Course Descriptions
AN 103 INTRODUCTION TO ARCHEOLOGY 3.0 Credit(s)
Focuses on how archeology as a scientific discipline attempts to understand the development of the cultural adaptations of human groups throughout prehistory and history and how archeology interprets the past. Topics include how archeological sites are formed, dating techniques, and the analysis of plant, animal, and human artifacts and remains. With a hands-on approach, students are presented case scenarios relating to archeological digs to better understand the thinking process involved in reconstructing the past.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
AN 107 IRISH FOLKLORE & ANTHROPOLOGY 3.0 Credit(s)
The Anthropological study of Irish folklore.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 110 HUMAN CULTURAL DIVERSITY 3.0 Credit(s)
The aim of this course is for students to develop an anthropological imagination and understand its relevance for living in the contemporary world. An anthropological imagination involves cultivating an interest in and an understanding of the unity, diversity, and development of human biology, society, and culture. As an introduction to the study of human cultural diversity, this course emphasizes the concept of culture, human sociocultural variation, and patterns of sociocultural change in contemporary human societies.
Offered: Fall, Spring & Summer 2 Sems All Years
AN 201 WORLD CULTURE 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines a cross section of societies, including hunter-gatherer, horticultural, peasant, pastoral, and industrial. Themes of cultural diversity, cultural contact, and understanding "the other."
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 204 INTRODUCTION TO IRISH ARCHEOLOGY 3.0 Credit(s)
A comprehensive overview of Irish archaeology from the first settlers to modern times. Special attention will be focused on the sites and cultural history of the Dingle Peninsula.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 205 NORTH AMERICAN INDIANS 3.0 Credit(s)
Covers the cultural development and diversity of aboriginal North America, the impact of European contact on Native American societies, and contemporary issues among North American Indians.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
AN 210 CULTURE, HEALTH & WELLNESS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course explores the topics of health, wellness, sickness and disease from an anthropological and cross-cultural perspective. In this course students will develop and understanding of the role of culture in the conceptualization of health and wellness and the pattern and treatment of sickness and disease. The course will also explore the role of socio-economic factors impacting on health and wellness and the patterns of treatment of sickness and disease. Finally, the course will develop a comparative, cross-cultural perspective of health, wellness, sickness and disease. Prerequisite: Take AN 110 or SO 110
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
AN 230 COMMUNITY, CULTURE & FOLKLORE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the role of folklore, social life and cultural identity in the West of Ireland. This course also examines the role of folklore in individual and community wellbeing.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 235 HUMANS IN THE ICE AGE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course provides an overview as to the various human adaptations and cultural expressions occuring globally during the last Ice Age.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
AN 240 URBANIZATION IN WORLD PERSPEC. 3.0 Credit(s)
The Anthropological study of cities throughout the world.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 250 DOING ETHNOGRAPH:QUALITY RESEARCH 3.0 Credit(s)
The aim of this course is for students to develop an understanding of and an ability to use ethnography as a method of social science research. Combining theoretical and applied readings and practical assignments, the focus is on participant observation and interviewing, writing field notes, and the transformation of field data into ethnographic documents. In addition, students develop an understanding of the epistemological, political, and ethical issues surrounding ethnographic research. Prerequisite: SO-110 OR AN-110
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 299 SPECIAL TOPICS IN ANTHROPOLOGY 1.0-3.0 Credit(s)
Designates new or occasional courses (i.e., one capitalizing on a timely topic).
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN 399 INDEPENDENT STUDY IN ANTHRO 3.0-6.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN ELEC ANTHROPOLOGY ELECTIVE 1.0-6.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
AN ELECF ANTHRO. FOUNDATIONAL ELECTIVE 1.0-9.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 101 INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE 3.0 Credit(s)
Provides an overview of the criminal justice system and its processes.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 203 CRIMINAL PROCEDURE 3.0 Credit(s)
Focus is on constitutional limitations pertaining to criminal proceedings, the arrest process, court procedures and sentencing. Attention is focused on the United State Supreme Court cases as well as the United States Constitution which protects individual rights. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 205 CRIMINAL LAW 3.0 Credit(s)
Reviews the fundamentals of criminal law. Topics include specific law distinctions between grades of offenses, criminal responsibility, search and seizure, use of force, search warrants and self-incrimination. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 206 CRIME AND CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR 3.0 Credit(s)
An interdisciplinary perspective to examine the causes, measurement, patterns and the effects of socioeconomic status on crime and criminal behavior.
