Department of Sociology & Criminology

Department Chair: Kathy Zawicki, Ph.D.

Faculty

Fr. D. Blake, Ph.D.
A. Dombek, Ph.D.
W. Elenchin, Ph.D.
S. Gavin, Ph.D.
B. Gross, Ph.D.
K. Zawicki, Ph.D.

The value set characterizing all the activities of this department is, in the last analysis, a belief in the basic dignity of every human being. From this perspective we move to the more immediate objectives: to present students with various facets of the contemporary social world in a scientific and empirical manner. Specifically, this includes analysis of social structures, interactive processes, the nature and function of institutions, social group relationships, cultural-environment interrelationships, and cross-cultural studies with some emphasis on cultures outside the Euro-American tradition.

Furthermore, the department offers to its students an orientation of self in relation to others and to basic social institutions, including the family, church and state as well as the economic, educational and governmental processes within a global framework.

The department offers a B.A. in sociology. The B.A. in sociology allows for a concentration in criminology. The department also offers minors in criminology, sociology and human services.

Advisory System

The department is strongly committed to its advisory system. Each student is assigned to a faculty member who will function as that student’s adviser until graduation. The student, in serious consultation with his/her adviser, will develop a program that best balances the needs of the student with the requirements of the department.

Sociology (SOC)

SOC-101 INTROD. SOCIOLOGY (3 Credits)

A comparative and historical analysis of human societies.

SOC-102 SOCIAL PROBLEMS (3 Credits)

A survey course that acquaints the students with the major social problems of societies.

SOC-103 INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL WORK (3 Credits)

A pre-professional course in social work. The general purpose of this course is to provide students with a broad understanding of social work.

SOC-104 INTRO TO GERONTOLOGY (3 Credits)

This course is an introduction to the multidisciplinary field of gerontology and provides an overview of the sociology, psychology, and physiology of aging. This course will study the variety of factors which affect aged adults in current U.S. society. These include: 1) the changing role of the elderly; 2) the sources and consequences of ageism; 3) the institutional supports and family services needed by and available to a growing aged population. Cross-cultural, ethnic, and racial differences will be examined. Interpersonal role interactions and lifestyles of the elderly will also be examined along with institutional and social level structures which impact the elderly. A key goal for students is to develop a more realistic perception of the aging process in themselves and others.

SOC-111 HONORS INTRO TO SOCIOLOGY (3 Credits)

This course is a comparative and historical analysis of human societies.

Restrictions: RG.HON

SOC-205 SOCIOLOGY OF INEQUALITY (3 Credits)

An overview of various theories and empirical investigations of social stratification. The dimensions of social class in the United States and their effect on American culture will be examined. Both a historical and cross-cultural perspective will be utilized.

SOC-206 QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS (3 Credits)

This course is an introduction to qualitative methods for social research. The course will cover issues such as interviewing, focus groups, oral history and content analysis. Students will explore ethical issues in qualitative research and will learn how to write a qualitative research paper.

Prerequisite(s): Take SOC-101, SOC-111 or CRM-101

SOC-207 Quantitative Methods (3 Credits)

A brief introduction to the historical development of sociological research, with special emphasis placed on present-day procedures and practices.

Prerequisite(s): Take SOC-101 or CRM-101

Corequisite(s): & MATH-107

SOC-208 CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL THEORIES (3 Credits)

A brief survey of the outstanding sociological thinkers from Comte to current theorists, along with the development of the several schools of thought and their influence upon present-day sociological theory.

Prerequisite(s): TAKE SOC-101, SOC-102

SOC-222 MEDIA & SOCIAL CHANGE (3 Credits)

This course will emphasis ways in which a variety of social actors (everyday citizens, activist groups, political parties, and other social institutions) form a public sphere through various communication mediums. We will examine how the use of these mediums is double-edged in that they can be used in an attempt to either maintain political power, or to actively pursue social change.

SOC-301 CURR.SOC.PROB:FIELDWORK STUDY (3 Credits)

This course consists of a weekly classroom seminar which includes speakers, films and discussions on major social problems such as poverty, drugs, crime, the aged, the mentally deficient, child abuse, family disorganization, etc. All students are also placed for a semester in local agencies which deal with social problems. Reports of "in the field" observations are submitted periodically.

Prerequisite(s): CRM-101 SOC-101 SOC-103 or SOC-308

SOC-302 CURR.SOC.PROB:FIELDWORK STUDY (3 Credits)

Prerequisite(s): Take SOC-103 OR SOC-307

SOC-303 SOCIOLOGY OF ADOLESCENCE (3 Credits)

This course will examine the socialization experience of adolescents. The role of various social institutions, including family, peers, educational system, legal system and media will be examined in detail. The class will also focus on existing theories of adolescence in the social sciences.

