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Critical Theory & Social Justice

The 17³Ô¹Ï Critical Theory and Social Justice Department (CTSJ) is the first undergraduate program of its kind in the United States. You’ll explore how systems of power, identity, and inequality shape the world while developing critical thinking, writing, and research skills.

Earn Your Critical Theory and Social Justice Degree From Oxy

As a Critical Theory and Social Justice major at 17³Ô¹Ï, you’ll examine topics like race, gender, class, and global politics through philosophy, history, and cultural analysis. Faculty mentors will guide you to connect ideas to real-world contexts through writing, discussion, and hands-on projects.

The CTSJ undergraduate program blends rigorous study with community engagement. You’ll have the option to do internships at local NGOs or non-profits, complete research at our Undergraduate Research Center, or publish in our Critical Theory and Social Justice Journal. By the time you graduate, you’ll be prepared for a career in law, policy, education, or advocacy, or to pursue further study.

What You’ll Learn as a Critical Theory and Social Justice Major

17³Ô¹Ï CTSJ students sitting at a round table in discussion. One student is holding a microphone.

Interrogating power and inequality

The CTSJ Department at Oxy helps you examine how ideas and institutions shape society. You’ll study across disciplines, analyzing race, gender, class, and culture while building strong research, writing, and communication skills.

OPEN CALL FOR CONTENT: Spring 2026

The Critical Theory and Social Justice Undergraduate Journal
 

CTSJ majors apply theory through fieldwork, research, and internships. You might collect oral histories, archive materials for community nonprofits, or study abroad. Students often present research or publish in the Critical Theory and Social Justice Undergraduate Journal.

CTSJ connects naturally with politicssociologyhistory, public health, Urban and Environmental Policy, and Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies. Combining majors helps you understand social issues from multiple perspectives and build practical experience.

 

Andrea Ibarra headshot long brown hair

The immense support from CTSJ professors within and outside the classroom has created a platform for me to continuously strive as a student and overall individual by challenging myself to go beyond my reach.

Andrea Ibarra
CTSJ and politics major; Altadena, CA
a large, vibrant street art mural of a person's face

Learning Critical Theory and Social Justice in LA

Studying Critical Theory and Social Justice at 17³Ô¹Ï places you in one of the world’s most diverse and dynamic cities. Los Angeles offers direct access to grassroots movements, advocacy organizations, and cultural institutions. Gain real experience applying critical ideas to community action and public policy through internships, research, and publication opportunities.

What Our Graduates Are Doing

Director, Office of the Whistleblower Ombudsman, U.S. House of Representatives

Shanna Devine
2008

JD, Berkeley School of Law

Kaleinani Nallira
2021

MA, Elementary Education, Stanford Graduate School of Education

Gieselle Gatewood
2024

Master’s student, USC Price School of Public Policy

Jonah Magill
2024

Diplomatic Fellow, US Department of State

Mira Tarabeine
2022

Master’s student, Near & Middle Eastern Studies, NYU

Ezgi (Erin) Koc
2024

Meet Our Faculty

FAQs

It’s the first undergraduate department of its kind in the country, combining theory, research, and community engagement to examine systems of power and inequality.

Yes. You can collaborate with faculty, conduct independent research, and publish your work in the CTSJ Undergraduate Journal.

Absolutely. Many CTSJ majors study abroad and apply critical perspectives to global contexts and cultural issues.

Contact Critical Theory & Social Justice
Weingart Hall 102