Sociology (SC)

SC 1311. Introductory Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.

An introduction to the scope and methods of sociology, emphasizing the concepts of social structure, organization, institution, culture and socialization, and including analyses of primary and secondary groups, sex roles, social control, stratification, minorities, collective behavior, and population dynamics. Prerequisite for all courses in the Criminology and Sociology program.

SC 2310. Introduction to Sociology of Sex and Gender. 3 Semester Hours.

This course provides an introductory examination of sex and gender from a sociological perspective. Students will explore how gender roles and sexual identities are socially constructed and how they shape individual experiences and societal structures. Key topics include the socialization of gender, the impact of gender stereotypes, the intersection of gender with race, class, and sexuality, and the ways in which gender roles are changing in contemporary society. The course will also address issues of gender inequality, power dynamics, and the social movements challenging traditional gender norms. By the end of the course, students will have a foundational understanding of how gender and sexuality influence social behavior and societal structures.

SC 2321. Social Issues. 3 Semester Hours.

Current discussions of contemporary social problems, including issues related to family and sexuality, health and substance abuse, education, poverty, prejudice and discrimination, population and environment, war and peace. Prerequisite: SC 1311.

SC 2351. Foundations of Social Psychology. 3 Semester Hours.

This course introduces students to the sociological study of human behavior in social contexts and provides a foundational understanding of how social groups, institutions, and norms shape individual behavior, identity, and interaction. Students explore socialization, the development of the self, social norms, conformity and deviance, group dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and power. A key focus is understanding how individuals are influenced by social forces and how they contribute to sustaining or changing social conditions. No prior sociology courses are required.

SC 2371. Race and Ethnic Relations. 3 Semester Hours.

The study of race and ethnic relations among Asians, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos/Latinx, Native Americans, and Whites in the United States. The goal of this course is for students to understand how the U.S. history of race and ethnicity shapes opportunity structures in, for example, education, employment, housing, and health. Through this course students will gain a better understanding of how race and ethnicity stratifies the lives of individuals, groups, and communities. Prerequisite SC 1311.

SC 2384. Theoretical Perspectives in Social and Health Sciences. 3 Semester Hours.

This course introduces major social theories from classical and contemporary traditions and explores how they shape understanding of society, health, and justice. Students examine perspectives such as structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism, alongside health–relevant frameworks including the social determinants of health, the social ecological model, and intersectionality. Emphasis is placed on applying these ideas to real-world social issues—such as inequality, health behaviors, institutions, and community challenges—making the course relevant for students in sociology and social and health sciences.

SC 3155. Internship in Sociology. 1 Semester Hour.

Experiential education related to the theoretical and research topics studied in sociology. The student shall complete a minimum of 40 hours at a site or agency approved by the department chair, with an evaluation of satisfactory performance, to earn the one-credit internship from SC3155. Involves written sociological analysis. 1 to 6 semester hours of credit, with a maximum of 3 hours per semester. Junior/Senior status. Prerequisite SC 1311.(fall, spring, or summer).

SC 3255. Internship in Sociology. 2 Semester Hours.

Experiential education related to the theoretical and research topics studied in sociology. The student shall complete a minimum of 80 hours at a site or agency approved by the department chair, with an evaluation of satisfactory performance, to earn the two-credit internship from SC 3255. Involves written sociological analysis. 1 to 6 semester hours of credit, with a maximum of 3 hours per semester. Prerequisite SC 1311.(fall, spring, or summer).

SC 3300. Special Topics in Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.

Topics will vary from semester to semester. May be retaken for additional credit when a different topic is offered. Prerequisites SC1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3305. Interviewing Techniques. 3 Semester Hours.

An introduction to in-depth interview techniques and designs in Sociology. This course teaches students how to engage in scientific research using question-based data and conduct their own in-depth interview project based on original interview data. The course is open to majors, and non-majors who might use interview techniques in future academic or professional settings. Prerequisites SC1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3306. Qualitative Research Methods. 3 Semester Hours.

An introduction to the methods used to conduct qualitative research in natural social settings. An examination of the methods of ethnography, participant observation/non-participant observation, focus group, interview, and use of documentary sources will be included. Students may have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research. Additional topics include data coding, data analysis and research ethics. Prerequisites SC1311 or CJ 1301 or CR 3325. Sophomore standing.

