Why study Social Justice?

The SJC will allow students the opportunity to explore a wide range of perspectives and critically examine diverse domestic and transnational systems of domination, oppression, and inequalities and how they relate and intersect with each other. Students will also learn about contemporary and past emancipatory movements that have struggled for change with justice in mind for all. At the end of the program, students will not only understand the sources of oppression, but also be able to imagine that a more just world is possible—a world with less cruelty, environmental destruction, and inequalities, both domestic and international. In order to fulfill their missions, including those of social responsibility, many employers, both governmental and non-governmental currently seek graduates who have expertise and are enthusiastic about social justice.

Admission Requirements

Students already pursuing a degree in any college at UC can add the certificate to their program. Be sure to submit a declaration of the certificate program using our online form.

In addition, you must meet with the program director so that they are aware that you are pursuing the certificate and can advise you appropriately. Do this early enough to avoid delay in obtaining your certificate.

Students not currently pursuing a degree may declare the certificate after establishing non-matriculated status.

  • Environmental consultant
  • Nongovernmental organizational worker or leader
  • Labor or social justice organizer
  • Reproductive justice / gender equity advocate
  • Social justice attorney
  • Federal government employee focused on environmental, labor, or social justice
  • Social justice entrepreneur
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion corporate trainer or advocate

Contact the program director, whose name and information appear on this page.

Students in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) enjoy many benefits afforded through study at a research-extensive institution ranked among the nation's top 25 public research universities. UC's urban, Tristate location offers exciting opportunities for global education, research and service learning, while its student-centered focus includes an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, a nationally recognized Center for Exploratory Studies and a highly successful First Year Experience program that teaches critical skills for first-year students and provides connections with important campus resources. 

Make sure that you have declared the certificate program online. Next, make sure that the certificate program director is aware of when you are finishing the program. If you are pursuing another bachelor's degree, then your certificate will be reviewed at the time that you submit your separate degree application.

Students must complete 9 credit hours in the Activism and Social Change subject area and 9 credit hours in the Power and Identity subject area for a total of 18 credit hours (6 classes). Students may not take more than 3 classes in 1 subject area.

At least 4 of the 6 courses must be a combination of upper-level UG courses (3000 level and higher). Students may take 2 lower-level UG courses (1000 and/or 2000 level). In each of the 6 courses, students must earn at least a C- (C minus) for the course to count towards the certificate.

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Contact Information

Dr. Olga Sanmiguel-Valderamma
French Hall West
3314
Cincinnati, OH 45221
(513) 556-6654
sanmigo@ucmail.uc.edu

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Program Code: 15CRT-SJC-C1