Sociology

Sociology

Sociology is the study of the relationship between humans and society. Students examine how economics, politics, religion, race, gender, family, and the environment interact to shape people's lives. Students analyze causes of and potential solutions for social problems such as poverty, crime, social class, race, and gender inequalities. Courses include topics such as race, class, ethnicity, gender, and social deviance. Sociology prepares students for employment in social services, criminal justice, teaching, and public policy.

See the Sociology page for program and contact information.

Courses

SOC 199 Selected Topics: Sociology (1-4 Credits)

This course is in development.

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SOC 204Z Introduction to Sociology (4 Credits)

Introduces the central concepts, theories, and methods that define the sociological approach to investigating the social forces that shape our lives. Topics may include social structure, culture, socialization, race, class, gender, sexuality, and inequality.

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SOC 206Z Social Problems (4 Credits)

Applies the sociological perspective to the study of social problems, including their social construction, causes, and consequences. Explores the complexities surrounding their solutions, such as how solutions are socially constructed and policy proposals from sociologists and social movements. Topics may include poverty, discrimination, interpersonal violence, crime, addiction, ecological crises, war/global conflict, and health inequality.

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SOC 208 Sport and Society (4 Credits)

Recommended preparation: SOC 204Z.

While we use sociology to help make sense of sport, we also use sport to develop the ability to think sociologically about society. Subjects include sport and: values, socialization, deviance, social problems and social inequities.

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SOC 211 Social Deviance (4 Credits)

Examines deviance through a sociological lens and includes analyzing the processes involved in definitions of deviance and factors influencing approaches to and consequences of social control. Applies sociological theories to deviance to illustrate the link between theory and social policy.

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SOC 212 Race, Class, and Gender (4 Credits)

Addresses systems of privilege and domination as interrelated and shaped by historical, institutional, political, and social forces. Applies sociological theories to addressing the intersection between race, class, gender, and other aspects of our identities and structural conditions.

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SOC 219 Sociology of Religion (4 Credits)

Recommended preparation: SOC 204Z.

Surveys a variety of religious traditions and introduces the sociological perspective for the study of religion as part of a larger social order. Explores the nature of religious beliefs and practices, both historically and in contemporary context. Examines the relationship between religious traditions and the current globalization of the institution of religion in culture and society.

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SOC 222 Sociology of Family and Intimate Relationships (4 Credits)

Recommended preparation: WR 121Z.

Examines the connections between family and intimate relations and society. Addresses the impact of economic, social, and political conditions on families and intimate relations past and present.

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SOC 228 Sociology of the Environment (4 Credits)

Recommended preparation: SOC 204Z and WR 121Z.

Applies sociological concepts and theories to the examination of the relationship between humans, communities, and the environment. Explores structural and cultural causes and consequences of various social and environmental problems.

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SOC 250 Sociology of Popular Culture (4 Credits)

Apply the sociological perspective and sociological theory to various aspects of popular culture: mass media, sports, advertising and marketing, and film. Examine central factors influencing the production and reception of culture. Analyze the influence of audience position on interpretations of culture and the influence of culture on individual identities.

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SOC 280 Co-op Work Experience Sociology (1-4 Credits)

Prerequisites: Instructor approval.

Provides experience in which students apply previous classroom learning in an occupational setting. Credits depend on the number of hours worked. Repeatable for credit. P/NP grading.

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SOC 298 Independent Study: Sociology (1-6 Credits)

Prerequisites: instructor approval.

Recommended preparation: prior coursework in the discipline.

Individualized, advanced study to focus on outcomes not addressed in existing courses or of special interest to a student. P/NP grading.

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SOC 299 Selected Topics: Sociology (1-4 Credits)

This course is in development.

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