Community Education & Social Change B.A.
The Education major cultivates educational leaders skilled in social justice, curriculum design, learning theories, and change models. The program offers both teacher licensure and non-licensure pathways. Students start in the Community Education and Social Change concentration, which includes 42-46 credit hours of coursework and a 6-credit internship. Additionally, students can pursue 4+1 accelerated programs in elementary education, secondary education, or higher education.
After admission to the Community Education and Social Change concentration, students have the option to switch to concentrations in Early Childhood Licensure (PreK-2) or Special Education Licensure, typically during their sophomore year
Download the program of study. Watch the Community Education & Social Change overview video to learn more about the concentration and potential career opportunities.
Benefits list
Gain practical experience
All Community Education & Social Change majors complete a 250-hour practicum or internship that prepares them for their careers.
Apply theory in practice
Learn the skills you need to translate theories of learning, behavioral change, and organizational development into action through practice.
Gain valuable, transferable skills
Work in a variety of community settings, including:
- Higher education/academic student support services
- Community and philanthropic organizations
- Neighborhood associations
- Humanitarian agencies
- Non-profit, health, and faith-based organizations
- Self-help organizations
Featured class
Focus on issues of social identity, social and cultural diversity, and societal manifestations of oppression. Draws on interdisciplinary perspectives of social identity development, social learning theory, sociological analyses of power, and more.
In the Spotlight
"I interned as a caseworker for two semesters at Amherst Community Connections. I helped individuals apply for affordable housing and programs like utility assistance and nutrition-supplement programs. I got to learn more about the social and political landscape beyond campus and identify issues that matter to me and that I can take action on."
Community Education & Social Change
Provide educational leadership in community-based organizations through a social-justice framework.