Sociology: Introduction to Sociology

Fundamental principles and problems in the sociological analysis of the structure and dynamics of modern society.

PRNU majors only the week of registration; Open to Degree and PACE students

(PLEASE NOTE: Only Nursing students can enroll in this course during the first week of registration BUT then it opens to all other students on the afternoon of November 15. So, please wait and there will be spots available then.) This course is designed to provide the student with an introduction to the academic discipline of sociology. We will examine the major subfields of sociology, such as inequality, social movements, race and ethnicity, gender, family, crime, health, and environmental sociology. We will cover the principal methods of data gathering and analysis used in sociological research, and some of the most important contributions made by sociologists to social theory.

This course has two classes each week. This is a large lecture course and will have several teaching assistants. Students are expected to attend all classes and to be engaged in class activities. Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, guest lectures, interactive activities, and films. The class will have three exams. The classroom is screen-free (no phones, no laptops, no devices). Students will take weekly online quizzes on the readings.

The grades in this course will be based on the three in-class exams and online reading quizzes. The exams will cover material from lectures, readings, discussions, films, and guest speakers. There will be opportunities for extra credit during the semester.