Skip to main content
  • Undergrad Programs
  • Grad Programs
  • International Students
  • Social Justice, Law, and Public Policy
  • Society, Environment and Global Change
  • Research Chairs
  • Kinross Chair in Environmental Governance
  • For CSAHS Researchers
  • Get Involved
  • Giving to the College
  • The Dean
  • Contact Us
  • People
Lady Justice with a stack of law textbooks and building columns

Study Social Justice, Law, and Public Policy

  1. U of G Homepage
  2. College of Social and Applied Human Sciences
  3. Areas of Study

Redefine the Future

Shape the systems that shape society. If you're passionate about fairness, governance, and creating meaningful change, the University of Guelph's programs in social justice, law, and public policy will give you the tools to make an impact.

Our world needs leaders who understand the complexities of justice and policy—people who can navigate legal frameworks, advocate for equity, and influence decisions that affect communities locally and globally. These programs combine critical thinking with practical skills, preparing you to lead with integrity and tackle pressing social issues in the Canadian context and beyond.

Why Choose a Program in Social Justice, Law, and Public Policy?

Graduates from these programs go on to careers in law, public service, advocacy, and policy development. They become changemakers capable of influencing legislation, protecting rights, and advancing social justice.

  • Gain a deep understanding of justice, law, and governance.
  • Develop skills in research, critical analysis, and ethical decision-making.
  • Take advantage of experiential learning opportunities through co-operative education, community engagement, and research projects.
Campus Open House
Admission Requirements
International Students
Study Social Science in Canada
Download Transcript

How Will You Make Your Impact?

"I want a career in helping society. I want to work with people, specifically in criminology who are survivors or victims of different experiences and trying to work through that healing process. Social sciences has a huge value. You're learning about the internal workings of the world itself–it's all about social relationships."

– Noah Ramsammy, Criminal Justice and Public Policy student


Discover Your Social Justice, Law, and Public Policy Major

scales of justice in a courtroom

Criminal Justice & Public Policy

Examine the intersection of criminology, law enforcement, policy-making, and social justice. Learn how policies are developed and implemented, and how they impact communities. This major is ideal for those interested in careers in law, policing, corrections, or public administration.

CJPP
Columns line an institutional hallway

Justice & Legal Studies

Dive into the foundations of law and justice systems. Understand legal principles, rights, and responsibilities while exploring how laws shape and are shaped by society at large. JLS is perfect for students considering law school or who are interested in careers in advocacy, compliance, or legal research.

JLS
Justitia and the Canadian Parliament

Political Science

Analyze power, governance, and decision-making at every level, from local councils to provincial legislatures to global organizations. Develop insights into political behavior, public policy, and international relations. This major opens doors to careers in government, diplomacy, policy analysis, and beyond.

PoliSci

You might also be interested in...

Do your interests go beyond social justice, law, and public policy? Explore other majors, like:

  • Anthropology
  • Applied Human Nutrition
  • Child Studies
  • Earth Observation and Geographic Information Science
  • Environment and Resource Management
  • Environmental Governance
  • Family Studies and Human Development
  • Geography
  • International Development Studies
  • Neuroscience
  • Psychology
  • Sociology

Events and Webinars Available Now

Gryph mascot on a laptop

Future Gryphon Webinar Series

Canadian high school students are invited to connect with Admission Services through several virtual events this winter. Register today to learn more about campus, scholarships, tuition, housing and more!

Register for a Webinar

students standing in front of the Gryphon statue

International Virtual Open House

Prospective international students and their families are invited to explore our International Virtual Open House! Watch the recordings to learn more about programs, scholarships and life in Canada, plus hear current students and admission experts.

Get the recordings

How to Apply
Study Social Science in Canada
College of Social and Applied Human Sciences

Contact the Dean's Office

Room 111, Macdonald Institute
68 MacDonald Street
Guelph, ON N1G 1Y1

Phone: 519-824-4120, ext. 56753
Email: csahs@uoguelph.ca

Academic Units

Criminal Justice and Public Policy
Family Relations and Applied Nutrition
Geography, Environment and Geomatics
Guelph Institute of Development Studies
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology and Anthropology

Centres & Institutes

Arrell Food Institute
Community Engaged Scholarship Institute (CESI)
Live Work Well Research Centre
Maplewoods Centre for Family Therapy and Child Psychology
One Health Institute
ReVision: The Centre for Art and Social Justice