Social Sciences at Harrisburg

Explore how Social Sciences programs at Penn State Harrisburg connect theory and practice to help students explore how people, systems and institutions shape our world.
Combining academics with real-world relevance, these programs foster critical thinking, ethical leadership, and career readiness, preparing students to analyze issues, influence policy, and make meaningful contributions in an increasingly complex society.

Criminal Justice

Penn State Harrisburg offers several programs in Criminal Justice, including a bachelor’s degree, two distinct master’s programs, and even an accelerated undergraduate/graduate option.

The B.S. in Criminal Justice educates students to become effective problem-solvers with the communications and analytical skills critical to succeed in their careers. The program also equips students to pursue graduate study in criminal justice or related disciplines.

The M.A. program guides students to be leaders in their field and helps develop research acumen for those students who may wish to consider doctoral studies. The M.P.S. in Criminal Justice Policy and Administration is oriented towards those interested in building in-depth knowledge of the criminal justice system and criminal behavior, coupled with an understanding of the research methods necessary to evaluate policies at all governmental levels.

marble columns on a building, representing political institutions

Political Science

The Political Science B.A. prepares students to exercise the responsibilities of citizenship and leadership in a democratic society and as global citizens. The major offers a flexible learning opportunity that students can tailor to their own interests and career goals through concentrations including pre-law, U.S. politics, international studies, and security studies. Our proximity to the state capital in Harrisburg provides students with additional opportunities, including guest speakers and internships.

Political Science (B.A.)

a diverse group of young people stand with interlocked arms around their backs

Sociology

Sociology is the study of people in groups. Sociologists examine how people interact, in small groups like families, medium-sized groups like sororities and fraternities, and large groups like communities, with the goal to make the world better.

The B.S. in sociology at Penn State Harrisburg provides an opportunity for students to explore social structure, interaction, and change, addressing topics such as culture, race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, social class, inequality, urban life, globalization, environmental change, and political conflict.

Sociology (B.S.)

Social Sciences: 1 year post graduation, $36,048; 5 years, $58,808; 10 years, $60,653. Public Administration and Social Service Professions: 1 year post graduation, $54,738; 5 years, $72,786; 10 years, $92,613.

Career Earnings

Penn State Harrisburg graduates with jobs in Social Science or Public Administration and Social Service professions can expect to have higher than average earnings soon after starting their careers, according to the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) Explorer.

2022 dollars; 75th percentile figures; Source