Department of Culture, Society and Justice
Brian Wolf, Chair (101 Archie Phinney Hall 83844-1110; phone 208-885-6751).
The department provides students with three interrelated disciplines in which they can pursue a B.A. or B.S. degree: Anthropology, Sociology, and Criminology. Our department is an ideal academic home for students interested in developing their understanding of people, society and justice, cultural and social diversity, intercultural and global relations, and issues of justice, crime, and society. These programs give students the tools and perspectives necessary to understanding themselves and others in social and cultural contexts and systems of justice. The educational experience in anthropology, criminology, or sociology—including ample opportunity for interactions with faculty—provides a foundation from which students can better appreciate the challenges they face in their professional and personal lives.
Anthropology is the comprehensive study of the human condition, from humanity’s evolutionary past to its biological diversity, from the prehistoric and historic past to modern cultural and linguistic diversity, from rural societies to urban societies. While the program at the University of Idaho considers the breadth of these topics and issues, its primary focus is on Indigenous peoples and international development, contemporary U.S. culture, historical archaeology, archaeological conservation and stabilization, and the archaeology and ethnography of the Indian Tribes of the North American Plateau. Graduates of the program are able to apply the anthropological skills and knowledge with an eye toward making a difference. Graduates go on to experience successful careers or pursue advanced programs of graduate studies.
Criminology is the study of the causes and consequences of crime. Coursework in criminology includes a comprehensive understanding of explanations of crime, research methods used to scientifically measure and study crime, the evaluation of crime control policies, and a consideration of the broader social and political context of crime and justice. Elective courses will acquaint students with various types of crime and norm violation such as juvenile delinquency, social deviance, violent crime, white collar crime, and terrorism. In addition, institutional responses through policing and punishment are also considered. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the problems of crime and the criminal justice system. Students may pursue their criminology degree, either entirely or in part, in our online criminology program.
Sociology is the scientific study of human behavior, with an emphasis on understanding social interaction, groups, and organizations. It is an ideal major for students who are curious about themselves and the world they live in; the goal of sociology is to help students develop a "sociological imagination," the ability to understand how individual experiences, behaviors, and opportunities are influenced by the historical moment and social forces beyond the immediate control of any one person. In the criminology emphasis, students study the causes, consequences, and social responses to crime. The sociology program's strengths include U.S. and global diversity, globalization, social inequalities, criminology, deviance, policing, and applied research. The program provides students opportunities to gain practical work experience through internships and service learning. Students leave prepared for careers in social services, human resources, criminal justice, non-profit positions, community organizing, and applied research and provides a foundation for graduate education in sociology, criminology, social work, and law.
The department offers the academic certificate in Equity and Justice. The purpose of the certificate in Equity and Justice is to provide students with specific training in intercultural skills. The certificate recognizes competency in understanding a broad range of diversity issues (race, physical ability, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, social class, etc.) and their relevance in social life and the workplace. The certificate provides students with a focused and work-related credential so they may be more competitive and effective in the job market.
The Archaeological Technician Program is designed to offer students a solid understanding of the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary to be qualified for an entry level position in government or cultural resource management (CRM). Participants must complete the entire training program with emphases in field survey, excavation, and laboratory methods. All three areas of the certificate program include practical experience in the field and lab with academic and/or professional evaluations that include appropriate readings and examinations.
Graduate study in anthropology is offered in areas such as American Indian studies, prehistoric and historical archaeology, sociocultural anthropology, and physical anthropology. The program offers both a thesis and a non-thesis M.A. Both programs include class work, seminars, directed studies, independent research, and a thesis (with public defense) or final project. The curriculum provides sound training in general anthropology, archaeology, physical anthropology, and ethnology. Departmental research specialties include historical archaeology, prehistoric Plateau archaeology, Plateau Indian ethnography, contemporary American culture, human evolution, and indigenous peoples of South America. Anthropologists in the department also regularly collaborate with the university’s history department in support of a joint Ph.D. degree in history with an emphasis on historical archaeology. Graduates of the M.A. program have successfully gone on to pursue additional graduate work and professional careers in anthropology. Interested students should contact the department for the application procedures.
Questions concerning the department and its programs should be addressed to the department chair (208-885-6751).
ANTH 100 Introduction to Anthropology (3 credits)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Basic theories, methods, and findings of human paleontology, prehistory, and culture. Typically Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer.
ANTH 101 Biological Anthropology (3 credits)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Evidence for primate and human evolution; processes of human variation and adaptation; techniques of biological anthropology; human population biology. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.
ANTH 102 Cultural Anthropology (3 credits)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Explores the global diversity of cultures and the variety of ways humans organize and understand their world Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.
ANTH 103 Introduction to Archaeology (3 credits)
Archaeological techniques for interpreting past lifeways from material remains; includes both prehistoric and historical archaeology.
ANTH 200 (s) Seminar (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 203 (s) Workshop (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 204 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 241 Introduction to the Study of Language (3 credits)
Cross-listed with ENGL 241 and EDCI 241
Surveys of sound patterns, morphological processes, and syntactic structures; questions of language acquisition, variation, and history; exercises from a variety of languages, with emphasis on American English.
ANTH 261 Language and Culture (3 credits)
General Education: International, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Language as an aspect of culture; the relation of habitual thought and behavior to language.
ANTH 299 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 314 Tribal Sovereignty and Federal Policy (3 credits)
Cross-listed with AIST 453
This course provides an in-depth understanding of how colonial and Federal Indian Policies have impacted the lives of Tribes and their surrounding communities. Through a survey of the changing eras of policy (conquest, preRevolutionary approaches, the Marshall Trilogy, the Treaty Era, Allotment and Termination, and Self-Determination), students will learn about the forces that have shaped tribal communities, and a deeper appreciation for tribes’ efforts to restore and exercise their sovereignty. Tribal Sovereignty as it applies to land management, natural resources and community development will be a focal area. Typically Offered: Spring.
