Sociology, Criminology, & Anthropology Department

Mission Statement

The Department of Sociology, Criminology, and Anthropology is committed to the principles of a liberal education. Our central objective is to teach and communicate the sociological and anthropological ways of viewing the world. The programs in sociology, criminology, anthropology, and women’s studies offer curriculum designed to increase understanding of social organization and social relationships and to assist students in developing skills that can be applied to making a positive difference in their professional and personal lives. Each program in the department supports the long-standing interest of our disciplines in examining the human condition and understanding stability and change in social life. The department prepares students to work in a wide variety of occupations or to pursue professional or graduate studies. Our mission is to produce graduates who are motivated and equipped to make meaningful contributions to the enhancement of the human condition.

The department’s mission relates to the mission of the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences in the following ways:

The department programs provide classroom environments and field experience opportunities that enhance social awareness, encourage personal reflection, and assist students to further develop critical thinking and problem solving skills;
Social action and responsibility, personal morality and accountability, and professional ethics are focused on throughout the curriculum and in co-curricular activities that engage students with each other and in the community;
The disciplines within the department are committed to producing motivated and socially aware graduates equipped to make meaningful contributions within a diverse community and increasingly interdependent world.

Women's Studies

Mission

The Women’s Studies offers students a different perspective for understanding their disciplines, themselves, and others. Drawing from the rich history of feminist theory and gender studies, this perspective examines intersectionality and incorporates issues of gender identity, race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and other dimensions of human diversity to examine contemporary social issues, culture, communication, the media and arts, education, civic engagement, social activism, inequities and social justice, and the global contributions of women, past to present.

Academic Programs

Criminology

Undergraduate Programs

Sociology

Undergraduate Programs

Minors

Sociology, Minor

Double Major

Undergraduate Programs

Anthropology

Minors

Anthropology, Minor

Women Studies

Minors

Women's Studies, Minor

On This Page

Anthropology (ANTH)
Criminology (CRIM)
Sociology (SOC)
Womens Studies (WS)

Anthropology (ANTH)

ANTH 100 Cultural Anthropology (GT-SS3) 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
Introduction to the concepts by which anthropology understands particular lifestyles, and to the constructs by which it accounts for similarities and differences among lifestyles.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS3) (CC)

ANTH 101 Biological Anthropology 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
The course examines humans as biological organisms from an evolutionary perspective. Other primates and the significance of genetic diversity in modern human populations are discussed.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: ANTH 101L.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: ST)

ANTH 101L Biological Anthropology Lab 1(0-2)

Fall, Spring.
The lab will reinforce and extend student understanding of biological anthropological concepts.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: ANTH 101.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: ST)

ANTH 103 Introduction to Archaeology 3(3-0)

Fall.
This course introduces students to the field of archaeology. Examines how archaeologists acquire and interpret archaeological evidence. Reviews accepted practice and archaeological ethics and law.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 105 (DS 105, PSYC 105, SOC 105, WS 105) Understanding Human Diversity 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Americans live in a complex and diverse society. This course examines the nature, impact and strategies for dealing with diversity in personal and social contexts.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 106 (ENG 106) Language, Thought and Culture 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Cross-cultural introduction to language processes in human society.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS) (CC)

ANTH 212 (CRIM 212) The Forensics of Bones 3(3-0)

As Needed.
An examination of the basic procedures used by forensic anthropologists to obtain evidence in criminal investigations.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: May not repeat the same topic. Repeatable (6).

ANTH 314 (SOC 314) Religion, Culture and Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Cross-cultural concepts and practices of the supernatural are studied. A holistic analysis to the role of religion in cultures and society.
Prerequisite: ANTH 100 or SOC 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 315 (SOC 315) Health, Culture, and Society 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
Cross-cultural concepts and approaches to health are studied. A holistic analysis of medicine as a cultural system as opposed to a biological one.
Prerequisite: ANTH 100 or SOC 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 316 (SOC 316) Age, Culture and Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Cross-cultural concepts and approaches to age are studied. A holistic analysis of the life course focusing on societal and cultural perceptions.
Prerequisite: ANTH 100 or SOC 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 317 Anthropology of Food 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This class will critically assess the multiple relationships between food, culture, and processes of globalization.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 318 Archaeology of Beer & Wine 3(3-0)

