Sociology- Cities, Markets, and the Global Economy
The Sociology: Cities, Markets, and the Global Economy Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of urban dynamics, economic systems, and the social structures that shape global markets. The curriculum integrates urban sociology, economic sociology, global studies, research methodology, and policy analysis, enabling students to examine how cities operate, how markets function, and how social, political, and economic forces interact in a global context. Students engage in applied research projects, case studies, and collaborative analysis, developing the analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills necessary to evaluate and address complex urban and economic challenges.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, fieldwork, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in sociology, urban studies, and global economics. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and interdisciplinary research, preparing graduates to assess urban and economic systems, design evidence-based interventions, and contribute to policy and development strategies. Students leave the program with analytical skills, research proficiency, critical reasoning, and global awareness, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in sociology, urban planning, public policy, or economic research.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sociology- Cities, Markets, and the Global Economy
- 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 Cities and Global Markets
- Introduction to Sociology and Urban Studies
- Fundamentals of Economics and Markets
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
- Social Theory and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Urban and Economic Sociology
- Cities, Social Structures, and Institutions
- Global Economic Systems and Policy
- Urban Planning and Community Development
- Electives: Labor Studies, Housing Policy, or Economic Development
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Global Cities and Market Dynamics
- Applied Research Projects in Urban Sociology
- Policy Analysis and Socioeconomic Evaluation
- Electives: Social Networks, Migration, or Urban Economics
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Urban and Global Economic Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Experiential Project in Urban Planning, Policy, or Research
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Cities, Markets, and the Global Economy program are prepared for careers in urban planning, economic development, policy analysis, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Alumni may work as urban analysts, policy advisors, economic researchers, or pursue graduate studies in sociology, urban planning, public policy, or economics. The program equips graduates to analyze urban and economic trends, design interventions, and provide evidence-based recommendations. With strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments addressing social, economic, and urban challenges globally.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of urban sociology, economic analysis, global studies, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and collaborative projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical urban and economic challenges. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary reasoning, and evidence-based problem-solving, preparing graduates to evaluate cities, markets, and global economic systems, influence policy, and implement innovative solutions. For students passionate about understanding urban dynamics, analyzing global economic structures, and applying sociological insights 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
