Sociology and Anthropology
Taylor 122
541-552-6321
Sociological and anthropological perspectives uncover assumptions about social and cultural arrangements. Sociology and anthropology offers training in the distinctive concepts and methods specific to these disciplines. Department faculty also collaborate on the exploration of social forces, social organization, and cultural diversity from a holistic point of view.
Anthropology
Anthropology’s diverse subject matter of “human beings in all times and places” reflects the discipline’s interest in human culture dating from the Paleolithic past to contemporary times; from exotic, distant societies to the myriad subcultures of the Western world; from the biological bases of human behavior to our most elaborate cultural creations; and in the interaction of diverse peoples from colonial to modern contexts. Grounded in the practical realities of daily life and direct ethnographic research, anthropological methods are applicable cross-culturally. Perhaps anthropology’s greatest strength, however, is the perspective it promotes: an understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, human universals, and the dynamic potential of human culture.
Undergraduate preparation in cultural anthropology equips students with theories and methods for living and working in all human societies. Being trained in anthropology can make people more effective advocates, mediators, and translators in contexts that involve minority cultures or different cultural philosophies. It provides a basis for careers in human service, education, medicine, development, public administration, and business.
Archaeology examines material remains to understand and explain past and present human behavior. Archaeologists excavate and analyze the tools, textiles, pottery, and other artifacts of prehistoric peoples to reconstruct ancient cultures. They also investigate the cultural interaction between Western and nonwestern societies. A major branch of contemporary archaeology deals with preserving knowledge of our country’s past through cultural resource management and historic preservation.
Coursework and discussions emphasize practical applications in the anthropology program. Students are encouraged to expand on this by seeking internships and practica placements that match their specific interests and fully develop their anthropological skills. The department’s close and supportive relationship with local groups and organizations provides a basis for meaningful student involvement in problem solving. Practical experiences culminate in a senior capstone project designed and carried out under faculty supervision.
Sociology
Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies and examine how people interact within these contexts. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious movements; from the divisions of race, gender, and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from the sociology of work to the sociology of popular culture.
Most people with the terms “sociologist” or “social worker” in their job title have graduate training, but sociology graduates apply the sociological perspective to a wide variety of jobs beyond these traditional categories, including careers in sectors such as business, education, health care, the criminal justice system, social services, and the government. Sociology offers valuable preparation for careers in journalism, law, politics, public relations, or public administration, all of which require investigative skills and the ability to work with diverse groups. For students interested in becoming professors, researchers, or applied sociologists, a BA or BS in sociology is excellent preparation for graduate work in sociology.
Degrees
BA or BS in Anthropology
BA or BS in Sociology
Minors
Anthropology and Sociology
Certificates
Applied Cultural Anthropology
Cultural Resource Management
Becoming an Anthropology Major
Students who want to major in anthropology must apply to the department by submitting a personal statement describing their goals in the major; evidence of a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 in ANTH 211, 213, and 301; and proof of having completed University Seminar or equivalent. Transfer students must provide GPA evidence from their previous institutions. All candidates work with an advisor from the department at the time of application. Admission to the major is selective. The department notifies students of its decision. Certain upper division courses in the field are restricted to majors.
Requirements for the Anthropology Major
- Fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements as stated beginning on page 21.
- A minimum of 52 credits in the major, 44 of which must be upper division.
- Research and Writing requirement: ANTH 301.
- Quantitative Reasoning requirement:
Complete one of the following:
| Contemporary Mathematics (MTH 105) | 4 |
| Elementary Statistics (MTH 243) | 4 |
| Exploratory Data Analysis (EC 232) | 4 |
| Fundamentals of Elementary Math I, II, III (MTH 211, 212, 213) | 12 |
| (The MTH 211, 212, 213 option is appropriate for students intending a career in elementary education.) | |
- A minimum 2.5 GPA in major courses.
Capstone
The anthropology capstone reflects students’ learning in an area of applied anthropology, integrating relevant theory and methodology. Students draw on ethnographic or archaeological expertise acquired through previous practica field experiences and coursework.
