Professional Science Masters in Biotechnology
The PSM in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's is a two-year, 40-credit hybrid program de...
B.A. in Justice, Community and Leadership
Moraga, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Justice, Community and Leadership (JCL) at Saint Mary's College is founded on the principle of "education for liberation." It challenges students to grapple with complex societal inequities and develop the capacity for transformative social change. The program integrates various academic disciplines to analyze the roots and consequences of social injustices, empowering students to work alongside affected communities. It aims to develop thoughtful leaders who understand their positionality within systems of power and are committed to ethical engagement and advocacy for a more just social order.
Curriculum: The JCL curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical grounding and practical application. While specific course lists may vary, common themes include the study of interconnected systems of oppression (economic, racial, gender, environmental), critical theory, and engaged pedagogy. Students delve into courses such as "Theory and Inquiry in JCL," "Environmental Justice," "The Global Community," "Advanced Leadership: Engaged Learning," and "Advanced Leadership Theory." A significant component of the curriculum is dedicated to experiential learning, including an "Internship" requirement, where students work directly with communities and organizations to address real-world injustices. The program culminates in a "Senior Capstone Project" and a "Senior E-Portfolio," showcasing their accumulated knowledge and skills.
Research Focus: The B.A. in Justice, Community and Leadership at Saint Mary's College strongly emphasizes research that challenges dominant assumptions and contributes to social justice. Students are trained to use "appropriate library and information literacy skills" and "evaluate and apply research methodologies" to articulate and interpret complex social issues. The program encourages students to analyze unjust power relations and systemic oppression by "centering the experiences, histories, and visions of oppressed communities." This critical, community-engaged approach to research empowers students to contribute meaningfully to understanding and addressing social inequities, culminating in projects that reflect their in-depth inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a cornerstone of the Justice, Community and Leadership program at Saint Mary's College. The curriculum explicitly includes an "Internship" component, providing students with direct experience working alongside communities and organizations to tackle real-world injustices. This hands-on learning is crucial for developing practical skills and building professional networks. The program's commitment to "community-engaged scholarship" means students are often embedded within non-profits, government agencies, or advocacy groups, gaining invaluable exposure to the fields they aspire to enter. Faculty, with their expertise in social justice research and practice, also serve as vital conduits to industry connections and opportunities for graduates.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Justice, Community and Leadership inherently integrates a robust global perspective by examining "interconnected systems of injustice and oppression" that manifest "at home and abroad." The curriculum includes courses like "The Global Community" and encourages students to work with communities and organizations across borders. The program's learning outcomes emphasize demonstrating knowledge of how systemic inequities are "reproduced and interconnected historically and in our contemporary world," highlighting a transnational understanding of justice. By fostering cultural humility and understanding one's positionality within global systems of power, the program prepares graduates to contribute to social change efforts on a global scale.
Location
Moraga, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 59251
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Saint Mary's College of California is dedicated to making high-quality education accessible and affordable for students from around the world. To support this commitment, the college offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a desire to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission no separate application is required. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores (if submitted), extracurricular involvement, and personal accomplishments.
International Excellence Scholarship: This competitive award recognizes exceptional international students who exhibit outstanding academic performance and global leadership. Students selected for the International Excellence Scholarship may receive additional financial support beyond standard merit scholarships. Selection is based on a holistic review of the application, essays, and achievements.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While financial aid for international students is limited, some need-based assistance may be available on a case-by-case basis. Students are encouraged to communicate directly with the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid to explore all available options.
External Scholarships and Sponsorships: International students are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships from global organizations, private foundations, and government-sponsored programs. The college provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for third-party funding opportunities that can supplement institutional aid.
Graduates of Saint Mary's College of California's B.A. in Justice, Community and Leadership are uniquely equipped with a powerful blend of critical thinking, analytical, and practical skills.
Community Organizer/Advocate: Works directly with community members to identify issues, mobilize resources, and advocate for policy changes or programs that address systemic inequalities and promote social justice.
Non-profit Program Manager/Coordinator: Designs, implements, and oversees programs for non-profit organizations focused on areas such as human rights, social services, environmental justice, or community development.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Specialist: Helps organizations develop and implement strategies, training, and policies to foster a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace or institutional culture. This role is growing significantly across corporate, non-profit, and educational sectors.
Social Worker (often requires MSW): Provides support and resources to individuals, families, and communities facing various challenges, advocating for their well-being and connecting them to necessary services, often with a focus on systemic issues of poverty, discrimination, or access.
Policy Analyst: Researches, evaluates, and advises on public policies for government bodies, think tanks, or advocacy groups, with a focus on their impact on diverse communities and issues of social justice and equity.
Human Resources Specialist: Focuses on creating fair and equitable workplace practices, managing employee relations, and fostering an inclusive environment within organizations, leveraging an understanding of power dynamics and organizational justice.
Restorative Justice Practitioner: Works in educational, legal, or community settings to facilitate processes that repair harm and resolve conflicts through dialogue and accountability, emphasizing rehabilitation and community well-being over punitive measures.
Grant Writer/Development Officer: Secures funding for non-profit organizations and social justice initiatives by researching funding opportunities and writing compelling grant proposals that articulate the organization's mission and impact.
Youth Program Coordinator: Develops and manages programs for youth, particularly those in underserved or marginalized communities, focusing on leadership development, educational equity, and social empowerment.
Lawyer/Paralegal (requires J.D. for lawyer): The JCL degree provides an excellent foundation for legal careers, particularly in civil rights law, public interest law, immigration law, or any area requiring a deep understanding of justice systems, advocacy, and social equity.
