Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is PJS?
A: Peace and Justice Studies is a program of study that provides an interdisciplinary structure for examining the obstacles, conditions, and paths to achieving a just global peace. The program brings intellectual and experiential inquiry to the fundamental interrelationship between peace and justice. For a wider sample of peace studies programs see the web page of the Peace Studies Association at www.earlham.edu/~psa. 

Q: What is the difference between a Certificate and a major?
A: A Certificate is an intensive program of study which requires fewer courses than a major. A student completing a PJS Certificate must also complete a major in another area of study. For details, see the requirements of each program of study.

Q: How can I enroll in the program?
A: You find enrollment forms by clicking here. Simply print out and complete the form and bring  to Eaton 109.

Q: Can I double-major with Peace and Justice Studies?
A: Yes. Check the Tufts Bulletin for details: http://ase.tufts.edu/bulletin.

Q: Can I do a minor in another area?
A: Yes. Students can have a PJS major and a minor in another area. Please be aware that Tufts does not allow a minor if the student is completing two majors. Similarly, a student cannot double-major and complete the Certificate.

Q: How many courses can I double-count?
A: According to the Tufts Bulletin, http://ase.tufts.edu/bulletin/liberal-info.html, "no more than half the courses used to fulfill the requirements for one concentration may be used to satisfy the requirements for a second or subsequent one." Departments and programs may further restrict the amount of overlap between concentrations, so check with both major departments.

Q: How do I choose an advisor?
A: PJS has a list of faculty who are advisors for the program. Please contact us for this information.

Q: Can I study abroad while I complete the program?
A: Yes. If students plan appropriately, study abroad should not be a problem. Consult with your advisor. Some courses taken abroad may count towards your PJS major or Certificate.

Q: Can I transfer courses from another institution?
A: This is possible, but you must consult with your advisor and with Tufts University about transferring credits.

Q: How does the internship work?
A: An important part of the experiential learning that PJS stresses is the internship with a social change organization. The internship, PJS/IR 99, is combined with a class and is taken for credit. In class, students discuss theory and analyze what they are experiencing in their internships. PJS has a broad network of contacts with social change organizations in the Boston area. We keep two large red binders with information on these organizations outside the office at 109 Eaton Hall. Additional information can be found on the Tufts Career Planning web page here.

Q: How do I choose my electives?
A: Electives are chosen from anywhere in the University to fit a student's specific area of interest. Students must consult with their advisor for assistance and approval.

Q: Can I do a senior thesis while completing my PJS degree?
A: Yes. Students must consult with their advisors.

Q: What is the PJS Executive Board?
A: The PJS Executive Board oversees the program. It designs and carries out activities throughout the year and makes decisions about the curriculum. The board is made up of students, faculty and staff. Students are elected each semester. Please inquire if you are interested in being on the board.

Q: What sort of activities does PJS do during the year?
A: PJS organizes several activities including speakers, movies and events around current topics in peace and justice. Twice a semester, PJS organizes a PB&J (Peace, Brunch and Justice) around an issue that is of interest to students on the Executive Board or the program. This brunch is an informal discussion with students, faculty and members of the community. Past PB&Js have focused on children and youth in today's violent society, the nuclearization of Asia, stereotypical images of ourselves and activist lifestyles. For a current listing, see our Announcements page.

Q: What sort of careers do PJS graduates go into?
A: PJS graduates go into many different careers in non-profit and for-profit areas alike. These are some of the careers our graduates have gone into:

* organizers
* faculty
* public interest lawyers
* socially-responsible investment advisor
* environmental scientist
* domestic violence protection advocate
* researchers

If you would like to get in touch with a PJS graduate, contact us. Many of them are in the Boston area and would be happy to talk to you.

Q: Where can I get more information?
A: For more information, contact Dale Bryan, Assistant Director of PJS at 109 Eaton Hall, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155. Or email at dale.bryan@tufts.edu.