Anthropology Core Courses
(52 credits)
- Required Foundation
(12 credits)
| Archaeology and Prehistory (ANTH 211) | 4 |
| Cultural Anthropology: Perspectives on Humanity (ANTH 213) | 4 |
| Practicing Anthropology (ANTH 301) | 4 |
- Areas and Topics
(8 credits)
Two or more courses from:
| American Culture (ANTH 310) | 4 |
| Pacific Cultures (ANTH 317) | 4 |
| Native North America (ANTH 318) | 4 |
| Cultures of the World (ANTH 319) | 4 |
| Topics and Regions in Archaeology (ANTH 320) | 4 |
| Ritual and Religion (ANTH 332) | 4 |
| Anthropological Perspectives on the Native American Frontier (ANTH 334) | 4 |
| Gender Issues (ANTH 340) | 4 |
| Human Evolution (ANTH 350) | 4 |
| Archaeological Field School (ANTH 375) | 4 |
- Application
(4 credits)
One course from:
| Applied Anthropology (ANTH 460) | 4 |
| Cultural Resource Management (ANTH 462) | 4 |
- Methods
(4 credits)
One course from:
| Ethnographic Research Methods (ANTH 360) | 4 |
| Archaeological Research Methods (ANTH 370) | 4 |
- Theory
(8 credits)
| History of Ethnographic Theory (ANTH 410) | 4 |
One course from the following:
| Culture Change (ANTH 450) | 4 |
| Ecology of Small-Scale Societies (ANTH 451) | 4 |
| Anthropological Film (ANTH 455) | 4 |
| Cultural Rights (ANTH 464) | 4 |
- Practicum: Field Study
- Senior Capstone
- Specialized Interests
| Two or more courses in anthropology or a related discipline. Selection must support individual goals and be approved by an advisor. | 8 |
Anthropology Minor
(28 credits)
Students working toward a minor in anthropology are encouraged to register with an advisor through the department office.
| Physical Anthropology and Archaeology (ANTH 211) | 4 |
| Cultural Anthropology (ANTH 213) | 4 |
| Upper division anthropology electives | 20 |
A maximum of 4 practicum credits (ANTH 409) may be counted toward the upper division electives in the minor.
Information on Applied Certificates and Interdisciplinary Studies in Anthropology
Students who wish to work on an applied certificate in anthropology or obtain a baccalaureate degree in interdisciplinary studies with anthropology as the department of emphasis must apply to the department by submitting a personal statement describing their program goals; evidence of a cumulative GPA of 2.7 in ANTH 211, 213, and 301; and proof of having completed University Seminar or equivalent. Transfer students must provide GPA evidence from their previous institutions.
All candidates work with an advisor from the department at the time of application. Admission is selective. The department notifies applicants of its decision. Certain upper division courses in the field are restricted to majors and students in the certificate program or interdisciplinary anthropology degree program. Students pursuing an interdisciplinary degree with an emphasis in anthropology must select from a specified list of courses and obtain advisor permission.
Requirements for the Certificate in Applied Cultural Anthropology
The Applied Cultural Anthropology Certificate program prepares students for careers in fields in which cross-cultural or international perspectives are essential. Emphasis is on examining culturally related problems and policies, preparing research designs, and collecting and analyzing data. To qualify for the certificate, students must also meet the requirements for a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in anthropology) at SOU. Students are required to complete the following courses or their approved transfer equivalents for this certificate.
(36 credits)
- Core Courses (12 credits)
| Practicing Anthropology (ANTH 301) | 4 |
| Ethnographic Research Methods (ANTH 360) | 4 |
| Applied Anthropology (ANTH 460) | 4 |
- Cross-Cultural Perspectives (choose 4 credits from the following list)
| American Culture (ANTH 310) | 4 |
| Pacific Cultures (ANTH 317) | 4 |
| Native North America (ANTH 318) | 4 |
| Cultures of the World (ANTH 319) | 4 |
| Anthropological Perspectives on the Native American Frontier (ANTH 334) | 4 |
| Contemporary Issues in Native North America (SOC 338) | 4 |
- Skills (choose 4 credits from the following list)
| Technical Writing (WR 327) | 4 |
| Grantwriting and Workplace Literacy (WR 329) | 4 |
| Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GEOG 389) | 4 |
| Quantitative Data Analysis (SOC 327) | 4 |
| Design for Multimedia (AM 334) | 4 |
| Web Authoring (AM 337) | 4 |
There may be other appropriate courses that develop skills relevant to a student’s career goals in applied anthropology, and one of these may be substituted with an advisor’s permission.
