Social Science
SSCI 181 ALCOHOL, DRUGS, AND SOCIETY
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours GER 7
Students examine the various aspects of drug abuse and addiction including theories, models, individual drug classifications, and social consequences. Additional topics include the impact on family systems, overview of treatment approaches, and public policy in the United States.
SSCI 250 Exploring Diversity & Faith
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours
This course provides the opportunity to explore diverse perspectives through the lens of religion and spirituality. Using a sociological theoretical framework to center our exploration, we will consider the ways in which religion shapes social identities, focusing on race and ethnicity, class, gender, and sexuality. We will examine the role that religious beliefs have in shaping relationships with power, privilege, oppression, and opportunity, both nationally and globally. Students will critically examine how faith traditions of both the ancient and modern world shape our shared reality.
SSCI 271 CONTEMPORARY GLOBAL ISSUES
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours GER 6
This course introduces students to global politics and issues through the lens of globalization. In this class, students will learn about how globalization relates to political systems, environmental issues, poverty, migration, human rights, terrorism, conflict, the economy and trade. The focus is on the interrelated nature of politics, society, and economics across the globe and on the shared future we forge.
SSCI 306 Animals, People, and Society
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours
In this course students will critically explore the evolving relationship between humans and other animals. Applying an interdisciplinary framework, we will draw from scientific, philosophical, and cross- cultural approaches to engage topics from the field of Human Animal Studies. Discussion will focus on animal-human borders, animal rights, our relationship with wildlife, the link between animals and human oppression, and modern human-animal collaborations. We will explore the complexity of animal roles in society, and the varied meanings assigned to them, as pets, partners, entertainment, therapeutic and rehabilitative assistants, spiritual symbols, test subjects, and livestock. Students will have the opportunity to engage in discipline-specific research opportunities relating the significance of animals to their field, while also expanding their overall interdisciplinary knowledge.
SSCI 315 DEATH, DYING, AND BEREAVEMENT
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours
This course is designed to present ways in which social science views the human experience of death, dying, and bereavement. Drawing from Sociology and Psychology, this course introduces macro and micro level theories and associated concepts. Micro-level concepts and theories regarding the interaction patterns between dying patients and family, medical staff, and individuals involved are examined. Societal (or macro level) theories of social change, the needs of the dying, ethical considerations, biological, social, and psychological factors in the lengthening of life, and the consequences of death, dying, and bereavement are discussed. Cross-cultural experiences with these phenomena are examined.
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or SOCI 101 and 30 credit hours, or permission of instructor.
SSCI 320 Grant Development Strategies
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours
In this course, students will gain knowledge of the process and procedures for seeking grants. Types of projects that generally are funded and sources utilized to identify prospective funders will be explored. Students will gain an understanding of the essential components of a well written grant including a needs statement, clear goal and objectives related to a project, budget development, and an evaluation tool for measuring outcomes.
Prerequisites: ENGL 101 or permission of instructor.
SSCI 370 RESEARCH METHODS IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES
Fall/Spring, 3 credit hours
In this course students will engage in a comprehensive study of the scientific research methods utilized in the social and health sciences. Students are trained to be critical consumers of published research. Topics covered include the scientific method; critically evaluating research; qualitative and quantitative research analysis; operationalization and measurement, sampling techniques, surveys, field research, secondary data analysis, experimental research, correlation; and data management, analysis, and interpretation.
Prerequisites:
ENGL 101, MATH 141 and PSYC 101 or SOCI 101 or ECON 101 or ECON 103 or permission of instructor
SSCI 401 Diverse Perspectives Capstone
Fall/Spring, 1 credit hour
Understanding diverse perspectives is essential for navigating a globally connected world and multifaceted workforce. To fully engage in diverse social and professional settings, we must apply the knowledge of diversity, equity, and social justice. This course is offered as a mechanism for participants to develop a culminating project to enhance cultural awareness and foster understanding, tolerance, and a sense of community among persons with varied backgrounds. Emphasis is placed on historically marginalized and underserved groups. This course is also required to complete the Diverse Perspectives microcredential.
Prerequisites: Must be a Junior or Senior
SSCI 291-295, 391-395, OR 491-495 SPECIAL TOPICS IN SOCIAL SCIENCE
Fall/Spring, 1 - 4 credit hours
An introductory or more advanced exploration of subjects not covered or only partially covered by other courses in any social science discipline. The course is specified in the semester class schedule. The course will address topics which require a broader scope or an examination in greater depth. Providing a different topic is selected, the student may take this course twice for credit.