Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

The Social Sciences bachelor’s at IUP provides a multidisciplinary curriculum that emphasises social theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and applied problem-solving. Students complete core courses that introduce social inquiry, research design and statistics alongside foundational theory from major social science disciplines.

• Core and foundational modules: introduction to social sciences, social theory, research methods and statistics for the social sciences, ethics in social research.
• Disciplinary options: modules drawn from sociology (e.g. social stratification, family and community), political science (e.g. American politics, public policy), criminology (e.g. criminal justice, policing and corrections), anthropology (e.g. cultural anthropology, ethnography) and human geography (e.g. urban and regional geography).
• Skills and methods: qualitative methods (interviewing, ethnography), quantitative analysis (survey design, data analysis), GIS basics (where offered), programme evaluation and policy analysis.
• Applied learning: practicum or internship options with community organisations, local government agencies or non-profits, and a capstone project or senior seminar that integrates methods and disciplinary perspectives.
• Electives and specialisation: students can tailor the degree by choosing electives to build a concentration in areas such as public administration, criminal justice, community development or social policy, and may combine the programme with minors or certificate programmes.

Entry requirements

Admission is typically based on a completed secondary school qualification with a competitive cumulative grade profile. Applicants should have a broad academic background; humanities and social studies subjects are particularly relevant. Specific entry standards and any test-score policies are set by the university and may vary by applicant category (domestic, international, transfer).

• Academic qualifications: secondary school diploma or equivalent with satisfactory grades. Transfer students are considered on the basis of college transcripts.
• Subject recommendations: courses in social studies, history, English and mathematics strengthen an application.
• International applicants: must meet English language proficiency requirements as set by the university; additional documentation such as certified transcripts and credential evaluations may be requested.
• Additional information: some applicants submit personal statements, references or evidence of relevant volunteer/work experience to support their application.

Prospective students should consult IUP Admissions for exact requirements and guidance on preparing an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Social Sciences programme leave with analytical, communication and research skills that are valued across public, private and voluntary sectors.

• Public sector: roles in local and state government, policy support, programme administration and community planning.
• Non-profit and community organisations: community outreach, case work, programme coordination and advocacy roles.
• Criminal justice and public safety: entry-level positions in criminal justice agencies, victim services and probation, often combined with relevant coursework or internship experience.
• Research and analysis: assistant roles in research institutes, market and social research firms, and programme evaluation teams.
• Further study and professional pathways: graduates often progress to master's programmes in social work, public administration, criminology, sociology or law and other professional qualifications.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

IUP offers a supportive campus environment with relatively small class sizes for many upper-level seminars, enabling close contact with faculty who are active in teaching and applied research. The university emphasises experiential learning—students can access internship placements with regional public agencies and non-profit organisations, and complete applied capstone projects that build practical skills.

Studying at IUP also provides access to academic advising, career services and campus resources that help students plan internships, job searches and graduate-study pathways. Its location in western Pennsylvania places students within reach of public-sector employers and community organisations, making it convenient to obtain local field experience while completing the degree.

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