arizona state university phd justice studies

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Justice studies doctoral student awarded Cotutelle PhD scholarship

ASU justice studies doctoral student Nicholet Deschine Parkhurst in Sydney, Australia. Photo courtesy Nicholet Deschine Parkhurst

As a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe,  Nicholet Deschine Parkhurst Nicholet Deschine Parkhurst is also a member of the Navajo Nation. took  the 2016 No Dakota Access Pipeline (NoDAPL) protests personally.

Recently, the Arizona State University justice studies doctoral student was awarded a two-year Cotutelle PhD scholarship to simultaneously attend Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, where she will research Indigenous peoples' use of social media during the NoDAPL protests as well as the Stand with Standing Rock social justice movements around rights to water, land and sacred sites.

The Cotutelle program strengthens collaborative research agendas across two international research universities. The two respective universities must agree to allow a student enrolled primarily at one university to complete a second doctoral thesis at another international university, simultaneously.

Sydney is a place broadly acknowledged as the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. Deschine Parkhurst’s research will also examine global Indigenous collaborations with the Gadigal and others, such as the Maori of New Zealand, who traveled to North Dakota to support the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.

Thanks to the Cotutelle program, Deschine Parkhurst said, “I have the opportunity to bring additional perspectives from Indigenous peoples in Australia and New Zealand on how social media bridged their connection to the NoDAPL protests.”

The Cotutelle scholarship is the first ever to be negotiated through ASU.

While studying at Macquarie University, Deschine Parkhurst, who already has a master's degree in social work and in public policy, will continue to uphold her responsibilities at ASU, which include serving as the director of travel for the Graduate and Professional Student Association and as a delegate for the Women’s Council of Indigenous Doctoral Scholars.

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7 Fully-Funded PhD’s in Social Justice

We have compiled a list of 7 fully-funded opportunities to obtain a PhD in Social Justice. The programs we compiled span from Australia, over UK to the US and Canada.

1 Arizona State University (USA) – PhD in Justice Studies

This innovative interdisciplinary program is housed in the first-ever School of Social Transformation. The intersectional curriculum emphasizes social science research approaches, critical theory, community-engaged practices, and legal and economic foundations. In addition, students in this program can also apply to be concurrently enrolled in the law school, graduating with both a PhD and a JD. The diverse affiliated faculty have experience in law, public policy, economics, youth issues, criminal justice, environment, education, citizenship, gender, race, and human rights.

Funding details:  Every year, the Arizona State University admits the number of doctoral students who can be fully funded with graduate fellowships and teaching and research assistantships. These fellowships cover student’s tuition, health insurance, and also carry a stipend. Continuation of fellowships and a stipend depend upon funding, satisfactory progress towards a degree, and satisfactory performance in re teaching assistantships and research.

Once doctoral students approach the final stages of their program, they can apply for competitive Dissertation Completion Fellowships from the University’s Graduate Education. These fellowships provide an opportunity for students to completely focus on their doctoral dissertations. In case a student’s ultimate goal is a professorial career, they will  be encouraged to participate in University’s Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) Program after the first year of doctoral studies. Additionally, to support the off-site research and participation in professional meetings and conferences, the University’s Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA) offers competitive research grants and travel funding .

2 University of Liverpool (UK) – PhD in Sociology and Social Policy

If you are looking for a social scientific focus to your PhD research, the University of Liverpool offers an approach that is grounded in empirical research and public policy. Housed within their School of Law and Social Justice, this program foregrounds issues of social justice in its qualitative and legal methodologies. It focuses on three broad areas of research: urban space and culture, crime and regulation, and critical social policy (including welfare, inequality, and social justice). In addition, the University of Liverpool maintains an active, cross-disciplinary research community that emphasizes collaboration.

Funding details : If you are planning to undertake the PhD program you may need to seek financial support from various sources. There are several different ways of meeting the costs of studying for a PhD at the University of Liverpool: through PhD studentships , which usually cover the cost of research degree and provide a stipend to cover living expenses, self-funding PhD by covering the costs yourself or through other sources, applying for PhD scholarships, grants and bursaries which might cover fees and help with other expenses, and working alongside your PhD.

