In the criminal justice and restorative justice program, you learn to address crime, harm, and injustice in ways that go beyond punishment—focusing instead on healing, accountability, and systemic change.
Peace and Justice Studies
Minor
Why Study Peace and Justice Studies at Goshen College?
As a Peace and Justice Studies minor at Goshen College, you’ll explore how people and communities work to resolve conflict, promote justice and build more peaceful societies. Grounded in Goshen’s commitment to compassionate peacemaking, this program gives you the tools to think critically and act courageously in the face of injustice—locally and globally.
Whether you’re majoring in social work, education, global studies, political science, or any number of other fields, this minor will deepen your understanding of structural violence, nonviolent social change, and community healing. You’ll be encouraged to think about your own role as a peacemaker and how your academic and career goals can contribute to the common good.
Career Paths
Many students also go on to graduate school in peace studies, law, divinity, or public policy. A Peace and Justice Studies minor enhances any career path. Alumni have gone on to roles such as:
- Community Organizer
- Lawyer or Public Defender
- Social Worker
- Educator
- Conflict Resolution Specialist
- NGO Program Manager
- Restorative Justice Facilitator
- Pastor or Faith-Based Advocate
- Environmental Justice Advocate
Credits and Requirements
The Peace and Justice Studies minor offers interdisciplinary course options that can be paired with a wide range of majors. Courses explore topics such as:
- Justice in a Pluralistic Society
- Mediation
- Nonviolence: Theory and Action
- Conflict and Communication
- Global Poverty
- Biblical Themes of Peace
- Social Change Movements
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
You’ll engage in experiential learning that puts theory into action—through internships with peacebuilding organizations, community development projects, or international study. Many students pair this minor with Goshen’s Study-Service Term, where they live and work in another culture, building cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills.
On campus, you can get involved in peacemaking and social justice through student clubs, speaker series, and events coordinated by the Center for Community Engagement and other departments.
Scholarships
While there are no scholarships specific to the minor, Goshen College offers a variety of financial aid and merit-based awards.
Facilities & Resources
The program is supported by resources including the Center for Community Engagement, the Mennonite Historical Library, and connections to local organizations doing peace and justice work. Faculty mentors guide students through real-world applications of course concepts.