As Needed.
An examination of the archaeological evidence for the development and production of beer and wine in ancient cultures, and its various cultural contexts.
Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 321 (CRIM 321, SOC 321) Cross-Cultural Perspective on Crime 3(3-0)

As Needed.
An examination of crime in non-western societies with a comparison to crime and punishment in modern American society.
Prerequisite: ANTH 100 or CRIM 101 or SOC 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 340 Museum Conservation 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Introduction to museum conservation and collections care. Students become familiar with many common materials found in museum collections, their care and management, and the ethical responsibilities of museum personnel.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 357 (CRIM 357, SOC 357) Immigration 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examines migration processes, with a particular focus on immigration to the United States. Migration patterns are analyzed considering social, political, and historical context, including structural global patterns.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ANTH 491 Special Topics 1-3(1-3-1-3)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: May not repeat the same topic. Repeatable (6).

ANTH 492 Research (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Directed study for students interested in gaining research experience in anthropology.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Junior standing and permission of instructor. Repeatable (3).

ANTH 494 Field Experience (1-12 V)

As Needed.
Practical experience in an agency setting.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Junior standing and permission of instructor. Repeatable (12).

ANTH 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Directed study for students interested in specific areas of anthropological concern.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (6).

Criminology (CRIM)

CRIM 101 Introduction to Criminology 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
This class will address the historical, theoretical and methodological foundations for understanding crime and criminology; various types of crime, & responses to crime by police, the courts and correctional institutions.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 203 (SOC 203) The Criminal Justice System 3(3-0)

Spring.
Critical study of the U.S. criminal justice system, its historical, social & institutional context, & its structure & functioning. Influence of law, process & social justice on police, court, corrections, & victim services.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 205 (SOC 205) Research Methods 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
Introduces methods of research and investigation in sociology, criminology, and the social sciences.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or SOC 101.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 212 (ANTH 212) The Forensics of Bones 3(3-0)

As Needed.
An examination of the basic procedures used by forensic anthropologists to obtain evidence in criminal investigations.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 252 (SOC 252) Understanding Lived Experiences 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Explores lived experiences using a sociological lens. Students learn to understand their own & others' lives in new ways through applying concepts such as social norms, stigma, social control, privilege & intersectionality.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 261 (SOC 261) Introduction to Cannabis Studies 3(3-0)

Fall.
Introduces students to the social scientific study of cannabis and its complicated relationship to society. Emphasis on sociological and criminological topics including changes in the legal and popular perception of cannabis.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Students receiving Military Education Benefits cannot use their benefits for any programs or courses related to cannabis studies.

CRIM 275 Law & Procedure for Peace Officers 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Content on diversity, law, policy, communication, and police procedures. Course is reserved for Peace Officers completing the Police Academy. Credit is awarded concurrently in Criminology, Political Science, and Social Work.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (99).

CRIM 303 (SOC 303) Deviance 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Patterns & causes associated with behavior, conditions, beliefs, & other social characteristics defined &/or treated as socially deviant, including but not limited to political, sexual, cultural, & organizational deviance.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 304 (SOC 304) Race and Crime 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Explores historical and contemporary intersecting issues of race and crime in the United States. Theoretical grounding and factual information provide the foundation for the course.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or CRIM 203 or SOC 101 or SOC 203.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 305 (SOC 305, WS 305) Women & Crime 3(3-0)

As Needed.
A critical examination of the historical and contemporary intersecting issues of sex, gender, and crime, focusing on girls' and women's experiences as victims, offenders, and workers in the criminal justice system.
Prerequisite: ANTH 100 or CRIM 101 or SOC 101 or WS 100.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 306 (SOC 306) Delinquency and Juvenile Justice 3(3-0)