- Policy-Related Topics (choose 8 credits from the following list)
| Culture Change (ANTH 450) | 4 |
| Anthropological Film (ANTH 455) | 4 |
| Cultural Rights (ANTH 464) | 4 |
| Community Studies (SOC 310) | 4 |
| Schools and Society (SOC 320) | 4 |
| Racial and Ethnic Relations (SOC 337) | 4 |
| Sociology of Globalization (SOC 345) | 4 |
| Organizational Sociology (SOC 444) | 4 |
| Geography of Tourism (GEOG 417) | 4 |
| Land Use Planning (GEOG 439) | 4 |
Additional courses exist, as well, and may be substituted with an advisor’s permission.
- Specialized Focus (8 credits)
| Practicum (ANTH 409) | 4 |
| Capstone (ANTH 414) | 4 |
The content of the required practicum and capstone should be consistent with each student’s focus and professional or career goals.
Requirements for the Certificate in Cultural Resource Management
The Cultural Resource Management Certificate program prepares students for careers in the management and preservation of prehistoric and historic cultural sites located on public and private lands. Emphasis is on methods and the development and implementation of research designs. To qualify for the certificate, students must also meet the requirements of a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in anthropology) at SOU. Students are required to complete the following courses or their approved transfer equivalents for this certificate. Note: Some of the following courses have one or more prerequisites.
(35 credits)
- Core Courses (12 credits)
| Practicing Anthropology (ANTH 301) | 4 |
| Archaeological Research Methods (ANTH 370) | 4 |
| Cultural Resource Management (ANTH 462) | 4 |
- Policy Perspectives (8 credits)
| Cultural Rights (ANTH 464) | 4 |
| Science and Advocacy in Environmental Policy Debates (BI 383) | 4 |
| Conservation of Natural Resources (BI 388) | 4 |
| Land Use Planning (GEOG 439) | 4 |
| Law, Science, and the Environment (PS 340) | 4 |
| Environmental Policy (PS 428) | 4 |
| Environmental Law and Policy (PS 441) | 4 |
| Community Studies (SOC 310) | 4 |
| People and Forests (SOC 350) | 4 |
| Organizational Sociology (SOC 444) | 4 |
- Specialized Skills (3 credits)
| Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GEOG 389) | 4–5 |
| Cartography (GEOG 340) | 5 |
| Principles of Stratigraphy (G 341) | 3 |
| Global Positioning Systems (G 326) | 3 |
| Introduction to Remote Sensing (GEOG 387) | 4 |
- Specialized Focus (12 credits)
| Practicum (ANTH 409) | 4 |
| Capstone (ANTH 414) | 4 |
The remaining 4 credits are to be selected from upper division offerings in sociology and anthropology or other departments in consultation with the student’s advisor. These courses and the content of the required practicum and capstone should be consistent with each student’s focus and professional or career goals.
Becoming a Sociology Major
Students interested in majoring in sociology should first meet with a faculty member to discuss the program and the major requirements. Students who then decide to pursue the major should apply to the department when they have completed approximately 48 credits and most lower division University Studies requirements. Application forms are available from the department faculty, and the completed application materials may be turned in to any faculty member. To be accepted as a major, students must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 in SOC 204 and 205; completed University Seminar (or received credit for equivalent courses from institutions previously attended); and fulfilled their Quantitative Reasoning University Studies requirement by taking MTH 243 or EC 232. Transfer students must provide GPA evidence from their previous institutions. The department notifies students who have succeeded in becoming majors. Some upper division courses in the field are restricted to majors.
Requirements for the Sociology Major
- Fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements as stated beginning on page 21.
- A minimum of 56 credits in sociology; 48 credits must be upper division and 8 credits lower division. Of the 48 upper division credits, 24 must be upper division electives. All credits counted toward the major must be taken for a letter grade, except practicum.
- Research and Writing requirement: SOC 301, 326, and 327.
- Quantitative Reasoning component: MTH 243 or EC 232.
- An average GPA of 2.5 or higher and a minimum grade of C- in all sociology and anthropology courses.
Interdisciplinary Major Emphasizing Sociology
As with the sociology major, students who wish to obtain a baccalaureate degree in interdisciplinary studies with sociology as a major field must apply to the department by submitting a personal statement describing their goals for the major, evidence of a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 in SOC 204 and 205, and proof of having completed University Seminar and MTH 243 or EC 232. Transfer students must provide GPA evidence from their previous institutions. All candidates work with an advisor from the department at the time of application. The department notifies applicants if they qualify as interdisciplinary degree students with a primary field in sociology. Some sociology courses are restricted to majors and interdisciplinary degree candidates with sociology as the primary field.