The University of Liverpool offers a range of PhD scholarships and awards to the UK, the EU and international students. You can check out the list of available scholarships as well as the eligibility criteria, award amounts and application details at the University’s website . Additionally, some PhD students are offered full-funding through Graduate Teaching Assistantships, which includes all school fees and a living stipend. Outside funding is available through institutional research clusters at the University of Liverpool, internal scholarships, and the North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership.

3 University of Massachusetts, Boston (USA) – PhD in Global Inclusion and Social Development

If you want to focus on global issues, this program centers on human rights and social justice as they intersect with global development, health and wellness, and economic policy. Students are trained in research and policy methods that will improve educational opportunity, community wellness, economic parity, and social opportunities for people across the globe regardless of race, gender, class, or sexual orientation. In addition to core classes, each student selects an additional concentration to further focus their research. Some options include human rights, transnational studies, and nonprofit management. The department also has a close relationship with the medical and public health fields and offers training in disability studies, gerontology, rehabilitation counseling, and vision studies.

Funding details:  Research assistantships are offered on a competitive basis to fulltime students for up to three years of study, with responsibilities over and above course and seminar requirements. Graduate Assistants (GAs) are expected to work 18 hours a week on a grant based within SGISD and projects within the Institute for Community Inclusion, the disability-focused research and training institute. The University makes efforts to match students to projects in their interest area; however, that is not always possible. Students’ responsibilities under assistantships are work obligations, and projects rely on the GAs to complete project work. During assistantships students receive a stipend for their work, which is paid bi-weekly throughout the academic year. Besides the stipends, assistantships also support tuition, educational fees, and health insurance. UMass Boston also administers the Coverdell Fellows Program that offers partial scholarships to returning Peace Corps volunteers.

4 University of British Columbia (Canada) –  PhD in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice

Part of UBC’s Institute for Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice, this interdisciplinary program provides a solid basis in feminist, intersectional, and de-colonial theory as well as qualitative research methodologies. The department also supports four focused research networks pulling students from across the university: Critical Racial and Anti-Colonial Studies, Ecologies of Social Difference/Social Justice, Indigenous Pedagogies, and Rethinking Responses and Responsibilities in River Regions. While many of their PhD students are engaged activists, the rigorous theoretical focus of this program makes it a good fit for those who are looking for careers as academic researchers, writers, and teachers.

Funding details : All successful admitted applicants to the PhD program will be considered for financial support and no separate application is necessary for this process. The UBC’s Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF) is a major source of funding for PhD students and the Graduate Entrance Scholarships are assigned during the admissions process itself. Through this fellowship, students are provided with financial support of at least $18.200 per year plus tuition for up to four years of their doctoral student. Both domestic and international PhD students can also apply for Teaching Assistantships and Graduate Academic Assistantships. All Canadian students are expected to apply for the SSHRC and CIHR fellowships , while international students are expected to apply for the UBC Affiliated Fellowships. For more information on tuition, application fees, student fees, costs of living similar you can visit the UBC’s Tuition, Fees and Cost of Living website.  You can also access tuition information under Tuition / Program costs on the Doctor of Philosophy in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (PhD) website.

5 University of Toronto (Canada) – PhD in Social Justice Education

This program provides rigorous scholarly training in both social justice and the field of education, producing scholars who understand how to bring social justice issues into the classroom. Using approaches from history, philosophy, sociology, and political science, student research explores the relationship of education to society and breaks down systemic barriers in education. The department supports two major research centers – Centre for Integrative Anti-Racism Studies and Centre for Media and Culture in Education – and is affiliated with other centers focusing on francophone education, urban schooling, women’s studies, comparative education, and transformative learning.

Funding details:  The University offers base funding packages to students in full time PhD programs. Base packages provide students in the funded cohort a minimum level of support to offset the cost of graduate education. The estimated value of the base funding package for the academic year 2020/21 is at least $24.850, including tuition and incidental fees; however, the average income of students is typically more than the base. There are four types of packages that comprise the funding. For more information on the types of packages you can visit the following website . Additional external funding, scholarships, and assistantships are also available.

6 Vanderbilt University (Tennessee, USA) – PhD in Community Research and Action

If you are looking for a PhD program that gives you the opportunity to work in either academia or public policy, this program may be a good fit. Students engage in active, community-based research that is oriented towards social justice philosophies. The Community Research and Action department grew out of a community psychology program and represents an interdisciplinary model that combines psychology, community development, organizational change, health policy, and social policy. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, students focus on multi-level problem solving, interdisciplinary perspectives, collaborative and transformative action, and a dynamic theory of social change.