Fall.
Theoretical and historical study of delinquency, intersectionality, and social justice. Family, peer, school, community, and cultural contexts and juvenile law, courts, policing, and youth corrections are examined.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 310 Criminological Theory 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
Examination of major theoretical explanations of crime and their policy implications.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 321 (ANTH 321, SOC 321) Cross-Cultural Perspective on Crime 3(3-0)

CRIM 335 (SOC 335) Advanced Research Methods 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Advanced course in qualitative & quantitative social science research methods. Focus on critical examination of the logic underlying social inquiry, the ethics of social research, & developing practical skills.
Prerequisites: CRIM 205 or SOC 205.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 353 Penology 3(3-0)

As Needed.
The history and role of corrections; correctional practice, relationship to law, prison society, working in prisons, special needs of prisoners, capital punishment, administration, privatization.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or CRIM 203 or SOC 101 or SOC 203.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 357 (ANTH 357, SOC 357) Immigration 3(3-0)

CRIM 361 (SOC 361) Advanced Cannabis Studies 3(3-0)

Spring.
In-depth exploration of prominent cannabis studies topics. Students will complete projects featuring cannabis research, business, political action/social justice, and creative works.
Prerequisite: CRIM 261 or SOC 261.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Students receiving Military Education Benefits cannot use their benefits for any programs or courses related to cannabis studies.

CRIM 374 (SOC 374) Crime in Film 3(3-0)

Spring.
Employ theoretical perspectives to better understand motivations of Hollywood criminals and the peculiar aspects of a society with an insatiable appetite for crime as "entertainment".
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 376 Crime & Society in Science Fiction 3(3-0)

Summer.
This course focuses on sociological understandings of crime and other social phenomena. Through science fiction literature, movies, and TV, the class explores how current social realities are reflected in science fiction.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 401 Crime, Law, & Justice Studies 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Study of contemporary issues in criminology, law, & justice. Topics may vary from semester to semester. The class may be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits, but no single topic may be repeated. Example: human trafficking.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Junior standing. Repeatable (6).

CRIM 405 (SOC 405) Law & Society 3(3-0)

Spring.
The origins and functions of law; the social organization of legal institutions and decisions; the relationship of law to morality, justice and social change.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 407 (WS 407) Family Violence 3(3-0)

As Needed.
The extent, seriousness, and impact of major forms of family violence, including child maltreatment, dating and partner violence, stalking, and mistreatment of elders. Gender, race and social class implications are examined.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 409 Victimology (3 V)

Spring.
Study of victims with a focus on victims of officially defined crime. Examination of social changes impacting cultural views and the societal response to victims as well as the costs and consequences of victimization.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or CRIM 203 or SOC 101 or SOC 203.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 410 Structural & Elite Crime 3(3-0)

Fall.
Examination of crimes and social injuries perpetrated by organizational structures that do physical or economic harm to the environment, their employees, and their customers.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 411 Police and Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
The history and role of police; including patrol officers, detectives, specialty units, police discretion, women in policing, community policing, private policing, corruption, brutality, accountability.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or CRIM 203 or SOC 101 or SOC 203.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 413 Patterns of Homicide 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examines the rates, types, patterns, and explanation of homicide in the United States and selected other countries.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or CRIM 203 or SOC 203.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 415 Forensic Criminology 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course introduces students to the application of science to the justice system. It provides beginning levels and fundamental background in forensic criminology as well as criminal investigation.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 418 (SOC 418) Crime, Drugs, & Social Policy 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course examines the ways in which crime and drug policy is formulated, articulated, implemented, and evaluated.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or CRIM 203 or SOC 101 or SOC 203.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 422 Terrorism and Mass Murder 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examines mass murder, genocide, and terrorism around the world and assesses current control initiatives.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or SOC 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 425 Gangs in Contemporary America 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Trends, organizational characteristics, processes, and causative factors associated with gangs in contemporary American society.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 426 (SOC 426) Collective Violence and Rioting 3(3-0)

Summer.
An overview of episodes of collective behavior in society focusing on racial violence and prison riots, including examination of causes, history, and control efforts.
Prerequisite: CRIM 101 or SOC 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 455 (WS 455) Hate Crimes 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examines assumptions about race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, nationality & other factors that are used to justify the bias behind hate crimes; examines social/legal definitions, causal factors & consequences.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

CRIM 491 Special Topics 1-3(1-3-0)

As Needed.
Special topics in criminology.
Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: May not repeat the same topic. Repeatable (18).

