Sociology Courses

SOC 121 (3-0-3)

Sociology

This course introduces students to the basic patterns of social behavior and the structure and functions of social organizations. It emphasizes research methodology, culture and cultural change, socialization and deviance, population and social stratification, and social institutions. This course is a service learning course.

SOC 122 (3-0-3)

Social Problems

This course provides a sociological orientation to the study of social problems, and the analysis of several contemporary issues. The topics selected may include, but are not limited to: addiction, crime, ecology, education, medical care, poverty, prejudice, discrimination, social sexual issues, urban issues, and research methodology. This course is a service learning course.

SOC 125 (3-0-3)

Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare

This course focuses on the theoretical, philosophical, historical and ethical dimensions of the social work profession in the United States. It introduces students to core social work theories and skills and to the best practices associated with them. This course presents current theories and issues in social work affecting local, state and national social programs, agencies, and individuals. 

SOC 127 (3-0-3)

Interpersonal and Group Dynamics

This course introduces students to interpersonal and group communication skills as they apply to human services settings. The course content is reinforced by a required service learning project.

SOC 222 (3-0-3)

Sociology of the Family

This course focuses on family dynamics in the United States in historical and cross-cultural context. It examines family structure, organization, dissolution, and services, as well as internal and external influences, and marital and nonmarital relationships. 
PR: SOC 121 or SOC 122 

SOC 224 (3-0-3)

Sociology of Aging

This course examines aging on both the individual and societal levels. Psychological and physiological aspects of aging are discussed as well as social policy in light of how they may affect quality of life for the elderly. 
PR: SOC 121 or SOC 122

SOC 228 (3-0-3)

Minority Groups

This course covers past, current, and possible trends in minority versus majority group relations in the United States. Emphasis is placed upon dominate versus subordinate racial and/or ethnic groups. In addition, other subordinate groups such as those identified by gender, sexual orientation, or disability will be discussed. The nature of prejudice and discrimination are also discussed as well as strategies to reduce them. 
PR: SOC 121 or SOC 122

SOC 230 (3-0-3)

Intro to Sociological Theory

The course focuses on the theories of Karl Marx, Max Weber, Emile Durkheim, and George Mead. The course also examines contributions of the above theorists and their followers and critics on the development of contemporary sociological theory. Theory construction and value neutrality are additional subjects. 
PR: SOC 121 or SOC 122

SOC 232 (3-0-3)

Social Deviance

This course explores various aspects of social deviance within society. Context and socio-cultural variables will be examined in determining cause, impact, and consequence of deviant behavior. Theories of deviance and selected areas of deviant behavior such as: genocide, suicide, cyberspace, terrorism, addiction, and sex are discussed and evaluated. 
PR: PSY 121 or SOC 121