Please see the section on Course Description Symbols and Terms in the University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.

Sociology Course Offerings

SUBJ NUM	Title	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
SOCI 100	Introduction to Sociology	3.0	FS	GE
This course helps organize thinking about societies in general, the society we inhabit, and our place within it. Underlying questions are: Why do people have different values? Why do people act differently? Why is there inequality? And why and how does society; its values and norms, institutions, and groups influence our behavior. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008933)
SOCI 133	Sociology of Sexuality	3.0	FS	GE
This course uncovers the complexity and impact of sexuality on our experiences and on broader social life. Addressing biological, psychological, and cultural aspects, this course examines how society influences cultural and individual sexual meanings, identities, expressions, and controversies. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008937)
SOCI 152	Introduction to the Asian American Experience	3.0	SP	GE USD
This course is also offered as AAST 152. This course examines the Asian experience in the U.S. over the last 150 year by focusing on the experiences of different Asian ethnic groups. The focus is on early arrival and settlement, and contemporary issues in Asian American communities, including immigration, racism, and Asian American identity. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (000003)
SOCI 157	Introduction to Chicano Studies	3.0	FA	GE USD
This course is also offered as CHST 157. This course explores contemporary issues affecting Chicanos in the United States, including cultural values, social organization, urbanization, gender, and socio-economics. Attention is given to how family, religion, and immigration experiences play upon the lifestyles and values held by Chicanas and Chicanos. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (001973)
SOCI 189A	CAVE Alternative Spring Break	1.0	SP
Obtain hands-on experience in a variety of social issues, such as disaster recovery, hunger and homelessness, prejudice, and literacy. Students research issues prior to the trip and work closely with an on-site liaison. 2 hours activity. Credit/no credit grading. (020380)
SOCI 189B	Field Observation and Experiential Learning: Napa State Hospital	1.0	FS
See description below. 3 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (015963)
SOCI 189C	Field Observation and Experiential Learning: Yountville Veterans' Home	1.0	FS
See description below. 3 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (015964)
SOCI 189D	Field Observation and Experiential Learning: Sonoma Developmental Center	1.0	FS
SOCI 189B - SOCI 189D: A day visit to California Youth Authority or a weekend trip to Napa State Hospital, Yountville Veterans' Home, or Sonoma Developmental Center. Full exposure to institutional life. Exposure to a variety of behaviors within the institution. Interaction with residents and staff members, thus giving the student a full scope of the lifestyle within a total institution. Each learning experience may be taken once, for a total of 4 units of credit. Sign up for these courses at CAVE, located in the Bell Memorial Union. These courses may not be used to meet major/minor requirements. 3 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (015965)
SOCI 198	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	INQ
Prerequisites: Department permission. This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours lecture. (020507)
SOCI 199	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	INQ
This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. This course is designed to allow the student to pursue independent study with departmental permission. A maximum of 6 units may be applied toward the BA degree. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020836)
SOCI 200	Social Problems	3.0	FS	GE
Adopting a sociological lens, this course studies the overarching causes of social problems, as well as their effects on our experiences, communities, institutions, and society. Students explore which groups hold the power to define social problems and propose solutions. Areas covered may include the family, education, the environment, sex, gender, race, poverty, and crime and violence. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008934)
SOCI 227	Sociology of Popular Culture	3.0	FS	GE
The production and consumption of popular culture - one of the most dynamic and rapidly changing aspects of American culture - influence virtually every aspect of social life. This course critically examines trends in mass media and culture and their influence on the attitudes and behaviors of various social groups. Special attention is given to focusing our sociological lens and to uncovering connections between popular culture and gender, sexuality, race, and class. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008938)
SOCI 230	Women in Contemporary Societies	3.0	FA	GE
This course is also offered as WMST 230. Taking an in-depth look, this course explores women's lives in today's world across categories of class, race, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, and age. Students also discuss such topics as gender, body politics, violence against women, poverty, religion, and power as they relate to women. Special attention is given to social activism and emerging policies here in the U.S. and elsewhere. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008968)
SOCI 235	Contemporary Families	3.0	FA
This course examines the family as an institution and as a personal and intimate arena of meaning and interaction. With an emphasis on the U.S. and their own experiences, students examine issues of race/ethnicity, sex/gender, and social class; historical changes in family structure and function; and power relations within the family and society at large. 3 hours lecture. (008961)
SOCI 253	The Holocaust: Background, Tragedy, and Aftermath	3.0	INQ