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
CJ 209 THE AMERICAN LEGAL SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
Covers the basic structure and principles of the American legal system. The differences between federal and state courts, the civil and criminal judicial processes, the juvenile court process, and an understanding of the constitutional rights applicable to these areas.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 213 PROBATION AND PAROLE 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the application of probation, pardons, and parole methods for both juveniles and adults. Analyzes the most effective methods and techniques as they apply to these services
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
CJ 216 JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
Includes an in-depth examination of the juvenile justice system, its history, and its practices. The course also examines the nature and causes of juvenile delinquency, sociological factors that influence such behavior, typologies of juvenile offenders, and current trends in the control of such behavior. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
CJ 220 INTRO CORRECTIONS AND CORRECT LAW 3.0 Credit(s)
A general overview of the corrections system including the historical development of control of human behavior in society. Analysis of the major issues confronting corrections. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 222 RACE, ETHNICITY & CRIME 3.0 Credit(s)
Course will help students build the analytical and critical skills necessary to gain better insight and understanding of race and ethnicity in relation to crime and the justice system.
Offered: Spring Semester Contact Department
CJ 223 INTERVIEWING & COUNSELING 3.0 Credit(s)
Practice-oriented course designed to provide the basic techniques of counseling and interviewing. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 224 WOMEN & THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
Explores the changing roles of women in the criminal justice system. The course focuses on women offenders, women victims, and women criminal justice professionals.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 225 DOMESTIC & SEXUAL VIOLENCE 3.0 Credit(s)
An examination of domestic and sexual violence including offender accountability, victim advocacy, and the CJ response.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 229 RESTORATIVE JUSTICE 3.0 Credit(s)
An examination of restorative justice as an alternative form of justice for all parties.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 230 INTRO TO LAW ENFORCEMENT 3.0 Credit(s)
A study of investigative techniques, sources of information, and an analysis of the relationships of investigative units with other law enforcement units and agencies. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 231 CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION 3.0 Credit(s)
An examination of the investigative techniques used by law enforcement agencies to control and detect crimes. Prerequisite: CJ 101
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 232 POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines various human relations issues that affect policing and police management. Explores programs established by the police in community relations and community involvement in police policies. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 234 Perspectives: Family Violence 3.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 235 LAW OF EVIDENCE 3.0 Credit(s)
An explanation and analysis of the rules of evidence. Examines court decisions concerning the rights of citizens and the rules for giving testimony and the protecting and safeguarding of evidence. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 236 SERIAL KILLERS & SOCIETY 3.0 Credit(s)
This course critically examines the phenomenon of serial murder and serial killers in society from various theoretical perspectives. The purpose of the course is to study the historical and contemporary analyses of serial killers in society, assess the development of serial killers, the impact of the media on public perceptions of serial murder, and extend our understanding of the etiology of serial killers in modern society. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101;
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
CJ 239 POLICE ADMINISTRATION & SUPERVISION 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines management principles as they apply to police organizations. Includes discussion on the organization and management of police personnel at all levels of operation. Prerequisite: TAKE CJ-101
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 240 INTRO TO SECURITY 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the historical, theoretical and legal bases of security, including the purpose of security in modern society, ethics and security, standards, and goals for the security industry. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 242 WHITE COLLAR CRIME 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the parameters and magnitude of white-collar crime and the literature that has been proffered as explanation for it. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 245 CRIMINOLOGY IN FILM 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines criminological theory within the content of film and popular culture. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 246 ORGANIZED CRIME 3.0 Credit(s)
Explores how organized crime is structured and how it can be controlled. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 248 INTRODUCTION TO FRAUD EXAMINATION 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the legal elements of fraud and fraud investigation. Explores the methods of preventing, detecting, and deterring fraud in organizations as well as preserving the chain of custody for the court and compiling evidence for court proceedings. Prerequisite: TAKE CJ-101
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 250 CRISIS INTERVENTION FOR PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the concepts and techniques used by criminal justice practitioners in handling crisis situations. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 251 CRIMINAL COURTS & DISCRETION 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the criminal courts as the fulcrum of the criminal justice system. Emphasis on the actual mechanics of the system and the decision-making of its functionaries. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Summer 1 Semester All Years
