Thank you for your interest in Social Justice Studies at Lakehead University. This flexible, multi-streamed program delivered by accomplished faculty provides students with opportunities to deepen their understanding of Social Justice as an academic field of study as well as a discipline engaged in efforts to reduce social inequalities and pursue decolonization.
How to apply
Applications for the MA in Social Justice Studies are completed on the Faculty of Graduate Studies page. Applicants must respond to prompts about their preparation for the program, their interest in the program, and their goals post-graduation. Applicants must provide unofficial transcripts, English language test scores when appropriate, and request 2 letters of references.
For more information about the application process and the program as a whole, please consult the Program Handbook.
Graduate applications for the fall semester are typically accepted between November and May. Applications submitted before February 1 will be considered for Graduate Assistant positions.
Please contact Program Advisor, Kevin Brooks, in order to discuss the program before applying.
A Quick Look at the Program
Social Justice Studies is an interdisciplinary program that grounds students in the theory, research methods, and practices related to reducing social inequalities and expanding public participation in civil society and / or decolonizing efforts.
Students earn 4.0 Full Course Equivalents (FCEs) in order to graduate.
The Program has two required classes:
- SocJ 5030 Theories of Social Justice (.5 FCE)
- SocJ 5090 Methods and Methodologies of Social Justice (.5 FCE)
The program has four streams to choose from:
- Course Work
- Research Project
- Creative Project
- Practicum
The program also has a Gender and Women's Studies Specialization, which includes a required course (WOME 5101 Research Methods and Theory) + SocJ 5030 and work relevant to GWS done in multiple classes or the stream selection.
Students have up to two years to complete the degree. Students enroled are full-time; the program does not have a flex-time or part-time option.
As of Fall 2025, the program is officially available through the Orillia Campus, although significant coursework will be completed online.
Graduates continue on to doctoral programs or law school, they work in the public and non-profit sectors, they stay in current positions but with significant professional development, they deepen their engagement with communities and issues that matter to them.