Clayton State University Logo
Clayton State University Social Sciences

Course Descriptions for all Social Sciences Courses

Citizenship (CITZ)

CITZ 1001 – Citizenship (1-0-1)

  • Instruction in the essentials of United States and Georgia History and Constitutions. (Satisfies the legislative requirement for the study of United States and Georgia Constitution and history for students in A.S.D.H. and specified A.A.S programs).

Back to Top

Criminal Justice (CRJU)

CRJU 1150 – Introduction to Criminal Justice (3-0-3)

  • An overview of the criminal justice system, its history, philosophical background, constitutional limitations, and the processes for achieving its goals. Also included are the contemporary trends in the system on the local and national levels.

CRJU 3100 – Criminology (3-0-3)

  • A study of the nature and scope of crime and delinquency with an emphasis on criminology theories and research. The course will introduce students to sociological and psychological explanations for criminal behavior and will allow students to use basic research methods to test theories and measure the incidence of crime in the United States and in other countries.
    Prerequisite: CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3200 – Law Enforcement (3-0-3)

  • A study of the philosophy and history of law enforcement at the federal, state, county and city levels. Also included is an introduction to contemporary policy organizations and methods of operation.
    Prerequisite: CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3210 – Criminal Investigations (3-0-3)

  • A study of the organization and functions of investigative agencies and basic considerations in the investigation of crime. Topics covered include: the collection and preservation of physical evidence, elements of legal proof in the submission of evidence, sources of information, interview and interrogation techniques, uses of forensic sciences, and case and trial preparation.
    Prerequisite: CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3220 – Domestic Security (3-0-3)

  • This course addresses issues related to domestic terrorism and violent extremist criminal activity, including detection and investigation, early interdiction and prevention, and readiness.
    Prerequisite: CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3300 – Corrections (3-0-3)

  • A study of the history, structure, and functions of corrections, and the legal and philosophical basis for the punishment of criminal offenders. Study will include the role of corrections as one of the three major components of the criminal justice system.
    Prerequisite: CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3343 – Principles of Public Administration (3-0-3)

  • Examines the methods and procedures of governmental administration and the control of public bureaucracies in democratic societies.
    Prerequisite(s): HIST 2111 or HIST 2112 and POLS 1101.

CRJU 3410 – Criminal Law Procedures (3-0-3)

  • Prerequisite(s): CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3420 – Constitutional Law (3-0-3)

  • A study of the application, interpretation, and enforcement of relevant constitutional law and related Supreme Court decisions to careers in public service.
    Prerequisite(s): CRJU 1150.

CRJU 3510 – Basic Data Recovery & Analysis (3-0-3)

  • This course covers the collection and analysis of evidence from computer hardware. Topics covered in this course include evidence identification and extraction, hardware and software needed to do a seizure, how to recover erased files how to overcome encryption, and technology related legal issues.
    Prerequisite(s): CRJU 1150 and ITFN 1101 and ITFN 1501 and CSCI 1301 or ITFN 1301 or ITFN 1302.

CRJU 3600 – Juvenile Justice (3-0-3)

  • This course provides students with an in-depth view of the juvenile justice system in the United States focusing on crime patterns, police-juvenile relations, juvenile courts, and corrections practices.
    Prerequisite(s): CRJU 1150.

CRJU 4424 – Judicial Process (3-0-3)

  • Judicial process examines courts and judges as agents in the political system; focus is on the judicial decision-making process, with attention to psychological and other variables in that process. Relation to judicial process to legislative administrative and electoral process emphasized.
    Prerequisite(s): HIST 2111 or HIST 2112 and POLS 1101.

CRJU 4426 – Civil Liberties (3-0-3)

  • Civil Liberties is an intensive study of the rights of Americans as guaranteed by the Constitution. The changing character of civil liberties problems in the United States will be stressed with attention given to the legal, historical and political context of the cases studied.
    Prerequisite(s): HIST 2111 or HIST 2112 and POLS 1101.

