Sociology

(School of Sciences)

SOC 1125 Basic Concepts and Principles of Sociology (II)
4 cr.
Study and application of sociological concepts and principles including development of the social self, status and role, group behavior, deviant behavior, social change, culture, institutions, ethnic relations, social mobility, social class,population and urban/rural styles of living. This introductory course in sociology provides basic tools and concepts common to other specific sociology courses.

SOC 2231 Cultural Anthropology (I, II)
4 cr.
Comparative and contextual study of the diversity and similarity in human behaviors and sociocultural adaptations as these occur throughout the world. This course studies anthropological concepts as tools of analysis in understanding culture, powerful "roles" of culture, cultural patterns and factors leading to culture change.

SOC 2265 Diversity and Marginality (of Minorities) in the U.S. (I, II)
4 cr.
Comparative study of the cultural systems of American minority groups. Course examines significant social, familial, economic, institutional and cultural characteristics of American Indians, African-Americans, Mexican- Americans, Asian-Americans and other non-Western immigrants, women and other groups occupying minority status.The student studies significant values, beliefs, traditions and practices of these groups and considers current view points and issues related to these minority lifestyles.

SOC 2433 The Family and Society (I, II)
4 cr.
Exploration of the meaning and variety of family life in the United States and other cultures. Classic and contemporary theories are combined with recent research findings to understand the changing definitions and contexts of family life. Emphasis is placed on the study of the family in a broader context, including the influence of neighborhoods, schools and religion, socioeconomic inequalities, gender roles, domestic abuse, divorce, and a life span approach to family life.

SOC/PSY/GER/SWK 3315 Psychosocial Aspects of Aging
4 cr.
Provides an overview of the aging individual within the social context. The focus is on characteristics of today's older adults,psychological processes in late life, the social context in which older adults live and society's response to older adults. Topics include: demographics, stereotypes and attitudes, researchmethods, theories of development, sensing and responding to the environment, cognitive processes, mental disorders and treatment, death and dying, sexuality, intimate relationships, family relationships, care giving, employment and retirement, finances, Social Security, Medicare, living environments, ethnicity, gender, crimes against and by older adults, social programs and political power of the older cohort.

SOC/PSY 3330 Research Methods
4 cr.
Overview of the research process designed for upperdivision students interested in reading and/or conducting research. Topics include: logic of scientific research, types of research,phases of a research study, designing experimental and correlational studies, sampling, quantitative and qualitative methods for collecting data, evaluating and writing research reports, and ethical issues. Prerequisite: junior class standing or permission of instructor.

SOC 3433 Contemporary Social Issues (II,WI)
4 cr.
Howare"social issues"created fromthe fabric of social life? Students in this course investigate the social construction of problems, gain knowledge of up-to-theminute issues,and develop competencewith the ideas and methods of social analysis. Students evaluate existing social analyses, use empirical data and sociological theories to formulate their own positions, and practice communicating those positions inwritten and oral form. Issues prominent in the newswill be studied, including social inequalities (race, gender, poverty and globalization) and social institutions (family, corporations, government and corrections). Writing intensive (analysis, position, and research papers). Prerequisite: junior or senior status.

SOC 4405 Stratification and Social Justice
4 cr.
Explores the dynamics and influences of social stratification, the structure of class and privilege, prejudice and discrimination, and divisions based on gender, race, ethnicity and disability. An historical overview of social justice perspectives, including Catholic social teachings, leads into empirical analysis. Models of social change and social movement theory conclude the course. Experiential learning through guest lecturers and participant observation. Seminar format. Prerequisite: junior/senior status, prior Gen.Ed. II coursework.

SOC 4777 Topics in Sociology
1-4 cr.
Courses not a regular part of Sociology curriculumbut taught because of a special need, interest or opportunity. Topics vary.

SOC 4999 Independent Project or Study
1-8 cr.
Students select a particular topic of studywith instructor. Individual student learning goals and method of evaluation is designed. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.