Community Education & Social Change : College of Education : UMass Amherst

The Community Education & Social Change major prepares undergraduate students to provide educational leadership in community-based organizations. Students in this major learn to critically analyze issues and develop solutions by using a social-justice framework. Graduates of the program enter the workforce able to apply education principles to inspire social change.

Community Education & Social Change majors study how to lead community organizations to foster growth and development in diverse settings (e.g., academic, human services). In your classes, you will encounter a wide range of theories focusing on teaching and leaning, social justice, and leadership.

While this concentration is designed for students who are interested in working outside of the traditional classroom setting, it is also an excellent foundation for students planning to earn their master's degree in a related field.

NOTE: On its own, this major does not lead to an initial teaching license.

Explore our programs

Undergraduate

Community Education & Social Change BA

Photo of a student at a professional development event.

Become a multifaceted leader

Schools, businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations all need employees who can think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with a team, and make decisions rapidly. The Community Education & Social Change major equips you with these transferable skills and more.

Interdisciplinary classes

Take classes in 6 domains: Social Justice; Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Planning & Facilitating Groups; Teaching and Learning/Pedagogy/Curriculum/Assessment; Theories and Models of Change/Leadership in Education; Research and Evaluation in Education; and Digital Technologies in Education.