Ranked among the nation’s top programs,
Penn State’s  Department of Sociology and Criminology offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education with a broad liberal arts focus, extensive faculty mentorship, and academic rigor in topics like family, religion, crime, and the criminal justice system.

Ranked among the nation’s top programs, Penn State’s Department of Sociology and Criminology offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education with a broad liberal arts focus and academic rigor in topics like family, religion, crime, and the criminal justice system.

Sociology

Penn State Sociology delivers a well-rounded liberal arts education for undergraduates, featuring courses that explore themes of family, religion, and social identity. Our graduate program is distinguished by its flexible study options and dedicated faculty mentorship.

Criminology

Penn State Criminology offers an in-depth exploration of crime and human behavior. Our graduate curriculum emphasizes theoretical frameworks, research methods, and real-world issues, all while fostering strong faculty mentorship to guide students’ academic journeys.

Award Spotlight
Gary Adler
Associate Professor of Sociology
Honors Program Adviser for Sociology and Criminology
Affiliated Faculty, Social Science Research Institute (SSRI), Rock Ethics Institute (REI), Social Thought Program, and Religious Studies Minor
Gary Adler Jr. was one of four College of the Liberal Arts faculty members who received Fulbright Scholar Awards for the 2023-24 academic year.
February 28, 2025
noon–1:00 p.m.
615 Susan Welch Liberal Arts Building
March 28, 2025
noon–1:00 p.m.
202 Susan Welch Liberal Arts Building
April 25, 2025
noon–1:00 p.m.
202 Susan Welch Liberal Arts Building

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