CJ 252 COMPARATIVE CRIMINAL JUSTICES 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines how culture, history, and economics influence legal systems and the treatment of offenders in various countries. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 253 CRIMINAL JUSTICE ETHICS 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the fundamentals of ethical theory, controversies, and rules of moral judgment as they relate to criminal justice practitioners. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 256 CRIMINALISTICS 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the application of forensic science to criminal investigations as well as the techniques of the crime lab through actual and case histories. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 299 SPECIAL TOPICS IN CRIM JUSTICE 3.0 Credit(s)
Designates new or occasional courses that may or may not become part of the criminal justice program's permanent offerings. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 301 CRIME CAUSATION AND DEVIANCE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course uses an interdisciplinary perspective to examine the causes of crime and deviance. Specifically, this course utilizes available research to lead students to a well-rounded understanding of why people do - and do not - commit crime. Prerequisite: TAKE CJ-206
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 302 ADMIN & MGMT OF THE CJ SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the current problems and issues facing the American criminal justice system. The course explores the role of the courts and correctional system, access to the justice system, controversial policies such as the use of force and discretion, and organizational and legal issues related to decision-making within the criminal justice system. Prerequisite: TAKE CJ-101
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 306 VICTIMOLOGY 3.0 Credit(s)
Focuses on the study of victimization by examining the causes and consequences of victimization as well as the criminal justice system's response to victims of crime. Contemporary topics in the field of victimology are discussed in detail.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 312 MENTAL HEALTH & CJ SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
Exploration of the criminal justice system as it deals with an increasing number of clients with mental health issues.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 318 POLICING IN A DEMOCRATIC SOC. 3.0 Credit(s)
Through scientific research and theory, students will better understand public policy and the practices that define the effective police organization.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 320 CORRECTIONAL ADMIN/MGMT 3.0 Credit(s)
Explores the operation and management of the American correctional system. Topics include theories of leadership and management, vision, mission and strategic planning, staffing, supervising and empowering employees. Overcrowding, violence, health, and prison programming are among the current topics discussed. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 381 RESEARCH MTHDS. IN CRIM.JUSTIC 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the methods of research and the types of data used to develop an understanding of criminal behavior and to create change in criminal justice policy. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 390 INTERNSHIP 3.0-6.0 Credit(s)
Supervised placement in a criminal justice agency or site. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101
Offered: Fall, Spring & Summer Sems All Years
CJ 391 SENIOR SEMINAR: ISSUES AND PROBLEMS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE 3.0 Credit(s)
Discussion and analysis of contemporary issues and problems related to the criminal justice system. Prerequisite: Take CJ-101 and senior standing (greater than 87 creditsýcompleted prior to bginning the course)
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 500 CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course provides an in-depth analysis into United States criminal law through the model penal code and an in-depth analysis of the U.S. Supreme Court cases that have shaped criminal justice. Students will apply criminal law and procedural acts of law as practiced throughout the country.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 501 CRIME CAUSATION AND DEVIANCE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the development and application of theories of crime causation and social deviance. The course includes an assessment of the issues and problems involved in controlling crime and deviance in society. Students learn about the nature of criminal behavior and the impact of this behavior on the victims, and study the development of programs and policies to control crime and assist the victims.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 502 ADMIN & MGMT OF THE CJ SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the current problems and issues facing the American criminal justice system. The course explores the role of the courts and correctional system, access to the justice system, controversial policies such as the use of force and discretion, and organizational and legal issues related to decision-making within the criminal justice system.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 503 LAW, SOCIETY AND ETHICS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course focuses on constitutional and ethical issues as they affect the operation of the criminal justice system. Topics examined include legal issues related to punishment and the ethical responsibilities of criminal justice agents.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 504 ADMIN OF CORRCTIONAL SYSTEMS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course explores the operation and nature of the American correctional system. The course examines the juvenile justice system as well as the adult correctional system. Theories and philosophies of correctional administration and the conditions that generate delinquent behavior are examined as well as current critical issues such as overcrowding, alternatives to incarceration, and efforts to maintain family cohesion.
