Sociology

Classes

SOCI101N: Introduction to Sociology

This course provides the student with an understanding of the development of sociological thought and the theories and methods used to study social structure and interaction. It emphasizes the influence of culture on human behavior and social relationships. Students will learn how people's location in society and its institutions shapes their experiences and life chances, and how individuals and groups can influence the process.

SOCI201N: Contemporary Social Problems

In this course, students will critically examine a selection of the most pressing issues and problems facing society today, including inequalities of wealth and income, crime and violence, race relations, gender and sexuality, work and the economy, globalization, technology, and the environment. To accomplish this objective, students will learn to apply the sociological perspective to the study of contemporary social life. Through this examination, students will gain an understanding of how social problems arise and how they affect society, and they will apply this understanding to the consideration of possible social policies and other remedies. The course takes a hands-on approach to learning wherever applicable. The goals of this course are to provide a solid foundation in social science learning, to enhance critical thinking skills, and to stimulate social commitment.

SOCI208N: Sociology of Conflict

This course examines major social scientific theories of conflict with an emphasis on the need for theories to inform our ability to resolve conflict. The course weaves together ideas from conventional disciplines with new approaches to the cause of deep-rooted conflict. A major focus is on the analysis as a tool.

SOCI228N: Social Inequalities:

Theory and Practice This course will allow students to view the development and maintenance of social inequalities in contemporary American culture by exploring how power, privilege, and social status are tied to race, social class, gender, and sexuality. Students will understand the historical roots of prejudice and discrimination as they relate to the production and maintenance of social stratification. Students will examine the role of power in our society by studying various models of authority (e.g. hierarchical vs. flat-power or power-over vs. power-to perspectives).The course will also explore what it means to have privilege and build awareness of the impact that it has in our lives. This course will enable students to understand multiple social issues and to develop their own perspective about why some have more than others.

SOSC280N: Social Sciences Research Methods

This student-led course emphasizes research in writing on a specific topic in the Social Sciences. Students can focus on History, Political Science, or Anthropology/Sociology and will research and write a research paper relating to that semester’s topic. Subjects addressed include information literacy, locating and critically assessing acceptable primary and secondary sources, applying proper Social Sciences methodologies and critical analysis, citing sources effectively, and writing a research paper.