Back to Top

History (HIST)

HIST 1111 – Survey of pre- Modern World History (3-0-3)

  • A survey of world history from the earliest civilizations to the voyages of discovery of the sixteenth century. Social, religious, and political history will be emphasized. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

HIST 1112 - Survey of Modern World History (3-0-3)

  • A survey of world history from early modern times to the present. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

HIST 2111 – Survey of United States History to 1877 (3-0-3)

  • The history of the U. S. and the lands that would become the U. S. from the colonial period through Reconstruction. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

HIST 2112 - Survey of United States History since Reconstruction (3-0-3)

  • A survey of United States history from the post-Civil War period to the present. The course focuses on the political, social, and cultural development of the modern United States with particular emphasis on the twentieth century. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

HIST 2265 - Minorities in American History (3-0-3)

  • A survey of the history of minorities in America. Attention is given to the concepts of ethnicity, race, culture, and minority status, and emphasis is placed on African Americans as the largest minority in the region. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

HIST 3001 - Historiography and Historical Methods – (3)

  • This course will examine the perspectives of significant historical schools and analyze the contributions made by major historians. Methodological investigation will include the following topics: selection, verification, organization, interpretation, and presentation. Students will be required to complete a research project.
    Prerequisites: HIST 2111 (c ) and HIST 2112 (c ) and HIST 1111 (c ) and HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3010 -- Introduction to Public History (3-0-3)

  • An introduction to the various facets of public history including archives. This course will emphasize the importance of the preservation and use of historical documents, artifacts, and sites. The examination of public history will include reference to organizations, museums, historical sites, advocacy groups, and public policy development. Non history majors including students considering majoring in history are encouraged to take this course.
    Prerequisites: Completion of Area E history courses, i.e. HIST 2111 (c ) or HIST 2112 (c ) and HIST 1111 (c ) or HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3110 - Georgia History and Government (3-1-3)

  • Georgia History and Government provides students with the basic analytical and conceptual skills for studying history and government on the state and local level. The course examines the social, political, and institutional history of Georgia to prepare students to analyze similar developments on the local, regional, and national level. Includes a field-based project incorporated into the course which will be appropriate for both teacher education majors and others. Includes laboratory/ practicum component. Required for all middle level teacher education students with social science majors.
    Prerequisite(s): HIST 2112.

HIST 3120 -- The Establishment of the U. S., 1607 - 1800 (3-0-3)

  • Cultural, social, economic, and political development of Anglo-America through the War for Independence, the formation of state and national constitutions and governments, the Federalist years, and the "Revolution of 1800."
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 (c )

HIST 3125 -- The Age of Jefferson and Jackson (3-0-3)

  • The history of the U.S. from the Early Republic through 1845. Major themes include territorial expansion, the market revolution, the rise of social reform movements, constitutional developments, the first and second party systems, and the growth of sectional tensions.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 (c )

HIST 3130 -- Sectionalism, Civil War, and Reconstruction, 1845-1877 (3-0-3)

  • The origins of the American Civil War, its course, and subsequent efforts at reconciling North and South. Emphasis on the social, economic, and cultural background to the war, its military aspects, its impact on American society, and the struggle over the war’s meaning.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 (c )

HIST 3135 -- U.S. Gilded Age & Progressive Era (3-0-3)

  • This course provides students with a deepened understanding of the emergence of the United States as a modern, industrial nation with an increasingly important role in world affairs. It will explore the political, social, economic, and technological changes associated with this process.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 (c )

HIST 3140 -- Themes of 20th Century United States History (3-0-3)

  • A study of domestic developments in the United States during the 20th Century with emphasis on major cultural, social, economic, and political reform movements.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 3150-- War and Diplomacy 1898 – Present (3-0-3)

  • An historical overview of the programs and policies of U.S. foreign policy from America’s rise to the status of Great Power before World War II to its global pre-eminence thereafter. Topics include colonialism, American involvement in World War I, interwar diplomacy, conflicts leading to World War II and the Cold War, Korea, Vietnam, and Desert Storm.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 3210- The Twentieth Century World (3-0-3)

  • An examination of the political, social, and cultural developments of the twentieth century, with emphasis on the era of the world wars and the Cold War, and the end of colonialism.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3220- Latin American History - (3-0-3)

  • The history of Latin America from before the European arrival, through the era of colonialism and independence, to twentieth century national movements. Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3225- Caribbean History - (3-0-3)

  • Survey of the history of the Caribbean, from pre-Columbian cultures to the present. The course will emphasize slavery and emancipation, the rise of nationalist movements, independence, and the post-colonial states. In addition, this course will link the shared experiences of the Caribbean with the American South. Prerequisites: HIST 1112 or HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 3230- History of Sub Sahara Africa - (3-0-3)