Offered: Fall Semester Even Academic Years
CJ 505 CRIMINAL LAW 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines various topics in substantive criminal law as they affect the operation of the criminal justice system. Topics may include standards of evidence, defenses, and punishments.
Offered: Spring Semester Odd Academic Years
CJ 506 VICTIMOLOGY 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the victim through history. Course explores the victim movement and the nature and extent of criminal victimization and its effect on American society.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 507 ORGANIZATIONAL PROCEDURES 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the criminal justice system from an organizational perspective. Students will explore fraud control, risk analysis, and corporate crime control through case studies.
Offered: Fall Semester Even Academic Years
CJ 508 CAPITAL PUNISHMENT 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the theoretical, legal, and ethical issues involved in capital punishment.
Offered: Spring Semester Odd Academic Years
CJ 509 CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR &THE FAMILY 3.0 Credit(s)
This course studies theories and research concerning the socialization experience and their impact on behavior. Topics examined include child abuse and neglect, parental substance abuse, disciplinary techniques, single parent families, and more.
Offered: Spring Semester Even Academic Years
CJ 510 CRIMINAL PROFILING 3.0 Credit(s)
This course studies the process of identifying characteristics associated with individuals who become criminal sociopaths. Sociological theories of crime causation are used in the examination of criminal typology.
Offered: Spring Semester Even Academic Years
CJ 511 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the policies and systems necessary to govern in situations of conflict and uncertainty. Explores appropriate responses to serious incidents and disasters. Evaluates early warning systems and prevention strategies. Students learn the techniques involved in planning and preparing for crises and forecasting potential crisis situations.
Offered: Fall Semester Even Academic Years
CJ 512 MENTAL HEALTH & CJ SYSTEM 3.0 Credit(s)
Introduction and exploration of the criminal justice system as it deals with an increasing number of clients with mental health issues.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 513 ISSUES IN NATIONAL SECURITY 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the changes in American policy fostered by the terrorist attacks of 9/11/01. Students study the organizations and resources developed since 9/11/01 to defend national security. The course explores the role played by all the components of the criminal justice system in providing for the security of the nation. Also studied are the policies and practices that have been developed for this purpose by the various agencies that represent the criminal justice system. Specifically, students study the adjudication process as it relates to issues of national security and the correctional practices employed to maintain national security.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 514 DOMESTIC/INTERNAT'L TERRORISM 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the history, current developments, and responses to both international and domestic terrorism. Emphasis is on the examination of law enforcement response to terrorism and the sociological models of consensus and conflict in an effort to better understand the nature of terrorism. Assesses the strategies, funding, and use of media of terrorists and examines the efforts of terrorist victimization.
Offered: Summer 2 Semester All Years
CJ 515 BUDGET PLANNING IN PUB AGENCY 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the nature of public budgeting and financial management from the perspective of a public manager. Explores public budgeting from an analytical perspective.
