Sociology

Designed for general education or those students majoring in one of the Behavioral Sciences. Introduction to human interaction from the sociological perspective and through the utilization or sociological concepts, theories and principles. Topics include culture, socialization, organizations, deviance, stratification, institutions, population, and social change.

The study of the nature of deviance and the sociology of crime, with special attention to the sociological theories that underlay its definition, as well as the social practices that are derived from them, including the criminal justice system. Analyses range from social psychological processes and the structure of social institutions (such as family, business, government, religion and law), to methods for measuring crime rates.

Critical exploration of sociological research and thinking about contemporary social problems, including the types and causes of discrimination and inequalities in society. Using a variety of sociological perspectives, this course explores the causes and consequences of social problems on individuals and societies, and the methods for social change and problem solutions.

An introductory overview of social welfare and the societal institutions in the U.S. that structure the provision of social services. The course presents a historical perspective on the development of U.S. social work and human services. Special attention is given to current service delivery systems, their policies and procedures, and the tasks of culturally responsive social workers and human service workers within those settings.

This course offers the student supervised field experience in community organization, agency, or institution, allowing the student to apply knowledge and learn skills outside of the classroom. Weekly class meetings add academics to this experiential course and reinforces the application of concepts gained in Soc 11. This course is designed to provide opportunities to develop skills to gain employment in the field. One unit of credit is earned for 54 hours of unpaid or paid work.

Study of the fundamental elements of empirical research and the variety of ways in which sociology applies them. Attention to the relationship between theory, research method selected, ethics, purpose, variables, population and sample, data analysis, and reporting findings.

This course is a comprehensive introduction to the sociological study of gender and will focus on the multiple ways in which sex and gender are socially produced and sustained. Exploration of the social practices and processes that create sex and gender distinctions and contribute to inequalities. Emphasis on the social construction of sex and gender and their intersections with other social identities such as race, sexuality, and class.

Critical exploration of the social, psychological, cultural, historical, and economic factors
related to gender roles, courtship, marriage, partnership, parenting, and family patterns in
U.S. society.

Through a socioanthropological lens, this course explores the complex development of masculine identities in diverse contexts. In addition, it examines the variations of masculine experiences such as boyhood, adolescence, and fatherhood through social class, race/ethnicity, age, occupation, gender identity, physical ability and sexuality, and the implications for people from such diverse groups.

Introduction to a sociological examination of cannabis. Provides a historical analysis of the sociological study of cannabis and social identity, regulation and enforcement, criminalization, and movements toward legalization. Topics approached through the lens of social power and inequity.