ANTH 321 (s) Tribal Elders Series (3 credits, max 9)
Cross-listed with AIST 435
Elders from neighboring tribes surrounding the University of Idaho will share a tribal epistemology that each tribe considers to be essential to an education of an adult. Such educational perspective may often be missing/misrepresented or misunderstood in current university pedagogy. This class will place an emphasis on contemporary indigenous voices. This course will have a subtopic heading to incorporate the possibility of having many neighboring tribes participate. Typically Offered: Fall.
ANTH 327 Belief Systems (3 credits)
Cross-listed with RELS 327
Method and theory of comparative anthropological study of religion.
ANTH 329 Contemporary North American Indians (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Cross-listed with AIST 329
Histories, cultures, and practices of contemporary North American Indians.
ANTH 350 Food, Culture, and Society (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Cross-listed with SOC 350
Examines the structural and cultural implications of eating and producing food in a global world. Utilizing a social scientific framework, it explores the history of particular foods and examines how food systems are racialized, classed and gendered. Primary foci include the social history of food holidays and taboos, the relationships between food and identity, the impact of agricultural production practices on food systems and food security, and forms of resistance to these impacts. Recommended Preparation: a 200-level sociology course. May include field trips. Typically Offered: Spring (Even Years).
Prereqs: SOC 101
ANTH 400 (s) Seminar (3 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 403 (s) Workshop (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 404 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 409 Anthropological Field Methods (1-8 credits, max 8)
Field training in archaeology and/or social anthropology.
ANTH 411 Human Evolution (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 511
Human origins in light of the fossil record and evolutionary theory. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Recommended Preparation: ANTH 100. Cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students.
ANTH 416 Qualitative Social Science Methods (3 credits)
Cross-listed with SOC 416
Joint-listed with ANTH 516
This course introduces students to social science research methods that collect qualitative data. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Varies.
ANTH 417 Social Data Analysis (3 credits)
Cross-listed with SOC 417
Joint-listed with ANTH 517
This course introduces students to social science research methods that collect quantitative data. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis. Additional work required for graduate credit.
ANTH 420 Anthropological History and Theory (3 credits, max 9)
Historical development of anthropology along with theoretical debates as presented in the anthropological literature.
Prereqs: Upper-Division standing
ANTH 422 Contemporary Pacific Northwest Indians (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity
Cross-listed with AIST 422, RELS 422
Joint-listed with ANTH 522
This course is intended to impart an understanding of the vitality and rich diversity of contemporary Pacific Northwest American Indian societies, their histories, and their literatures, e. g. , in the arts and expressive culture, in governmental affairs both indigenous and external, in economics, ecological relations and natural resources, in health care, and in family, social and religious life, in oral traditions, in world views and cultural values. This understanding is inclusive of both indigenous cultural, as well as contact-historical, expressions. An understanding of Tribal sovereignty and its varied meanings is key to this outcome. ANTH 422 is cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students. Cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students.
ANTH 425 Popular Culture and Consumerism (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 525
An interdisciplinary survey of the contemporary study of popular culture. Reviews contemporary theoretical approaches to mass, popular, folk, and fan cultures using material culture, texts, media, and cultural practices. Focus on critical analysis and understanding the significance of popular culture to society and how its consumption shapes everyday lives. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Fall (Odd Years).
ANTH 428 Social and Political Organization (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 528
Bases of social and political organization; kin based units; non-kin units; political units through primitive states. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
Prereqs: Upper-Division standing
ANTH 430 Archaeological History, Ethics, and Theory (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 530
This course explores the history of the archaeological discipline, theoretical trends within the field, and ethical implications of archaeological practice. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
Prereqs: ANTH 103 or Permission
ANTH 431 Historical Archaeology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 531
Investigation of the techniques of historical archaeology as well as an introduction to historic material culture and the theories that inform historical archaeology research. Additional projects/assignments reqd for grad cr. ANTH 531 is a cooperative course available to WSU degree-seeking students.
Prereqs: ANTH 100
ANTH 432 Historical Artifact Analysis (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 532
An overview and detailed study of the major classes of material culture commonly recovered on historical sites. Course emphasizes the identification of historical materials and introduction of a variety of analytical tools used in historical archaeology.
ANTH 433 Applied Cultural Resource Management (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 533
Introduction to the practice of archaeology in the field of Cultural Resource Management (CRM). This course emphasizes and exposes students to skills needed in today’s world of CRM. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 434 Stranger than Fiction: Pseudoarchaeology and Myths of the Past (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 534
How has popular culture like Indiana Jones, Ancient Aliens, and The Davinci Code shaped popular understandings about the past? This course examines popular myths about archaeological sites around the globe. Case studies include Stonehenge, Atlantis and Mu, the Nazca Lines, Ancient pyramid construction, cannibalism in the Donner Party, and other archaeological mysteries. Particular attention is given to understanding how pseudoarchaeological claims gain traction as popular folklore and on learning the true histories of these sites and people using archaeological science. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 440 Forensic Science (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 540
This course provides a broad introduction to the various components that comprise the forensic sciences. This course examines the roots of forensic science, its practice, how it provides evidentiary support in criminal investigations, its ethical considerations and scientific rigor, as well as the methods and techniques employed by toxicologists, forensic pathologists, chemists, trace evidence analysts, digital forensic specialists, forensic anthropologists, fire scene recovery experts, dentists, and many more. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring (Odd Years) and Summer.
ANTH 442 Human Osteology and Osteometry (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 542
This course gives students a greater understanding of the particulars of the human skeletal system. Throughout the semester students will become familiar with the concepts and methods related to conducting analysis involving human remains. These skills will provide a theoretical and methodological framework for more advanced osteological work related to bioarchaeology, forensic identification, paleopathology, human anatomy and skeletal biology, and paleoanthropology. The course will focus on enhancing a student’s knowledge of complete and fragmentary human skeletal elements, differentiation of human and non-human remains, and the assessment of the biological profile (age, sex, ancestry, stature, etc. ). Additional coursework required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring. Cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students.