Capstone
The sociology capstone requires students to bring sociological expertise to bear on selected social issues. This is usually done in a seminar in which students review writing, research, and current controversies in the field and apply their expertise to individual research and analysis of selected issues or social problems.
Sociology Core Courses
(56 credits)
The following eight courses (32 credits) are required of all sociology majors:
| The Sociological Imagination (SOC 204) | 4 |
| Social Problems and Policy (SOC 205) | 4 |
| Sociological Practice (SOC 301) | 4 |
| Introduction to Social Research Methods (SOC 326) | 4 |
| Quantitative Data Analysis (SOC 327) | 4 |
| Classical Sociological Thought (SOC 370) | 4 |
| Society and Identity (SOC 371) | 4 |
| Senior Capstone (SOC 414) | 4 |
All sociology majors must also complete a minimum of 6 upper division elective courses (24 credits), including a minimum of two 400-level courses (8 credits). These 8 credits may not include practicum or other individualized study:
| Poverty, Family, and Policy (SOC 304) | 4 |
| Community Studies (SOC 310) | 4 |
| Sociology of the Family (SOC 312) | 4 |
| Schools and Society (SOC 320) | 4 |
| Global Culture and Media (SOC 333) | 4 |
| Race and Ethnic Relations (SOC 337) | 4 |
| Contemporary Issues in Native North America (SOC 338) | 4 |
| Sociology of Gender Roles (SOC 340) | 4 |
| Sociology of Globalization (SOC 345) | 4 |
| Sociology of Islam (SOC 347) | 4 |
| People and Forests (SOC 350) | 4 |
| Environmental Sociology (SOC 420) | 4 |
| Social Inequality (SOC 434) | 4 |
| Organization Sociology (SOC 444) | 4 |
| Social and Cultural Change (SOC 450) | 4 |
| Deviant Behavior (SOC 454) | 4 |
| Sociology of Religion (SOC 461) | 4 |
| Contemporary Sociological Theory (SOC 472) | 4 |
A maximum of 4 credits of practicum may be counted toward the major. Practicum credits may not be substituted for 400-level electives. Up to 8 credits from related disciplines may be counted toward the major with advisor consent.
Sociology Minor
(24 credits)
Students are required to register with a minor advisor through the department office.
| Sociological Imagination (SOC 204) and Social Problems and Policy (SOC 205) | 8 |
| Upper division electives (not including practicum) | 16 |
At least one 4-credit course must be at the 400-level. Reading, research, independent study, workshops, and seminars may be included, with advisor consent. Note that SOC 370 is a prerequisite for most 400-level courses. Students must have an average GPA of 2.5 or higher and a minimum grade of C- in all courses counted toward the minor.
Anthropology Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower Division Courses
| ANTH 199 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 209 Practicum |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 211 Archaeology and Prehistory: Perspectives on Humanity's Past |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces the archeological perspective, giving a comprehensive treatment of the way the human past is investigated. Topics include archeological theory; methods of analysis; the application of dating techniques; and a survey of the major themes and subject areas of the study of human prehistory, including our Paleolithic path, the adoption of farming, and the emergence of civilization. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| ANTH 213 Cultural Anthropology: Perspectives on Humanity |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces a comparative study of human culture. Covers kinship systems, politics, economics, language, ritual, cultural change, ecological adaptations, and ethnographic methodology. Explores cultural similarities and differences and the linkages among cultural, social, political, and economic institutions. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
Upper Division Courses
| ANTH 301 Practicing Anthropology |
| 4 credits |
| Engages students in building the fundamental skills needed to succeed in anthropology. Writing, critical thinking, oral presentation, and library research prepare students for further upper division work. Illustrates the holistic, four-field approach of anthropology and its relevance to contemporary life. Prerequisites: USEM 103; ANTH 211 or 213. |
| ANTH 310 American Culture |
| 4 credits |
| Provides an overview of U.S. culture and society. Examines a wide range of specific cultural expressions, historical social institutions, and economic influences. Explores aspects of culture, including class, race, ethnicity, gender, immigration, ideology, globalization, and institutional structures as interconnected factors influencing various experiences of “being American.” Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| ANTH 317 Pacific Cultures |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the social and cultural diversity of indigenous Pacific Island societies and the changes that followed contact with the West. Considers settlement prehistory, voyaging, linguistic diversity, contact history, subsistence patterns, globalization, indigenous rights, and other dimensions of local life. May be applied to the Native American studies minor and certificate. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| ANTH 318 Native North America |
| 4 credits |
