Social Justice Studies

Social Justice Studies Associate in Arts for Transfer

Social justice is the idea that all members of a society are entitled to equal rights and equal opportunities. Social Justice Studies recognizes the social inequality and inequities in society—particularly regarding race and ethnicity, and gender and sexuality—and works in its analysis toward creating a more equitable society. More specifically, Social Justice Studies analyzes the injustices in society, such as how racism, sexism, and homophobia are manifested through discrimination, economic disparities, and violence. Furthermore, Social Justice Studies examines social policies that aim to alleviate injustices and create a more equitable society. The degree will enable students to develop a strong foundation in race and ethnicity, gender and women's studies, social research methods or quantitative reasoning, and understanding patterns of inter-personal behavior, and will also offer interdisciplinary perspectives on social inequality and social justice. The major provides students the interdisciplinary exploration of social and identity issues of social justice and prepare students for future humanitarian, social worker, advocacy, and social justice consultant. The Associate in Arts in Social Justice Studies for Transfer is designed for students who would like to transfer to a California State University (CSU) to complete a bachelor’s degree with a major in Social Justice Studies. Students who complete the degree meet minimum CSU eligibility requirements as upper-division transfer and fulfill major preparation requirements for admission to a major that has been deemed similar. The degree requirements will fulfill the lower division major requirements at many local CSUs. Students are advised, however, to meet with a counselor to assess the course requirements for specific local CSUs and to validate which CSUs are considered local. Upon completion of the following requirements, the student will be eligible for an Associate Degree for Transfer: (1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following: a. California General Education Transfer Curriculum (CalGETC). b. A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district. (2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0. (3) The completion of all courses required for the major with a “C” or better. A “P” (Pass) grade is acceptable for courses in the major.

Program Learning Outcomes

• 1. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to recognize, analyze, and research intersecting systems of oppression, the dynamics of power and privilege, and prejudice and discrimination.

• 2. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to identify and analyze theories and practices of social change, resistance and empowerment, and movements and activism.

• 3. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to recognize, research and promote awareness of specific manifestations of oppression such as ableism, classism, ethnocentrism, heterosexism, racism, sexism; the systems, dynamics, and interpersonal as well as institutional power structures that keep these oppressions in place.

• 4. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to analyze and describe social, cultural, and historical contexts for movements such as civil, women's, disability, and LGBTQ rights as well as movements for several specific marginalized communities and peoples of color.

Program Requirements