  • The history of Africa south of the Sahara from the first century C.E. to the present, with emphasis on the rise of empires in west and southern Africa, the influence of Islam, the impact of European imperialism, and the independence movements of the twentieth century.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3240- History of the Middle East and North Africa – (3-0-3)

  • The history of the region from the end of the Roman empire to the present, with emphasis on the rise of Islam, the rise and decline of the Islamic empires, the era of European control, and the twentieth century independence movements. Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3250- East Asian History – (3-0-3)

  • This course serves as an introduction to the major political, social, and cultural traditions of East Asia from circa 2000 B.C.E. to the present. It focuses on the creation of the distinct Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultural identities and the emergence of a comprehensive East Asian civilization.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3260- History of India and South Asia – (3-0-3)

  • The history of India and South Asia from the Indus Valley civilization (2000 B.C.E.) through the twentieth century, with special attention given to the dominant role of Indian religion and culture in the development of the region.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3270- History of Russia – (3-0-3)

  • A survey from the mythic founding of Kievan Rus in A.D. 862 to the post-Soviet present. Broad political, social, cultural, and religious topics will be stressed. Detailed themes include the impact of the Mongol invasion, serfdom, the Romanov Dynasty of 1613-1917, the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, the Stalin years, World War II, the Gorbachev era, and the fall of the Soviet Union.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 3330 - Business & Economic History (3-0-3)

  • An examination of the historical development of the American economy with emphasis on business organization, business values, business cycles, and business government relationships.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

HIST 3401 – Introduction to Archival Theory and Practice (3-0-3)

  • This course will introduce the student to the fundamentals of archival work. This will involve such functions as arrangement and description of manuscripts and non-documentary materials, assistance to patrons, creation and updating of finding aids, care and preservation of materials, security, privacy, legal responsibilities, and professional ethics.
    Prerequisite: HIST 3010 (c )

HIST 3410 -- Introduction to Electronic Records (3-0-3)

  • This course will introduce the student to the storage and retrieval of electronic records. This includes records originally in electronic form as well as items (manuscripts, photographs, motion pictures, audio recordings, etc.) originally created on paper or other media and then converted to electronic form (digitalized.) The course will also involve the use of electronic methods that facilitate the use of traditional records (e.g., indices, finding aids, web presentation).
    Prerequisite: HIST 3401 (c )

HIST 3420 --Family History and Genealogical Resources (3-0-3)

  • This course is an introduction to the use of family history to illustrate broader historical currents and a survey of the resources and methods of genealogy. Students will research actual genealogy or family history. Non history majors interested in family history are encouraged to take this course.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 (c ) or HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 3500 - Selected Topics in World History (3-0-3)

  • This course examines selected periods of significant development in world history. While topics may vary from semester to semester, a consistent focus of the course will be the interaction between Western and non-Western cultures and the impact of these interactions on the evolution of the modern world.
    Prerequisites: HIST 1111 and HIST 1112.

HIST 3501 – Selected Topics in U. S. History (3-0-3)

  • This course will present significant topics in U. S. history not covered by other courses in the curriculum. May be repeated for credit when the topic varies.
    Prerequisite: HIST 2111 (c ) or HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 3901 -- Archival Internship I (0-V-3)

  • The student will acquire hands-on experience working with archives in such tasks as record retrieval, patron assistance, preparing finding aids, preserving materials, editing manuscripts, or performing other archival functions. The internship placement and duties must be approved by the history experiential learning coordinator, the Office of Experiential Learning, and the placement site. This course is required for completion of the archival concentration.
    Prerequisite: HIST 3401 (c )

HIST 4001-- African-American History (3-0-3)

  • The African Americans, from their cultural roots in West Africa to the changing economic, political, social status over time to the present. Special emphasis placed on the civil rights movement, Black nationalism, and Black leadership.
    Prerequisites: HIST 2265 (c ) or HIST 2111 (c ) and HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 4002 -- History of the American South (3-0-3)

  • A synthesis of the economic, social, political, and cultural developments that shaped the history of southern states, from the Colonial period to the creation of the modern South.

