BA in English - Social Justice (Race, Class, Gender, Ability) in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Amherst

Authors may portray injustice as stemming from restrictive social roles, systemic structures, or inherent human tendencies, but engaging with their writings can serve as a pathway toward justice. This specialization's courses embrace that journey by examining how various literary forms—novels, poetry, speeches, music, and essays—illuminate societal wrongs and inspire visions of a fairer world.

Certain courses go a step further, offering students chances to extend their learning beyond campus through community service initiatives. These experiences are available not only through the English Department but also via programs like Civic Engagement and Service-Learning.

While many English courses touch on social justice themes, the SJ designation aims to expand students' perspectives beyond major requirements. Therefore, SJ courses should mainly serve as electives rather than fulfilling core major requirements.
The English BA program provides a comprehensive survey of American, British, and global Anglophone literature. Students hone vital professional abilities—effective communication, analytical reasoning, persuasive argumentation, and rapid problem-solving. English majors tailor their studies by combining core requirements with electives that align with their passions. Though not mandatory, students may specialize in areas like American studies, creative writing, technical communication, digital humanities, environmental humanities, historical literature, social justice, writing studies, English education, or craft their own focus.