Theology and Social Justice, M.A.
ROCHESTER AND ONLINE
ACT JUSTLY
graduates have gone on to serve in global justice ministries, social service agencies, local church missions, and to enact social policy changes
Offered at our Rochester campus and online, our social justice master’s program roots itself in theological notions of equality and advocacy. Come consider challenging questions of justice as a Christian participating in a worldwide, multiethnic, multigenerational church.
Take A Christian Approach to Social Justice
Through Northeastern Seminary’s Theology and Social Justice master’s program, you will grow as a Christian leader, equipped with the practical tools and analytical skills to echo God’s call to just peacemaking. Courses include: “Social Policy, Leadership, and Community Change”, “Foundations in Christian Social Ethics”, and “Violence Against Women: Theological and Social Issues”.
Through Biblically-based, expertly taught Theology and Social Justice coursework you will:
- Understand biblical texts in relation to God's call to justice and peacemaking.
- Explore theological paradigms and theories of justice as they relate to present social concerns.
- Grow to effectively lead the church and society in promoting social justice.
- Build the skills to form appropriate strategies to respond to the effects of poverty, violence, war, sexism, and discrimination on families, society, and the world.
This social justice-centered program also offers contextual ministry experience to prepare you for your vocational goals; whether that is traditional ministry placement, working at parachurch or social services organizations, or other advocacy efforts. Graduates have gone on to serve in global justice ministry, social service agencies, local church organizations, and to enact social policy changes.
In addition to your Theology and Social Justice program, our seminary-wide curriculum The Great Conversation will nurture your appreciation of Christian voices throughout history, clarify your calling, and strengthen your personal spirituality. Ultimately, you will consider what it looks like to live as a Gracious Christian, fulfilling your calling and participating in God’s ongoing work of restoring wholeness to the world.
Upcoming Class Starts
- Monday, May 24, 2021 | Summer Session
- Monday, August 30, 2021 | Fall Session
- Monday, January 24, 2022 | Spring Session
Class Size
Under 25 Students
Meet a Faculty Member

Elizabeth L. Gerhardt, Th.D.
Professor of Theology and Social Ethics
Dr. Elizabeth Gerhardt brings to Northeastern Seminary an extensive background in the areas of theology, church history, and social ethics. She is a sought-after speaker and active participant in interviews and lectures across the United States. Dr. Gerhardt’s research interests focus on the application of the theology of the cross to contemporary global justice issues and church response.
Alumni Success
Mike Traylor '12
Pediatrician, Cleveland Clinic Twinsburg Family Health and Surgery Center
Marie Moy '15
Volunteer Coordinator, Jericho Road Community Health Center
Julio Nieves '18
Program Director, First Star Academy
Amy Smith '15
Founder & Program Manager, Freelancing Hope
Wanda Hill '17
“Northeastern Seminary allowed me to not only learn about words, ideas, or history. It taught me who I am, what are the unique gifts that I have, and what are the struggles and strengths that I am bringing into my ministry. Without this experience, I wouldn’t know how to transform those things to be more effective in ministry.” ~Amy Smith, Theology and Social Justice, M.A. ’15
Why Northeastern Seminary?
If you are passionate about Christian social ethics and putting faith into action, our master’s program could be an excellent fit for your calling to social justice. Whether you join us online or in Rochester, Northeastern Seminary offers a supportive community of professors, staff, and fellow seminary students who are collectively committed to Biblically-based Christianity and pursuing their personal callings to God’s greater mission.
While we welcome students of all denominations, Northeastern Seminary’s history is uniquely associated with the work of B.T. Roberts and Wesleyan theology, both of which highlight the importance of Christian advocacy for equality and social change. Today, our master’s program centering social justice continues this legacy of community engagement and amplifying the voices of the downtrodden.
Tools for Success
You will find support to achieve your vocational and academic goals throughout your Seminary journey.
Learn More About Northeastern Seminary's Theology and Social Justice Program
Our master’s program in Social Justice and Theology strives to deepen your faithful knowledge and grant the practical tools needed to advocate for local communities and equality around the world through a Christian perspective. If you are interested in heeding your calling to social justice, consider Northeastern Seminary’s master’s program, offered online or in Rochester.
Request information below or contact us at admissions@nes.edu to learn more!
Speak With Our Team
Contact 585.594.6802 or admissions@nes.edu to connect with an admissions representative.