| Offers a comparative examination of cultures indigenous to North America. Explores the pre-contact economies, social and political organizations, and ceremonial systems of selected groups; the historic period of contact, treaties, and federal legislation and the cultural basis of Indian responses; and present-day issues of concern to Native American peoples in reservation communities and urban settings. May be applied to the Native American studies minor and certificate. Approved for University Studies (Integration). |
| ANTH 319 Cultures of the World |
| 4 credits |
| Provides an overview of culture and society in one specific culture area or region of the world such as Latin America or the Caribbean. Examines a range of cultural expressions, the history of social and political institutions, and economic influences. Explores class, race, ethnicity, gender, immigration, ideology, globalization, and other relevant factors influencing local lifestyles. Latin American Culture topic may be applied to the Latin American studies minor. Indigenous Peoples topic may be applied to the Native American studies minor and certificate. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| ANTH 320 Topics and Regions in Archaeology |
| 2 to 4 credits |
| Introduces the archaeology of the world on a regional or topical basis. Regions studied may include Oregon, the Southwest, Africa, Europe, and South America. Possible topics include historical archaeology, zooarchaeology, and complex societies. Students may accumulate up to 12 credits of ANTH 320 under different topics. Prerequisite: ANTH 211. |
| ANTH 332 Ritual and Religion |
| 4 credits |
| Focuses on ritual, religion, and spirituality as dynamic and universal cultural institutions. Case studies draw from a wide range of indigenous, third-world, and Western societies. Covers such topics as shamanism, witchcraft and sorcery, myth, symbolism, trance, healing, and revitalization movements. Prerequisite: ANTH 213. |
| ANTH 334 Anthropological Perspectives on the Native American Frontier |
| 4 credits |
| Explores, through detailed case studies, the process of colonial and American expansion into and across North America and its impact on Native American culture, health, economy, and politics. Considers the agency by which Native American society survived this maelstrom of change, the strategies pursued by individuals and groups—both Euro-American and Indian—and the policy of the United States government to address the so-called "Indian Problem" through the end of the nineteenth century. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| ANTH 340 Gender Issues |
| 4 credits |
| Uses the concept of gender to explore contemporary status, roles, categories, and ideologies associated with women and men. Extensive case studies provide comparative insights and help students develop their understanding of the complex role gender plays in human society. May be applied to the women’s studies minor. Prerequisite: ANTH 213. |
| ANTH 350 Human Evolution |
| 4 credits |
| Offers a detailed review of human evolution. Topics include primate morphology, behavior, and phylogeny; the emergence of australopithecines and bipedalism; the evolution of the genus Homo; the social behavior and diet of early hominids; the emergence of anatomically modern humans; and the methods of human osteology, hominid fossil identification, hominid skeletal morphology, and taxonomy. Prerequisite: ANTH 211. |
| ANTH 360 Ethnographic Research Methods |
| 4 credits |
| Includes instruction and field experience in qualitative research. Addresses formulating a research proposal, selecting and using suitable methodologies, analyzing and interpreting data, and assessing ethical concerns. Prerequisite: ANTH 213. |
| ANTH 370 Archaeological Research Methods |
| 4 credits |
| Provides instruction and laboratory experience in archaeological research. Topics include the theoretical basis of research design, site surveying and mapping, archaeological geology and stratigraphy, dating, typological and technological analysis of artifacts (e.g., lithics, ceramics, and historical artifacts), and faunal/floral analysis. Prerequisite: ANTH 211. |
| ANTH 375 Archaeological Field School |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces methods for recovering artifacts and other information from sites. Instruction is performed in field conditions at a prehistoric or historic site. Covers research design, excavation, mapping, and recording. Includes a special course fee. May be applied to the Native American studies minor and certificate. Prerequisite: Instructor consent. |
| ANTH 399 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 401 Research |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 403 Thesis |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 405 Reading and Conference |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 407 Seminar |
| Credits to be arranged |
| ANTH 409 Practicum: Field Study |
| Credits to be arranged |
| Applies anthropological concepts and methods. Settings may include schools, museums, medical facilities, government agencies, businesses, subcultural groups, and other social institutions. Encourages a community service or cultural resource management orientation. Prerequisites: Upper division standing and instructor consent. |
| ANTH 410 History of Ethnographic Theory |
| 4 credits |
| Surveys the development of anthropological concepts. Students read extracts from anthropological classics and contemporary theorists to gain an understanding of the history of anthropological thought. Prerequisites: ANTH 213, anthropology major or minor, and senior standing. |
| ANTH 414 Senior Capstone |
| 4 credits |
