, you’re required to complete a wide range of thematic courses and a capstone e-portfolio. Not only does this allow you to build on existing knowledge and experience, but it’s also a great way to deepen your understanding and gain new skills. Topics you’ll explore include:
- Gender-based violence and sex trafficking.
- International law and organizations.
- Migration, asylum and refugees.
You’ll also have opportunities to participate in original research focused on immigration. Learn more about this research.
Turn your passion for social justice into a career through Arizona State University’s Master of Arts in social justice and human rights. You’ll learn how to develop ethical and intellectually sound responses to issues affecting vulnerable populations. You’ll also develop the skills needed to design future research projects and write grants.
This program’s curriculum builds on your existing knowledge while encouraging you to focus on issues relevant to you, your community and regions around the globe. In addition to eight core courses, you’ll also complete electives, which can be substituted with an ASU-approved internship or study abroad experience. The program culminates with an e-portfolio that showcases the abilities you’ve developed.
Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
best online bachelor’s programs.
best global universities.
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they’ve 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.
The admissions committee reviews applications holistically and may consider applicants with a GPA below 3.00 if they’ve demonstrated a strong past performance in related science coursework.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Personal statement.
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
- Letters of recommendation.
Your personal statement should describe your educational background, scholarly interests and academic and professional goals.
It’s preferred that letters of recommendation come from faculty members who know the applicant's work well. If these aren’t available, letters of recommendation from individuals in supervisory or professional roles will be accepted.
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
If the applicant doesn’t meet the minimum GPA requirements, the application may still be considered.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
