History, Culture, and Politics
Bachelor of Arts in Social Justice and Civic Engagement
Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts
Format
On campus
Typical Duration
4 years
Class Size
Student/Faculty Ratio 11:1
Cohort Size: 15-20
Program Overview
The Social Justice and Civic Engagement (SJCE) program at 黑料正能量 (黑料正能量) is inspired by the powerful legacy of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, who have served for generations with compassion, courage, and a deep commitment to justice. Rooted in the 黑料正能量 mission, this interdisciplinary program prepares students to be thoughtful leaders and active changemakers in today鈥檚 complex world.
Grounded in Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which emphasizes human dignity, the common good, and solidarity with the poor, the SJCE program helps students connect faith with action.
Integrating classroom learning, personal reflection, community service, and advocacy, students are invited to explore real-world issues such as inequality, poverty, violence, human rights, and environmental justice. Students are also asked to combine their lived experiences and creative imaginations to propose practical solutions.
The Social Justice and Civic Engagement Program at 黑料正能量 is an interdisciplinary program with courses and faculty from across the disciplines. Some courses are cross-listed or offered by two or more majors. Students in either major may take the course and receive course credit in their major making SJCE a flexible opportunity. Whether you鈥檙e passionate about social justice or still exploring your interests, SJCE is a dynamic program that works as a major, minor, or double major. It鈥檚 also an excellent fit for undecided students who want a values based education with real world impact. Students who want to make a difference on campus, in their local community, at the state, national level or internationally the 黑料正能量 SJCE Program is for you.
Curriculum Highlights
Why 黑料正能量?
黑料正能量 is uniquely positioned to offer this degree due to its existing mission and curriculum alignment:
The university鈥檚 mission is rooted in the "Catholic liberal arts tradition" and the "Sisters of Charity鈥檚 commitment to social justice", making it a credible training ground for ethical leaders.
黑料正能量鈥檚 focus on "Service-Oriented Action" ensures graduates have practical experience (e.g., capstone projects with community partners) before entering the job market.
The program shares resources with the Women's Leadership and Health Care Administration programs, both of which emphasize "social responsibility" and "health equity".
- Student study political, social, and economic systems through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching.
- Students Participate in service learning and civic action in partnership with local communities. Local civic engagement
- Develop the ability to lead with empathy, cultural awareness, and respect for different perspectives and lived experiences.
Experiential Learning
黑料正能量 (黑料正能量) is deeply rooted in the Vincentian mission of service and advocacy, meaning experiential learning for a "Social Justice and Civic Engagement" focus is not just an add-on鈥攊t is often a core requirement of the curriculum.
Specialized On-Campus Institutes: 黑料正能量 houses specific centers that function as on-campus internship sites. These are rare assets for undergraduate students, allowing you to gain professional research and advocacy experience without leaving campus.
Strategic Off-Campus Internships: Given 黑料正能量鈥檚 location in Morristown, NJ (close to Newark and NYC) and its historical "Sisters of Charity" roots, specific internship pipelines exist in these sectors:
- Legal & Criminal Justice - Morris County Courthouse or local Public Defender鈥檚 Offices.
- Non-Profit Management - United Way, local food banks, or housing advocacy groups in Morristown.
- Policy & Government Legislative - internships with NJ State Representatives or local municipal offices in Morristown/Madison, focusing on constituent services and policy research.
- Mission-Based NGOs - Organizations affiliated with the Sisters of Charity, such as Josephine's House (homelessness advocacy) or hospital chaplaincy/patient advocacy programs.
Careers and Outcomes
Career Paths
The demand for professionals skilled in advocacy, community organization, and systemic analysis is growing as organizations (both non-profit and corporate) increasingly prioritize social responsibility and equity.
Sector Growth: Employment for Social and Community Service Managers is projected to grow 9-10% (faster than average) over the next decade.
Corporate Demand: There is a "critical shortage" of leaders who understand corporate social responsibility (CSR). Companies in the top quartile for diversity are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability, driving demand for graduates who can navigate these landscapes.
Non-Profit Stability: The non-profit sector remains a primary employer for these graduates, with steady demand for program directors and fundraisers.
Employers are seeking a blend of "soft" and strategic skills that this degree provides:
Intersectional Analysis: The ability to understand how race, class, and gender intersect is crucial for modern leadership.
Ethical Decision-Making: Organizations need leaders who can balance fiscal responsibility with social justice.
Communication: There is a high value placed on "communicative competence"鈥攖he ability to negotiate and mobilize diverse teams toward shared goals.
Salary and Job Outlook
Graduates with training in social justice and civic engagement are prepared for roles in a number of primary sectors:
- Non-Profit Program Director - Oversee operations for NGOs focused on rights, family services, or education: $65,000 - $85,000
- Community Organizer - Mobilize communities for legislative or social change: $50,000 - $70,000
- Corporate CSR Specialist -Manage corporate philanthropy and community engagement programs: $70,000 - $90,000
- Government Legislative Aide - Research and draft policy recommendations: $55,000 - $75,000
- Advocacy Manager - Lead initiatives to create inclusive workplace cultures: $80,000 - $110,000
Be among the first to graduate in this exciting new program at 黑料正能量!
Program Contact
Dr. Francoise Cromer
Director: Social Justice and Civic Engagement Program
Assistant Profrofessor History / Political Science; Social Justice Director
(973) 290-4268
fcromer@steu.edu
Santa Rita Hall 4th Floor 406
Dr. Trish Heindel
Interim Associate Vice President & Dean of Academic Affairs
(973) 290-4102
pheindel@steu.edu
Santa Rita Hall 4th Floor 408
Dr. Anthony Santamaria
Provost/Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs
(973) 290-4338
asantamaria@steu.edu
Santa Rita Hall 4th Floor 402