Sociology-Structures of Opportunity and Inequality
The Sociology: Structures of Opportunity and Inequality 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 hierarchies, systemic inequalities, and the factors shaping access to opportunities in contemporary society. The curriculum integrates sociology, social stratification, public policy, research methodology, and critical theory, enabling students to analyze patterns of inequality related to race, gender, class, and other social categories. Students engage in research projects, case studies, and applied analyses, developing analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving skills necessary for addressing complex societal challenges.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in sociology, social policy, and inequality studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research, and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates to evaluate social systems, inform policy development, and contribute to educational, nonprofit, and governmental initiatives. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, critical reasoning, and social awareness, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in sociology, public policy, social work, or equity-focused organizations.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sociology-Structures of Opportunity and Inequality
- 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 Structures and Inequality
- Introduction to Sociology and Social Theory
- Foundations of Social Inequality
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
- Social Institutions and Opportunity Structures
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Social Stratification
- Race, Ethnicity, and Social Inequality
- Gender, Class, and Access to Opportunities
- Policy and Social Change
- Electives: Education, Labor Markets, or Community Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Contemporary Issues in Inequality
- Applied Research Projects in Social Structures
- Social Policy Evaluation and Advocacy
- Electives: Criminal Justice, Health Disparities, or Global Inequality
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Inequality Challenges
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research, Policy, or Community Organizations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Structures of Opportunity and Inequality program are prepared for careers in public policy, social research, nonprofit organizations, education, community advocacy, and government programs. Alumni may work as policy analysts, social researchers, community organizers, educators, or pursue graduate studies in sociology, social work, public policy, or social justice studies. The program equips graduates to analyze systemic inequalities, design interventions, and influence organizational and governmental policies that promote equitable outcomes. Graduates develop expertise to assess social dynamics, interpret complex societal data, and implement evidence-based solutions. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on equity, social justice, and structural analysis.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of social stratification, inequality analysis, policy evaluation, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world social and policy applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and data-driven analysis, preparing graduates to evaluate structures of inequality, influence social policies, and contribute meaningfully to societal change. For students passionate about understanding opportunity disparities, addressing social injustice, and applying sociological insight 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
