Online Master of Arts in Social Justice and Human Rights
Turn your passion for social justice into a career through Arizona State University’s Master of Arts in social justice and human rights. You’ll learn how to develop ethical and intellectually sound responses to issues affecting vulnerable populations. You’ll also develop the skills needed to design future research projects and write grants.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 11
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
The skills you’ll develop in this master’s program
Throughout this program, you’ll learn key issues, theories and applied practices related to global justice and humanitarianism. You’ll also address how intersecting dimensions of social identity influence human rights, including gender, race, ethnicity, class, sexuality and nationality.
While studying these topics, you’ll gain the skills needed to design research projects and write grants to support the research and practice of social justice and human rights nonprofit managers and scholars.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
This program aligns with those who have previous experience in human rights and social justice work or a general interest in these topics. However, the most important factor for interested students is a passion for understanding social injustice. As long as you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, you can apply to this program.
Why it’s worth it to get a master’s in social justice and human rights
In addition to advancing your career, earning a master's in human rights and social justice is a great way to determine what social justice and human rights issues you’re most passionate about. To graduate from this program, you’re required to complete a wide range of thematic courses and a capstone e-portfolio. Not only does this allow you to build on existing knowledge and experience, but it’s also a great way to deepen your understanding and gain new skills. Topics you’ll explore include:
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Social justice and human rights master’s courses
This program’s curriculum builds on your existing knowledge while encouraging you to focus on issues relevant to you, your community and regions around the globe. In addition to eight core courses, you’ll also complete electives, which can be substituted with an ASU-approved internship or study abroad experience. The program culminates with an e-portfolio that showcases the abilities you’ve developed.
What can I do with a master's in human rights and social justice?
Upon graduation, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue a variety of careers, including roles in nonprofits, nongovernmental organizations and international governmental organizations. Potential career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Educators who emphasize giving back
Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.
Educators who emphasize giving back
Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.
How to apply
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences.
Supporting the next generation of social justice and human rights leaders
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs.
Top 10%
best global universities.
80%
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