    • Prerequisites: HIST 2111 (c ) and HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 4003 -- Women’s History (3-0-3)

  • The roles of women in the social, economic, and political development of the United States. Contributions of women and the historical significance of their attitudes in the liberal reform eras in American history.
    Prerequisites: HIST 2111 (c ) and HIST 2112 (c )

HIST 4100- Origins of the Western World – (3-0-3)

  • The history of the Mediterranean world and Western Europe from the beginnings of Greek civilization through the Middle Ages. (800 B.C.E.- 1300 C.E.), with special attention given to the origins of Western political, religious, and economic systems.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1111 (c )

HIST 4120- Renaissance, Reformation, and the Rise of the Western Nation State (3-0-3)

  • The history of Europe from 1300 to the Peace of Westphalia (1648) with special emphasis given to the rise of new philosophies, new political systems, new religions, and the impact of European contact with Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1111 (c )

HIST 4130- The Age of European Expansionism and Industrialization (3-0-3)

  • The history of Europe from the mid-17th century to the beginning of World War I (1914), focusing on the factors that enabled Europe to become the dominant world power of the early 20th century. Special attention will be given to the rise of industrial capitalism, the creation of overseas empires, and the creation of new political systems in the 18th and 19th centuries.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1112 (c )

HIST 4250 - History of World Religions (3-0-3)

  • Investigates the common themes of all religions: the origins, development, and present status of the major world religions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Chinese Confucianism and Taoism, Christianity, and Islam. Provides students with a framework for understanding the various world views to be found in today's increasingly connected world. A field-based research project is required for the course. Option for all middle level teacher education students with a major concentration in social studies.
    Prerequisite: HIST 1111 or SOSC 2501

HIST 4440 -- Historical Exhibitions and Public Programming (3-0-3)

  • A survey of the methods and purposes of interpreting history to the general public through museums, displays, exhibitions, pamphlets, documentaries, web sites, and all methods other than traditional historical publishing mediums (i.e. books and articles). Emphasis will be placed on interpretation of items of material culture.
    Prerequisite: HIST 3010 (c)

HIST 4401 - Readings in Archival Studies (3-0-3)

  • The course will provide students with core knowledge in specialized archival topics through selected readings and research. Students will concentrate in four of the following subject areas: administration, appraisal and acquisition, arrangement and description, electronic records, preservation and conservation, records and information management, reference and access, and the history and nature of the archival profession. Prerequisite: HIST 3401

HIST 4450 -- Introduction to Historic Preservation (3-0-3)

  • An introduction to the purposes and methods of identifying, documenting, interpreting, and preserving historically significant structures, buildings, sites, and objects with emphasis on the United States. The course will include a survey of such historic preservation issues as economic development, tourism, architectural history, historical archeology, and community revitalization. It is recommended, but not required, that students take HIST 3010 prior to HIST 4450. Non history majors interesting in economic and community development, tourism, or other aspects of historic preservation are encouraged to take this course.
    Prerequisites: Completion of Area E history courses, i.e. HIST 2111 (c ) or HIST 2112 (c ) or HIST 2210 (c ) and HIST 1111 (c ) or HIST 1112 (c)

HIST 4850 -- Senior Seminar in History (3-0-3)

  • This course is open only to history majors in their senior year (i.e. 90+ hours in the program). The seminar will emphasize readings and discussion concerning historical topics of broad significance. Students will complete a project requiring historical research, analysis, and interpretation.
    Prerequisites: Senior standing and HIST 3001 (c ) and HIST 3010 (c ) and HIST 3110 (c )

HIST 4900 -- Independent Study in History with Directed Research and Readings. (variable credit)

  • Special study arranged in consultation with a faculty member and approved by the department head. May be repeated for a maximum of six semester hours.
    Prerequisite: Junior standing

HIST 4901 -- History Internship (3-0-3)

  • An approved historical field experience and carried out by the students in an appropriate institution, agency, or business. Requires the approval of the history experiential learning coordinator, the Office of Experiential Learning, and the placement site.
    Prerequisite: HIST 3001 (c ) and HIST 3010 (c ).

