Sociology (SOC)

This course introduces the scientific study of human society, culture, and social interactions. Topics include socialization, research methods, diversity and inequality, cooperation and conflict, social change, social institutions, and organizations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of sociological concepts as they apply to the interplay among individuals, groups, and societies.

This course covers the institution of the family and other intimate relationships. Emphasis is placed on mate selection, gender roles, sexuality, communication, power and conflict, parenthood, diverse lifestyles, divorce and remarriage, and economic issues. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze the family as a social institution and the social forces which influence its development and change.

This course provides an in-depth study of current social problems. Emphasis is placed on causes, consequences, and possible solutions to problems associated with families, schools, workplaces, communities, and the environment. Upon completion, students should be able to recognize, define, analyze, and propose solutions to these problems.

This course provides a comparison of diverse roles, interests, opportunities, contributions, and experiences in social life. Topics include race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class, and religion. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze how cultural and ethnic differences evolve and how they affect personality development, values, and tolerance.

This course includes an examination of the various aspects of race and ethnicity and how these lead to different experiences, opportunities, problems, and contributions. Topics include prejudice, discrimination, perceptions, myths, stereotypes, and intergroup relationships. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and analyze relationships among racial and ethnic groups within the larger society.

This course examines the influence of culture and social groups on individual behavior and personality. Emphasis is placed on the process of socialization, communication, conformity, deviance, interpersonal attraction, intimacy, race and ethnicity, small group experiences, and social movements. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and analyze cultural and social forces that influence the individual in a society.