Sociology and International Studies

A study of the interactions between human beings and the land, and the influence of geography in shaping work and culture throughout the world.

A study of the continent of Europe as a whole with an emphasis on its diversity of peoples, its resources, its advanced culture and its relatedness to the rest of the world.

The many ways in which humans have changed the face of the earth in response to culture is known as the human mosaic. The course applies the major themes of cultural geography to population, language, religion, agriculture and urbanism. A basic knowledge of world geography is assumed.

An overview of various regions of the world and the environmental conditions to which people adapt. Racial, linguistic, religious and economic groupings of people will be stressed. Current world events are examined to develop knowledge about historical, geographic, climatic, political and religious environments which people inhabit.

This course examines the mass movements of people in the modern world. It offers a critical look at the structural causes of migration, the process of acculturation and identity-building among immigrant communities, and the collective responses of dominant groups as well as states against migrants. Through informed analysis and use of interdisciplinary theories, the course helps students develop a comprehensive understanding of migration as a critical component of the present world system.

This is an introductory course in the field of international relations, providing an overview of major theories and concepts of international relations and an historical background for contemporary world politics. Major topics include the contemporary international system, economic development, foreign policy behavior, international conflicts and international institutions. Cross-listed with POLI2001

A study of the interactions between human beings and the land, and the influence of geography in shaping work and culture throughout the world. Cross-listed with GEOG2011

This course is an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of international studies. It is designed to acquaint students with major trends and key themes in global and international issues today. Students will discuss the origins and development of the field, along with theories and concepts relevant to the study of international issues. There will also be an emphasis on the impact of globalization on various aspects of social, political, and economic life, including development, culture, health, food, security, and the environment.

This course is an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of international studies. It is designed to acquaint students with major trends and key themes in global and international issues today. Students will discuss the origins and development of the field, along with theories and concepts relevant to the study of international issues. There will also be an emphasis on the impact of globalization on various aspects of social, political, and economic life, including development, culture, health, food, security, and the environment.

An overview of major theories of international political economy including a more detailed understanding of the fast growing economic and institutional infrastructure of the international system. Topics include the development of intergovernmental and non-governmental international organizations (IGOs and NGOs), international treaties and laws governing trade and business practices, and mechanisms for the resolutions of international disputes.

The many ways in which humans have changed the face of the earth in response to culture is known as the human mosaic. This course applies the major themes of cultural geography to population, language, religion, agriculture and urbanism. A basic knowledge of world geography is assumed. Cross-listed with GEOG3010

PREREQUISITE: MATH1040 This course introduces the student to the design of explanatory models in the field of international relations, methods for literature surveys and more commonly used quantitative and qualitative analytical techniques. Cross-listed with SOCL3011

An overview of various regions of the world and the environmental conditions to which people adapt. Racial, linguistic, religious and economic groupings of people will be stressed. Current world events are examined to develop knowledge about historical, geographic, climatic, political and religious environments which people inhabit. Cross-listed with GEOG3013

This course focuses on the government, policies and politics of different nation-states around the world, and investigates the political science approaches to studying government and politics in different parts of the world. The focus in not only on forms of governments, but also the major political and social factors that affect political change in different world areas, the relationship between states and societies, and the comparative study of democratic and non-democratic nations. Cross-listed with POLI3021

This course presents a study of the major developments in American diplomatic history. Special emphasis is placed on the years from World War II until the present. Major international developments and their effects on American diplomacy are discussed along with the impact of various presidents and the influence of the United Nations. The interrelation between foreign policy and domestic opinion is also examined. Cross-listed with HIST/POLI3023

A study of the political, social, and economic realities of Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Emphasis is placed on ecological, racial, ethnic, and population problems, as well as on the legacy of colonialism, developmentalism, and dependency. Human rights and special problems of women will also be addressed. Cross-listed with POLI3025

A survey of modern European history (beginning with the turn of the century) that is intended to provide global awareness and an appreciation of the accomplishments of other cultures. This course also provides a particular perspective of the American way of life as it has been influenced by European cultures. Cross-listed with HIST3027

An overview of the history of Korea, Japan, China, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. The domestic, political, social, and economic bases of the historical development of these nations will be considered. Political influences of other world powers will be considered. Cross-listed with HIST3028

The reasons behind the foreign policy decisions of the U.S. government in recent decades are examined; different theories are explored for explaining shifts and continuities in foreign policy decision-making. Contemporary challenges to American foreign policy, from Iraq and security threats to peace-making efforts in the Middle East, are analyzed. Cross-listed with POLI3033

PREREQUISITE: INMT3039 This course introduces concepts of international laws of contracts, sales and negotiable instruments. It also provides an overview of problems related to dispute settlement in international business and governmental administrative conflicts that restrict commerce between residents of different nations. Cross-listed with INMT4048

This is the capstone course for all international studies students. It will be the vehicle for students to synthesize their knowledge of international relations through the development of individual research endeavors in a special topic relevant to their respective concentration areas. Students will have the opportunity to discuss and share their research with fellow students in a seminar format. Cross-listed with SOCL4055

Students work independently with a faculty member on a topic of relevant interest to the advanced student pursuing a major in International Affairs.

