Course Descriptions


Sociology (SOC) Courses

SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology (3-0) 3 credits

An introduction to the study of human social relationships and institutions. Sociology’s subject matter is diverse, ranging from crime to education, from religion to the state, from the divisions of race, gender, and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture and its concomitant subcultures, and from social stability to radical upheavals in societies. The diverse subject matter located within this course, is situated contextually within a social justice framework that is meant to unify the study of these diverse subjects of study which is sociology’s purpose particularly toward understanding how human action and consciousness both shape and are shaped by surrounding cultural and social structures. This examination which includes studying aspects of marginalization, exploitation, oppression, disenfranchisement, and disempowerment within and between social groups centers this course as one that distinctly combines sociological inquiry with an investigation of topics that are important to understanding diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. This course carries SUNY General Education Social Sciences and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice credit.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SOC 115 Crisis Intervention and Prevention (3-0) 3 credits

This course provides theoretical and applied instruction in crisis intervention skills for those working with youth and adults involved in patterns of self-defeating behavior. Students will demonstrate skill in 19 specific competencies for using crisis as a teaching and therapeutic opportunity with others showing six specific patterns of self-defeating behavior.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SOC 200 Social Problems (3-0) 3 credits

A sociological examination of the causes, consequences and extent of persisting social problems. Special attention will be given to an examination of our economic and political structure along with an examination of various forms of social inequality. Social and political policy considerations will also be studied as they bear upon possible solutions to social problems under study. Prerequisite: SOC 100  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SOC 209 Our Cultural Approach to Death (3-0) 3 credits

An interdisciplinary examination of our culture’s attitudes, beliefs and rituals as they relate to death and dying. Coping techniques, the process of bereavement for individuals and communities, ethical, spiritual and moral issues related to death will be examined. Cross cultural variation will also be considered.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SOC 210 Race and Ethnicity (3-0) 3 credits

SOC 210 is a general introduction to the sociology of race and ethnicity. The course explores how race and ethnicity are socially constructed, historically and in the contemporary U.S. Particular emphasis is placed on inequality in major social institutions, including education, the economy and the criminal justice system. Contemporary issues and policies considered include immigration, social movements, and media representations. Prerequisite: ENG 101.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SOC 220 Sociology of Marriage and the Family (3-0) 3 credits

A sociological examination of marriage and the family as a social institution, considering its structure and social functions. Emphasis will be placed on the impact of social class and gender on family life. Cross cultural variation, social policy issues and theory and research will also be examined. Prerequisite: SOC 100.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SOC 230 Sex and Gender (3-0) 3 credits

SOC 230 examines the social forces that shape our lives by gender, beginning by distinguishing between the concepts of gender and sex. The course emphasizes awareness of the many forms of gender diversity, and explores the intersections of gender with race, class, and sexuality. The course will cover areas such as "gender and the body" (including beauty, sexuality, and interpersonal violence),"gender and social institutions" (including family, economy, politics, education, and religion), and "gender and social change" (including feminist, anti-feminist, LGBTQ, and other gender-related movements). Prerequisite: ENG 101.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF