MA in Social Justice FAQs
Why is MTSO offering the MA in Social Justice degree?
It is MTSO’s mission to provide theological education and leadership in pursuit of a just, sustainable and generative world. From our earliest days, we have been a learning community infused with a commitment to social justice. This professional master’s degree takes full advantage of MTSO’s unique ethos and curriculum.
Social movements - and resistance to them - frequently are driven by the deeply held ethical and spiritual values of the individuals and groups involved. Competent work toward social justice requires an understanding of these values and how they shape conversation and action. MTSO’s curriculum offers a grounding in religion that will guide you as your work brings you into contact with people of many belief systems.
MTSO faculty members are activist scholars. Their grounding in theory is a catalyst for their activism beyond the classroom in pursuit of justice, sustainability and generativity.
What courses will I take?
The 30-hour core curriculum includes courses such as Theories of Justice and Movements for Social Change; Interreligious Theologies; and Social Justice and the Law. You will also choose 9 hours (three courses) of electives from classes such as Feminist and Womanist Ethics; Ecotheology and Global Ethics; and Race, Religion and Nation: From Black Power to Black Lives Matter. Here is a full list of required and elective courses.
When will classes meet?
MASJ classes include on-campus and online learning. All on-campus MASJ core courses meet on Monday or Tuesday evenings or on weekends. Times of the three elective courses required to complete the degree depend on the courses chosen.
What vocations might I pursue with an MASJ degree?
Depending on your area of interest, research and experience, the MASJ degree will prepare you for vocations such as nonprofit executive director, community organizer, lobbyist, peace worker, volunteer coordinator, labor organizer, farm manager, advocate, field director, case manager, program consultant, program director and instructor.