This course is an introduction to the study of society through the critical analysis of social relations, behavior, and organization. It is designed to facilitate students to develop a broad knowledge of how social structures and human behavior influence each other, as well as to identify the issues that arise from such interactions. In order for students to critically analyze contemporary social issues and problems, such discussions will focus along the dimensions of race, class, and gender. No prior knowledge of sociology is expected.

This course is a study of current social problems that take place across the globe. It emphasizes the application of sociological concepts to the critical analysis of social issues and problems in contemporary societies throughout the world, including the US. Cross-listed with SLSO1007

A study of the social relationships of racial, ethnic, religious and other minority groups with emphasis on personal, cultural and social development.

A study of the social relationships of racial, ethnic, religious and other minority groups with emphasis on personal, cultural and social development.

Work and occupations are examined in historical and contemporary contexts. Emphasis will be placed on the characteristics of professions and the attempts of occupations to professionalize. Focus will be on the macro level (the effects of advancements in technology, bureaucratization and unionization on the division of labor), the microlevel (job satisfaction and alienation), and on the interface between macro and micro levels (do individuals of equal ability have equal access to prestige careers regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, or other attributes).

Using sociological theories and concepts, this course analyzes how society defines and organizes sports. This course also looks at how sports as a (local and globalized) social activity influences important aspects of our lives such as family, education, politics, the economy, media, and religion. It also examines how sports participation affects our ideas about, among other things, gender, class, ethnicity, conformity, and violence.

The course presents a study of the causes and consequences of political, economic and social inequality. The systematic ranking of individuals and aggregates is analyzed. Institutional and non-institutional determinants of inequality are examined so as to understand the distribution of wealth, status and prestige in society.

The course examines sociological theories, with emphasis on the works of Durkheim, Marx, Weber, and G.H. Mead and other major contributions to sociological thought.

An introduction to the field of sociological practice. Provides an understanding of micro and macro sociological theory and how it is used to assess, analyze, and diagnose human problems. Introduces students to casework and problem solving with small groups, organizations, and families. Acquaints students with the broad range of professional opportunities for the sociological practitioner.

In this course, the basic beliefs of Islam are reviewed, along with a brief history of Islam's overall development and its impact on the world and on various civilizations in different global regions. Islam's internal sects are analyzed, and its political impact on current politics in the world is explored. The role of U.S. foreign policy in dealing with the recent rise of Islam is also analyzed. Cross-listed with HIST/POLI2045. Fulfills GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE in academic core.

A general introduction to social gerontology with emphasis upon the normal aspects of aging. Review of current hypotheses and findings concerning the aging processes are addressed.

A study of the role of social services in contemporary society. This course is designed to assist students in exploring theories, practices and careers in the helping professions.

Sociological study of what we mean by culture is taken and critically applied to the discussion of global-historical transformations in human social development, from the period of simple societies to the present age of complex, industrial, and globalized societies.

This course has a social problem orientation. The material deals with the major unmet needs of older people. The approach focuses upon the current status of older people in American society, identifies the deficiencies in particular areas and examines the resources available to the aged to deal with specific problems.

The study and analysis of the health care system, including the definitions and behaviors in health and disease, the types and roles of practitioners and the forms and problems of health care delivery. Contemporary issues in American health care are examined.

Work and occupations are examined in historical and contemporary contexts. Emphasis will be placed on the characteristics of professions and the attempts of occupations to professionalize. Focus will be on the macro level (the effects of advancements in technology, bureaucratization and unionization on the division of labor), the microlevel (job satisfaction and alienation), and on the interface between macro and micro levels (do individuals of equal ability have equal access to prestige careers regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, or other attributes).

PREREQUISITE: MATH1040 AND CRIM2012 This course examines major research methods. The student will be exposed to the development and evaluation of research design and conclusions, conducting of research, preparation of research papers and ethics in research. The emphasis will be on survey methods, participant observation and ethnographic research.