Offered: Fall Semester Even Academic Years
CJ 516 COMMUNITY BASED CORRECTIONS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course addresses issues related to juvenile and adult offenders managed in community settings, to include the empirical effectiveness and social consequences of policy.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 517 PROGRAM EVALUATION IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE 3.0 Credit(s)
The demand for evidence-based practices requires leaders in criminal justice to have the skillset necessary for proper program evaluation. This course allows for that skillset by allowing students the opportunity to think critically about planning and evaluation.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
CJ 518 POLICING IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY 3.0 Credit(s)
Societies experience tensions between desires for order and liberty. This course examines the challenge that tension presents to police organizations. Using theory and research, students will understand the policies defining effective policing.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 581 RESEARCH METHODS & STATISTICAL ANALYSIS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course must be taken at the graduate level. An undergraduate course in this subject cannot be substituted for the graduate course. Examines the research process and is designed to provide students with an understanding of the principles and practices of criminal justice empirical research. More specifically, methods of research and data analysis, as applied to the field of criminal justice, are presented. The application of these methods to criminal justice practice is demonstrated through various exercises. To better prepare capable professionals, students are taught both the language of scientific discourse and the ability to appraise empirical studies critically. To better prepare practitioners who are fair and respectful toward individuals from diverse backgrounds, research ethics, and sensitivity to populations-at-risk are promoted.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
CJ 599 SPECIAL TOPICS 3.0 Credit(s)
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 601 CRIMINAL JUSTICE INTERNSHIP 3.0 Credit(s)
Students use their theoretical knowledge in a practical environment. Students are required to spend 150 hours interning in a criminal justice agency or use their current criminal justice work experience to apply theory. Students must observe and assist in the everyday operations of the agency. They are required to maintain a log of their activities and confer weekly with the faculty advisor to discuss their individual progress. The class meets regularly with the professor so that students may share their internship/ practicum experiences. Upon completion of the 150 hours, the student will prepare a two part paper. Those fulfilling the requirements through their current work experience will also prepare a paper. The first part of the paper will consist of a literature review on a topic related to the internship. The second part of the paper will consist of a description of the work experience including the topics provided by the instructor/advisor.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
CJ 650 CRIMINAL JUSTICE THESIS 3.0 Credit(s)
The student works with a mentor to develop a research project. The research project culminates in a thesis and an oral presentation of the thesis to faculty and students in the program.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ 698 COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION 0.0 Credit(s)
No credit is awarded for this exam. Students are eligible to take this exam at the end of the semester in which they complete the required 30 credits for the degree.
Offered: All Semesters All Years
CJ ELEC CRIMINAL JUSTICE ELECTIVE 1.0-9.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 110 SOCIOLOGICAL IMAGINATION 3.0 Credit(s)
Students are taught how to investigate social issues as sociologists do-by tracing the troubles of men and women back to broader social forces and problems. The relevance of sociology is demonstrated through examples of applied sociology and through the students' use of social theory and methods to address social problems.
Offered: Fall, Spring & Summer 1 Sems All Years
SO 123 HUMAN RIGHTS AND SOCIAL JUSTICE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course will introduce students to current and historical issues and controversies of human rights and social justice through case studies, lectures, and group work.
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
SO 201 POVERTY AND INEQUALITY IN U.S 3.0 Credit(s)
The aim of this course is for students to develop an understanding of the nature, causes, and consequences of poverty and socioeconomic inequality in contemporary United States. These problems are examined from theoretical, descriptive, historical, and comparative perspectives. The intersection of the problems of poverty and inequality with gender, race, ethnicity, and political power are also examined. Students will have an opportunity to examine critically current public policies designed to deal with the problems of poverty and inequality in American society.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 202 SOCIOLOGY OF THE BODY 3.0 Credit(s)
This course will explore sociological scholarship on a wide range of questions relating to the body, including representation, embodiment, social construction of the body, human reproduction, biotechnology, and virtual bodies. In doing this we will utilize both macro- and microsociological theories to examine the politicization of bodies as sites of discipline, regulation, normalization, empowerment, and agency.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 203 SOCIOLOGY OF SPORTS 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines the sociological significance of sport on an individual, interactional, and institutional level.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 215 SOCIAL PSYCH:MACROPROCESSES 3.0 Credit(s)
