An introduction to the basic concepts used in the analysis of societies and human group behavior through consideration of the scientific method in: sociology, culture and society, social stratification and human groupings, social change, and collective behavior.

An analysis of contemporary social problems related to urbanization and industrialization. Includes poverty, community disorganization and conflict, and social deviance such as crime, mental disorders, and substance abuse.

Prerequisites:One course in sociology

Readings in a specific area of sociology, requiring a formal paper summarizing the study. See independent study guidelines.

An introduction to the study of gender as a basic organizing principle in primarily industrial societies. Includes theories of gender development, sex and gender differences, gender socialization, inequalities in productive and reproductive spheres, and prospects for change.

This course provides students with an opportunity to: 1) gain an overview of the world's major religious traditions from a sociological perspective; 2) explore different facets of "religiosity," including belief, behavior, and identity from a sociological perspective; and 3) consider influential sociological theoretical perspectives on the causes and consequences of various types of religiosity.

A study of the history of the family and family systems in primarily industrial societies. Includes romantic love and mate selection, marriage and parenting, family dysfunction, and the criteria for marital success.

A study of the social influences on human development and important concepts and debates regarding socialization and life cycle development. Includes theories of socialization, the role of family, school, peers and the media as agents of socialization.

A general survey of crime in the United States. Includes theories of crime and delinquency, societal responses to crime, and the social organization of correctional agencies. Includes field trips to local corrections institutions.

An examination of the processes by which people become differentiated from one another and arranged in graded strata based on social class, race, ethnicity, and gender with varying degrees of wealth, power, and prestige. Attention will be given to classical and modern theories explaining the causes and consequences of stratification, as well as to changes in social inequality over time.

An investigation of ethnic groups, minorities, and race in plural societies, ethnic relations in historical perspective and in the United States, theories about ethnic conflict, prejudice and discrimination, and future scenarios for multiethnic societies.

A study of the history and development of theories of society and group behavior. Classical and contemporary sociological theories emphasized.

Prerequisites:SOC-100 or ATH-101

(Same at ATH 490) An introduction to the methods of qualitative field research and data analysis. Student s will formulate and carry out an independent research project and formally present the results.

Prereq.: Permission. Intensive reading or field research in a specific area of sociology, requiring a formal paper summarizing the study. See independent study guidelines.

Prereq.: Permission. Supervised work or research in a social service agency with approval of department. A term paper or formal report is required. Reading assignments may be required.