400

SOC 431 Mapping Social Problems

This course emphasizes a spatial approach to the study of social problems. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, students will gain experience in making maps, obtaining data, and uncovering spatial patterns (e.g., "hot spots" of criminal activity or residential segregation) to inform public policy.

3

Prerequisites

SOC 214, PSY 214, or SW 214, SOC 215 or PSY 215 or permission of instructor.

SOC 432 Gender and Violence

The course explores the way gender is associated with violence as well as the roots and manifestations of gender-based violence. Particular attention will be paid to sexual assault, prostitution and domestic violence. Students will be able to explain and apply theories of violence and will have a choice of actively working to reduce violence or conducting a research project to better understand violence.

3

Prerequisites

SOC 214, PSY 214 or SW 214 or permission of instructor.

SOC 434 Urban Society

Topics include the origin and development of cities; the social-psychological consequences of living in the urban environment; the social problems associated with urbanization in both industrial and third world cities; and the future of cities.

3

Prerequisites

SOC 101; SOC 214 or PSY 214

SOC 438 Juvenile Delinquency

Analysis of theories and research concerning the nature, extent, course, and control of juvenile criminal and antisocial conduct.
3

Prerequisites

SOC 101 or PSY 101; SOC 214, PSY 214 or SW 214; SOC 215 or PSY 215.

SOC 453 Psychosocial Aspects of Sport Activity

This course will engage psychological and sociological perspectives toward understanding sports and physical activity as both personal engagements and social phenomena. Topics will include sport-based youth development, mental health and physical activity, performance enhancement, and sport and social issues. The course will emphasize reflective, analytic, critical, and interdisciplinary perspectives based on engaging with scholarly readings and material.
3

Prerequisites

SOC 101 or PSY 101

Cross Listed Courses

PSY 453

SOC 461 Introduction to Gerontology

This course introduces students to the field of gerontology. The course examines the aging process and its impact upon the individual, the family, and society. The course also covers various social, cultural, political, and economic issues for older adults in our society.

3

Prerequisites

PSY 101 or SOC 101 or SW 205 or permission of instructor.

Cross Listed Courses

PSY 461, SW 461

SOC 463 Children, Youth and Society

This course is about child and youth development as embedded in social and cultural contexts. The particular emphasis will be on early childhood through the transition into adulthood, and on thinking about childhood and youth as social phenomena. The course is reading/discussion intensive and involves a community-based learning project.

3

Prerequisites

SOC 101

Cross Listed Courses

PSY 463

SOC 468 Comparative Health and Social Issues in Ecuador

Students will spend six weeks engaging in services in Quito, Ecuador.  The focus is on issues impacting mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of individuals/communities in Ecuador and services designed to address these issues & work for social/economic justice.  Comparisons are made to systems in the U.S.  Approval of Studies Abroad Director required.

3

Prerequisites

SOC 101, SPN 301, SPN 302 or equivalent

Cross Listed Courses

SW 468, SPN 468

SOC 490 Directed Study

Guided inquiry for superior students by special arrangement with the sociology faculty.

Variable

SOC 491 Sociology Seminar

Credit arranged.

Variable

Prerequisites

SOC 214, PSY 214, or SW 214 or permission of instructor.

SOC 492 Sociology Seminar

Credit arranged.

Variable

Prerequisites

SOC 214, PSY 214, or SW 214 or permission of instructor.

SOC 493 Research

Participate directly in the research process with a faculty member. Before enrolling, a student must consult with a faculty member to define the project.

Variable

SOC 494 Research

Participate directly in the research process with a faculty member. Before enrolling, a student must consult with a faculty member to define the project.

Variable

SOC 497 Internship

Practical field experience working within a human service organization. Internships are individually arranged and may be done in a wide array of settings. Students will be required to supplement their experience with a classroom seminar. Sociology majors may take up to 6 credits in internships. Students may receive an IP (In Progress) grade until the completion of their internship.

Variable

Prerequisites

SW 205 or PSY 101 or SOC 101

Cross Listed Courses

PSY 497, SW 497

SOC 497C Criminology Internship

Supervised in-service experience in some aspect of the criminal justice system. This might include work in corrections, police activities, court room procedures, or legislative internship. Criminology track students only.
3

Prerequisites

SOC 101

SOC 498 Senior Project

Advanced analysis, integration, application, and criticism of the field of sociology. Students will complete a senior project. Sociology majors only.

3

Prerequisites

SOC 214 and SOC 380, or permission of instructor.

SOC 499 Senior Thesis

Research, study, or original work under the direction of a faculty mentor, leading to a scholarly thesis document with a public presentation of results. Requires approval of thesis director, and department chair.

1

Prerequisites

SOC 214 and SOC 380. Senior standing; 3.0 G.P.A. in the thesis area, or good standing in the honors program.