HIST 4902 -- Archival Internship II (0-V-3)

  • The student will acquire additional hands-on experience working with archives in such tasks as record retrieval, patron assistance, preparing finding aids, preserving materials, editing manuscripts, or performing other archival functions.  The internship placement and duties must be approved by the history experiential learning coordinator, the Office of Experiential Learning, and the placement site. This course is required for completion of the archival concentration.
    Prerequisites: HIST 3401 (B )

HIST 4903 -- History Practicum (0-V-3)

  • The practicum will constitute an independent (individual or small group) project in historical methodology, research, and analysis. The student will prepare and submit a significant historical paper and/or project. Requires the approval of the history experiential learning coordinator and the department head.
    Prerequisite: HIST 3001 (C ) and HIST 3010 (c )

Back to Top

Human Services (HMSV)

HMSV 3010 – Introduction to Human Services (3-0-3)

  • An analysis of the social needs addressed by human service agencies and an overview of the historical background, development, purposes, career patterns, ethics, and organization of such agencies with emphasis on the not-for-profit sector. It is recommended but not required that SOSC 2501 and PSYC 2103 be taken before HMSV 3010.
    Prerequisite(s): PSYC 1101 or SOCI 1101.

HMSV 3230 - Human Services in Multicultural Context (3-0-3)

  • Exploration of how cultural diversity within the U.S.  and around the world influences the structure and  delivery of human services. Emphasis will be on larger organizations such as CARE, Girl Scouts, World Vision, and Amnesty International.
    Prerequisite: HMSV 3010.

HMSV 3300 - Community-Based Development (3-0-3)

  • Study of factors influencing the socioeconomic and interpersonal health of neighborhoods and larger communities. Using a case studies approach, topics
    include group/organizational initiatives, internal versus external change agents, leadership issues, and advocacy.
    Prerequisite: HMSV 3010.

HMSV 3501 - Organization & Administration of Human Service Agencies (3-0-3)

  • A comprehensive analysis of the role and function of a human service agency management professional. Topics include skills and techniques in the areas of planning, staffing, budgeting, volunteer coordination, risk management, community relations, and advisory or governing board interaction.
    Prerequisite: HMSV 3010.

HMSV 4201 - Non-Profit Promotion and Funding (3-0-3)

  • A survey of techniques and issues in marketing and fund raising. Topics include designing print-based promotional materials, creating organizational websites, sources of philanthropic gifts, motivations, for giving, preparing the case for support, setting targets and establishing fund raising budgets.
    Prerequisite: HMSV 3501.

HMSV 4490 Internship/Practicum in Human Services (0-V-3)

  • A directed and supervised internship or practicum.

HMSV 4500 Senior Seminar and Internship/Practicum in Human Services II (1-V-3)

  • In this capstone experience students will carry out a major project in an internship/practicum setting, prepare a written report on the project illustrating how it reflect the outcomes of the program, and share the results with fellow seminar members.

Back to Top

Political Science (POLS)

POLS 1101 - American Government (3-0-3)

  • An introductory level survey of the American political system in an international context, emphasizing a cross-cultural approach to the study of the structure and processes of policy decision-making. The course incorporates comparison of the American political system and other types of political systems. The course also includes the study of world geography, emphasizing a knowledge of the global configuration of nation-states. On-Line Course

POLS 2101 - Introduction to Political Science (3-0-3)

  • An introduction to concepts and methods appropriate to the understanding and analysis of individual and group political behavior and political systems. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

POLS 2301 - Introduction to Comparative Politics (3-0-3)

  • An introduction to select political systems around the world designed to introduce students to key concepts and methods in the study of comparative politics. The course analyzes major Western and non-Western ideologies and political systems in terms of institutions, operation, and historical and environmental factors. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

POLS 2401 - Introduction to Global Issues (3-0-3)

  • An examination of current global issues. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.]

POLS 3212 - State and Local Government (3-0-3)

  • State & Local Government provides an in depth study of the political process and administrative procedures used in American state and local governments to address social, economic, and political issues. Comparative analysis of relevant actors and strategies across the states is incorporated.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112

POLS 3320 - Public Policy (3-0-3)

  • The analysis of selected public policy issues and the interplay of organizations and politics in the policy-making process.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101

POLS 3323 - Comparative Politics (3-0-3)

  • Comparative Politics is an introduction to the comparative approaches for the study of politics, focusing on patterns of development and change in contemporary political systems.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3343 - Principles of Public Administration (3-0-3)

  • Examines the methods and procedures of governmental administration and the control of public bureaucracies in democratic societies.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3350 - International Relations (3-0-3)

  • Examines the international order, conflict and war, determinants of foreign policy, global actors and the dynamics of political interaction between nation-states.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3360 - The U.S. Congress (3-0-3)