ANTH 444 Health, Illness, and Society (3 credits)
Cross-listed with SOC 444
Joint-listed with ANTH 544
This course examines the various cultural events, biological processes, and socio-structural forces that contribute to health and disease of modern populations. Taking a holistic perspective, the course examines how communicable and genetic pathological conditions originate, how they have been handled throughout history and the lengths to which science, medicine, and other social institutions go to keep us healthy. The course also investigates how we perceive health and explores how various issues, such as genetics, social inequality, culture, and ideology influence how we promote well-being and care for the sick. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring.
ANTH 449 Lithic Technology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 549
Manufacture and analysis of stone implements, theory of rock fracture, nonhuman productions of pseudo-artifacts. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
Prereqs: ANTH 103 or Permission
ANTH 451 Forensic Anthropology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 551
This course examines the process of identifying unknown contemporary skeletal material and its medicolegal ramifications. It covers the analysis and measurement of the human skeleton, including skeletal variation based on age, sex, stature, and ancestry. It also discusses the idiosyncratic skeletal features and pathological conditions that can help lead to a positive identification of the decedent. Additionally, students learn the basics of how to identify skeletal trauma and taphonomy, as well as how forensic anthropologists handle skeletal identifications in various contexts, such as human rights atrocities, natural disasters, mass fatality events, and military exhumations and identifications. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 452 Bioarchaeology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 552
This course provides students with a more in-depth look at the study of archaeology from the perspective of dealing with human skeletal remains. The course examines how historic and prehistoric skeletal material provides information about the health, status, living conditions, culture, trauma, demographics, and economics of past peoples. It also discusses mortuary and funerary traditions and considers the ethical considerations involved in studying skeletal remains. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 455 Anthropology Senior Research (3 credits)
General Education: Senior Experience
Anthropology Senior Research is designed to provide the resources and guidance necessary for anthropology seniors to complete an independent research project focused in one or more of the sub-fields of anthropology. Typically Offered: Varies.
Prereqs: ANTH 416 or ANTH 417; and Senior Standing and Major in Department of Sociology and Anthropology; or Permission
ANTH 456 Anthropology of Modern War and Conflict (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 556
This course examines what the careful study of human remains, material culture, history, and cultural context can illuminate about modern warfare and contemporary conflict. The course also investigates the role material and skeletal evidence plays in understanding historical context, subverting cultural and political hegemony, contributing to social and institutional memory and memorialization, and promoting/negating nationalist and ethnocentric narratives. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 462 Human Issues in International Development (3 credits)
General Education: International, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Cross-listed with LAS 462
Joint-listed with ANTH 562
Course content includes the historical and political contexts that shape development, development theories and approaches, along with the global challenges of poverty, social inequalities, and environment. Culture as an important consideration in development is emphasized. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. (Alt/years)
ANTH 463 Contemporary Issues Affecting Men & Masculinities (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 563
This course introduces the interdisciplinary studies of Anthropology, Sociology, and Gender Studies through focus on the social science scholarship of men and masculinities. Theoretical developments challenge stereotypes by stressing how masculinities are produced within specific historic and cultural domains, replacing ideas of men’s power by revealing that men wield and access power differently depending on their race, class, sexuality, and location. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring (Even Years).
ANTH 495 (s) Advanced Anthropological Research (1-15 credits, max 15)
Joint-listed with ANTH 595
Provides students the opportunity to engage focused anthropological research with instructors in the department. The intent is to provide students the opportunity to pursue research in the field of anthropology in ways that are not possible in a broader classroom setting. The expectation is the class would generally build off of work initiated by a student in previous courses. Additional coursework required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.
ANTH 498 (s) Internship (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 499 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 500 Master's Research and Thesis (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 501 (s) Seminar (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 502 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 503 (s) Workshop (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 504 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 505 (s) Professional Development (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 509 Anthropological Field Methods (1-8 credits, max 8)
Individual field work in approved areas.
Prereqs: Permission
ANTH 511 Human Evolution (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 411
Human origins in light of the fossil record and evolutionary theory. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Recommended Preparation: ANTH 100. Cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students.
ANTH 516 Qualitative Social Science Methods (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 416, SOC 416
This course introduces students to social science research methods that collect qualitative data. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Varies.
ANTH 517 Social Data Analysis (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 417, SOC 417
This course introduces students to social science research methods that collect quantitative data. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis. Additional work required for graduate credit.
ANTH 518 Anthropology of Tourism (3 credits)
Across the globe, tourism has been touted as a route to economic sustainability and both national and local prosperity. As one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the modern world, tourism can supply wealth and growth opportunities to poverty stricken communities - but at what cost? In this course, we will examine both the advantages and disadvantages to a variety of forms of tourism: sex tourism, "primitive" tourism, heritage tourism, ecotourism, and nature tourism, to name a few. Additional work required for graduate credit.
ANTH 521 Contemporary Issues in Anthropological Theory (3 credits)
In-depth exploration of contemporary theoretical issues within anthropology.
Prereqs: ANTH 420 or equivalent, or Permission
ANTH 522 Contemporary Pacific Northwest Indians (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity
Joint-listed with AIST 422, ANTH 422
, RELS 422. This course is intended to impart an understanding of the vitality and rich diversity of contemporary Pacific Northwest American Indian societies, their histories, and their literatures, e. g. , in the arts and expressive culture, in governmental affairs both indigenous and external, in economics, ecological relations and natural resources, in health care, and in family, social and religious life, in oral traditions, in world views and cultural values. This understanding is inclusive of both indigenous cultural, as well as contact-historical, expressions. An understanding of Tribal sovereignty and its varied meanings is key to this outcome. ANTH 422 is cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students. Cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students.
ANTH 525 Popular Culture and Consumerism (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 425
An interdisciplinary survey of the contemporary study of popular culture. Reviews contemporary theoretical approaches to mass, popular, folk, and fan cultures using material culture, texts, media, and cultural practices. Focus on critical analysis and understanding the significance of popular culture to society and how its consumption shapes everyday lives. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Fall (Odd Years).
ANTH 528 Social and Political Organization (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 428
Bases of social and political organization; kin based units; non-kin units; political units through primitive states. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
Prereqs: Upper-Division standing
ANTH 530 Archaeological History, Ethics, and Theory (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 430
This course explores the history of the archaeological discipline, theoretical trends within the field, and ethical implications of archaeological practice. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
Prereqs: ANTH 103 or Permission
ANTH 531 Historical Archaeology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 431
Investigation of the techniques of historical archaeology as well as an introduction to historic material culture and the theories that inform historical archaeology research. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Cooperative: WSU degree-seeking students.