Explores social and cultural forces that influence individual social interaction. Covers components of individual social behavior and interpersonal social behavior.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 216 CHANGING FAMILIES 3.0 Credit(s)
Examines family in terms of structure, roles, and functions. Emphasis is on understanding: family life cycles; the shift in perspective about the family; the conflict between family values and individual values; the interplay between individual families and the larger society; and the flexibility and diversity of the family as an institution.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 218 SOCIAL ISSUES & SOCIAL CHANGE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course addresses societal conflict and change through the study of contemporary social problems.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 220 ETHNOGRAPHY OF IRELAND 3.0 Credit(s)
This course examines the patterns of economic, social, political, and cultural change in modern Ireland through the lens of selected ethnographic studies of Irish communities. In addition, this course will examine the changing theoretical interests and research methodologies of anthropologists working in Ireland. This work will be supplemented with a selection of ethnographic films focusing on Irish communities and contemporary patterns of sociocultural change in Ireland.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 222 CONSUMER CULTURE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course explores the pervasive consumer culture and effects on identity, health, and social relationships.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 224 SOCIAL CAPITAL & CIVIL SOCIETY 3.0 Credit(s)
Centered on Putnam's influential Bowling Alone (2001), this course examines the concept of social capital and the role of social capital in the building and maintenance of community life and civil society.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 230 COMMUNITY, CULTURE & FOLKLORE 3.0 Credit(s)
This course explores the interrelationship of folklore, social life and cultural identity in the West of Ireland. This course will also examine the role of folklore in individual and community wellbeing.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 233 AGING IN AMERICA 3.0 Credit(s)
The aging of the American population is the subject of this course. Emphasis is placed on the imminent retirement of the "baby boomers" and its impact on the structures of society and future generations.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 234 SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & HEALTHCARE 3.0 Credit(s)
Focuses on the social nature of illness in contemporary society, the changing healthcare system, and the ethical issues raised by advances in medical technology.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
SO 236 JUVENILE DELINQUENCY 3.0 Credit(s)
This course focuses on sociological theory and research on juvenile delinquency in the U.S.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 237 DEVIANCE & SOCIAL CONTROL 3.0 Credit(s)
Explores the creation of deviance, the process of becoming deviant, and society's reactions to such issues as civil disorder, crime, mental illness, addiction, and sexual deviance.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
SO 238 YOUTH AND CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY 3.0 Credit(s)
The course analyzes youth as a stage in life made both promising and problematic by contemporary social structure and culture. Attention is given to the origins and forms of youthful conformity and achievement as well as misconduct and crime, with an emphasis on how those issues differ by gender, social class, race/ethnicity, and variations in the organizations and social institutions that constitute the context of daily life for youth.
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
SO 239 DIVERSITY AND OPPRESSION IN CONTEMPORAR 3.0 Credit(s)
Emphasis is on human diversity. This course is designed to give students an understanding of the conditions that lead to minority emergence and the consequence of minority status; it fosters acceptance of diversity, cultural pluralism, and social change.
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
SO 240 STUDYING CHANGING HUMAN POPULATIONS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course 1.) identifies what kinds of changes have been occurring in the size, composition, and geographic distribution of human populations at the local, national, and global levels; 2.) analyzes the impacts those changes have been exerting on social patterns; and 3.) develops basic skills for studying those changes and impacts. Focuses on birth and fertility rates, death rates, migration rates, and changes in specific aspects of populations: size, age, sex ratio, socioeconomic status, and cultural heritage/identity.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 242 STATISTICS FOR SOCIAL RESEARCH 3.0 Credit(s)
This course shows how to use statistics for specific purposes in social research and how to interpret the results of statistical analysis.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 244 RACIAL AND ETHNIC RELATIONS 3.0 Credit(s)
In this course students will be introduced to the various sociological perspectives and theoretical frameworks used to understand racial and ethnic relations in the United States. Racial and ethnic identities remain an important aspect of how people view themselves and others. In this course, we will discuss the dynamics of individual racial and ethnic groups including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and white Americans. We will also examine what the concepts of race and ethnicity mean and how they affect various aspects of American society.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 254 SOCIETY & ECONOMIC CHANGE 3.0 Credit(s)
Major socioeconomic developments in twenty-first-century capitalism (e.g., consumer culture, global labor market, media empires) are studied. The persistence of inequality and poverty, fragmentation of family and community, unhealthy constructions of selfimage, and other social problems are explained in terms of these developments.