  • Presents an in-depth treatment of the origins, development, operation of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3370 - The U.S. Presidency (3-0-3)

  • Examines the historical development of the presidency, the constitutional powers, the personalities, the roles and the relationship with other governmental entities.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3380 - Interest Groups & Political Parties (3-0-3)

  • Examines the nature, structure, and functions of interest groups and political parties in differing national cultural contexts with particular attention to electoral activity and their role in the policy making process.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3382 - Women & Politics (3-0-3)

  • Examines the social status and political activities of women in America and other societies, exploring the causes, methods, and results of political involvement by women. Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3385 - Campaigns and Elections (3-0-3)

  • Provides an in-depth look at the process of selecting governmental leaders in the United States. Includes a segment on foreign elections.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 3386 - Mass Media & Politics (3-0-3)

  • Examines the role of the mass media in society. Emphasis is placed on the media's role in the social, legal, and political processes in the United States, as well as other democratic and non-democratic countries.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4122 - Political Ideologies (3-0-3)

  • Emphasizes the political development and application of contemporary ideologies such as nationalism, capitalism, socialism, democracy, Marxism, conservatism, liberalism, feminism, communism, fascism, liberation movements, and others.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4412 - Urban Affairs (3-0-3)

  • Focuses on the changing patterns of local and municipal governments and politics, impact of reappointment and other problems generated by an urbanized society.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4421 - American Political Thought, 1620 to Present (3-0-3)

  • Concentrates on the development and explication of American political ideas and eras from the colonial era to the present.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4412 - Urban Affairs (3-0-3)

  • Focuses on the changing patterns of local and municipal governments and politics, impact of reappointment and other problems generated by an urbanized society.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4422 - African American Political Thought (3-0-3)

  • This course examines major African American Political thinkers and activists.  Historical and contemporary thinkers will be included.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4424 - Judicial Process (3-0-3)

  • Examines courts and judges as agents in the political system; focus is on the judicial decision-making process, with attention to psychological and other variables in that process. Relation of judicial process to legislative, administrative, and electoral processes emphasized.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4425 - Constitutional Law (3-0-3)

  • The study of the constitutional divisions of power among the branches of the national government between the national and state governments, and the application and interpretation of constitutional protections by the American courts.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4426 - Civil Liberties (3-0-3)

  • An intensive study of the rights of Americans as guaranteed by the Constitution. The changing character of civil liberties problems in the United States will be stressed with attention given to the legal, historical, and political context of the cases studied.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4427 - Equal Rights in America

  • This course provides an in-depth investigation into the major accomplishments and shortfalls of the Civil Rights Movement from 1954-1968.  It will also cover current equality issues that arose from and after this movement.  These would include:  gender, sexual orientation, immigration and economic inequalities.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4436 - Politics of Developing Areas (3-0-3)

  • Confronts the patterns of development of governmental institutions and use of political processes in meeting the problems of the emerging nations of Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4450 - American Foreign Policy (3-0-3)

  • Explores the conduct, substantive policy issues and problems associated with American foreign policy. The contemporary aspects and problems evolving out of and confronted by America's foreign policy are emphasized.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4451 - Politics of Europe (3-0-3)

  • Designed to acquaint students with political institutions and processed of individual European nations and regional organizations including NATO and the European Union in the post-Soviet era. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysis of the relations of these countries with the United States on selected issues of contemporary relevance. This course examines key countries and studies their political structure in detail.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4452 - Politics of Asia (3-0-3)

  • Examines contemporary sociopolitical and economic characteristics needed to understand the many countries of Asia. In addition, a "country profile" approach will be used. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysis of the relations of these countries with the United States on selected issues of contemporary relevance. This course examines key countries and studies their political structure in detail.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4453 - Politics of Africa (3-0-3)

  • Examines contemporary sociopolitical and economic characteristics needed to understand the many countries of Africa. In addition, a "country profile" approach will also be used. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysis of the relations of these countries with the United States on selected issues of contemporary relevance. This course examines key countries and studies their political structure in detail.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4454 - Politics of the Middle East (3-0-3)