SOC-308 JUVENILE DELINQUENCY (3 Credits)

Problem and causes of juvenile delinquency; legal and social considerations; medical, psychological and psychiatric aspects; needs and functions of the Juvenile Court; methods of treatment of delinquents.

SOC-314 SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION (3 Credits)

A sociological analysis of the relationships that exist among religions, societies and individuals. The course will also develop a social scientific perspective in order to study the various systems of beliefs and practices that people have developed to understand the ultimate problems of human life.

SOC-320 SOCIAL PSYCH.OF ADDICTIONS (3 Credits)

An introduction to, and application of, social psychological theory and practice to the processes of chemical addiction. Attention is focused on the subtle transformations that help the addicted person define his or her muddled life as standard. Possibilities of addressing some of the issues of dependency are considered.

SOC-321 SOCIAL MEDIA & SOCIETY (3 Credits)

For better and for worse, life has changed rapidly due to the rise of modern communicative technologies. These changes take place at the domestic and global level, changes which influence both individuals and society. This course will use classical and contemporary theoretical perspectives for the purposes of understanding how social media alters both the macro and micro processes within the social landscape. Course materials will address contemporary issues and transformations of culture and institutions that are in many ways the product of technological expansion and the rise of mediated interaction patterns that are found everywhere in modern society today. Special attention will be paid to the overarching themes of how mediated communication patterns relate to the transformation of social institutions and organizations as well as to cultural production and consumption, communities, socialization, and selfhood.

SOC-323 MEDIA & PUBLIC OPINION (3 Credits)

This course explores how and why the American public forms opinions about social and political issues, including an analysis of the role that media play in this socialization process.

SOC-325 CRIME IN A DIGITAL SOCIETY (3 Credits)

This course will serve as an introduction to an array of social issues pertaining to deviance and the rise of new media technologies. We will also aim to identify how and why these technologies are being used for these purposes. Additionally, we will explore ways that social institutions are often able to use these digital technologies to reduce social deviance and promote social order.

SOC-401 MARRIAGE & THE FAMILY (3 Credits)

In what sense is the family a natural building block of all societies? Is marriage a privileged relationship marked by intimacy and sexual fidelity in most societies? Do men and women observe a similar division of duties in the household everywhere? This course looks at selected examples of these institutions in cultures that have been until recently unrelated to our own, and at the development of marriage and the family in Western society prior to the modern era, in order to answer these and other related questions.

SOC-402 FAMILY VIOLENCE (3 Credits)

This course examines violence in the family system from Sociological, Criminological and human services perspectives. The course will focus on understanding the causes and effects of familial violence, including but not limited to partner violence, child abuse and neglect, sibling and elder abuse. The course will also explore the role of human services and law enforcement agencies as well as the legal system in addressing family violence. Current social policy will also be addressed.

SOC-407 SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION (3 Credits)

The basic thrust of this course will be found within the sociological frame of reference. The school, the formal instrument of education, is emphasized. Stress will be placed upon social change, value conflicts and the learning implications resulting from various social processes. Such factors as age, race, ethnicity, residence of students and teachers and the social structure of the community will be analyzed for the part they play in the learning process.

SOC-408 HEALTH AND ILLNESS (3 Credits)

Sociological conceptions of health and illness are analyzed. The medical hospitals, medical school, nursing school, mental institutions and their operation are examined in relation to the values of health personnel and patients. Sociological implications of rehabilitation practices in physical and mental illness are discussed.

SOC-412 SENIOR SEMINAR (3 Credits)

Prerequisite(s): TAKE SOC-206 & SOC-207

Corequisite(s): and either SOC-208 or CRM-209

Restrictions: RGM.130

SOC-413 Minorities in the United States (3 Credits)

This course describes some of the principal aspects of intergroup relations in the United States. It is a synopsis and evaluation of what sociologists and other social scientists have learned about America's minorities, the nature of prejudice, the extent of discrimination and the reactions of minority group members to differential treatment.

SOC-420EL DEMOCRACY? ELECTION 2024 (3 Credits)

SOC-420R POLICING, RACE RELATIONS & CULTURE (3 Credits)

An intensive study in a particular area or topic in Criminology or its applications. The content of the course will be announced prior to the semester in which it is offered. The course may be retaken if the content has changed.

SOC-420S AMERICAN LAND AND ENVIRONMENT (3 Credits)

SOC-420T Special Topics: Ptsd in Police, Militar (3 Credits)

SOC-420U Sp Top: Environmental Crime & Inequality (3 Credits)

SOC-420V SPECIAL TOPIC:PURSUING SOCIAL CHANGE (3 Credits)

SOC-420W MENTAL HEALTH & RESILIENCE IN HEALTH CARE (3 Credits)

SOC-425B SP.TOP: STRESS, CULTURE & RESILIENCE (3 Credits)

This course examines the impact of stress upon the body and mind. In addition it explores those subtle yet powerful social forces that combine to often create a heightened sense of anxiety the if often pervasive within our culture. Finally the concept of 'resilience' is examined as a way to more effectively perceived and deal with the challenges life often presents.