Funding details : All entering students receive financial support covering 18 hours of tuition/semester, a stipend, and health insurance for up to five years in the program in the form of teaching or research assistantships. The funding packages usually require 20 hours a week of graduate assistant work. In some cases, hours are split to 10 hours as teaching assistant duties and 10 hours as research assistant duties working with a faculty member. One of the options is also to work 20 hours per week in one of these areas.  There are also limited funds to support conference-related travel and support.

7 Australian Catholic University – PhD in Social and Political Thought

Part of the University’s Institute for Social Justice, this program asks its students to read and think critically about justice, equality, freedom, democracy, and the public good. The program is interdisciplinary in nature and the faculty and students have backgrounds in a variety of disciplines, including philosophy, political science, sociology, anthropology, and gender studies. While theoretically rigorous, the department encourages students to combine their theoretical research with social justice action. They also have the Sydney School for Critical Social Thought, a yearly 2-week-long symposium featuring public lectures, masterclasses, and discussions with leading academics and public intellectuals in the social justice community.

Funding details : While funding is not guaranteed, there are full scholarships (including living allowances and health coverage) available for domestic, international, and indigenous students. Domestic students can apply for an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) Scholarship, while International students can apply for an International Postgraduate Research Scholarship. Indigenous students can apply for an ACU Indigenous. For more information on scholarships visit ACU Research Website .

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Criminology and Criminal Justice PhD

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In the School of Social Transformation, you’ll learn how to create social change that is democratic, inclusive and just.

Study diversity and justice while learning about the historical, cultural and social forces that shape our society, and find innovative ways to engage with the community and positively transform the world. 

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Students in the School of Social Transformation become globally informed leaders in community engagement, research advancement and the continued effort to break down barriers. 

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Of asian pacific american studies ., online degrees, in african and african american studies , justice studies and more ., groundbreaking research, at the social transformation lab., community engagement, with local and global impact., innovative solutions, that foster equity and inclusion . , solving society's biggest problems..

How do we live? How do we organize? What is just and right? And who gets to decide? Our centers and initiatives lead transformative research that answers society's fundamental questions. 

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A new generation of leaders..

Our students become globally informed members of society who are interdisciplinary, team-oriented, real-world problem-solvers that can thrive in any environment, career or pursuit.

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I will continue my education and pursue my master’s degree in museum studies and research contributions of African Americans within the U.S. military.

My dream after that would be to work at the Smithsonian and share my love for history and African American culture with anyone who wants to learn.”

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Juris Doctor, JD

On this page: -->, how does the juris doctor (jd) degree work at asu law.

The Juris Doctor (JD) degree at ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law is a three-year full-time program that incorporates practical learning and experiences.

ASU Law first-year JD students take courses in civil procedure, contracts, torts, legal method and writing, property, constitutional law, criminal law, legal advocacy, and professional responsibility. Courses in the first-year curriculum are required and are administratively assigned. Generally, the required course load for the first year is 15 assigned credits in the fall and spring semesters. Several  focused programs  can enhance JD students' experiences.

You can pursue a JD concurrently with other degrees from ASU like a Master in Business Administration (MBA), Master in Social Work (MSW), Master of Sports Law and Business (MSLB), or a PhD in Justice Studies. Mayo Clinic School of Medicine students also have an opportunity to pursue a  dual JD/MD degree .

Quick facts

Next start date: August 2024

Total credit hours: 88

Students who receive scholarships: 100%

Year full-time program: 3

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How can a Juris Doctor degree help you?

The Juris Doctor (JD) degree at ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law is a three-year full-time program that incorporates practical learning and experiences. Learning outcomes for the JD degree include competency in the following:

• Knowledge and understanding of substantive and procedural law;
• Legal analysis and reasoning, legal research, problem-solving, and written and oral communication in the legal context;
• Exercise of proper professional and ethical responsibilities to clients and the legal system; and
• Other professional skills needed for competent and ethical participation as a member of the legal profession.

Why ASU Law?

ASU Law is a highly-ranked and highly respected public law school dedicated to educating the next generation of legal professionals. In honor of its namesake Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, ASU Law graduates are prepared to shape the legal field, both in and out of the courtroom.

