SS 231. American National Government (3)
A study of the origin, the structure, the power, and the
functions of the United States federal system of government.
Class also focuses on the relations of the citizens to the
government and the rights, duties and obligations of United
States citizens.
SS 331 Social Statistics (3)
An introduction to the basic methods and applications of
quantitative research methods in the social sciences.
Students are expected to become familiar with the common
procedures of statistical analysis. Prerequisite: SOC 230.
SS 332.Research Methods (3)
Introduction to the logic and the methods of sociological
research. Topics include the connections between theory and
research, problem formulation and research design,
conceptualization and measurement, sampling modes of
observation and analysis, ethical issues and the political
context of research. Prerequisite: SOC 230.
SS 431. Social Science Internship (3)
Allows students to undertake an in-depth exploration of
procedures and administrative techniques of public and
private employers.
SS 433. Ethnics in Social Science (3)
This course will explore a variety of ethical and social
issues in science and technology. Students will critically
evaluate the role of the scientist in society and to become
aware of the complex ethical issues facing scientists in
different professions. We will explore topics such as
research integrity and scientific misconduct; conflicts of
interest and of effort; the Manhattan Project; the human
genome project; genetic engineering; the Tuskegee
experiment; chemical and biological weapons, and, eugenics.
We will use case studies extensively throughout the course.
Emphasis will be on critical debate and written assignments.
The goal of the course is to enable each student to develop
an understanding of conflicting opinions regarding science
and technology and to define and refine their own ethical
code of conduct based on evaluation of the arguments from
differing viewpoints. Prerequisite: SOC 230.
SS 434. United States Constitution (3)
A topical and developmental survey of the principles of
the U.S. Constitution. Covers the framing and growth of the
constitution, the powers and limitations imposed on branches
of the national government, and the relationship between the
nation and the states. Particular attention to First
Amendment freedoms, due process rights, and equal protection
of the laws, press, religion, privacy, and criminal
procedures.
SS 449. Senior Seminar I (1)
Designed to integrate social science knowledge, concepts,
theories, and trends in a way that enables students to frame
a research problem in their major (Criminal Justice or
Political Science or Sociology), research the problem,
analyze the findings, and write a Senior Thesis.
SS 450. Senior Seminar II (2)
A continuation of Senior Seminar I (SS 449): Students get
experience in collecting and presenting sociological ideas
and then develop the researched material into a senior
thesis. Prerequisites: SS 449.