A liberal arts degree offers a broad and versatile foundation that is exceptionally well-suited for a career in social justice. By fostering critical thinking, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of diverse cultures and societies, a liberal arts education equips you to tackle complex social issues with nuance and empathy.
Courses in disciplines such as sociology, political science, and philosophy help you analyze systemic problems and develop innovative solutions. The emphasis on research, writing, and ethical reasoning prepares you to advocate effectively, engage in informed policy discussions, and contribute meaningfully to organizations dedicated to social change.
A liberal arts degree combines a deep understanding of societal challenges with critical thinking, fostering key transferable skills essential for enacting social change, such as:
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Research and Organization
- Leadership
- Communication and Listening
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Written and Oral Communication
Related Interests
Interested in learning more about what you can do with a liberal arts degree?
Majors
Each major develops analytical, research, and communication skills that are essential for driving meaningful change.
Explores the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans while addressing systemic racism, inequality, and social movements. Prepares students to advocate for equity, develop policies, and engage in community-based activism.
Focuses on understanding diverse cultures, societies, and human behavior. Equips students with skills to analyze systemic inequalities and design culturally informed solutions for social justice initiatives.
Examines resource distribution, economic inequality, and the impact of policies on marginalized communities. Prepares students to develop strategies and policies that promote economic justice and equitable growth.
Builds skills in critical thinking, communication, and storytelling. Enables students to analyze and address social issues through advocacy, journalism, or literature that amplifies underrepresented voices.
Studies past events, movements, and systemic injustices to understand their impact on current social issues. Equips students to inform policy, educate communities, or work in historical preservation with a justice-oriented focus.
Analyzes government systems, policymaking, and power dynamics. Prepares students to work in advocacy, public administration, or law to create policies that address social injustices and promote equity.
Examines social structures, inequality, and group dynamics. Provides a foundation for developing initiatives that address systemic disparities in areas like education, healthcare, and housing.
Focuses on gender equity, intersectionality, and the experiences of women and marginalized genders. Equips students to challenge societal norms, advocate for rights, and drive policy changes that promote inclusivity.
While this page shows many opportunities and examples of what our students and alumni have done related to this area of interest, this is not an exhaustive list of majors or experiences.
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- Civil Rights and Restorative Justice Project at Northeastern School of Law
- U.S. Department of Justice
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- U.S. Department of State
- U.S. Agency for International Development
- Geisinger Medical Center
- Centre County Planning and Community Development
Research Spotlights
- Underrepresented Perspectives Lab (Janae Sayler)
- Underrepresented Perspectives Lab (Carter Gangl)
Education Abroad Destinations
South Africa
Netherlands
Spain
France
Germany
United Kingdom
Post-Graduation Opportunities
- Law school
- MBA
- Graduate school to study public policy, law, human rights, gender studies, urban and regional planning, sociology, public administration, nonprofit management, and education policy
- Urban Planner
- Human Rights Advocate
- Social Worker
- Policy Analyst
- Community Organizer
- Nonprofit Program Manager
- Public Interest Lawyer
- Education Coordinator
- Advocacy Director
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Government and Public Administration
- Education
- Health Care
- Legal Services
- International Development
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Media and Communications
- Research and Academia
- Urban Planning and Housing
- American Civil Liberties Union
- Teach For America
- Planned Parenthood
- World Health Organization
- Human Rights Watch
- Habitat for Humanity
- Pew Research Center
- The Urban Institute
- United Nations
- Equal Justice Initiative
- Urban Institute
Maggie Day
Fatmah Almeer
Martha Wadsworth
Anshuta Beeram
Dan Bransfield
