After completing this interdisciplinary program, the graduate should be able to approach problems with a more integrated point of view and work cooperatively with community individuals and agencies toward practical solutions. Problems relating to crime, education, employment, housing, the lack of effective social power, and other factors affecting psychological well-being are approached from bases in community service agencies or informal community groups. The majority of students work full time in agencies or governmental units. To accommodate these working students, most 500-level graduate courses are scheduled in the evening. The curriculum for this program, as well as the title of the degree conferred, are under review.
Current information is available from the program coordinator.
For admission to the program, a student must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited academic institution, earned under residence and credit conditions substantially equivalent to those required by Penn State. Students with experience in carrying out planned social change are particularly encouraged to apply. Most applicants hold degrees in psychology, sociology, or related disciplines. Ideally, applicants will have taken courses in developmental, personality, and social psychology, along with work in social change, social problems, and social conflict. Students from diverse backgrounds are welcome to apply, particularly if they have had work or other experience effecting change in community settings.