| Senior seminar for anthropology majors. Provides the basis for a synthesis paper and public presentation through coursework, practicum, experience/research, conceptual and theoretical understandings, and methodological skills. Includes a reflective component linking applied experiences to professional goals. Prerequisite: Completion of major core requirements. |
| ANTH 450 Culture Change |
| 4 credits |
| Examines culture change and stability. Covers such topics as theories of change; innovation, evolution, adaptation, and acculturation; movements and other forms of organized, purposeful change; change agents; and tradition, persistence, and resistance to change. Prerequisite: 4 credits of upper division anthropology. |
| ANTH 451 Ecology of Small-Scale Societies |
| 4 credits |
| Analyzes gathering, hunting, fishing, pastoral, and horticultural societies from an ecological perspective. Illustrates the dynamic interplay between culture, physiology, other organisms, and physical environment. Draws case studies from a range of ethnological, archaeological, and ethnohistoric perspectives. Prerequisite: ANTH 211 or 213. |
| ANTH 455 Anthropological Film |
| 4 credits |
| Explores film as a tool for the investigation of cultures, subcultures, and cultural elements. Takes a critical approach to visual anthropology and examines filmmaking styles, contemporary issues, and ethical concerns. Prerequisites: ANTH 213 plus 4 credits of upper division anthropology. |
| ANTH 460 Applied Anthropology |
| 4 credits |
| Traces the historical development of anthropological practice. Relates contemporary uses of anthropological methods in a variety of institutional and subcultural settings to applied concepts and issues. Examines ethical concerns. Examples may be drawn from public policy, community development, education, health and medicine, business, resource management, and evaluation and assessment. Prerequisite: ANTH 213. |
| ANTH 462 Cultural Resource Management |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the contested values inscribed onto places of historic or cultural significance. Reviews objectives, legislation, and ethics for the management of prehistoric and historic cultural resources. Studies field survey methods for identifying and evaluating archaeological sites. May be applied to the Native American studies minor and certificate. ANTH 211 and 301 recommended. |
| ANTH 464 Cultural Rights |
| 4 credits |
| Explores issues related to the rights of individuals and groups to practice culture and participate in cultural community. Discusses cultural rights as a critical concept in public policy and practice. Examines how groups assert cultural uniqueness, how dominant institutions respond to cultural diversity, and how cultural rights are limited. May be applied to the Native American studies minor and certificate. Prerequisites: ANTH 213 plus 4 credits of upper division anthropology. |
Sociology Courses
See Course Prerequisites PolicyLower Division Courses
| SOC 199 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| SOC 204 The Sociological Imagination |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces fundamental concepts such as interaction, socialization, deviance, inequalities of race, class and gender, and globalization, as well as the theoretical and methodological tools employed in social research. Examines social institutions such as family, economy, religion, education, and politics. Pays particular attention to the interdependence of social forces and individual experience and to the ethical, political, and cross-cultural dimensions of sociological work. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| SOC 205 Social Problems and Policy |
| 4 credits |
| Analyzes contemporary social problems, including social inequality, discrimination, environmental degradation, and the impacts of globalization. Examines how social conditions are labeled "problems," the causes and consequences of those conditions, and how social activists and policymakers respond to social problems. Approved for University Studies (Explorations). |
| SOC 209 Practicum |
| Credits to be arranged |
Upper Division Courses
| SOC 301 Sociological Practice |
| 4 credits |
| Develops the research and writing competencies necessary for success in upper division coursework in sociology and for achieving occupational goals. Fosters an understanding of the stages in the research process, including literature review, research design, data gathering, and analysis. Emphasizes the ability to analyze social conditions from sociological perspectives and to communicate analysis effectively. Should be taken prior to the senior year. Open only to sociology pre-majors, majors, minors, and interdisciplinary majors that include sociology. Prerequisite: SOC 204, 205. |
| SOC 304 Poverty, Family, and Policy |
| 4 credits |
| Examines contemporary poverty in the U.S. and its effects on family life. Focuses on the impact of racial and gender inequalities. Analyzes policy and legal approaches to poverty reduction, welfare reform, and family instability. Students compare successful and failed policies before exploring program development and policy analysis strategies. May be applied to the women’s studies minor. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis/Integration). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| SOC 310 Community Studies |
| 4 credits |
| Includes observation and analysis of American communities and their major social institutions. Explores theoretical conceptualizations of community. Examines cultural, political, and ecological influences in rural and urban regions. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 312 Sociology of the Family |
