Thompson Rivers University

Overview

The Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice at Thompson Rivers University equips students with the skills to critically analyze inequality, advocate for human rights, and create effective responses to social change. The program offers flexible learning pathways, allowing graduates to pursue careers in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government, social services, or continue their education with doctoral studies.

• Degree: Master of Arts (MA)
• Program focus: Human rights, social justice, equity, and social change
• Delivery: Flexible learning pathways
• Credits: Structured as a graduate-level MA program
• Language of instruction: English
• PGWP eligibility: Eligible under IRCC’s guidelines
• Application: Through the university’s graduate admissions process
• Start dates: Varies by intake

What you'll study

The curriculum is designed to enhance understanding of human rights theory, social justice practice, and contemporary issues in media, culture, and digital environments. Course offerings may vary, so it is advisable to review the current curriculum with the university.

Sample courses include:

• Genocide in the 20th Century
• Settler Colonialism: Decolonization and Responsibility
• Body Rights: Systems and Social Movements
• Art, Media and Dissent: Bridging the Local and the Global
• Truth to Power: Promoting Social Change on Stage and Screen
• Social Justice and Networked Culture: Digital Communities and Online Journalism

Learning approach: The program emphasizes seminar-style discussions, critical readings, and practical analyses of social justice issues. Students may also have additional requirements based on their chosen pathway, which can be confirmed with Thompson Rivers University.

Check the full curriculum on the program website for the latest course offerings and pathway-specific requirements.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• Completion of a four-year undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., sociology, political science, history, or related fields) from an accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA: 3.3 on a 4.3 scale in the last 60 credits of undergraduate study. Exceptions may be considered based on demonstrated academic or relevant experiential growth in human rights or social justice.

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 94
• IELTS: minimum overall score of 7.0

Other requirements

• Letter of intent: Detailing your experience and motivation in human rights or social justice.
• CV / résumé

Note: Application deadlines and admission requirements may vary. Confirm the latest information on the university’s graduate admissions page.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice program are well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths. Opportunities may include roles in NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, and social services. Additionally, graduates may choose to continue their academic journey through doctoral studies in related fields.