Introduces basic concepts, theories, and methods of sociology. Develops a sociological perspective on social issues, problems and events. Provides an overview of major subfields in sociology. Also prepares students for the major and a career in sociology and related professions.

A study of selected social problems using a sociological lens. Problems may include alcoholism and drug addiction, crime, divorce, poverty, gender inequality, race relations, and others.

The sociological analysis of sport: issues discussed include the history, definition, and functions of sport; role of sport in the socialization of children; the relationship between sport and values; athletics within the social organization of education; deviance, crime, and violence in sport; the business and economics of sport.

This course applies sociological theories and methods to the study of ethnic relations, conflict, and peacebuilding efforts across the globe. Students also study social problems related to ethnic relations from multiple perspectives and evaluate policies to address them.

This course will examine how racial inequality has shaped government policy and the justice system in the United States. Specific areas of focus will be the criminal justice system, housing, education, employment, and social services.

An overview of the ethics, philosophy, and methods of the field of social work. Attention will be paid to social problems encountered in central social institutions and community resources available to address these social problems.

Selected topics in Sociology. May be repeated as topics change. Maximum 8 credits.

Methodologies and types of research commonly used in sociology. Focus on the research process, including the research problem and techniques of data gathering. Design and use of the interview, questionnaire, and case study approaches to sociological analysis. 3 hour lecture, 1 hour lab.

Embeds statistical techniques in the sociological research process. Application of statistical techniques to test sociological hypotheses, assess social theories, and draw conclusions about sociological problems from statistical data. Review of descriptive/inferential statistics and instruction of statistical software. 3 hour lecture, 1 hour lab.

The assumptions, orientations, and applications used by both classical and contemporary schools of sociological thought in explaining social phenomena.

A sociological, global, and theoretical approach to the study of women and gender. Emphasis on the social construction of sex and gender. Also analyzes gender inequality and its connections with different forms of oppression over time.

This course examines various family forms, with primary emphasis on U.S. families. Includes the history and functions of families, theoretical and methodological approaches to studying families, intimate relationships, parenting and socialization of children, and family disruption.

This course examines the processes involved in labeling behaviors and people as deviant within society. We will explore theories of why individuals engage in deviance as well as those discussing societal reactions to deviance. We will also explore popular forms of deviance in American culture through a theoretical lens. Cross-listed as: CJS-352.

In this service-learning course, students study homelessness, while developing research and professional skills. After hearing from experts and reviewing scholarship on homelessness, they work on a statewide needs assessment, interview shelter residents, craft a grant proposal, volunteer at a shelter, and engage in education and advocacy for the homeless.

Selected topics in sociology. May be repeated as topics change. Maximum 8 credits.

This course examines the treatment and needs of special populations within the US criminal justice system from initial law enforcement contact to reentry into the community. Special populations covered include individuals with mental health disorders, the elderly, those with infectious diseases, noncitizens, transgender individuals, and pregnant women. Cross-listed as: CJS-455.

This seminar examines how the unequal distribution of wealth, power, and prestige among individuals and groups affects life chances. Emphasizes class, race, gender, and occupational divisions in the contemporary United States with some attention to global inequality.

Selected topics in Sociology. May be repeated as topics change. Maximum 8 credits.

Work learning experience for Sociology Majors. Placement arranged by student; approved, supervised, and evaluated by faculty member. Student spends 3 to 4 hours/week in work setting for each credit earned. Compensation possible. Does not count toward the major. May be repeated to a maximum of 4 credits. Graded Pass/Fail.

Advanced independent study of a sociology/anthropology area not normally available in the curriculum. Requires written report. May be repeated to a maximum of 4 credits.

Planning and executing a senior thesis in Sociology. With guidance from a faculty sponsor and a committee of readers, students identify and pursue a topic of interest in the field. Written and oral presentation of the project are required for credit. Must be repeated (8 credits total) for Sociology honors.