Prereqs: ANTH 100
ANTH 532 Historical Artifact Analysis (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 432
An overview and detailed study of the major classes of material culture commonly recovered on historical sites. Course emphasizes the identification of historical materials and introduction of a variety of analytical tools used in historical archaeology.
ANTH 533 Applied Cultural Resource Management (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 433
Introduction to the practice of archaeology in the field of Cultural Resource Management (CRM). This course emphasizes and exposes students to skills needed in today’s world of CRM. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 534 Stranger than Fiction: Pseudoarchaeology and Myths of the Past (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 434
How has popular culture like Indiana Jones, Ancient Aliens, and The Davinci Code shaped popular understandings about the past? This course examines popular myths about archaeological sites around the globe. Case studies include Stonehenge, Atlantis and Mu, the Nazca Lines, Ancient pyramid construction, cannibalism in the Donner Party, and other archaeological mysteries. Particular attention is given to understanding how pseudoarchaeological claims gain traction as popular folklore and on learning the true histories of these sites and people using archaeological science. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 540 Forensic Science (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 440
This course provides a broad introduction to the various components that comprise the forensic sciences. This course examines the roots of forensic science, its practice, how it provides evidentiary support in criminal investigations, its ethical considerations and scientific rigor, as well as the methods and techniques employed by toxicologists, forensic pathologists, chemists, trace evidence analysts, digital forensic specialists, forensic anthropologists, fire scene recovery experts, dentists, and many more. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring (Odd Years) and Summer.
ANTH 542 Human Osteology and Osteometry (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 442
This course gives students a greater understanding of the particulars of the human skeletal system. Throughout the semester students will become familiar with the concepts and methods related to conducting analysis involving human remains. These skills will provide a theoretical and methodological framework for more advanced osteological work related to bioarchaeology, forensic identification, paleopathology, human anatomy and skeletal biology, and paleoanthropology. The course will focus on enhancing a student’s knowledge of complete and fragmentary human skeletal elements, differentiation of human and non-human remains, and the assessment of the biological profile (age, sex, ancestry, stature, etc. ). Additional coursework required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring. Cooperative: open to WSU degree-seeking students.
ANTH 544 Health, Illness, and Society (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 444, SOC 444
This course examines the various cultural events, biological processes, and socio-structural forces that contribute to health and disease of modern populations. Taking a holistic perspective, the course examines how communicable and genetic pathological conditions originate, how they have been handled throughout history and the lengths to which science, medicine, and other social institutions go to keep us healthy. The course also investigates how we perceive health and explores how various issues, such as genetics, social inequality, culture, and ideology influence how we promote well-being and care for the sick. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring.
ANTH 545 Indigenous Ways of Knowing (3 credits)
Cross-listed with AIST 445
The course is intended as an introduction to issues of cultural, racial, ethnic and linguistic diversity that arise in American school and society. In particular we will be looking at indigenous epistemological comparison with Western educational models. The central question for the course will be: Why is educational attainment different for different groups in society, and how does that difference relate to social stratification characteristics of the larger society? We will also try to answer other questions: What is the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on the various institutions of society, including family, schools, and the economic system? What policies and programs have been developed in the US and other societies to deal with cultural diversities? These and other questions will be the basis for our reading and discussions Typically Offered: Fall.
ANTH 549 Lithic Technology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 449
Manufacture and analysis of stone implements, theory of rock fracture, nonhuman productions of pseudo-artifacts. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
Prereqs: ANTH 103 or Permission
ANTH 551 Forensic Anthropology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 451
This course examines the process of identifying unknown contemporary skeletal material and its medicolegal ramifications. It covers the analysis and measurement of the human skeleton, including skeletal variation based on age, sex, stature, and ancestry. It also discusses the idiosyncratic skeletal features and pathological conditions that can help lead to a positive identification of the decedent. Additionally, students learn the basics of how to identify skeletal trauma and taphonomy, as well as how forensic anthropologists handle skeletal identifications in various contexts, such as human rights atrocities, natural disasters, mass fatality events, and military exhumations and identifications. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 552 Bioarchaeology (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 452
This course provides students with a more in-depth look at the study of archaeology from the perspective of dealing with human skeletal remains. The course examines how historic and prehistoric skeletal material provides information about the health, status, living conditions, culture, trauma, demographics, and economics of past peoples. It also discusses mortuary and funerary traditions and considers the ethical considerations involved in studying skeletal remains. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 556 Anthropology of Modern War and Conflict (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 456
This course examines what the careful study of human remains, material culture, history, and cultural context can illuminate about modern warfare and contemporary conflict. The course also investigates the role material and skeletal evidence plays in understanding historical context, subverting cultural and political hegemony, contributing to social and institutional memory and memorialization, and promoting/negating nationalist and ethnocentric narratives. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit.
ANTH 562 Human Issues in International Development (3 credits)
General Education: International, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Joint-listed with ANTH 462, LAS 462
Course content includes the historical and political contexts that shape development, development theories and approaches, along with the global challenges of poverty, social inequalities, and environment. Culture as an important consideration in development is emphasized. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. (Alt/years)
ANTH 563 Contemporary Issues Affecting Men & Masculinities (3 credits)
Joint-listed with ANTH 463
This course introduces the interdisciplinary studies of Anthropology, Sociology, and Gender Studies through focus on the social science scholarship of men and masculinities. Theoretical developments challenge stereotypes by stressing how masculinities are produced within specific historic and cultural domains, replacing ideas of men’s power by revealing that men wield and access power differently depending on their race, class, sexuality, and location. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring (Even Years).
ANTH 570 (s) Materiality and Human Cultures (3 credits)
This graduate seminar focuses on a variety of archaeological topics studied by contemporary archaeologists. Subject matter will vary from year to year.
