Kutztown University Approves First Fully-Online Undergraduate Degree Program in Sociology

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KUTZTOWN, PA (02/05/2020) Kutztown University is set to launch its first 100% online undergraduate degree program. The online Bachelor of Arts in sociology program at Kutztown University is the university's first fully-online undergraduate degree program and will start in the Fall 2020 semester.

KU is one of two Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education institutions to offer an online sociology program along with California University of Pennsylvania. KU's Bachelor of Arts in sociology offers a generalized course of study, allowing for multiple avenues in career and higher education choices.

As a sociology major, students will use scientific methods to study societies and social groups, uncovering how to relate to one another and how to improve lives. By developing strong research and evaluation skills, students in KU's online sociology program will be prepared for various leadership positions, both in for-profit and nonprofit environments. Students will also be ready to make a difference in the world by creating more equitable communities.

The online program will have an identical curriculum as the traditional on-campus program. Career opportunities for graduates include criminal justice and corrections, human resources, counseling, education, social work, community development, among others.

Dr. Joleen Greenwood, interim associate dean of KU's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has led the effort toward KU's first fully-online degree program.

"More students have wanted to take online courses so we felt this direction would help meet our demand," Greenwood said. "We have been very successful offering online sociology courses over the winter and summer sessions and the timing is right to offer a fully-online program. My thanks to Dr. Anne Zayaitz (provost and vice president of Academic Affairs), Dr. David Beougher (dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences), curriculum committees and countless other offices, departments and administration for their support of the single goal of providing program options that contribute to student success."

KU's online program opens the door for nontraditional students. The online program is apportioned by seven-week courses, splitting each traditional 15-week semester into two seven-week options. Courses are available year-round. An online student taking advantage of the accelerated program could potentially graduate in less than three years.

"Options and flexibility are really important to our students and especially for students looking to return to college," Greenwood said. "There is no need to worry about residency or a commute to campus. There's no need to worry about attending a traditional face-to-face class on set hours and days. Students can log in whenever they're available, whether early in the morning, after work or after the kids are in bed."

Learn more about KU's sociology program on the department website. Apply at www.kutztown.edu/admissions/apply. Questions on KU's online sociology degree can be directed to Greenwood at 610-683-4248 or greenwoo@kutztown.edu.