CRIM 492 Research (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Directed study for students interested in gaining research experience in criminology.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of Instructor. Repeatable (12).

CRIM 494 Field Experience (1-12 V)

As Needed.
Practical on-the-job experience in an agency setting.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Criminology major. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (12).

CRIM 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Independent Study.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Criminology major or minor. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (9).

Sociology (SOC)

SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology (GT-SS3) 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
The scientific study of patterns and processes of human social relations.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS3)

SOC 105 (ANTH 105, DS 105, PSYC 105, WS 105) Understanding Human Diversity 3(3-0)

SOC 201 Social Problems (GT-SS1) 3(3-0)

Fall.
Sociological perspectives applied to an understanding of global and domestic social problem, including the environment, corporate control, economic and political inequalities, health care, and crime.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS1)

SOC 203 (CRIM 203) The Criminal Justice System 3(3-0)

SOC 205 (CRIM 205) Research Methods 3(3-0)

SOC 231 (PSYC 231) Marriage & Family Relationships 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
Marriage and family from an institutional and relationship perspective: cross-cultural diversity, mate selection, marital dynamics, parenting, divorce, remarriage, emerging patterns.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS)

SOC 248 Environmental Sociology 3(3-0)

As Needed.
We will use our sociological imaginations to explore the often puzzling relationships that humans all over the globe have developed with their environment.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 252 (CRIM 252) Understanding Lived Experiences 3(3-0)

SOC 261 (CRIM 261) Introduction to Cannabis Studies 3(3-0)

SOC 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Special topics in Sociology.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (99).

SOC 302 Collective Behavior and Social Movements 3(3-0)

Spring.
An analysis of elementary forms of spontaneous and unstructured behavior (panics, rumors), and complex forms of more structured group phenomena (riots, social movements).
Prerequisite: SOC 101.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 303 (CRIM 303) Deviance 3(3-0)

SOC 304 (CRIM 304) Race and Crime 3(3-0)

SOC 305 (CRIM 305, WS 305) Women & Crime 3(3-0)

SOC 306 (CRIM 306) Delinquency and Juvenile Justice 3(3-0)

SOC 310 Social & Cultural Theory 3(3-0)

Fall.
Classical to contemporary sociological theories are studied. A primary objective is to link sociological theory with what we experience in the social world and thus, to fuse theorizing with greater understanding of society.
Prerequisite: SOC 101.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 312 Soc on the Fringe Cults & Conspiracy Theories 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course will introduce students to core sociological theoretical frameworks as they relate to conspiracy “theories” and alternative new religions known as cults.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 314 (ANTH 314) Religion, Culture and Society 3(3-0)

SOC 315 (ANTH 315) Health, Culture, and Society 3(3-0)

SOC 316 (ANTH 316) Age, Culture and Society 3(3-0)

SOC 321 (ANTH 321, CRIM 321) Cross-Cultural Perspective on Crime 3(3-0)

SOC 324 Race & Ethnic Relation 3(3-0)

Fall.
Social, political and historical conditions under which segregation, racial/ethnic hierarchies and r/e conflict emerge, and the institutions through which boundaries and hierarchies are produced and reproduced in the U.S.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 325 (WS 325) Gender And Society 3(3-0)

Summer.
Analysis of how gender as a social construct influences institutions, interaction & lived experience in a diverse society. The intersection of race, ethnicity, class & sexualities is viewed through the lens of gender & culture.
Prerequisite: SOC 101 or WS 100.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 326 Social Stratification 3(3-0)

Summer.
Inquire into inequalities of wealth, power, and the consequence for individuals and society.
Prerequisite: SOC 101 or SOC 201.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 334 Sociology of the Military 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course will examine the institution of the military and the intersection of the military and society.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 335 (CRIM 335) Advanced Research Methods 3(3-0)

SOC 352 (PSYC 352) Social Psychology 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
General and applied psychological principles of the individual's interaction with a group.
Prerequisite: PSYC 100.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 357 (ANTH 357, CRIM 357) Immigration 3(3-0)

SOC 361 (CRIM 361) Advanced Cannabis Studies 3(3-0)

SOC 370 Popular Culture 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Critical examination of the social implications of contemporary popular culture & its influence in our everyday lives. Explores how popular culture reflects & shapes key institutions, social behavior, & individual identities.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 373 Film & Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Analysis of film as a major contemporary cultural form that reflects, influences & shapes social values, beliefs & behaviors. Examines representations of race, class, gender & various social issues using a sociological lens.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 374 (CRIM 374) Crime in Film 3(3-0)

SOC 376 Crime & Society in Science Fiction 3(3-0)

SOC 378 Rock 'n' Roll and Rebellion 3(3-0)

Fall.
The course provides a social historical analysis of the development and impact of an important form of contemporary popular culture - rock 'n' roll music.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 388 Community Engagement 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Explores how one's lived experiences can connect to wider social forces to positively impact the public domain. Students acquire the tools needed to carry their education into the workforce and towards civic engagement.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 388L Community Engagement Lab 1(0-2)

As Needed.
Students will work closely with their professor to research, address, and advocate for more awareness of a social issue by developing a community or university project that most closely aligns with student interests.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: It's strongly recommended that this course be taken with SOC 388.

SOC 404 Poverty and Inequality in the U.S. 3(3-0)

Spring.
Critical examination of sources and consequences of inequality and poverty, with primary focus on the United States. Anti-poverty programs explored.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 405 (CRIM 405) Law & Society 3(3-0)

SOC 408 Science, Technology, and The Future 3(3-0)

Spring.
Social and structural implications of science and technology as they affect society.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 418 (CRIM 418) Crime, Drugs, & Social Policy 3(3-0)

SOC 426 (CRIM 426) Collective Violence and Rioting 3(3-0)

SOC 428 (HIST 428, WS 428) Women & Work 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examines historical and contemporary issues for women of various economic, social, and ethnic groups, especially in the US; examines gender ideologies about paid, unpaid work.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Junior or senior standing. Permission of instructor.

SOC 432 Organization Theory 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Critical examination of theories of organizational structure, process, and change. Explores origins and functions of formal organizations in human society.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 435 The Interviewer's Craft 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Introduces the variety of qualitative methods used in the social sciences for conducting research studies, gathering data and interpreting and analyzing research findings with a focus on interviewing techniques.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 450 Soc of Mental Health and Suicide 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examines the social conditions that influence mental health and suicide in the United States and the psychosocial processes that link social experiences to psychological health.
Prerequisite: PSYC 352 or SOC 101 or SOC 352.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 452 (PSYC 452) The Individual & Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
How does our society shape the way we define ourselves and others? This class explores the relationship between the individual and society, and how that relationship affects the choices we make and the actions we take.
Prerequisites: PSYC 100 or PSYC 352 or SOC 101 or SOC 352.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

SOC 490 Special Projects (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Allows one or more students to conceptualize, create, and complete a project relating to sociology, under supervision of faculty member(s).
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Sociology major. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

SOC 491 Special Topics 1-3(1-3-0)

As Needed.
Special topics in sociology.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (18).

SOC 492 Research (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Directed study for students interested in gaining research experience in sociology.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (12).

SOC 494 Field Experience (1-12 V)

As Needed.
Practical on-the-job experience in an agency setting.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Sociology major. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (12).

SOC 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Independent Study.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Sociology major or minor. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (9).

SOC 498 Internship 3(0-9)

As Needed.
Provides students the opportunity to engage in an off-campus work experience related to their career interests. Students will learn how to apply the academic principles acquired through the classroom to a work situation.
Prerequisite: SOC 388 and SOC 388L.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Students must be declared sociology or criminology major with community engagement core; or permission of the instructor.

