Health and Societies- Race, Gender and Health
The Health and Societies: Race, Gender and Health Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how race, gender, and social determinants influence health outcomes and healthcare access. The curriculum integrates sociology, gender studies, public health, health policy, and research methodology, enabling students to analyze systemic health disparities, examine policy impacts, and evaluate interventions aimed at promoting equity. Students engage in research projects, community-based initiatives, and applied studies, developing analytical, ethical, and practical skills to address complex health and social issues.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, fieldwork, and collaborative research guided by faculty experts in public health, sociology, and gender studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and interdisciplinary scholarship, preparing graduates to evaluate health inequities, advocate for marginalized communities, and contribute to evidence-based policy and practice. Students leave the program with research proficiency, analytical skills, cultural literacy, and policy insight, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in public health, health policy, gender studies, or social research.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Health and Societies- Race, Gender and Health
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Gender & Sexuality Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Race, Gender, and Health
- Introduction to Health and Society
- Social Determinants of Health
- Race, Gender, and Inequality
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Policy Analysis
- Public Health and Policy
- Health Disparities and Social Justice
- Community Health and Advocacy
- Electives: Gender and Health, Global Health, or Social Epidemiology
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Intersectionality and Health Outcomes
- Applied Research in Health and Society
- Community Engagement and Fieldwork
- Electives: Disability Studies, Mental Health, or Health Equity
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Race, Gender, and Health Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Public Health or Community Settings
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Race, Gender and Health program are prepared for careers in public health, social policy, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, health advocacy, and community health programs. Alumni may work as policy analysts, public health coordinators, social researchers, or pursue graduate studies in public health, sociology, gender studies, or health policy. The program equips graduates to assess health disparities, design inclusive interventions, and advocate for equity in healthcare systems. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on improving health outcomes and addressing social inequities.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of health equity, gender and race analysis, applied research, and interdisciplinary learning within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and applied projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical health and social challenges. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and evidence-based problem-solving, preparing graduates to influence policy, address disparities, and promote inclusive health initiatives. For students passionate about understanding how race and gender shape health outcomes and applying interdisciplinary knowledge to create social impact, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