  • Examines contemporary sociopolitical and economic characteristics needed to understand regional culture in the many countries of the Middle East/North Africa. The role of Islam, the Gulf War, the quest for development, the Palestine issue, and democracy versus authoritarianism are themes that will be covered in the course. In addition, a "country profile" approach will also be used. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysis of the relations of these countries with the United States on selected issues of contemporary relevance. This course examines key countries and studies their political structure in detail.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4455 - Politics of Latin America (3-0-3)

  • Designed to acquaint students with political institutions and processes of nations in the region. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysis of the relations of these countries with the United States on selected issues of contemporary relevance. This course examines key countries and studies their political structure in detail.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4453 - Politics of Africa (3-0-3)

  • Examines contemporary sociopolitical and economic characteristics needed to understand the many countries of Africa. In addition, a "country profile" approach will also be used. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysis of the relations of these countries with the United States on selected issues of contemporary relevance. This course examines key countries and studies their political structure in detail.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4480 - Practicum of Political Science (3-0-3)

  • Practicum will constitute an independent (individual or small group) political science project applying social sciences methodology, research, and analysis. The student will prepare and submit a significant political science paper and or project. Requires the approval of the Political Science program coordinator, the Office of Experiential Learning and the department head.

POLS 4490 - Internship--Political Science (3-0-3)

  • Constitutes an independent (individual or small group) political science project applying social sciences methodology, research, and analysis to actual political environments. The student will prepare and submit a significant political science paper and or project. Requires the approval of the Government program coordinator, the Office of Experiential Learning and the department head.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4491 - Internship/Practicum in Political Science (6-0-6)

  • Internship/Practicum will constitute an independent (individual or small group) political science project applying social sciences methodology, research and analysis to actual political environments. The student will prepare and submit a significant political science paper and or project. Requires the approval of the Office of Experiential Learning and the Social Sciences Department Head.

POLS 4500 - Senior Seminar--Political Science (3-0-3)

  • Senior Seminar is only open to Government majors in their senior year (i.e. 90+ hours in the program). The seminar will emphasize readings and discussion concerning historical topics of broad significance. Students will complete a project requiring the application of social sciences research analysis and interpretation.

POLS 4800 - Selected Topics--Political Science (3-0-3)

  • Selected Topics in Political Science course will present significant topics in political science not covered by other courses in the curriculum. May be repeated for credit when the topic varies.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

POLS 4900 - Independent Study--Political Science (3-0-3)

  • Independent Study in Political Science may be arranged in consultation with a faculty member and approved by the department head. May be repeated for a maximum of six semester hours.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 or HIST 2112.

Back to Top

Social Science (SOSC)

SOSC 2501 - Survey of Social Sciences & Contemporary Issues (3-0-3)

  • An interdisciplinary survey of the social sciences with emphasis upon methods of inquiry used to examine America's contemporary social, economic, political and international problems.
    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1101 and HIST 2111 OR HIST 2112 and PSYC 1101 or SOCI 1101.

SOSC 3110 - Themes in World Geography (3-1-3)

  • Provides students with a comprehensive spatial view of the world and with the basic analytical and conceptual skills required to study the diverse regions of the world. The course focuses on the instructional themes of location, place, human/ environment interaction, movement, and regions. It includes knowledge of geography tools, core content, analytical concepts and skills. Includes laboratory/practicum component. Required for all middle level teacher education students with a major or minor concentration in social studies.

SOSC 4501 - Research Methods in the Social Sciences (3-0-3)

  • Provides students with the basic research and analytical skills for the comparative study and evaluation of social issues and human behavior. An option for all middle level teacher education students with a major or minor concentration in social studies. An elective option for all students in baccalaureate programs.

SOSC 4800 - Selected Topics in Social Sciences (3-0-3)

  • Seminar in contemporary social issues. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

SOSC 4900 - Independent Study (3-0-3)

  • Independent study in social sciences (credit varies).
    Prerequisite(s): Permission of Social Sciences Department Head.

Back to Top

Sociology (SOCI)

SOCI 1101 - Introduction to Sociology (3-0-3)

  • A survey of the discipline of sociology. Topics will include sociological theory, methods, and selected substantive areas. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.] Online Course

SOCI 2293 - Introduction to Marriage & the Family (3-0-3)

  • An introduction to the structure, processes, problems, and adjustments of contemporary marriage and family life. The course includes historical development, cross-cultural variations, and analysis of forces of change. It is recommended but not required that SOCI 1101 be taken prior to SOCI 2293. [Note: Learning Support students who are required to take ENGL 0099 and/or READ 0099 must exit the requirement(s) before they can enroll in this course.] (Note: SOCI 1101 is recommended prior to taking this course.)


