400

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Credit arranged.

Credit arranged.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.