A sociological perspective is used to understand the Holocaust, examining the Nazi rise to power, and the changes in German society that led to persecution of Jews and many other groups. Students explore the role of perpetrators, victims, and bystanders. Other areas of interest include resistance and rescue, Jewish cultural responses to the genocide, and the aftermath of war 3 hours lecture. Formerly MJIS 253. (005862)
SOCI 298	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	INQ
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 9 hours supervision. (021017)
SOCI 300	Classical Social Theory	3.0	FS
This course examines the emergence of classical sociological theory in its socio-historical context, with emphasis on the foundational ideas of Marx. Weber, and Durkheim that continue to influence sociological theorizing today. 3 hours lecture. (008955)
SOCI 301	Contemporary Social Theory	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: SOCI 300. This course critically examines the theoretical works of major contemporary sociologists, and studies how social thought is relevant to understanding modern life by applying theories to current social issues and our everyday lives. 3 hours seminar. (008989)
SOCI 305	Maneuvering the Job Market with a Sociology Degree	1.0	FA
You will learn the tools and skills necessary to move successfully through the Sociology Curriculum at CSU, Chico. Class sessions highlight how these tools and skills connect to a variety of jobs and career paths. 1 hour lecture. Credit/no credit grading. (020997)
SOCI 310	Social Research Methods	3.0	FS
This course explores the logic and styles of sociological research, focusing on the methods of formulating research problems, the design of social research, and techniques for ensuring the quality and validity of data and conclusions. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches to research are examined. 3 hours seminar. (008969)
SOCI 315	Statistical Analysis for the Social Sciences	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: SOCI 310. This course studies descriptive and inferential statistics used for the social sciences. Emphasis is on the integration of statistical research designs and data, appropriate statistical analysis, interpretation of relevant findings, and visual presentation. 3 hours seminar. (008971)
SOCI 327	Sociology of Religion	3.0	INQ
This course is also offered as RELS 381. This course explores the impact of religion on the individual and society, and surveys the major developments in the field. This includes interactive relationships between religion and other social institutions, and debates on controversial issues. 3 hours lecture. (008184)
SOCI 330	Sociology of Gender	3.0	INQ
This course is also offered as MCGS 330. This course examines gender as a social construct and its influences on men and women in families, school, work, politics, and culture. The focus is on how gender varies in relation to ethnicity, race, sexuality, and social class. 3 hours lecture. (005639)
SOCI 335	Women, Work, and Family	3.0	SP	GE
This course explores the history and experiences of women in the workplace and how family roles intersect with both paid and unpaid work, in and out of the home in the United States. Considered are the impacts of race, class, gender, and globalization on poverty, child and elder care, and workplace equity. International comparisons are drawn. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008960)
SOCI 340	Sociology of Wealth and Inequality	3.0	INQ
This course considers the unequal distribution of wealth, prestige, knowledge, and power in the U.S., and makes comparisons to other societies. How does inequality get reproduced from one generation to the next? How does inequality affect students today? This course examines the role of social networks, as well as the interconnections between class, race/ethnicity, and gender. 3 hours lecture. (008977)
SOCI 346	Sport and Society	3.0	INQ
This course is also offered as KINE 346. This course examines the connections between sport and society, including socialization, values, education, deviance, the economy, and the media. Attention is given to the ways that gender, race, social class, sexuality, and the body influence sports, as well as recent controversial issues such as player and fan violence, and drug abuse among athletes. 3 hours lecture. (006942)
SOCI 350	Ethnic and Race Relations	3.0	FS	GE USD
This course is also offered as MCGS 350. This course examines the social construction of race, and studies ethnic and racial relations in the United States, looking at variations by class, gender, and immigration experiences. Students analyze interpersonal relationships between racial and ethnic groups, discrimination, resistance, social movements, and governmental policies 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (005640)
SOCI 354	Global Perspectives on Ethnicity and Nationalism	3.0	SP	GE GC
This course studies relationships between ethnic groups outside of the U.S. Consideration is given to ethnic identities, interactions, competition, conflict over resources, cultural preservation, the development of nationalism, and state policies. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (005641)
SOCI 355	The Sociology of African Americans	3.0	INQ
Prerequisites: AFAM 170 or SOCI 100. This course is also offered as AFAM 355. This course examines the historical and social experiences that have shaped contemporary African American life, such as slavery, exploitation, oppression, and resistance (for example, the Civil Rights movement, the Black Power movement, and Hip Hop). Strategies for researching African American experiences are learned through analysis of Black popular culture, male/female relationships, urbanization, religion, and institutional racism. 3 hours lecture. (000140)
SOCI 356	Genocide	3.0	FA	GC