Womens Studies (WS)

WS 100 Introduction to Women's Studies 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
An interdisciplinary course examining women's lives and roles through socio-economic, political, historical and biological perspectives. Introduces feminist theories and gender as a structure and process.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS) (CC)

WS 105 (ANTH 105, DS 105, PSYC 105, SOC 105) Understanding Human Diversity 3(3-0)

WS 211 (MAE 211) Women & Media 3(3-0)

Fall.
The historical and cultural implications of the mass media's portrayal of women and the extent of their media participation from colonial to contemporary times.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 212 (PSYC 212) Psychology of Diversity 3(3-0)

Fall.
To raise awareness of social inequities, promote cultural competency & appreciation of differences.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 217 (MAE 217, PSYC 217) Women & Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Statistical overview of the current status of women, followed by examination of theories concerning equality of the sexes.
Prerequisite: PSYC 100.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 230 (NSG 230) Women, Health, & Society 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Introduction to women's health issues and a basic understanding of how women's health has been influenced historically, culturally and by socio-economic factors.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 241 (ENG 241) Women in Literature 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Intensive study of literature written by women, in historical, cultural, and critical contexts.
Prerequisite: ENG 102 or ENG 115 or ENG 117.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (99).

WS 301 Theories of Intersectionality 3(3-0)

Spring.
Examination of gender, sexuality, race, class, and other variables connecting theory to activism. Exploration of how multiple identities intersect to create a whole.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 305 (CRIM 305, SOC 305) Women & Crime 3(3-0)

WS 306 (CS 306) La Chicana 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring.
A social cultural and historical overview of the Chicana experience and contributions.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 308 Global Feminisms 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Examination of global dimensions of women's organizing and policymaking, drawing on both historical and contemporary examples. Exploration of global debates regarding contemporary feminist theory, practice, and activism.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 311 Gender & Film 3(3-0)

As Needed.
A discussion course which examines gender roles in theatrical and documentary film while considering the perspective of producers, actors and spectators and salient film theories.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 325 (SOC 325) Gender And Society 3(3-0)

WS 335 (CID 335) Gender & Communication 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course examines the ways that gender affects communication behaviors and helps develop an awareness of the processes that affect gender socialization and stereotyping.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 341 (CS 341) Chicana Writers 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Survey of Chicana writers from the early 1900s to the present. Along with the literature, aspects of history, sociology and politics will be incorporated.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 401 (CS 401) Third World Feminisms 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course focuses on Third World women's challenging views of global feminism and feminist representations of other women.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

WS 407 (CRIM 407) Family Violence 3(3-0)

WS 428 (HIST 428, SOC 428) Women & Work 3(3-0)

WS 455 (CRIM 455) Hate Crimes 3(3-0)

WS 485 Capstone 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Students develop and execute a research project related to gender, sexuality, and intersectionality.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Senior standing. Permission of the instructor.

WS 490 Special Projects (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Allows one or more students to conceptualize, create, and complete a project relating to women's studies, under supervision of faculty member(s) approved by the WS program coordinator.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Women's Studies minor. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (6).

WS 491 Special Topics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Special topics in Women's Studies.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Permission of the instructor. Repeatable (99).

WS 492 Research (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Research project selected by student and supervised by a faculty member.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Women's Studies minor. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (6).

WS 494 Field Experience (2-6 V)

As Needed.
Application of the WS disciplinary framework to an off-campus volunteer work experience, under the supervision of a faculty member approved by WS.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Women's Studies minor. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (6).

WS 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Independent Study.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (3).

WS 498 Internship (2-6 V)

As Needed.
Application of the WS disciplinary framework to a work experience, under the direction of the selected site and a faulty member approved by WS.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: Women's Studies minor. Junior standing. Permission of instructor. Repeatable (6).

2024-2025 Catalog

Academic Catalog

Sociology, Criminology, & Anthropology Department

Mission Statement

Women's Studies

Mission

Academic Programs

Criminology

Undergraduate Programs

Sociology

Undergraduate Programs

Minors

Double Major

Undergraduate Programs

Anthropology

Minors

Women Studies

Minors

Anthropology (ANTH)

Criminology (CRIM)

Sociology (SOC)

Womens Studies (WS)

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