Sociology

Soc 200 — Introduction to Sociology 3

A review of how social forces shape the patterned behavior of social groups in families, schools, churches, in jobs, and other social settings. Emphasis is placed on the influence of social classes, minority group identification, and social control systems. Students will learn how sociologists collect and analyze data. Fall

Soc 220 — Social Problems 3

Students will learn the skills of critical analysis and apply those skills by evaluating articles on selected social issues. A comparison of the approaches of journalists and social scientists is presented to encourage students to apply critical thinking skills to a variety of media presentations. Spring

Soc 225 — The Criminal Justice System 3

An introductory overview of the American criminal justice system, including the police, courts, probation, jails, prison,s and parole systems. The emphasis in on the U.S. but comparisons with criminal justice systems in other societies may be included. Taught as needed.

Soc 310 — Cultural Anthropology 3

The unique contributions of anthropologists are reviewed, with an emphasis on holistic methods and the central concept of culture. Students will learn how the wisdom of tribal culture provides important lessons for modern societies. Cultural diversity and alternative forms of social organization are presented. Taught as needed.

Soc 315 — Public Opinion 3

A review of the social and political forces which shape public opinion, with emphasis on the linkages between public opinion and voting behavior. Students will learn the methods of survey research and data analysis. Taught as needed.

Soc 320 — Deviant Behavior 3

Instead of asking why some people are different, this course asks why some people are treated differently. An analysis of the social processes which result in the social definition and reaction to behavior as deviant in the context of families, social networks, subcultures, and agencies of social control. Taught as needed.

Soc 325 — Research Methods 3

Introduction to research methods in social and behavioral sciences, with emphasis on the scientific method, research design, data collection, and data analysis strategies of experimental, observational, and survey research methods. Taught as needed.

Soc 350 — Development of Sociological Theories 3

A survey of major sociological theories which provide the basis for sociological research and interpretation of social processes. Major schools of thought and major theorists are covered. Taught as needed.

Soc 360 — Sociology of Aging 3

An analysis of aging within the context of the life cycle with emphasis on the major issues of concern to the elderly and the
social policies, especially Social Security and health care, which have an impact on the lives of the elderly. Taught as needed.

Soc 365 — Urban and Rural Communities 3

A comparative analysis of the characteristics of urban and rural communities within the context of social change. Special features of the class include a review of the major population shift from urban to rural regions, and the influence of rural and urban environments on lifestyle. Taught as needed.

Soc 370 — The Family 3

Special features of the class include a review of the major population shift from urban to rural regions, and the influence of rural and urban environments on lifestyles. Taught as needed.

Soc 380 — Medical Sociology 3

An analysis of the social processes which effect illness and illness behavior, the relationships between health care professionals and patients, the administration of health care organizations, and policies directed at health care delivery systems. Proposed reform of the health care system is a special topic of this course. Taught as needed.

Soc 385 — Criminology 3

Sociology has been the core field in the study of crime in this century. The course reviews the contributions of sociologists including a comparison of public opinion on crime with the observations which arise from social theory and research on crime. Special features of the course include a review of major issues such as guns and crime, drugs and crime, and capital punishment. Taught as needed.

Soc 291, 491 — Seminar in Sociology 3, 3

Under the guidance of the instructor, students apply research methods to in-depth analyses of social science topics. The seminar format emphasizes student participation in discussions and student presentations of their research. Research, writing, and communication skills are emphasized. Taught as needed.

Soc 294, 494 — Independent Study in Sociology 1-3, 1-3

Directed study and research in subject areas of sociology for which a student has a special interest. Offered on the basis of faculty and student interest.

Soc 297, 497 — Internship in Sociology 3-6, 3-6

Students are placed in agencies which apply the methods and content of sociology for the purpose of gaining insight into the connection between academic study and work experiences. The methods which students use to report on their experiences varies by instructor. The number of hours spent as an intern depends on the number of credits. Offered on the basis of faculty and student interest.

Soc 299, 499 — Readings, Special Topics in Sociology 1-3, 1-3

Readings and appropriate related projects in Sociology or interdepartmental areas. Offered on the basis of student and faculty interest.