| 4 credits |
| Emphasizes the changes in structure, function, and character of the family resulting from its relationship to the larger society. Compares the contemporary family to historical and cross-cultural forms. Analyzes family issues, such as changing gender roles, divorce, single parents, domestic violence, and new roles for children and aging relatives. May be applied to the women’s studies minor. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 320 Schools and Society |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the effects of schools and schooling on individuals, the stratification system, and society, and, in turn, social and organizational forces affecting schooling. Involves discussion of alternative educational discourses and practices. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 326 Introduction to Social Research Methods |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces the process of social research, emphasizing measurement, sampling, and causation. Provides hands-on research experience gathering and analyzing data using observational techniques, qualitative interviewing, and structured surveys. Focuses on the political and ethical dimensions of social research. Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division social science University Studies requirements. |
| SOC 327 Quantitative Data Analysis |
| 4 credits |
| Introduces students to univariate, bivariate, and multivariate techniques for analyzing quantitative data using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Provides hands-on experience with General Social Survey data, U.S. Census data, and World Health Organization data, posing precise research questions that can be examined empirically with quantitative data. Prerequisites: MTH 243 or EC 232; completion of lower division social science University Studies requirements. |
| SOC 333 Global Culture and Media |
| 4 credits |
| Explores transnational media and culture with emphasis on audiovisual media, the Internet, and globalization processes. Issues include the rise of consumer society; globalization and the production of popular culture; commodification; and the production and reproduction of identity, stereotypes, and power relations. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis). Prerequisites: SOC 204 and completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| SOC 337 Racial and Ethnic Relations |
| 4 credits |
| Emphasizes the unequal relationship between socially defined majority and minority groups. Examines the similarities and differences between class and ethnic modes of stratification, comparing U.S. ethnic relations with other countries. Covers political and ideological factors associated with attempts to transform traditional ethnic relationships. Explores ethnic identity formation. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 338 Contemporary Issues in Native North America |
| 4 credits |
| Examines national and regional issues of major concern to Native Americans. Focuses on the historical roots of each issue or problem, its present-day impact on individuals and communities, and Native American responses. Topics may include restoration and preservation of community and culture, treaty rights, sovereignty, and self-sufficiency. May be applied to the Native American studies and Latin American studies minors. Prerequisite: ANTH 213 or SOC 204. |
| SOC 340 Sociology of Gender Roles |
| 4 credits |
| Analyzes theory and research on the social production and maintenance of gender. Includes gender role socialization, concepts of femininity and masculinity, and the construction of gender in family, work, popular culture, and other social institutions. Addresses the impact of race and class on experiences of gender. Considers how feminist and men’s movements have influenced changes in gender relations. May be applied to the women’s studies minor. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 345 Sociology of Globalization |
| 4 credits |
| Offers an interdisciplinary analysis of political, economic, and social developments in the third world, with particular emphasis on the environment and women. Includes theories of modernization, dependence, and the postcolonial state as they apply to economic development, poverty, and political mobilization. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 347 Sociology of Islam |
| 4 credits |
| Provides students with an essential background in Islam to better understand the Islamic world. Analyzes Islam both in theory and practice, examining Islam as a way of life and its effect on the political, individual, family, and social domains in various Islamic societies. Explores the cultural and historical context in which Islam emerges as a religion and way of life. Specific topics and issues include tensions between tradition and modernity in the context of human rights and democracy, the role of women, the Salman Rushdie case, and coverage of Islam in Western media. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 350 People and Forests |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the relationship between past and present human societies and forest ecosystems. Explores how local and global political, economic, and cultural factors influence changing forest-use patterns in the Pacific Northwest. Pays particular attention to ways of achieving forest sustainability. Approved for University Studies (Synthesis). Prerequisite: Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements. |