The social impact of acts of genocide around the globe is explored, from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. This course examines the issues of ethnic and national identity, ethnocentrism, the role of technology, and issues of power. Also considered are the moral implications of genocide, as well as individual, social, and corporate responsibility. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (002230)
SOCI 356H	Genocide - Honors	3.0	FA	GC
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the Honors Program. This course is also offered as MJIS 356H. The social impact of acts of genocide around the globe is explored, from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. This class examines issues of ethnic and national identity, ethnocentrism, the role of technology, and issues of power. Also considered are the moral implications of genocide, as well as individual, social, and corporate responsibility. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (002231)
SOCI 358	Chicanos in Contemporary Society	3.0	FA	USD
This course is also offered as CHST 358. This course examines the economic, social, and political status of Chicanos and Chicana in the United States since the 1960's Chicano Movement. Students also consider issues such as immigration, stratification, educational attainment, labor market inequality, and resistance movements. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved US Diversity course. (001980)
SOCI 360	Self and Society	3.0	INQ
This course explores the relationship between the individual and society by focusing on how people create and sustain their daily lives. The emphasis is on interactions with others, and the effect of individual behavior upon group dynamics. Socialization, identities and the self, emotions, conformity, and communication are explored. 3 hours lecture. (008994)
SOCI 363	Sociology of Human Stress	3.0	FS	GE
This course examines the ways that social life contributes to human stress, and how stress impacts health and well-being. Students explore the ways that families, relationships, school, jobs, and social inequalities influence the effects of stress on our lives. Various coping and adaptation strategies are discussed. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008973)
SOCI 370	Population and Migration	3.0	FA	GE GC
A study of the demographic patterns of mortality, fertility, migration, and refugees. Considered are influences such as inequality, economic development, environmental changes, and war on global populations. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (008957)
SOCI 380	Sociology of Deviant Behavior	3.0	FA
This course takes an in-depth look at how deviance is constructed in our society. This includes deviant identities, deviant subcultures, and the stigmatization of individuals and groups engage in non-normative behavior. Students examine the main theories of deviance, and consider ethical and political issues when researching deviance. 3 hours lecture. (008974)
SOCI 384	Criminology	3.0	FS
The study of crime and criminal behavior as a social phenomenon. Adopting a sociological perspective, this course examines crime trends, types of crime, and social and personal factors related to criminal behavior. Special attention is paid to inequality in the criminal justice system, street and white-collar crimes, victimization and other social costs of crime and punishment. 3 hours lecture. (009017)
SOCI 398	Special Topics in Sociology	1.0 -3.0	INQ
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 2 hours lecture. (008986)
SOCI 399	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	INQ
This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. This course is designed to allow the student to pursue independent study with departmental permission. A maximum of 6 units may be applied toward the BA degree. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (008987)
SOCI 411	Social Research Practicum	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: SOCI 310 and SOCI 315 or faculty permission. This is a hands-on research course where students design and conduct research projects. Every stage of research, from project conceptualization through data collection and analysis, is undertaken. This course provides practical experience in research methods for use in future employment or graduate studies. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (015570)
SOCI 420	Environmental Sociology	3.0	FS	GE
This course views the environment as shaped by human societies, where competing values and interests play out. Controversial issues such as population growth, pollution, rapid climate change, water and land use, and noxious facility siting in minority, working class, and poor communities are examined. Attention is directed to public policies, corporate practices, and social movements and individual habits that promote solutions. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008963)
SOCI 433	Constructing Sexualities	3.0	INQ
How do societies and individuals shape sexuality? This course investigates the relationship between sexual behavior and identities, and looks at the ways that sexuality is affected by science, politics, race, and social movements. Historical, subcultural, and cross-cultural examples are used to understand how these dynamics play out in our lives. 3 hours lecture. (009000)
SOCI 440	Political Sociology	3.0	INQ
This course focuses on the relationship between the state and society, and discuss concepts such as social divisions, legitimacy, and the state. Students examine contemporary political systems and processes of political change. Special attention is given to the role of political power on national, regional, and local issues. 3 hours lecture. (008962)
SOCI 441	Sociology of World Affairs	3.0	FS	GW
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher, SOCI 300, SOCI 310, senior standing. This is the capstone course for Sociology majors. This course applies sociological concepts and theories to local, national, and international events and trends. Students concentrate on a variety of news sources and sociological works, to interpret and understand the news and global developments. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (009001)
