Sociology-Family, Gender and Society
The Sociology: Family, Gender and Society Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex social structures, family dynamics, and gender roles that shape contemporary societies. The curriculum integrates sociology, gender studies, family studies, social research methods, and cultural analysis, enabling students to critically examine the interactions between social institutions, gender norms, and familial practices. Students engage in research projects, fieldwork, and applied studies, developing analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills necessary for addressing social issues related to family and gender.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in sociology, gender studies, and social research. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research, and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates to evaluate societal trends, develop policy recommendations, and contribute to education, advocacy, and community initiatives. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, cultural literacy, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in sociology, social work, public policy, or gender-focused organizations.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sociology-Family, Gender and Society
- 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 Family, Gender and Society
- Introduction to Sociology and Social Theory
- Foundations of Family and Gender Studies
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
- Social Institutions and Cultural Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Social Dynamics
- Gender and Society
- Family Structures and Dynamics
- Social Inequality and Policy
- Electives: Childhood and Development, Race and Ethnicity, or Community Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Contemporary Issues in Family and Gender
- Applied Research Projects in Social Contexts
- Policy Analysis and Community Engagement
- Electives: Gender and Work, Social Justice, or Health and Society
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Family and Gender Challenges
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Experiential Project in Nonprofit, Policy, or Community Organizations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Family, Gender and Society program are prepared for careers in social research, public policy, nonprofit and community organizations, social services, education, and advocacy work. Alumni may work as policy analysts, community coordinators, social researchers, educators, or pursue graduate studies in sociology, social work, gender studies, or public policy. The program equips graduates to evaluate social systems, design evidence-based interventions, and provide guidance on family and gender-related challenges. Graduates gain expertise to influence organizational policies, conduct research on societal trends, and contribute meaningfully to advocacy and education efforts. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on social equity, gender awareness, and community development.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of sociological theory, gender analysis, family studies, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical social applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and evidence-based policy analysis, preparing graduates to assess social structures, develop strategic interventions, and influence societal change. For students passionate about understanding family dynamics, gender relations, and the social factors shaping communities, and who want to apply their knowledge to professional or academic contexts, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to 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
