Justice, Community and Leadership: Leadership Concentration, BA
How do we make the world a better, more equitable place?
This rigorous program of interdisciplinary study is designed for students passionate about addressing interconnected systems of injustice and oppression. Guided by our renowned, approachable faculty, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of social justice research and practice.
You’ll have numerous opportunities to work alongside communities and organizations, at home and abroad, to tackle real-world injustices. Along the way, you’ll hone your critical inquiry, adaptive and systems thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, all valuable skills in the new economy.
CURRICULUM
Earn an JCL: Leadership, BA and a Single-Subject Teaching Credential at Saint Mary's in just four years through our Single Subject Teaching Credential Integrated Pathway!
What can you do with a degree in JCL: Leadership?
This major helps you build skills in organizing people, understanding policy, communicating across different cultures, and seeing how social systems work in nonprofits, government, or mission-driven organizations.
(*Some careers may require extra certification or graduate school)
Community Organizer
Mobilizes residents, builds coalitions, and runs campaigns to advance local policy and social change
Nonprofit Program Manager
Designs, budgets, and evaluates community programs while supervising staff and reporting outcomes to funders
Policy Analyst (Entry-Level)
Synthesizes research and stakeholder input into briefs and recommendations for agencies or advocacy groups
DEI Coordinator
Implements inclusion training, tracks equity metrics, and supports employee/resource groups within organizations
Public Affairs & Advocacy Associate
Manages stakeholder outreach, prepares testimony, and coordinates communications on legislative priorities
Social Impact Consultant (Analyst)
Assesses community needs, maps systems, and recommends evidence-based interventions for mission-driven clients
Campaign Field Director
Leads voter outreach, volunteer operations, and data-driven field strategy for candidates or ballot measures
Community Health & Wellness Coordinator
Builds partnerships, delivers health education, and measures program impact in underserved communities
Saint Mary's Testimonials
"The Justice, Community, and Leadership (JCL) major is truly unique and impactful. It has assisted me in seeing our society, both past and present, from the perspectives of the oppressed, the marginalized, and the disadvantaged. which in turn, afforded me the opportunity to revitalize my own thoughts on many societal issues/contexts.”
Brandon Dela Cruz, Class of 2022