ANTH 571 (s) Cultural Complexity (3 credits)
This graduate seminar focuses on a variety of cultural, ethnographic, folkloric, and linguistic topics studied by contemporary anthropologists. Subject matter will vary from year to year.
ANTH 572 (s) Topics in Biological Anthropology (3 credits)
This graduate seminar focuses on a variety of human evolutionary, human health, forensic, and bioarchaeological topics studied by contemporary biological anthropologist and bioarchaeologists. Subject matter will vary from year to year.
ANTH 595 (s) Advanced Anthropological Research (1-15 credits, max 15)
Joint-listed with ANTH 495
Provides students the opportunity to engage focused anthropological research with instructors in the department. The intent is to provide students the opportunity to pursue research in the field of anthropology in ways that are not possible in a broader classroom setting. The expectation is the class would generally build off of work initiated by a student in previous courses. Additional coursework required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.
ANTH 598 (s) Internship (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
ANTH 599 (s) Non-thesis Master's Research (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged Research not directly related to a thesis or dissertation.
Prereqs: Permission
CRIM 101 Introduction to Criminology (3 credits)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
This course provides a general introduction to the study of crime, deviance, and crime control. Course material will cover crime measurement, patterns, and trends as well as major theoretical explanations for crime. Criminal justice institutions such as police, courts, and corrections will be considered along with specific topics as they relate to criminology. These topics include social deviance, violence, white collar crime, terrorism, vice, drug use, organized crime, mental health issues, racial inequalities, women and crime, and the depiction of crime in popular media and culture. Specific crime control policies are also considered. Typically Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer.
CRIM 201 Justice Institutions (3 credits)
An introduction to the history, processes, practices, and functions of the justice system in the United States. The course focuses primarily on policing, courts, and corrections. Typically Offered: Spring.
CRIM 204 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
CRIM 301 Criminological Theory (3 credits)
Review and assessment of common explanations of crime, deviant behavior, and control. May include field trips.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 302 Research Methods in Criminology (3 credits)
This course will prepare students to conduct criminological research using a range of social science methods. The course is divided into four sections. In the first section, the class will explore the logic and process of social scientific research, with a focus on the connection between theory and methods, strategies of research design, the ethical responsibilities of researchers, and issues in sampling and measurement. The second section of the course examines some of the common data gathering techniques used by criminologists, such as experimental research, survey design, policy analysis, evaluation research, secondary analysis, crime mapping, and network analysis. The third section of the course examines the logic of qualitative research methods, including focus groups, interviewing, and ethnography. In the final section of the course, students use social science data to examine key strategies and techniques in quantitative data management and analysis. Typically Offered: Varies.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
Coreqs: None
CRIM 320 Deviant Behavior (3 credits)
This course is a critical examination of the relationship between deviance and social control. It will investigate how and why certain forms of behavior come to be known as deviant, analyze the nature of formal and informal responses to deviance, and explain the interaction of different social control institutions. Specific topics may include corruption, drug use, prostitution, criminal violence, gangs, corporate crime, and heroic deviance. Typically Offered: Spring.
CRIM 325 Family Violence (3 credits)
This course provides a broad multidisciplinary look at the topic of family violence, which brings in both qualitative and quantitative research from the fields of criminology, sociology, and psychology. It covers the history of family violence and its gradual emergence as a social problem, current theories and research methods used to explain and study family violence, the different types of family violence, the structural and cultural antecedents of family violence, and the intervention/prevention strategies used to address and stop family violence. Typically Offered: Fall.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 329 Homicide (3 credits)
This course provides an analysis of the dynamics and processes associated with various types of homicides, as well as the theoretical explanations of homicide. Topics may include familial homicide, serial homicide, homicide associated with cults, and gang-related homicide, among others. Issues related to criminal justice processing of offenders are also discussed. Typically Offered: Varies.
Prereqs: CRIM 101.
CRIM 330 Juvenile Delinquency (3 credits)
This course surveys the topic of juvenile delinquency. It covers the historical emergence of juvenile delinquency as a social problem and how it differs from adult crime, the research methods and data used to track patterns and trends in juvenile delinquency, the theoretical mechanisms and social contexts that help us understand the prevalence of delinquency, and an in-depth examination of the juvenile justice system. Typically Offered: Fall.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 332 Punishment and Corrections (3 credits)
This course will provide an introduction to the study of punishment and corrections. The course will explore a range of issues, such as the social history of criminal punishment, patterns in imprisonment, inmate subculture, private prisons, and contemporary correctional policies and practices. Throughout the course, attention will be devoted to how policy decisions about punishment and corrections affect local communities. May include field trips. Typically Offered: Spring.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 333 Elite and White Collar Crime (3 credits)
The costs, causes, and control of crime by and against businesses and other organizations; the relationship between trust and white collar crime; the impact of the media in shaping perceptions of white collar crime. Typically Offered: Spring (Even Years).
CRIM 334 Policing (3 credits)
This course approaches the study of the police in the United States and abroad from a criminological perspective. Particular attention will be paid to municipal policing and will examine its history, its organizational structure and subculture, its evolving roles within the urban environment, and its relationship to changing patterns in crime rates. The course will also examine substantive problems in policing, including use of force, police misconduct, and the difficulties associated with bringing about organizational reform. Typically Offered: Fall.
CRIM 335 Terrorism & Counterterrorism (3 credits)
This course focuses on trends, tactics, issues, and contexts facilitating extremist behaviors in the United States and around the world. The course also examines counterterrorism and political and social responses to extremism. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 336 Comparative Criminal Justice Systems (3 credits)
General Education: International, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Gen Ed: Social Science, International Comparative study of justice systems in selected foreign countries. (Alt/years)
Prereqs: SOC 101
CRIM 337 Violent Crime (3 credits)
Explores the sources and types of violence, victims of violence, impact of firearms on violence, responses to violence by intergovernmental, national criminal justice systems, and non-state actors, and ways to reduce violence in society. Typically Offered: Spring and Spring (Odd Years).
