Sociology (SOCI)
An introduction to the basic concepts, methods, and theories used in Sociology. Topics illustrate the systematic understanding of social interaction, social organization, and social institutions. Reciprocal relationships between individuals and society are examined. Topics may include – but are not limited to – socialization, culture, social stratification, race and ethnicity, sex and gender, deviance, family, work, and social change.
A survey and exploration of the causes and consequences of major social problems in the U.S. society, including contemporary issues of poverty, unemployment, income inequality, health care, crime, climate change, and other issues of social class, racial, ethnic, and gender inequality.
The scientific study of how a person's thoughts and behavior are influenced by others. Topics will include social cognition, attitudes, persuasion, interpersonal relationships, and group behavior. (Credit may not be given for both this course and PSYC 2326.) Cross listed with PSYC 2319.
An examination of sexuality from a sociological perspective. This course will consider the historical evolution of sexuality, the social construction of sexual identities, sexual inequalities and power, how sexualities and sex acts are defined as normal or deviant, and applications of sociological, queer, and feminist theories.
The examination of film as a culture artifact to illustrate sociological concepts, theories, and perspectives. Specific attention will be given to narratives of film as they illustrate culture, aging, social class, gender, race/ethnicity, identity, and other sociological concepts.
The study of cultural, religious, ethnic and racial groups, and the treatment accorded them in society. Prejudice, discrimination and the outcomes of discrimination in relation to both dominant and subordinate groups are considered.
An examination of the roots, nature and social construction of gender roles including socialization of men and women, gender role relationships from the perspectives of sociology. Issues of family, education, work and the economy, religion, politics and law, feminist organizations, feminist theory, and men's and women's movements will be considered.
A study of the Chicanas and the trends in society and Mexican-American culture affecting their lives and behaviors.
The study of the family, relationships among its members, and the relationship of family to other social institutions.
A systematic and critical study of the nature, patterns, and processes of violations of significant social norms by members of society. Specific attention is given to violations such as drug abuse, violence in and outside the family, and white-collar offenses.
Employing a sociological lens to examine formal education in the United States and other countries, students will explore various schools of thought and controversies surrounding education in modern societies. They will examine important issues related to formal education, such as the expansion of schooling, equality of educational opportunity, unequal achievement of groups of students, the reproduction of inequality in education, schools' roles in the transmission of culture, and the social organization of schools.
Combines an analysis of the major ideas and theories in sociology and their relationship to social research with an understanding of social processes and structures.
Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.
The study of work as a social phenomenon, including the social organization of work, occupations, and professions in society. The labor force, work culture, workers mobility, career lines, and leisure in contrast to work are considered.
The study of social inequality in society, with emphasis on the social class structure of the United States, its origins, development, and consequences for individuals, groups, and society.
The development of a theoretical and applied understanding of those social institutions where most of us will be employed. Topics include organizational effectiveness, decision making, designs, politics, cultures, as well as gender and racial inequality.
This course critically examines the relationships between organized sports and the rest of society. It will undertake a sociological analysis of how organized sports affect, and are affected by, major social institutions such as the economy, racial and gender relations, mass media, and religion, to mention but a few.
Examination of the social contexts of physical and mental health, illness and medical care. Topics include the social, environmental, and occupational factors in health and disease; socialization of health care providers; doctor-patient relationships; the structure and processes of health care organizations; and health care and social change.
This is a capstone course required of all students graduating with a major in sociology. The course is designed to enable faculty to assess each student's expertise in applying sociological concepts and practices. Students demonstrate this expertise through the completion of a final project that combines a minimum of classroom hours with substantial research activity. The course is team taught by the entire sociology faculty. Students are allowed considerable flexibility in selecting either survey research or evaluation research for their project.(Offered Spring Only.)
A consideration of various topics on social behavior and social structure. May be repeated when topics vary.
See College description.
See College description.
A survey of the basic research techniques and methods used in sociology including content analysis, field research, sampling, surveys, polls, and computerized data analysis.
Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.