Course Descriptions

SOC 100 - Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies
This course serves as the introduction to the Gender and Sexuality Studies Degree and will provide students with an interdisciplinary approach to the study of gender and sexuality. The course will introduce students to key concepts, theoretical perspectives and analytical tools developed by social scientists and feminist scholars in diverse fields of study. Through this course, students will examine historical movements and contemporary debates, especially as they pertain to the social construction of gender, structural inequalities, and the intersectionality of gender and sexuality with race, class, nationality and dis/ability. A student may earn credit for GSS 100 or SOC 100, but cannot earn credit for both courses because they are equivalent courses. 3 Credits.

SOC 101 - Introduction to Sociology
A survey of the major concepts employed in the systematic study of human relationships, with emphasis on society, culture, social interaction, socialization, groups, bureaucracy, institutions, collective behavior, social stratification, social control, social change and sociology as a field of knowledge. 3 Credits.

SOC 102 - Social Problems
An analysis of major social problems in contemporary society, their nature, development and social causes. The course examines the impact of problems such as poverty, crime, drug addiction and prejudice on the individual and society. Possible solutions for social problems are discussed. 3 Credits.

SOC 201 - Sociology of Race and Ethnicity
This course explores the relationships between majority and minority populations in the United States. We will begin to understand the concepts of race and ethnicity not as static, but as changing phenomena. What is the nature of American identity? What are the social structural causes of inequality? This course will provide a sociological perspective centered on questions of race, identity and inter-group relations. We will explore such topics as the nature of prejudice and racism, policies affecting minorities, the social construction of race and immigration to the United States. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: SOC 101

SOC 202 - Introduction to Urban Studies
This course focuses on the social, political, economic, and cultural factors associated with development of urban communities, the characteristics of urban institutions, trends in urban planning, ecological processes, and the effects upon urban communities of development and migration. A student may earn credit for URS100 or SOC202, but cannot earn credit for both courses because they are equivalent courses. 3 Credits.

SOC 203 - Criminology
The course emphasizes the historical and contemporary theories of crime causation. Problems involving attempts to develop a scientific and objective approach to the phenomena of crime are analyzed. Issues such as the role of law, the political and economic institutions and the social structure which generate crime are investigated. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101 or SOC 102

SOC 204 - Sociology of the Family
A sociological analysis of the family as a social institution: its origin, structure and variations; and patterns of intimate relationships. Examines family organization and disorganization through analysis of mate selection, sexuality, gender and family roles, marriage and divorce, parenthood, and the diversity of family composition. Investigates key concerns for contemporary American families including communication and power, the balance of work and family obligations, the impact of social change, and current social policy issues. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: SOC 101

SOC 205 - African-American Family
A comprehensive examination of the diverse and complex issues surrounding the African-American family unit as it has evolved from pre-slavery to contemporary period. It focuses on historical, social, cultural, political, economic and global conditions that have affected that institution. The course discusses key issues, themes and debates in the field and analyzes a variety of theoretical perspectives of examining the African-American family life. A student may earn credit for SOC 205 or AFS 200, but cannot earn credit for both courses because they are equivalent courses. 3 Credits.

SOC 206 - Sociology of Gender and Sexuality
This course introduces students to the sociological study of gender and sexuality in contemporary U.S. society by examining the ways in which each are socially constructed. The role of gender and sexuality in institutional structures, including the economy, law, education and media will be examined. Historical and cross-cultural variations in gender and sexuality are explored as well as variations by race, ethnicity, and social class. Sociological theory and research will be used to provide analysis for systems of inequality as well as how the meanings and experiences of gender and sexuality have changed over time. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: GSS 100/SOC 100 OR SOC 101

SOC 209 - Environmental Sociology
An introduction to the key theoretical approaches and research within the emerging field of environmental sociology, and an examination of the ongoing research on how environmental problems have roots in social processes, such as culture, community, social inequality, social organization and social structure. Students will examine how human values about the environment and the relationships between humans and our physical environment are socially constructed. Students will develop a working knowledge of sociological research methods and theoretical perspectives in their analyses of the relationship between human societies and the physical environment. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: SOC 101

SOC 210 - Introduction to Global Studies
Individuals, local communities, business enterprises, and nation-states are today inextricably involved in and affected by global relationships. This course provides an overview of the emergence and characteristics of global, social, economic, political, and ecological interdependence, particularly as these developments are affected by rapid social and technological change. In analyzing global problems, students evaluate conventional interpretations, refine analytical frameworks, and consider alternative strategies for coping with planetary issues. Students also assess their individual needs in the context of human survival and global interdependence. A student may earn credit for SOC 210 or GLS 100, but cannot earn credit for both courses because they are equivalent courses. 3 Credits.

SOC 216 - Special Topics in Sociology
This course is designed to address specific topics of interest in sociology. Offerings are more specific and focused than the introductory surveys. Examples of potential offerings could include Sociology of the Body, Sociology of Deviance, or Sociology of Pop Culture. Topics may change from semester to semester based on faculty and student interest. The classes will be primarily lecture and discussion based. 3 Credits.

SOC 290 - Independent Study
See the Department Chairperson. Variable Credit.