Prereqs: CRIM 101 or Instructor Permission
CRIM 338 Vice Crime (3 credits)
This course explores the intersection of morality, law, and criminal justice through the examination of “vice” crime, such as illegal drug use, gambling, and sex work. The goal of the class is to explore the socially constructed nature of vice and examine the different socio-legal strategies that have been mobilized to control vice, such as criminalization, decriminalization, regulation, and harm reduction. Typically Offered: Spring.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 339 Crime and the Media (3 credits)
Cross-listed with JAMM 339
Critical evaluation of the media portrayals of crime and the criminal justice system; analysis of how the media help to shape public understanding and public policy.
CRIM 340 Sex Crimes (3 credits)
This course explores various aspects of sexual crimes, offenders, and deviance. Topics may include, but are not limited to, historical and current perspectives of sex offender legislation, victimization issues, theoretical explanations, and processing offenders in the criminal justice system. Special focus will be placed on sexual offenses and sexual deviance in various locations and settings.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 344 Criminology and Video Games (3 credits)
This course takes a criminological approach to the study of video games and gaming. Topics may include crime typologies, depictions of and implications of violence, and representation of criminal justice agencies such as law enforcement and corrections. Demographic representations, such as gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, and age in games and gaming environments are also explored as they relate to issues such as gamer identities and representations in gaming spaces. Other current issues may also be covered. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 404 (s) Special Topic (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
CRIM 415 Citizen's Police Academy (3 credits)
Offered only in the spring term, students are acquainted with the activities of a local police department in a community-learning style course. This experience is an opportunity for applied learning in the field. Limited space available. Instructor permission required. Graded Pass/Fail. Graded Pass/Fail. Typically Offered: Spring.
CRIM 420 Substance Use and Crime (3 credits)
This course covers substance use from a criminological perspective. First, the course covers the definitions, patterns, and trends of substance use as well as the methods and data employed in substance use research. Second, the course covers the social and pharmacological nature of different types of substances and the prevalence and consequences of their use. Lastly, the course covers the criminological implications of substance use, including the theories of why people use, theories explaining why use leads to violent crime, the drug trade, the successes and failures of various drug control strategies, and a discussion of alternatives to conventional drug control such as legalization and decriminalization. Typically Offered: Spring.
CRIM 421 Gender and Crime (3 credits)
This course uses sociological and criminological theories to explore the relationship between gender and crime. Topics explore adult and juvenile females and their entry into the criminal justice system as victims and offenders. The course examines the challenges faced by females working in criminal justice (policing, courts, and corrections). Gender is also discussed by considering issues faced by the LGBT community in terms of how particular behaviors are criminalized, how LGBT individuals are treated within and by the criminal justice system. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 435 Psychopathy and Crime (3 credits)
This course provides a general introduction to psychopathy. Emphasis is placed on the perceptions, misconceptions, and the realities of the relationship between psychopathy and crime. In addition, the course explores the historical development of psychopathy, key diagnostic criteria, and the biological and psychological correlates of the disorder.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 436 Mental Health and Crime (3 credits)
This course examines the historical and contemporary relationships between mental health and criminal/deviant behavior. Emphasis is placed on the criminalization of mental illness, the reciprocal influence between mental health and criminal offending, and the role of clinical diagnoses in the criminal justice system.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 439 Inequalities in the Justice System (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Critical focus on the issues of race, class, and gender and their consequences for the operation of the justice system; the role of the justice system in the history and experience of various minorities, theories of minority crime, and issues of selective enforcement, sentencing disparity, and disproportionate incarceration; the role of gender considered through the examination of offenders, victims, and criminal justice professionals. Typically Offered: Spring.
Prereqs: CRIM 101
CRIM 461 Capstone: Justice Policy Issues (3 credits)
General Education: Senior Experience
This course offers a critical analysis of contemporary criminal justice policies and practices in the United States. The course emphasizes a hands-on approach; through structured debates, critical case study analysis, and research projects, students explore the inner workings of the criminal justice system and its many strengths and weaknesses. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 462 (s) Senior Practicum (3 credits)
General Education: Senior Experience
This capstone course allows advanced criminology students to complete a practicum with an organization or agency as they approach the end of their academic program. The practicum allows students to integrate and apply their criminological knowledge and training in "real world" settings, and the course culminates in the production of a large capstone project. The range of possible practicum sites will vary according to the intellectual and career interests of the students but may include criminal justice agencies, non-profit organizations, social service providers, or local research organizations. Typically Offered: Varies.
Prereqs: Instructor Permission
CRIM 464 Criminology Abroad (3 credits)
General Education: Senior Experience
Criminology Abroad combines a 10-day intensive study abroad experience (typically a faculty-led trip over spring break), along with instruction in comparative criminology. Besides an experience abroad, a student completes a directed research project related to criminology in the visited country.
Prereqs: SOC 101
CRIM 466 Inside Out (3-6 credits, max arranged)
Inside Out is a prison exchange class that takes place within a correctional institution in Idaho. The course focuses on a variety of topics ranging from philosophical perspectives of justice to historical perceptions of biology and crime. The class includes both university and incarcerated students and emphasizes peer learning and collaboration.
Prereqs: CRIM 101 or SOC 101; Instructor Permission required
CRIM 498 (s) Internship (1-6 credits)
Supervised professional field experience in a criminology-related organization.
CRIM 499 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits)
Intended to accommodate a wide variety of criminological topics.
Prereqs: Criminology Major
CRIM 506 Advanced Criminological Theory (3 credits)
This course provides a detailed summary of the development of criminological thought throughout the ages. Students will explore the evolving nature of criminological theorizing over time, beginning with Greek Antiquity, progressing through the Middle Ages, the Age of Reason, the Scientific Revolution, and ending with present day. Students will critically assess theoretical constructs and assumptions, identifying and challenging their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, students will examine the relationship between theory and policy, reflecting on the role that theory plays in historical and contemporary criminal justice systems in Western nations. Typically Offered: Fall.
CRIM 507 Justice Institutions (3 credits)
This course will offer an examination of the criminal justice system in the United States. In the first part of the course, students will examine the history and organization of criminal justice in the United States and analyze the key differences between the U. S. and other countries. The second part of the course will explore the most pressing issues and trends in policing, courts, and corrections. While the topics covered will vary from year-to-year, they may include issues such as police use of deadly force, race/ethnicity and sentencing outcomes, alternatives to incarceration, capital punishment, mental health and prisons, and prisoner re-entry. Typically Offered: Spring.