The highest-ranked law school in Arizona and the No. 12 public law school in the U.S., ASU Law is proven to train skilled lawyers and leaders. The school abides by the ASU charter and is measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes. That philosophy is baked into everything ASU Law does.

  Learn more about ASU Law  

Juris Doctor program details

JD students must complete 88 credit hours and a written substantial paper in order to meet graduation requirements.

For those who have been wanting to go to law school but could not eliminate all of the other obligations in their lives to allow for full-time enrollment, we also offer a Flexible Schedule.

Attendance is on a full-time basis - first-year JD students are not permitted to work, and second- and third-year students may not work more than 20 hours per week. If you cannot attend law school full-time, please review the information about the Flexible Schedule option .

Learn more and apply

Kristin Leaptrott, Juris Doctor

"I was surprised by how much lawyering is about people — your client, your opposing counsel, judges, juries — and you really have to know how to read people, learn their motivations and tailor whatever you're doing to appeal to them. It's not all about the law.

"I initially applied to ASU because I wanted to live in Phoenix, but I decided to attend after visiting the campus. Everyone was so nice and welcoming, and I felt immediately at home. Three years later, I can happily say that I definitely made the right choice."

Read Kristin's story

Juris Doctor Certificates

Juris Doctor (JD) students have a unique opportunity to pursue the following certificates:  

Juris Doctor degree emphases

Why should you select an emphasis.

As a student of ASU Law, you have the opportunity to customize your degree to your area of interest. Take advantage of popular emphases listed below to fit your interests and career goals. Learn to master legal principles in a variety of fields and be well-prepared to thrive within an evolving legal landscape across a variety of industries.

Student life

ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law offers a rich and vibrant student life. Students are involved in range of activities such as  service and pro bono  work,  student organizations , academic  law journals , externship programs , and  moot court  competitions.

Students also participate in professional conferences and events organized by the law school or student groups in order to broaden their perspective, gain practical experience, and network.

The  Student Portal  is a one-stop shop to find student resources,  fellowship applications , clinic applications, academic information, and more.

World-class faculty

A law school is only as strong as its faculty. At the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, students learn from some of the nation’s foremost scholars and innovative legal instructors . They have played an integral role in ASU Law establishing itself as one of the highest ranked public law schools in the nation, a leading center of scholarly exchange with a tradition of exceptional bar-passage and quality job-placement rates.

Employers - after ASU Law

Juris Doctor graduates go on to join law firms, start their own companies, move up in their existing careers or find a passion for the law. In every case, knowledge of the legal field enhances their professional life and shapes their way of thinking. 

Career Services at ASU Law can help students identify goals, find employment opportunities and help students pursue their passions. The career services team offers hands-on interview preparation, resume reviews and the guidance job seekers need as they enter the workforce. That resource is available to students the moment they start their ASU Law journey and lasts long after graduation. 

Recent law firm placements include Ballar Spahr, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, Polsinelli, Squire Patton Boggs, Greenberg Traurig LLP, Fennemore, Kirkland & Ellis, White & Case, Kutak Rock LLP, Jones Day, Morrison & Foerster LLP, Perkins Coie LLP, Quarles & Brady LLP, and Snell & Wilmer LLP. Our past student have also gone on to work at many Federal Counts including the U.S. District Court in Arizona, the U.S. Court of Appeals, and many more.

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Living in Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is the main location for ASU Law. Students who study in Phoenix at the Beus Center for Law and Society gain access to a quality education in a state-of-the-art facility. Located just steps from government agencies and large law firms, the Phoenix location offers everything that a fast-growing metropolis can. 

largest city in the U.S. according to U.S. Census Bureau

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The largest state capital in the nation, Phoenix offers a unique confluence of city, county, state and federal courts, along with numerous prominent law firms and nonprofit organizations – many within walking distance or a short light-rail ride from ASU Law’s campus. 

An outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, Arizona offers many places to explore that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you love to hike, hit the water, relax, challenge yourself, learn something new, explore history in person, Arizona has it all. 

Phoenix is one of only 13 metro areas in the U.S. that has professional teams in all four major sports — MLB, NBA, NFL and the NHL — with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, Arizona Cardinals and Arizona Coyotes.

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