SOC-430 ADVANCED READING COURSE (1-6 Credits)

This course is based on the belief that the outstanding student should be encouraged to do independent study to obtain a mature knowledge in a chosen field in the last year of the undergraduate program. The objective of this course is to enable sociology majors as they complete their undergraduate program to renew their grasp of the essential concepts and issues as seen through the eyes of recognized authorities and to appreciate and comprehend the gamut of human relations as an integrated whole.

SOC-430D SP TOP: NATIVE AMERICANS (3 Credits)

SOC-430E SP TOP: GENDER & SEXUALITY (3 Credits)

SOC-430F IND ST:WILDERNESS, CULTURE & THE ENVIRONMENT (3 Credits)

Research in a selected topic in Environmental Studies under the supervision of a faculty member, designed to allow the student to probe specific interests that lies beyond the coverage found in other course offerings. Area of focus within Environmental Studies may include ones within the umbrella of the natural sciences, social sciences and policy, ethics and aesthetics, or a combination of these. Faculty permission required.

Criminology (CRM)

CRM-101 INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINOLOGY (3 Credits)

A study of the nature and cause of crime. 3 credits. Fall.

CRM-209 CRIMINOLOGICAL THEORY (3 Credits)

A survey of the outstanding criminological thinkers from Beccaria to current theorists, along with the development of the several schools of thought and their influence upon present-day criminological theory. Pre-requisites: CRIM-101. 3 credits. Spring.

Prerequisite(s): TAKE CRM-101

CRM-210 DEVIANCE AND SOCIAL CONTROL (3 Credits)

An examination of conceptions of deviance behaviors, beliefs, and characteristics in American society. Explores the relationship between deviance and social control, theoretical explanations, and the importance of power in the labeling process.

CRM-220 VICTIMOLOGY (3 Credits)

Introduces students to the leading theories and research in the area of victimization. Special emphasis will be placed on patterns of victimization over time, victim-offender relationships, and the experience of victims in the criminal justice system.

CRM-252 RACE AND CRIME (3 Credits)

This course focuses on the significance of race and ethnicity to the criminal justice system and criminal offending.

CRM-253 GENDER CRIME AND DEVIANCE (3 Credits)

Examines the biological, psychological, and social-cultural correlates of gender and gender-based crime, both adult and juvenile, in American society. Students utilize current research students to examine crinimilogical theories and their applicability to women and female juveniles.

CRM-333 SERIAL KILLERS (3 Credits)

An examination of serial killers, specifically why they became serial killers and how they chose their victims. Explores the behaviors of serial killers as well as the factors that lead them to become killers. Analyzes the gender, racial, and other cultural demographic factors that influenced the behaviors of serial killers. Examines the gender, racial, and cultural demographic differences among the victims of various serial killers. Explores media representations and cultural perceptions of serial killers.

Prerequisite(s): TAKE PSYC-101 CRM-101 OR SOC-101

CRM-409 COMMUNITY POLICING (3 Credits)

Study of community policing in the United States. Focus is place don the evolution of community policing, police mission and culture, community partnership building, and policy implementation in the field.

CRM-420 SP.TOP. IN CRIMINOLOGY (3 Credits)

CRM-420A SPECIAL TOPIC: SERIAL KILLERS (3 Credits)

CRM-420C SPECIAL TOPIC: CRIM TRENDS ACROSS NON- WESTERN CULTURES (3 Credits)

CRM-420CS SP TOP:COMMUNITY SUPERVISION (3 Credits)

CRM-420DG SP TOP:DEVIANCE & SOCIAL ORDER:CASE STUDY:GREECE (3 Credits)

CRM-420EC SP TOP: ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME (3 Credits)

Travel through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Experience a diverse plant and animal life and a diverse geographic atmosphere, comparing the global north and south. Learn about Darwin's expedition through the Galapagos, as you experience it in real life. Through this, you will gain an understanding of the environmental protections within the Galapagos, and how such protections compare to protections in Ecuador, the United States, and the Amazon Rainforest. An examination of these protections and the environmental crimes that occur within these areas will be examined.

CRM-420F SP TOP:WAR CRIMES (3 Credits)

CRM-420G SP TOP:MEDIA & CRIME (3 Credits)

CRM-420J SP TOP:PROBATION, PAROLE & COMMUNITY (3 Credits)

CRM-420L SP TOP: GANGS IN AMERICA (3 Credits)

CRM-420M SP TOP: INTRO TO CORRECTIONS (3 Credits)

CRM-420N SP TOP:HOT TOPICS IN CRIMINOLOGY (3 Credits)