CRIM 511 Data Analysis in Criminology (3 credits)
This course covers research design, data collection, and data analysis using a hands-on approach. The course considers general themes such as the logic of inquiry and the appropriateness of methodological approaches, as well as more specific topics such as quantitative data sourcing, sampling, and measurement. It provides students with the opportunity to learn and apply different quantitative tools for social science research, including descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate inference. Typically Offered: Fall.
CRIM 512 Qualitative Methods in Criminology (3 credits)
This course develops an understanding of the application of criminological qualitative research. This course will cover various qualitative methodologies such as interviewing, content analysis, ethnography, participant observation, and case studies. Typically Offered: Spring.
CRIM 530 Criminology in Practice (1-2 credits, max 3)
The course will explore issues in professionalism and career development with the overall goal of helping students develop the social and cultural capital necessary to be successful in the field. The core topics of the class will include career paths in criminology and criminal justice, principles of professional communication, strategies for succeeding in the job market, advanced topics in library research, strategies for publishing academic research, and ethical issues in criminology and criminal justice. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 541 (s) (s) Crime Causation Topics (3 credits, max 6)
This course provides an intensive examination of specific explanations of crime. Subject matter may vary between years. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 542 (s) (s) Victimization Topics (3 credits, max 6)
This course examines topics relating to criminal victimization, such as victims’ rights, criminal justice system processing, and victim advocacy, as well as the impact of crime on individual victims, communities, and society. May include both primary and secondary victimization discussions. Subject matter may vary between years. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 543 (s) (s) Justice Studies Topics (3 credits, max 6)
This course examines topics relating to criminal justice institutions including detailed examinations of the policies, programs and practices of police, courts, corrections, and other related agencies. Subject matter may vary between years. Typically Offered: Varies.
CRIM 544 (s) (s) Topics in Crime Types (3 credits, max 9)
This course focuses on a selected crime typology, including definitions of sub-typologies, theoretical explanations, rates and measurement, interpersonal dynamics between victims and offenders, and policy implications. Subject matter will vary each year. Typically Offered: Varies.
SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology (3 credits)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Basic theories, concepts, and processes involved in scientific study of society; includes socialization process, social inequality, the family, religion, deviance, population, the environment, and social change. Typically Offered: Every semester.
SOC 200 (s) Seminar (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
SOC 201 Introduction to Inequity and Justice (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity
An interdisciplinary and historical study of social inequities and inclusion in a cross-cultural global context. The course examines multiple forms of diversity and stratification including, but not limited to, culture, class, race/ethnic, gender/sexuality, religious diversity, and political ideology in an effort to raise students' ability to interact with and understand others in our increasingly multicultural world. Courses may vary in their emphasis on United States’ or international experiences. May include service learning. Typically Offered: Fall, Spring and Varies.
Prereqs: SOC 101
SOC 203 (s) Workshop (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
SOC 204 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
SOC 211 Development of Social Theory (3 credits)
Development of social theory from classical roots through contemporary schools; biographical accounts and original works in sociological theory.
Prereqs: SOC 101
SOC 230 Social Problems (3 credits)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Contemporary social issues and personal deviations; crime and delinquency, poverty and wealth, drugs, sexual variations, racism, sexism, and the environment.
SOC 299 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
SOC 309 Social Science Research Methods (3 credits)
This course introduces students to quantitative and qualitative research methods employed in the social sciences. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.
Prereqs: STAT 153 or STAT 251; Junior or Senior Standing; SOC, ANTH, CRIM majors or SOC minors only
SOC 327 Sociology of the Family (3 credits)
This class is designed to help students critically evaluate and understand the ways they think about families and the role of the families. In this course we will examine families as social institutions that vary across time and culture, the ways that families shape and are constrained by structural conditions, and the interactions between the family and other social institutions.
Prereqs: SOC 101
SOC 340 Environmental Sociology and Globalization (3 credits)
This course introduces students to sociological understanding of environment and globalization, demonstrating the importance of connecting questions of environmental concern to global processes. Area emphasis within the study of environmental sociology and globalization will vary depending on instructor.
SOC 341 Science, Technology, and Society (3 credits)
This course situates science and technology in the social context. The course draws from Sociology of Science and Science and Technology Studies to examine the nature of scientific expertise, processes of knowledge creation, interrelationship between science and technology, impacts of science and technology on society, and science policy. Students will develop the ability to ask important questions about how the human world affects science and technology, and how science and technology affects the human world.
SOC 343 Power, Politics, and Society (3 credits)
Examines the relationship between political and social institutions, the distribution of power and authority in society, the origins and expansion of the modern state, social and cultural basis of political behavior, and characteristics of transnational and global governance. Recommended Preparation: SOC 230.
Prereqs: SOC 101 or Instructor Permission
SOC 344 Understanding Communities (3 credits)
Examines the growth of communities, including cities and small towns; community inequalities, politics, and social movements; built environment, ecology, and sustainability of cities and identity; global cities and immigration. Explores what it takes to practice community citizenship development, and how sociologists may enhance and build community in ways that promote fair and just distribution of resources and equitable living conditions. Typically Offered: Fall.
Prereqs: SOC 101 or Instructor Permission.
SOC 345 Extremism and American Society (3 credits)
This course explores sociological perspectives on extremism in American society. We will consider the socio-structural factors that contribute to a rise in extremist activism, that motivate people to join these organizations, and that provide political opportunity for organizational growth. The class will also explore the historical and contemporary circulation of extremist discourse and ideology in more mainstream spaces. Finally, the course will examine the impact these organizations have on broader society: culture, ideology, political discourse, etc. To accomplish this, the course will focus on case studies of past and current reactionary groups, including hate groups (KKK, neo- Nazi), militia and patriot groups (Posse Comitatus), terrorist groups, and other examples of extremism.
