My PennWest

PennWest Global Online's Sociology major with a Deviance concentration is the only program offered nationwide that addresses deviance as it relates to the ever-evolving norms and ideologies of our society and culture. The program, for this growing field, integrates various academic disciplines to examine and tackle real-world deviance issues as they relate to the aberrant, the diverse, and the different, and it also discusses treatment goals. Coursework is designed to enable you to conduct workplace, school, and eldercare threat assessments and develop plans for remediation. The core requirements pertain to theory, ethnographic methods, cross-cultural research and analysis, while electives demonstrate applications of both theory and method to particular problems of deviance, violence and violence prevention.

This program is for you if...

  • You are intrigued by the study of social behaviors, norms, and deviance.
  • You seek to understand the causes and consequences of criminal behavior and societal responses.
  • You want to explore issues related to addiction, exploitation, and structural violence.
  • You are passionate about addressing social problems and implementing change.
  • You value the flexibility of an online program that allows you to balance your studies with other commitments.
Locations
Locations
  • Global Online

Credits
Credits
  • 120 Credits for BA

What You'll Study

In the bachelor's degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Deviance at PennWest Global Online, you'll explore a range of topics including racial, class, and gender inequality, violence and victimization, health care disparities, and global social problems. The curriculum includes training in various research methodologies such as surveys, in-depth interviews, ethnography, focus groups, evaluation assessments, and big data analysis. This comprehensive program equips you with the analytical skills and sociological knowledge to address complex social issues and contribute to meaningful societal change.

Degrees, Certificates

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

Meet our faculty

 

Concentrations

How You'll Learn

This program is offered 100% online.

Learn more about how you'll learn
     

    What You'll Become

    Graduating with a bachelor's degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Deviance from PennWest Global Online, you will be well-prepared for a variety of careers that address social behaviors and societal issues. This program equips you with the knowledge and skills to pursue roles such as social worker, community health worker, public relations specialist, market research analyst, and human resources specialist. Your understanding of social deviance, addiction, exploitation, and structural violence will enable you to make meaningful contributions to social services, public health, community development, and criminal justice.

    Career Paths

    • Social services case worker for abused, neglected or behavior disordered children/adolescents, drug and alcohol case manager, probation and/or corrections officer and/or supervisory positions.
    • Implementing and evaluating the effectiveness of various educational, governmental and social service policies/programs
    • Investigating the social norms and value systems at macro and micro levels of society to deter deviance and violence in specific business, social service and educational settings
    • Analyzing disciplinary, correctional, and re-integrative procedures and policies for veterans, prisoners, and mental health, and drug addiction patients within society and for alignment with norm, value and cultural ideologies   
    • Designing, implementing, and evaluating child, eldercare and workplace anti violence educational and prevention programs

    Brittney Samuels '14

    Sociology grad puts education to work in corrections

    Read More
    Highlight
    Brittney Samuels '14

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    74,700

    Number of job openings for social workers projected each year over the next decade.

    • Affordable Programs

      Discover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.

      Tuition & Fees
    • Success Coaching

      Achieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.

      Success at PennWest
    • Post-Graduation Support

      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

      Life After PennWest

    Better Together

    Still not sure? Explore similar programs.