Sociology Program

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 Prerequisites: RDWR 115 or equivalent placement test scores. Audit available.

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, and health inequality Prerequisites: RDWR 115 or placement above this level.

Introduces core sociological concepts and theories, as a social science, to examine the relationship between humans and the environment. Explores central questions, research, and theoretical debates about the structural and cultural causes and consequences of various social and environmental problems and how to respond to these issues through policies and actions. Fosters the development of the skills needed to think critically about social and environmental changes and the tools needed to address them. Prerequisites: WR 121 or higher or concurrent enrollment in WR 121 and WR 121 C. Audit available.