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
SO 257 SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & SOCIETY 3.0 Credit(s)
With the increasing diffusion of biotechnology, cybertechnology, communication/media technology, etc., in the world, it is prudent to study the influence of science and technology on culture and society and to consider the social impact of the next wave. While identifying serious problems and risks, the course also explores how science and technology are positive forces.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 258 SOCIETY & THE ENVIRONMENT 3.0 Credit(s)
This course 1.) examines how human activities contribute to environmental problems such as climate change, pollution, disappearance of natural habitat, decreasing biodiversity, diminishing natural resources, deforestation, erosion, and desertification; 2.) analyzes the impact of environmental degradation on human populations and human societies; and 3.) identifies those steps taken and yet to be taken to end degradation and restore environmental health. A project in which students take action in some group organization or community to make its impacts on the environment more positive is required.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 259 SOCIAL MOVEMENTS 3.0 Credit(s)
Social movements are a powerful form of collective action with the capacity to alter societies for the better (e.g., Civil Rights Movement) or worse (e.g., fascism). Utilizing a rich vein of social theory and social scientific studies, this course offers an in-depth analysis of these fascinating social phenomena.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 263 SOCIOLOGY OF GENDER 3.0 Credit(s)
This course provides an introduction to the sociological study of gender by exploring gender as something that is individual, interactional, and institutional. This course elaborates specifically on how gender is a central component of inequality and oppression and the intersections of gender, race, class, and sexuality.
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
SO 296 SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION 3.0 Credit(s)
This course focuses on education as a social institution and an agent of socialization. The formal organization of education, education and the family, education and social stratification, and education as a vehicle for examining and solving social problems are explored.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 297 SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION 3.0 Credit(s)
This course focuses on sociological theory and research on religion.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 299 SPECIAL TOPICS 1.0-3.0 Credit(s)
Detailed and comprehensive analysis of a sociological issue or problem of current interest. Specific topic is announced in the course schedule of any given semester.
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO 372 SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY 3.0 Credit(s)
This sociological theory course gives students an understanding of the works of the major classical theorists whose ideas played a central role in the development of sociological theory and introduces students to the dominant contemporary perspectives in social thought. Emphasis is on developing the students' knowledge of the range of thinking that exists concerning social issues and what the strengths and weaknesses of each position are, therefore enabling them to work within any point of view. A seminar format is used, requiring students to do assigned readings before a topic is discussed in class because it is through class discussions that ideas are analyzed, dissected, and critically assessed. A prerequisite to SO 384 Prerequisite: SO 110 and 3 credits 200 or 300 level SO courses
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
SO 382 METHODS OF SOCIAL RESEARCH 3.0 Credit(s)
Students learn how to design, conduct, and report the results of social research. Attention is given to experimental and evaluation research, field research, unstructured exploratory interviewing, content analysis, analysis of published statistical data, survey research, conceptualization and operationalization of variables, analysis of data, the writing of research reports, and the logic of cause and effect in research. The course also includes learning how to use the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software to analyze quantitative data. A prerequisite to SO 384 Prerequisite: Take SO 110 and 3 credits 200 or 300 SO courses
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
SO 384 APPLIED SOCIAL THEORY/METHODS 3.0 Credit(s)
This course allows students to develop their thesis project through the application of material covered by the Sociological Theory and Research Methods courses. Prerequisite: Take SO-372 and SO-382
Offered: Spring Semester All Years
SO 392 INTERNSHIP 1.0-6.0 Credit(s)
The internship in sociology offers an opportunity for qualified Sociology majors to gain practical experience in an area to which sociology applies. Internships are arranged in advance of the semester they are to be taken.
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
SO 398 SENIOR SEMINAR IN SOCIOLOGY 3.0 Credit(s)
The capstone course in the Sociology major. Students write and defend a sociological thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Prerequisite: Take SO-384
Offered: Fall Semester All Years
SO 399 INDEPENDENT STUDY 3.0-6.0 Credit(s)
Designed for students interested in advanced study or in pursuing areas within sociology for which no course is offered. By special arrangement.
Offered: Fall & Spring Semesters All Years
SO ELEC SOCIOLOGY ELECTIVE 1.0-9.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department
SO ELECF SOCI. FOUNDATIONAL ELECTIVE 1.0-9.0 Credit(s)
Offered: As Needed Contact Department