SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology 3 s.h.
An introductory course designed to acquaint the student with the study of sociology as one of the sciences that deals with the relationship between individuals and the wider society. The methods and objectives of sociological research, varying patterns of social organization, and the examination of society in relation to individual and group behavior are major areas of study. Hours of class per week: 3. General Education: S.
SOC 208 Juvenile Delinquency SP 3 s.h.
This course considers the methods and philosophy of the juvenile court system, police programs for the prevention and control of juvenile delinquency, and the role of various social work agencies in the care and treatment of juveniles. Special attention is given to police techniques used in handling juveniles, with special emphasis on the use of existing community resources. The course examines prevailing professional philosophy, existing law, public policy, and knowledge of current delinquent behavior theories. Prerequisite: SOC 101, PSY 101. Hours of class per week: 3.
SOC 209 Criminology FA 3 s.h.
A survey of the nature and scope of prevalent forms of criminology. The course considers the major theories of criminal conduct drawn from psychological, social and cultural modes of explanation. It includes a discussion of various classifications and topologies and the role of crime statistics and the relevance of these factors for understanding, prevention, control and prediction. Prerequisite: SOC 101, PSY 101. Hours of class per week: 3.
SOC 210 The Sociology of Families FA 3 s.h.
An examination and analysis of marriage and family, from an interdisciplinary perspective. The course addresses communication of information, theories and ideas about marriage and family as a social institution. Issues may include: cross-cultural variations of marital and family types, gender roles, love, mate selection, parenting, the challenges of combining work and marriage, communication in marriage, family crises such as violence and divorce, and factors behind lasting relationships. Students are encouraged to make connections between the course material and their own experiences. Students are also encouraged to develop their own questions and answers about marriage and family through assignments and class discussions. Prerequisite: SOC 101 or permission of Instructor. Hours of class per week: 3. General Education: S.
SOC 212 Sociology of Law 3 s.h.
A study of the legal order, the creation of norms in simple societies and the role of laws in contemporary society. The creation of formal rules of law, the basic principles of criminal law, the enforcement of criminal law, the control of the police and issues of corruption. Hours of class per week: 3.
SOC 225 Professional Ethics 3 s.h.
This course is an inquiry into the relationship between morality and the rule of law. A wide range of moral dilemmas within the fields of applied social sciences and criminal justice will be examined. This track will familiarize the student with the history and philosophy of the Criminal Justice System, as well as the culture and behaviors within its major components of police, court, corrections and human services personnel. The lessons will examine a variety of ethical controversies associated with the contemporary Criminal Justice System, in order to develop a critical perspective on the nature of justice and the key decision-making processes that individuals are confronted with in their professional responsibilities. Current ethical issues will be brought into the classroom throughout the semester. Hours of class per week: 3.
SOC 137 Human Sexuality 3 s.h.
An examination of sexual development, with a view toward patterns that are self-actualizing. Some of the areas of study are human sexuality as one expression of personality, functions of the anatomy involved in reproduction and sexuality, birth control, family planning, pregnancy and childbirth, STD’s, HIV, coercive behavior, courtship, relationship, marriage, parenthood, and sexuality through the life cycle. Hours of class per week: 3.
SOC 200 Diversity in America SP 3 s.h.
This course examines the sociological concepts and principles that help determine the nature of intergroup relations, especially the outcomes of dominant-subordinate relationships. These concepts and principles are then applied to the American experiences of ethnic, religious and racial minority groups. Prerequisite: None. (SOC 101 recommended). Hours of class per week: 3. General Education: S.
SOC 220 Deviant Behavior and Social Control SP 3 s.h.
The course presents and analyzes a variety of definitions, concepts, and key theoretical perspectives in an effort to increase student knowledge and understanding of the multiple ways that deviant behavior may be defined, explained, and interpreted. Each perspective also offers suggestions for resolving the “problem” of deviant behavior in society. The course reviews such suggestions and weighs their respective advantages and disadvantages. It also analyzes (and applies these perspectives to) different forms of deviant behavior and conditions. Students are encouraged to develop their own questions and answers about deviance through assignments, class discussions, and presentations. Prerequisite: SOC 101 or permission of the Instructor. Hours of class per week: 3.