| SOC 370 Classical Sociological Thought |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the inquiries into the nature of social structure made by the founders of sociology in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Focuses on the worldviews and writings of Comte, DuBois, Durkheim, Marx, Simmel, Weber, Wollstonecraft, and others. Emphasizes the application of classical theory to such contemporary social issues as the shift from modernity to postmodernity, globalization, and social inequality. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 371 Society and Identity |
| 4 credits |
| Analyzes the impact of social situations on identity and the social self. Addresses the effects of groups and interpersonal relationships on attitudes, beliefs, and definitions of reality. Explores the development and maintenance of norms, pressures for conformity, and theories of socialization and personality development. Focuses on sociological theories and perspectives, including symbolic interactionism, feminist theory, dramaturgy, phenomenology and ethnomethodology, and social constructionism. Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 399 Special Studies |
| Credits to be arranged |
| SOC 401 Research |
| Credits to be arranged |
| Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 403 Thesis |
| Credits to be arranged |
| SOC 405 Reading and Conference |
| Credits to be arranged |
| Prerequisite: SOC 204. |
| SOC 407 Seminar |
| Credits to be arranged |
| Prerequisites: SOC 204 and 370. |
| SOC 408 Workshop |
| Credits to be arranged |
| SOC 409 Practicum |
| 1 to 6 credits |
| Includes preprofessional work in agencies, with an emphasis on providing human services or applying sociological perspectives in field settings. Up to 4 credits may be applied to the upper division sociology elective for the major. Prerequisites: Upper division standing and instructor’s consent; sociology majors or interdisciplinary majors with sociology as the primary field. |
| SOC 414 Senior Capstone |
| 4 credits |
| Explores aspects of the field in greater depth. Provides an opportunity to review and integrate sociological theory and research. Should be taken in the spring term of the senior year. May not be taken P/NP. Prerequisites: Senior standing, sociology major or interdisciplinary major with sociology as the primary field only, application for graduation, and instructor consent. |
| SOC 420 Environmental Sociology |
| 4 credits |
| Examines the relationship between the human social institutions we create and the biophysical environments in which we live. Topics may include the culture of nature, population and consumption, political economy of environmental problems, social construction of environmental problems, evolution of environmental activism, public attitudes toward the environment, collaborative and community-based resource management, and environmental problem solving. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and one other sociology course or instructor consent. |
| SOC 434 Social Inequality |
| 4 credits |
| Surveys and analyzes stratification theory and research. Focuses on class, gender, and race stratification and the relation of status, power, and social mobility to modern industrial societies. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and 370. |
| SOC 444 Organizational Sociology |
| 4 credits |
| Analyzes theory and research on formal organizations in contemporary societies. Examines sources and forms of power and authority, management ideologies, bureaucratic structures and processes, organizational change, relationships between organizations and other aspects of social structure. Particular attention given to special characteristics of nonprofit organizations and alternatives to bureaucracy. Prerequisite: SOC 204 and 8 credits of upper division sociology. |
| SOC 450 Social and Cultural Change |
| 4 credits |
| Examines issues related to cultural change and social transformations. Discusses the implications of such changes for groups in a society. Covers materials from advanced third-world societies. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and 8 credits of upper division sociology. |
| SOC 454 Sociology of Deviant Behavior |
| 4 credits |
| Examines current conceptions of the causes of deviant behavior. Emphasizes the relationship between social definitions and individual behavior, the deviant career and the labeling process, and conflict and control theory. Analyzes contemporary social policy aimed at limiting and controlling deviance in society. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and 8 credits of upper division sociology. |
| SOC 461 Sociology of Religion |
| 4 credits |
| Examines sociological theory and research on religious belief and behavior. Emphasizes the classical theoretical work of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber. Explores contemporary American religious phenomena, including local church services. Discusses liberal and conservative movements and the relationship of religion to politics, economics, and the family. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and 370. |
| SOC 472 Contemporary Sociological Thought |
| 4 credits |
| Analyzes the ability of various contemporary theoretical perspectives to interpret the changing nature of society. Covers neo-Marxism, postmodernism, feminism, and postcolonialism. Includes such theorists as Foucault, Habermas, Giddens, Bourdieu, and others. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and 370. |