Social Justice and Equity Studies (MA)

Faculty of Social Sciences Master of Arts

The MA in Social Justice and Equity Studies is an innovative transdisciplinary graduate program that responds to the increasing need for individuals to be trained in the expanding field of social justice and equity scholarship and activism. Social justice studies is a growing field of study in Canadian universities. It is transdisciplinary, diverse and pluralistic in its theoretical traditions, substantive problematics, methods, and approaches. Students engage with faculty affiliates in critically analyzing processes and struggles associated with age, ability, gender sexuality, racism, speciesism, the environment, class and other patterns of inequality.

Entry point:

  • September

Duration:

  • MRP – 4 terms (16 months)
  • MRP & Co-op – 6 terms (2 years)
  • Thesis – 6 terms (2 years)

This program is funded for the defined length above, as outlined on our financial page.

Application deadline:

  • January 15th

Applications are accepted until the program is full. Applications submitted after the deadline may be looked at on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications typically open in October.

General program inquiries
Graduate program director
Susan Spearey
Graduate program coordinator
Ginny McKinney

Apply now Graduate Studies at Brock

Graduate calendar Tuition and financial information

Program website Faculty research Faculty of Social Sciences

Admission requirements

  1. Check the university requirements and the program requirements.
  2. Complete the online application and submit the non-refundable application fee.
  3. You will need to submit your transcripts as well as the following program-specific materials:
    • Two letters of reference – submitted electronically only.
    • A statement of interest outlining your research background, general interests in social justice and equity, specific research interests, and interest in completing the MA in SJES at Brock University.
      For those selecting the Co-op option, please include an additional page with your Statement of Interest. Describe your interest in the SJES Co-op, the strengths or skills you would bring, the strengths or skills you want to develop, and how you expect the Co-op experience would support your career, research or activist goals.
    • A current resume or curriculum vitae.
  4. Admission criteria:
    • Successful completion of a four year bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline, with a minimum average of 75%. The program welcomes students from a variety of academic backgrounds. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in English as specified in the section titled “Proof of English Language Proficiency” in the Brock University Graduate Calendar.
    • For students who must provide proof of English Language Proficiency, a minimum TOEFL score of 580 (TWE 4.5) or equivalent is required by the Social Justice and Equity Studies Program.

Career outcomes

  • Government Agencies
  • Non-profit Social Services Organizations
  • Research Think Tanks
  • Unions
  • Universities
  • Media Organizations
  • Community Work
  • Social Activism
  • Consulting
  • Public Policy Analysis
  • Further Graduate Studies