Program Overview

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Introduction to the Justice Studies Program

The Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies is an innovative social science and liberal arts program that examines current and historical social justice issues. Students explore social justice in the context of inequality, race, gender, citizenship, indigeneity, or other major contemporary issues.

Program Description

This program provides a broad approach to understanding justice within the legal system and in wider social contexts. To provide students with the analytical skills required of today's workforce, the program offers a social science focus and requires students to enroll in a quantitative data analysis course. Students use multiple research methodologies to understand social justice issues in diverse settings, working with a variety of people and cultures. The skills gained enable students to create real change.

At a Glance

• College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Location: Tempe or Online, ASU Local
• Second language requirement: No
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
• First required math course: MAT 114 - College Mathematics
• Math intensity: General

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Justice Studies program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social justice issues. Students can view the 2025-2026 curriculum or access curriculum archives for more information.

Concurrent Program Options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Accelerated Program Options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

Available Accelerated Programs

• Justice Studies, MS
• Public Administration, MPA
• Science and Technology Policy, MSTP
• Social and Cultural Pedagogy, MA

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone's situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program's learning outcomes include the following:

• Analyze a current justice issue.
• Explore and analyze key concepts and methodologies in the field.
• Apply principles in justice studies to research activities or community engagement.

Global Opportunities

Human rights, violence, resource conflict, and immigration are some of the issues that every country currently faces in some form or another. One of the best ways students can investigate potential solutions is by observing patterns from one culture to another through study abroad.

Career Opportunities

Graduates emerge from this program with knowledge and skills that enable them to identify and address social justice concerns as they manifest in their professional lives. Program graduates work in a variety of fields, including:

• Business
• Economics
• Education
• Human welfare and social work
• International relations
• Law
• Nongovernmental organizations
• Politics
• Public service fields
• Social advocacy

Example Job Titles and Salaries

• College Program Director: $103,960
• Community Specialist: $54,940
• Detective Sergeant: $93,580
• Human Behavior Researcher: $58,040
• Judge: $156,210
• Lawyer: $151,160
• Mediator: $67,710
• Political Analyst: $139,380
• Social Sciences Professor: $75,040
• Social Services Director: $78,240