Widener University

What you'll study

The Social Sciences degree at Widener gives a broad foundation in the theories and methods used to analyse societies and social behaviour. Core study typically covers social theory, research design, statistics for the social sciences, and ethics, together with multidisciplinary electives drawn from sociology, political science, economics, anthropology and psychology.

• Research methods and statistics: quantitative and qualitative techniques, survey design, data analysis and interpretation.
• Social theory: classical and contemporary approaches to understanding institutions, identity, inequality and social change.
• Area courses: topics such as public policy, comparative politics, criminal justice, urban studies, gender and race, health and society.
• Applied learning: practicum, internship or community-engaged projects that place students in government agencies, non-profits or private-sector settings.
• Capstone or honours project: independent research or a substantial applied project demonstrating integration of disciplinary methods and critical thinking.

Students can typically tailor their programme with concentration options or elective clusters to prepare for specific career paths or graduate study. Faculty mentoring and opportunities to collaborate on faculty research are common components.

Entry requirements

Admissions are based on a combination of academic preparation and personal qualities. Typical undergraduate applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school diploma or equivalent and provide official transcripts. Widener considers the overall academic record alongside other materials such as a personal statement, letters of recommendation and any required supplementary forms.

Standardised test submission may be optional or recommended depending on the applicant's background; domestic applicants should consult admissions guidance and international applicants should demonstrate English-language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives where applicable. Mature or transfer applicants will be evaluated on post-secondary coursework and professional experience.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor in Social Sciences have a broad skill set valued by employers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career pathways include roles in community and social services, policy analysis, research assistance, programme coordination, advocacy, criminal justice support roles, and human resources. The degree also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in social work, public policy, law, education, sociology or related disciplines.

Widener’s emphasis on experiential learning and internships helps students build professional networks and practical experience, improving readiness for entry-level professional positions or competitive graduate programmes.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a personalised undergraduate experience with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty who supervise research and applied projects. The university’s location in the Philadelphia-Delaware Valley region provides proximity to government agencies, community organisations and private-sector employers for internships and field placements.

The Social Sciences programme stresses hands-on learning — placements, community-engaged research and capstone projects — so students can apply theory to real-world problems. Support services such as career counselling, academic advising and alumni networks help students transition into work or further study after graduation.