This course is a topical overview of some of the diverse areas of inquiry grouped under the general heading death and dying. The basic purpose of this course is to help students understand grief, loss, dying, and death-both as an objective fact and as it relates to their own personal experiences-and to apply this understanding to their common experiences. The social, cultural, spiritual, emotional, and intellectual dimensions of death and dying will be examined from an interdisciplinary, but mostly social psychological and sociological perspective with the goal of enhancing the meaning of life and living.

A study of the political, social, and economic realities of Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Emphasis is placed on ecological, racial, ethnic, and population problems, as well as on the legacy of colonialism, developmentalism, and dependency. Human rights and special problems of women will also be addressed. Cross-listed with INST3025 and POLI3025

This course is an introduction to the field of women's studies that focuses on the significance of gender in shaping the culture, society, and influence of the United States. Drawing upon a diverse set of theories, methods, and approaches from the social sciences, this course focuses primarily on the interrelated dynamics of gender at both the individual and societal levels in the United States, although we will view this country from both a comparative and an international perspective, showing how gender-related social and cultural phenomena vary across countries. Among the topics covered are cultural norms and values, socialization, interpersonal behavior, strategies of power and influence, gender-based violence, sexuality and reproduction, and social institutions such as the family, workplaces, government, education, religion and the media.

A sociological analysis of the family with emphasis on historical trends and contemporary family life in the United States. The study includes family relationships and functions, family disorganization and change, with an overview of the family as a major social institution.

PREREQUISITE: PSYC1021 OR PSYC1021H This course addresses the scientific study of human behavior, cognition and emotion as it is shaped by the psychosocial environment. Topics include social cognition, group dynamics, interpersonal attraction, conformity, aggression, prejudice, persuasion, and helping behavior. Cross-listed with PSYC3029

An analytical presentation of religion as a social institution emphasizing the function of religion in society and its relationship to the conflict and change that characterize modern American life.

A study of the causes and consequences of addictions. The relationship of public policy to addictions in society, the family, and the workplace is analyzed. Addictions are viewed as ingestive (alcohol, drugs, eating disorders) and/or behavioral (gambling, sexual, workaholism). Societal responses are explored.

This course addresses the social and psychological conditions, which give rise to the physical abuse of children and adults. The principal focus is an examination of child abuse and neglect, battered spouses, victims of rape and assault and victims in institutions. The effects on the individual and possible societal responses are also explored.

The course is designed to familiarize the student with the social bases of political power. Politics is viewed as a process in relation to the social and economic structures, which influence its direction. A consideration of the effects which politics has on these structures is also offered. A detailed analysis of the primacy of politics in the 20th century is included. Cross-listed with POLI3039

In this course we examine why ethnic groups sometimes get along very well, but other times engage in conflict. We query: What are the political and social origins of ethnic conflicts in various parts of the world? Do ethnic conflicts differ in different world regions? What national and international policies encourage ethnic conflict? How can we encourage ethnic groups to pursue peaceful accommodations? Cross-listed with POLI3040

This course examines the social dynamics of urbanization, urban social structure, and urban development. It analyzes, through various theories of urban sociology, the city as a form of social organization and as centers of economic and political processes. It also looks at how globalization has impacted various cities around the world in terms of their growths and declines.

This course is a critical analysis of education as a social institution. It looks at the interactive relations between education and the social dimensions of class, race, ethnicity, and gender, both in the US and in selected countries around the world.

This course looks at the history of social, political and economic development of Southeast Asia, excluding Indochina, and focusing primarily on Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It will discuss the contingent and dependent nature of development of these countries under the larger framework of global capitalism, and how such development affects the national historical experiences of these countries. Cross-listed with HIST/POLI3025

This course is designed to provide an approach to study and analyze the interactions between society and the environment, and the political economic impacts of environmental problems. Focus will be on both the social causes of and social responses to various environmental problems, at the local, national, and global levels.

This course examines the origin, growth, and dynamics of social movements as forms of social protest and resistance against state and global injustices. Discussions include case studies of various social and political groups, non-government organizations, and liberation and revolutionary movements in the US and throughout the world. Cross-listed with POLI3082

A collection of courses covering a broad range of topics in advanced sociology, offered according to student need and interest. The precise title is announced during registration period for any given term.

A field experience in a social institution. The students are given the opportunity to integrate their theoretical knowledge with practical application under the guidance of professionals at the particular institution where they are assigned.

A field experience in a social institution. The students are given the opportunity to integrate their theoretical knowledge with practical application under the guidance of professionals at the particular institution where they are assigned.

A course designed to assist students in culminating and synthesizing their study of sociology on the undergraduate level through independent readings, research and class discussion. Required for sociology majors.

Individual research supervised by a full-time faculty member.

This course is limited to those few students who have demonstrated an unusual level of ability and an intense commitment to a particular area.