SC 3308. Sociology of Religion. 3 Semester Hours.

An introduction to basic issues in the sociology of religion, including alternative definitions of religion, the relationship of religion to economic, political and other social institutions, and the influence of religion on personal development, social order, conflict, and change. Religious institutions are viewed in historical and cross-cultural perspective. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3310. Sociology of Sex and Gender. 3 Semester Hours.

An examination of what it means to be male-female and masculine-feminine and the associated inequalities in US societies. Topics include sexual identity, gender stereotypes, cross-cultural differences in gender roles and socialization, and changes in these roles in contemporary society. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3315. Future Societies. 3 Semester Hours.

An introduction to social forecasting and the sociology of the future. This course explores a range of alternative possibilities for the future of human societies, including both optimistic and pessimistic scenarios. Topics include the impact of technology on social relations, the future of major social institutions, and prospects for the solution of global problems. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3320. Social Stratification. 3 Semester Hours.

An analysis of social stratification utilizing social class as the unit of study. The course will focus on the structure of social classes in the U.S. as a major factor influencing individual and group life chances with regards to education, crime, health, and disease, world views and life styles. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311, or CR 3325.

SC 3342. Social Organizations. 3 Semester Hours.

An introduction to basic concepts, theories, and topics in organizational sociology. Special emphases will be placed on: the social impacts of organizations; the characteristics of business, government, and not-for-profit organizations; approaches used to study organizations; and empirical analysis of organizational processes. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3343. Sociology of Families. 3 Semester Hours.

This study of families as a constantly-evolving social institution in the United States. Includes an historical and demographic overview of families, definitions of “family” and the social, economic, and political implications of such a definition, and relationships between social inequality in families with a particular focus on gender, race, and class. Topics may include marriage, cohabitation, divorce, dating, work-family balance, parenting, nonmarital sex and childbearing, step family formation, interracial marriage, and same-sex relationships. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3345. Social Work Profession and Practice. 3 Semester Hours.

This course is a general introduction to the social work profession, and to working with diverse populations in social service settings. It explores the basic concepts of the profession, understanding how the theories and techniques are applied in the field. Students investigate a variety of methods for intervention in working with individuals, families and groups; as well as general practice in agencies and community settings. Finally, students explore the breadth of the profession and study a sampling of the populations served by social workers.

SC 3351. Social Psychology. 3 Semester Hours.

This course addresses human behavior and personality development as affected by social group life. Major theories will be compared. The interaction dynamics of such substantive areas as socialization, normative and deviant behavior, learning and achievement, the social construction of the self, and the social identities will be considered. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3352. Group Dynamics. 3 Semester Hours.

An analysis of the structure, functions and processes of small groups from a social-psychological perspective. Practical applications are explored for education, counseling, social work, business, and law. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3353. Public Opinion and Propaganda. 3 Semester Hours.

An examination of the nature, extent, and purposes of propaganda and of other social and psychological influences on public opinion. Topics include techniques of persuasion and the role of mass media and advertising in shaping public attitudes. Prerequisites SC1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3355. Internship in Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.

Experiential education related to the theoretical and research topics studied in sociology. The student shall complete a minimum of 120 hours at a site or agency approved by the department chair, with an evaluation of satisfactory performance, to earn the three-credits internship. Involves written sociological analysis. 3 to 6 semester hours of credit, with a maximum of 3 hours per semester. Junior/Senior standing (fall, spring, or summer).

SC 3361. Urban Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.

An analysis of cities, their historical development and social organization. Topics include urbanization in developed and developing societies, urban stratification and lifestyles, and urban, metropolitan and regional planning. Prerequisites SC 1311, or CR 1311, or CR 3325.

SC 3362. Population and Society. 3 Semester Hours.

The course takes a global perspective to examine the causes and consequences of population size, composition, distribution, and change; providing an overview of how social factors influence population characteristics and how these characteristics in turn affect society. The course explores many demographic questions, including: Why do some countries have rapid population growth while and others face population decline? Why is there a large variation in birth rates around the world today? Why are some people more likely to die younger than others? Why do some people try hard to migrate while others do not? Topics include demographic measurement, theory and data, fertility, mortality, morbidity, immigration, age and sex composition, and family formation. Prerequisites SC 1311, or CR 1311, or CR 3325.

