Master of Arts in Sociology - Social Justice Studies (Course)

Lakehead University

The Department of Sociology offers a graduate program dedicated to enhancing students' knowledge of the societies in which they live, while increasing their ability to think independently and critically about important social issues. We now offer a course-based graduate program in Sociology. The course-based streams are available in the general program as well as in our three specializations. Students may apply to enter the thesis stream after completion of the first semester.Sociology is an ideal major for students planning to enter professions such as: social work, law, journalism and even medicine. Many graduates will decide to go into teaching or career counselling, while others enter careers in government, correctional services, community services and business. Since we teach excellent research skills, sociologists are often sought after to collect and analyze data for a wide range of organizations. Sociology studies all aspects of how human beings relate with each other. Such human relations range from intimate relationships, organizational and institutional dynamics, through to social processes that are felt at national and global levels. Substantive issues of interest to sociologists include health and illness, marriage and family, crime and deviance, science and technology, popular culture, social change, economy and society, gender and sexuality, education, social inequality, prejudice and discrimination, among many others.The Social Justice Studies specialization enables students to conduct original research on social justice issues by drawing on the disciplinary tools provided by Sociology. Students may investigate any topic relevant to social justice studies, by utilizing appropriate theoretical frameworks and research methodologies from Sociology. While a strong foundation in Sociology is emphasized, interdisciplinary work, public engagement, and community activism are also encouraged where appropriate.