Sociology
The Sociology Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social structures, human behavior, and the dynamics of society. The curriculum integrates social theory, research methods, cultural studies, inequality analysis, and policy evaluation, enabling students to critically examine social patterns, evaluate societal issues, and understand the interplay between institutions, communities, and individuals. Students engage in research projects, case studies, and applied analyses, developing analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills essential for careers or advanced academic study in sociology and related fields.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, fieldwork, and collaborative projects guided by faculty experts in sociology, social research, and policy analysis. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research, and interdisciplinary perspectives, preparing graduates to assess social phenomena, analyze trends, and contribute to policy, research, and community initiatives. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, critical reasoning, and social awareness, fully prepared for professional or academic opportunities in sociology, public policy, social work, or organizational analysis.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sociology
- 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: Sociology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Sociology
- Introduction to Sociology and Social Theory
- Principles of Research Methods
- Social Institutions and Community Structures
- Cultural Analysis and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Social Dynamics
- Social Stratification and Inequality
- Gender, Race, and Class Studies
- Applied Research Projects
- Electives: Education, Health, or Urban Sociology
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Contemporary Social Issues
- Policy and Social Change
- Fieldwork and Research Practicum
- Electives: Criminology, Family Studies, or Environmental Sociology
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Advanced Sociological Topics
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research, Policy, or Community Organizations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Sociology program are prepared for careers in social research, public policy, community development, nonprofit organizations, education, and consulting. Alumni may work as policy analysts, social researchers, community coordinators, educators, or pursue graduate studies in sociology, social work, public administration, or related fields. The program equips graduates to evaluate social structures, analyze data, and develop evidence-based interventions that address societal challenges. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on social equity, community development, and applied sociological research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of sociological theory, applied research, policy evaluation, and interdisciplinary analysis within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, experiential learning, and hands-on research opportunities that connect theoretical knowledge with practical social applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to understand societal structures, influence policy, and contribute meaningfully to community and professional initiatives. For students passionate about understanding society, addressing social inequalities, and applying analytical insight to real-world challenges, 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
