Sociology (SOC)

This course offers an introduction to the field of sociology. Sociology is the scientific study of human behavior in society. In this course we will introduce and discuss issues including the sociological imagination, culture, socialization, deviance, authority, religion, science and methods of sociological research. Various sociological theories will be introduced and utilized to explore and enhance our understanding of these issues.

This course explores the inequality that exists in our society. Social stratification is the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in a society. Issues like gender, race, poverty, education and capitalism will be explored and discussed in an attempt to understand their impact on the inequality that we experience in our society. Various sociological theories will be introduced and utilized to explore and enhance our understanding of these issues.

This course explores how people can change their society. Social change is a process that can be used by people in a society, to change and improve the functioning of their society. This course will explore and discuss how people-led social movements, in the past and in the present, can be developed, organized, and implemented to accomplish social change.

This course will introduce students to the study of marriage, intimate relations and family systems from the sociological viewpoint. Students will examine the ways in which race, class, gender, sexuality, community, and society influence patterns of courtship, intimate relations, marriage, and family, and explore the various challenges facing families today.

Applies the sociological framework to the study of social problems, their identification, analysis of causes and possible solutions. Problems explored may include mental disorders, drug and alcohol addiction, crime and delinquency, group discrimination, inequality, poverty, alienation, domestic and international violence, environment, and energy.

Cooperative Work Experience. This course allows students who are already working in the field of sociology to earn college credit for that work. Variable Credit: 2-6 credits. Required: Student Petition.