SOCI 441H	Sociology of World Affairs -- Honors	3.0	FS	GW
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher, SOCI 300, SOCI 310, senior standing. Open to sociology majors who have a 3.5 GPA, faculty permission. This is the capstone course for Sociology majors. This course applies sociological concepts and theories to local, national, and international events and trends. Students concentrate on a variety of news sources and sociological works, to interpret and understand the news and global developments. Honors students work on their Honors in the Major project. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (009002)
SOCI 447	Social Movements	3.0	INQ
This course examines the nature of protests and collective behavior, exploring the emergence, development, and decline of social movements. Students discuss the role of propaganda, public opinion, and social activism. 3 hours lecture. (008972)
SOCI 461	Sociology of the Life Course	3.0	INQ
How is the human life course, shaped by society and historical time periods? This course examines the dynamic nature between individual lives, social generations, and social change. Cultural and structural influences on personal identities are considered, as well as life transitions and aging. 3 hours lecture. (008992)
SOCI 465	Sociology of Work and Occupations	3.0	INQ
Many people spend the majority of their waking hours occupied with work. This course examines the structure and organization of work and its influence on many aspects of our lives, with some attention to personal career interests. Topics include the social history of work, the meaning of work, labor struggles, relations within the workplace, socialization into occupations, and global changes in work. 3 hours lecture. (009003)
SOCI 480	Cults, Charisma, and Extremist Ideologies	3.0	INQ
This course uses case studies to examine cults and extremist movements, exploring a variety of groups with different belief systems and goals. Students learn why such groups emerge and evolve, how charismatic leaders influence and control their followers, the processes of recruitment and conversion, and the impact these groups have on their members and the larger society. 3 hours lecture. (020225)
SOCI 484	Youth, Crime, and Delinquency	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: SOCI 384 recommended. This course examines marginalized, deviant, and criminally active youth. Students consider how teen experiences and behaviors are labeled and treated differently throughout society. Social, historical, and legal perspectives are used to understand the impact of the juvenile justice system, policies, and trends on the lives of American youth. 3 hours lecture. (009018)
SOCI 486	Sociology of Law	3.0	INQ
This course explores the social context of law, legality, and society, concentrating on the numerous ways that law permeates all forms of social behavior. The focus is on the relationships between law, social institutions and social change, and how they interact with issues of race, class, gender, sexuality, and social justice. 3 hours lecture. (009016)
SOCI 487	Sociology of Gangs	3.0	INQ
This course explores gang activity in the United States, focusing primarily on contemporary street gangs. The social conditions that lead to their emergence are considered, as well as perceptions of the gang problem. Also considered are racial and ethnic differences between gangs and potential solutions to the challenges that gang present. 3 hours lecture. (008976)
SOCI 489	Applied Sociology Internship	1.0 -15.0	FS
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-15.0 units. Students must register directly with a supervising faculty member. This course applies the knowledge gained in the sociology major or minor to an actual work setting. Students should talk to a faculty advisor about what kind of internship setting would be good for their career goals and interests. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (009020)
SOCI 489A	Applied Sociology Internship	3.0	FS
This course is an internship offered for 3.0 units. Students must register directly with a supervising faculty member. This course applies the knowledge gained in the sociology major or minor to an actual work setting. Students should talk to a faculty advisor about what kind of internship setting would be good for their career goals and interests. 9 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (021449)
SOCI 490	Grantwriting for Sociology	3.0	INQ
Prerequisite: SOCI 300, SOCI 310. All not for profit and many other organizations are funded at least in part by grants. In this course, students learn and practice finding a range of private and governmental funding sources, developing quality grant applications, and managing grant projects. This is a hands on course where students gain practical skills for managing grant funded organizations. 3 hours seminar. (021405)
SOCI 498	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	INQ
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 1 hour seminar. (009023)
SOCI 499	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (009024)
SOCI 499H	Honors in Sociology	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: SOCI 441H, faculty permission. This is an independent study course in which Honors-in-the-major students work closely under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Honors students define an original research problem, complete a literature review, conduct research, and write an analytical research paper. Honors students refine their papers and make public presentations. 9 hours supervision. (009028)
SOCI 589T	Apprenticeship in Teaching Sociology	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. Apprentices learn about teaching sociology through assisting an instructor with a specific course. Apprentices get individualized instruction from faculty and then apply what they have learned to the college classroom environment, where they have an active role in assisting with student learning. 9 hours supervision. (015872)