“Social justice” is a concept connected to individual rights and the distribution of privilege — often in relation to wealth and class — within a society. Though it may seem to some like a modern buzzword or trendy topic, the truth is that social justice is a top concern for students and educators alike. In fact, in Princeton Review’s Summer 2024 College Administrator Survey, social justice is the third highest campus concern for those surveyed.
This points to a key finding: Social justice is inherently linked to the work of educators and administrators who seek to provide comprehensive care for their students. Therefore, administrators in training may benefit greatly from educational opportunities that address social justice in the coursework, such as the Arkansas State University (A-State) online Master of Science (M.S.) in Higher Education program.
Social Justice Standards
So-called “social justice standards” do exist within the realm of education. Developed by the organization Teaching Tolerance, they are defined as “a set of anchor standards and age-appropriate learning outcomes divided into four domains — identity, diversity, justice and action (IDJA).” The standards are intended to support educators and administrators across a variety of age groups and education settings, with the ultimate goal of making “schools more just, equitable and safe.”
Social justice is an increasingly popular topic for those involved in education, not only in a practical, day-to-day sense as with these standards but also in a speculative sense. Earlier this year, the International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education published a collection of articles on imagining a “more hopeful, more equitable, and radically more just” future for higher education.
The introduction to the collection points to the many social issues today’s students face. Quoting contributor Paulo Freire, the introduction states that “without a vision for tomorrow, hope is impossible.” Though the collection covers a vast range of ideas about how to use technology to better the lives of students and educators, social justice and leveling the playing field are at the core of that vision and hope.
What Is Social Justice in Education?
Based on these findings, a foundational education like a master’s degree in higher education can be a useful investment for the future of prospective college administrators. However, incorporating social justice into this foundational education is a powerful additional step that gives future administrators a grasp on one of the most important student concerns. A background in social justice can help administrators make vital decisions about teaching practices, campus policies and institutional standards.
Support Students and Earn Rewarding Career Opportunities With the Right Degree
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs requiring a master’s degree are projected to increase by 12.1% by 2033. That is why now is an ideal time for those already working in education or who want to make a career change to pursue an advanced degree, like an M.S.
Furthermore, job opportunities for higher education administrators are wide-ranging. Indeed points to 20 different roles suitable for persons with this educational background, including academic adviser, admissions officer, academic coordinator and even fundraising manager.
A-State’s online M.S. in Higher Education offers such a pathway, particularly through courses like Advising College Students; College Student Development; and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The last course focuses on offering the most meaningful support possible to students of diverse backgrounds and needs. All of these courses give administrators and educators a stronger understanding of challenges that students face and how to create positive change for those students within their roles.
Learn more about A-State’s online M.S. in Higher Education program.