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Social Transformation (Graduate Certificate)

Social Transformation (Graduate Certificate)

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Social Transformation (Graduate Certificate)

Social Justice, Social Movements, community organizing, social innovation, social transformation

Learn to think critically about social, cultural and political dimensions of social transformation. Explore historical and current dynamics from diverse theories, conduct interdisciplinary research and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective contributor toward social change.

Program description
Degree awarded: Certificate  Social Transformation Certificate

The graduate certificate program in social transformation is designed for graduate and postbaccalaureate students interested in how change is catalyzed by social movements, protest, law, social entrepreneurship, activism and community organizing. Through the exploration of theories and research related to social change, students augment their disciplinary degrees and are prepared to contribute as leaders and changemakers in their communities.

At a glance
Degree requirements

15 credit hours

Required Core (3 credit hours)
SST 501 Foundations of Social Transformation (3)

Electives (12 credit hours)

Additional Curriculum Information
The electives taken are selected with the faculty advisor, who helps ensure they have a common theme and that students' experiences in the courses align with the learning goals outlined for the certificate.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. statement of purpose
  4. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

International students who need an F-1 or J-1 visa need to apply to and be accepted into a graduate degree program prior to being considered for the certificate program. International students residing in the U.S. on other types of visas must adhere to all Graduate College policies and procedures regarding admission to be considered for admission to this certificate program.

Students must submit a statement of purpose, no longer than 250 words, to the School of Social Transformation. The statement should indicate a demonstrated interest in the study of social transformation (e.g., previous coursework, professional experience, internships, career plans).

Applicants must meet the above criteria and have strong academic credentials, including their undergraduate or graduate GPA, and demonstrated interest in the area of social transformation, as judged by the School of Social Transformation graduate committee. The committee reviews applications for the certificate program in the fall and spring semesters of each year and makes its admission recommendations to Graduate Admission Services.

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.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person Rolling
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person Rolling
Program learning outcomes

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

  • Demonstrate knowledge of social theory, concepts and research methods to understand social change issues and analyze solutions to social problems.
  • Apply the foundations and principles of social change theory and research to specific domestic or international issues through advanced research.
Career opportunities

Certificate graduates may go on to law school, graduate school or other professional degree programs. Potential career options include working as community organizers, youth and community advocates, community-based researchers and social justice consultants.

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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