Prereqs: SOC 101 or Instructor Permission
SOC 346 Responding to Risk (3 credits)
This course uses risk as a paradigm for a sociological analysis of agency and structure. Students are introduced to various theories and frameworks for modeling risk. The course investigates risk in individual and group behavior, decision making in situations of risk, and risk in the workings of social institutions and social practices, within the areas of crime and deviance, science and technology, health, and the environment.
Prereqs: SOC 101 or Instructor Permission
SOC 350 Food, Culture, and Society (3 credits)
General Education: American Diversity, Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing
Cross-listed with ANTH 350
Examines the structural and cultural implications of eating and producing food in a global world. Utilizing a social scientific framework, it explores the history of particular foods and examines how food systems are racialized, classed and gendered. Primary foci include the social history of food holidays and taboos, the relationships between food and identity, the impact of agricultural production practices on food systems and food security, and forms of resistance to these impacts. Recommended Preparation: a 200-level sociology course. May include field trips. Typically Offered: Spring (Even Years).
Prereqs: SOC 101
SOC 351 Animals in Society (3 credits)
This course examines the relationships between human and more-than-human animal species in society to explore interactions, interdependence, meaning making, and policies over time and place. Typically Offered: Varies.
SOC 372 Love and Liberation (3 credits)
The word “love” is considered important yet stubbornly difficult to experience in contemporary society. But what exactly does love mean? We examine the sociology of love, emotion, and social reproduction to review the various meanings of love that have evolved in different societies over time and across the world. As we investigate the social and global history of love, we will also consider the possibility that love is a radical political and economic principle. In fact, perhaps love has been the fundamental goal that gives life to liberation movements and revolutions. Typically Offered: Spring (Even Years).
SOC 416 Qualitative Social Science Methods (3 credits)
Cross-listed with ANTH 416
Joint-listed with ANTH 516
This course introduces students to social science research methods that collect qualitative data. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis. Additional work required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Varies.
SOC 417 Social Data Analysis (3 credits)
Cross-listed with ANTH 417
Joint-listed with ANTH 517
This course introduces students to social science research methods that collect quantitative data. It will discuss research design and ethics, data collection processes, and data analysis.
SOC 420 Sociology of Law (3 credits)
The course examines law creation and law enforcement in their social, political, and economic context. Discussions include the major theories of the role of law and functioning of the modern state, and through the use of historical and contemporary case studies students will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of these theoretical perspectives.
SOC 423 Economic (In)Justice in the United States (3 credits)
This course investigates how United States’ institutions create and maintain conditions of economic inequality and injustice. Various angles of inquiry include the unequal distribution of wealth amongst different social groups, the rising power of financial institutions, the prevalence of housing insecurity, the causes and consequences of consumer indebtedness and bankruptcy, and unequal community development.
Prereqs: SOC 101 or Instructor Permission
SOC 424 Sociology of Gender (3 credits)
Historical and comparative analysis of the various roles, statuses, and life opportunities of men and women; emphasis on how gender roles develop in society and their effect on social structure, social institutions, and interpersonal interaction.
SOC 427 Racial and Ethnic Relations (3 credits)
Examination of the social construction of racial categories and meanings; theories of race relations; historical and contemporary experiences of racial/ethnic groups in the U. S. ; contemporary issues and debates.
SOC 444 Health, Illness, and Society (3 credits)
Cross-listed with ANTH 444
Joint-listed with ANTH 544
This course examines the various cultural events, biological processes, and socio-structural forces that contribute to health and disease of modern populations. Taking a holistic perspective, the course examines how communicable and genetic pathological conditions originate, how they have been handled throughout history and the lengths to which science, medicine, and other social institutions go to keep us healthy. The course also investigates how we perceive health and explores how various issues, such as genetics, social inequality, culture, and ideology influence how we promote well-being and care for the sick. Additional projects/assignments required for graduate credit. Typically Offered: Spring.
SOC 460 Capstone: Sociology in Action (3 credits)
General Education: Senior Experience
Sociology in Action is designed to provide the resources and guidance necessary for sociology seniors to complete an independent or collaborative research project.
Prereqs: SOC 101 and Senior standing and major in Department of Sociology and Anthropology; or Permission
SOC 462 Senior Practicum (3 credits)
General Education: Senior Experience
This course will involve an applied, on-site experience with an organization or group. The applied experience will be the basis for a thesis that will analyze the applied experience by incorporating theory, methods and knowledge gained from previously-taken sociology classes. In addition, the practicum will include class meetings covering topics related to the applied experience and career paths for majors in Sociology. Typically Offered: Varies.
Prereqs: SOC 101
SOC 465 Environmental Justice (3 credits)
This course surveys the history of environmental justice in the United States and globally, and it explores the different sociological perspectives surrounding environmental justice cases and movements. Courses will slightly differ in emphasis depending on the instructor, allowing opportunities to explore more deeply the social philosophies and policies that inform this course topic. Typically Offered: Spring (Odd Years).
SOC 466 Climate Change and Society (3 credits)
This course introduces students to social, economic, political, and cultural dimensions of climate change. It considers the global nature of climate change, its causes and effects, and key issues related to climate change communication, adaptation, and mitigation. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to identify several key sociological issues related to climate change (e. g. , human impact on climate change, institutional and political responses, public opinions and skepticism, impact on marginalized communities, challenges to communication, role of emotions in climate change, potential avenues for mitigating negative effects).
Prereqs: SOC 101
SOC 498 (s) Internship (1-6 credits, max arranged)
Supervised professional field experience in human service organizations. Graded P/F.
Prereqs: SOC 101, major in Department of Sociology and Anthropology, and Permission
SOC 499 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits, max arranged)
Credit arranged. Intended to accommodate a wide variety of sociological topics.
Prereqs: SOC 101 and Permission
SOC 501 (s) Seminar (1-16 credits, max arranged)
Credit arranged. Subjects normally offered: sociological research, social problems, and social theory.
Prereqs: Permission
SOC 502 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits, max arranged)
Credit arranged. Subjects normally offered: sociological theory, human ecology, and race relations.
Prereqs: Permission
SOC 504 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged
SOC 599 (s) Non-thesis Master's Research (1-16 credits)
Credit arranged