SOCI 3010 - Sociological Theory (3-0-3)

  • A comparative study and critique of social thought and sociological theories. Special study is made of major sociological theories of the 19th and 20th centuries and the role of theory in empirical social science. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 3030 - Social Psychology (cross-listed as PSYC 3130) (3-0-3)

  • A survey of major theories and research findings regarding social influences on human behavior. Area explored will include attitudes, prejudice, gender roles, altruism, conformity, obedience, attraction and aggression. Prerequisite: PSYC 1101
     

SOCI 3100 - Criminology (cross-listed as CRJU 3100) (3-0-3)

  • A study of the nature and scope of crime and delinquency with an emphasis on criminology theories and research. The course will introduce students to sociological and psychological explanations for criminal behavior and will allow students to use basic research methods to test theories and measure the incidence of crime in the United States and in other countries. Prerequisite: CRJU 1150
     

SOCI 3130 - Drugs and Society (cross-listed as CRJU 3130) (3-0-3)

  • This comprehensive course explores alcohol and illegal drug use and abuse in society. The primary goal of the course is to engage students in a process of critical thinking about the topic of drugs in American society. Included will be a historic overview, the role of culture in the use of drugs, legal and social implications of illegal drug use. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 3210 - Family Formation and Development (3-0-3)

  • This course examines theories of how family systems are formed, developed, and change throughout the life span of individuals and the life cycles of families. Prerequisite(s): SOCI 1101. SOCI 2293

SOCI 3310 - Race and Ethnicity (3-0-3)

  • Provides students with the basic conceptual and analytical skills for studying the nature and implications of racial and cultural diversity. Racial/ethnic groups selected from around the globe are examined in terms of their histories and cultures. The complexity of functioning in the multicultural society of the contemporary United States is explored, and cultural concepts are applied to key social issues associated with diversity. Prerequisite(s): SOSC 2501
     

SOCI 3320 - Social Inequality and Stratification (3-0-3)

  • This course investigates the nature of inequality and stratification, including its forms, causes, and consequences. Literature will be examined from a number of perspectives, including economic inequality, racial inequality, sex and gender inequality, status inequality, and the inequality connected with social movements. A number of field research components are included to aid in the study of structural inequality from an experiential basis. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 3410 - Sociology of Religion (3-0-3)

  • A study of the nature of religion, including the individual, societal and cultural dimensions of religion, the role of  religion in social change, the status of religion in contemporary society. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 3610 - Juvenile Delinquency (3-0-3)

  • This course will examine the most current theories on the causes and correlates of  juvenile delinquency. The course will examine important individual, sociological, and developmental views of delinquency.
    Emphasis will be placed on the current research studies and policy issues concerning the field of juvenile delinquency. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 4210 - Family Life Education (3-0-3)

  • This course presents an understanding of the general philosophy and broad principles of family life education, in conjunction with the ability to plan, implement, and evaluate such educational programs. Prerequisite(s): SOCI 1101, SOCI 2293
     

SOCI 4320 - Diversity in the Workplace (3-0-3)

  • This course will seek to define diversity and discuss key factors for managing cultural diversity in the workplace. Special emphasis will be on examining various cultural differences and the problems they can create, exploring effective strategies for intervention through communication and feedback between different cultures, and the benefits of multiculturalism in the workplace environment. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 4502 - Qualitative Research Methods (3-0-3)

  • This course is designed to introduce the assumptions, theories, and practices of qualitative research methods. The course places emphasis on developing specific qualitative research skills, including the application of theories, issues and problems encountered in doing qualitative research.  Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 4800 - Special Topics in Sociology (3-0-3)

  • An exploration of contemporary topics and issues in the field of sociology. This course may be repeated for credit when the topic varies. Prerequisite: SOCI 1101
     

SOCI 4901 - Sociology Practicum (3-0-3)

  • The practicum will constitute an independent (individual or small group) sociological research project. The student will prepare and submit a significant sociological paper and/or project. Requires the approval of the sociology experiential learning coordinator and the department head. Prerequisite(s): Completion of the Upper-Division Sociology Core
     

Back to Top