Sociology

Introduces the central concepts, theories, and methods that define the sociological approach to investigating the social forces that shape our lives. Topics may include social structure, culture, socialization, race, class, gender, sexuality, and inequality.  

Sociological analysis of social institutions, such as family, education, health care, the economy, and the state. Includes an examination of connections among institutions and their impact on patterns of inequality and individual outcomes. Examines the forces and dynamics behind social change, such as social movements, culture, economic forces, technologies, and the environment.  

Applies the sociological perspective to the study of social problems, including their social construction, causes, and consequences. Explores the complexities surrounding their solutions, such as how solutions are socially constructed and policy proposals from sociologists and social movements. Topics may include poverty, discrimination, interpersonal violence, crime, addiction, ecological crises, war/global conflict, health inequality, and social justice. 

Frames social status differences within the context of social structure and culture. Examines how inequalities and privilege play out through social status and are reinforced through both culture and social structure. Includes statuses such as: race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, etc. Includes concepts such as: privilege, social stratification, cultural bias, institutional inequality, and social construction.

This course provides a sweeping sociological overview of diversity in the United States. While covering the specific areas of race, ethnicity, gender, age, social class, and sexual orientations, it also deals with topics generally related to diversity. For example, concepts and topics such as the following are typically included: racism, sexism, stratification, stereotyping and ethnocentrism, hate violence, youth violence, and immigration laws and impacts.

Focuses on how socialization is affected by gender. Topics include how gender is reflected in culture through values, norms, language, media, power, violence, various theoretical approaches, significant social institutions, social movements and issues.