SC 3363. Family Violence. 3 Semester Hours.

The family is the last place one would expect to find violence for it should be a safe haven for individuals. However, violence in the family is widespread, containing both perpetrators and victims. This course will examine definitions of family violence, explanations for why families are violent, different groups impacted by violence, and policy and prevention strategies. Prerequisite SC 1311.

SC 3371. Advanced Topics in Race and Ethnic Relations. 3 Semester Hours.

Intensive examination of a specialized topic in race and ethnicities and/or intersectionality of race/ethnicities/ class/gender. The specific topic of the course varies depending on the faculty offering it. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 3373. Sociology Of Childhood & Youth. 3 Semester Hours.

This course examines definitions, conceptions, and empirical research related to the sociology of childhood, adolescence, and the transition to adulthood in the United States. This will include historical and contemporary views of these life stages, peer cultures, race, class, gender, adolescent romantic relationships, and a variety of social problems. Prerequisite SC 1311.

SC 3381. Introductory Statistics. 3 Semester Hours.

This course introduces the social science application to statistical techniques and introduces both descriptive and inferential statistics. It examines statistics as a tool to understanding differences between social groups, to determine if social programs and policies are meeting their objectives, and to explore how and why variables are related to each other. We discuss how to critically assess and interpret the statistical data and conclusions shown in the media, the diverse way social scientists gather, interpret, and evaluate data, and the real-life application of statistical techniques to sociological data and the interpretation of results. Prerequisite: MT 1301, or MT 1302, or MT 1303, or MT 1305. Additional fee associated with this course. See fee schedule for details at https://www.stmarytx.edu/admission/financial-aid/tuition/.

SC 3383. Understanding Fertility and Reproductive Health. 3 Semester Hours.

This course focuses on fertilities in societies and childbearing among individuals and couples. In particular the cross-cultural approaches to women’s reproductive health issues. We will explore classical theories of fertility change at the societal level and contemporary critiques of these theories. We will also examine the determinants of fertility and reproductive health with special attention to the effects of racism, sexism and poverty in developed and developing countries. Prerequisite SC 1311.

SC 3397. Data Visualization. 3 Semester Hours.

This hands-on course introduces students to the principles and techniques of data visualization in social and health sciences. Students learn to construct clear and effective visual representations of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods data using contemporary tools and software, including charts, graphs, and dashboards. The course covers key concepts such as visual perception, design principles, data and AI ethics, and interpretation of results. Students apply these skills to real-world datasets through individual and group projects, gaining practical experience in communicating research findings visually. Prerequisites: SC 3381 or equivalent OR one research methods course (SC 3306, SC 4383, or equivalent).

SC 3399. Mixed Methods. 3 Semester Hours.

This is a “hands on ” methods course designed to bring awareness to mixed methods or the combin ation of qualitative and quantitative research methods in the same study . The course will review the major tenets of this third metho dologica l movement ” including the underlying research paradigms . The course will highlight bo th the important roles mixed methods play in the development of Sociology among other fields (e.g., health sciences , psychology education) and cover formulati ng research questions, collecting and analyzing different types of data, choosing the appropriate mixed methods designs, and interpreting mixed method research results. Prerequisites: SC 1311, SC3381 or equivalent and at least one methods course (SC3306, SC4383, or equivalent).

SC 4300. Sociology of Aging. 3 Semester Hours.

This course provides a demographic overview of the social processes of aging in the United States and explores the social and cultural factors influencing the views of aging that are prevalent in our society. We examine how social factors, like gender, race, and social class, shape the experience of aging and create diversity among older adults. The course asks several key questions: How do we define the Sociology of Aging? What are the field’s origins and current areas of focus? What are the physiological and cognitive changes linked with aging, as well as the theories that explain such changes and adaptations to those changes? What is the social context of older adulthood, such as living arrangements, employment, family support, and discrimination; and finally, what are the social policies and social problems affecting older adults in the United States.

SC 4305. Death and Dying. 3 Semester Hours.

A holistic treatment of the dying person and their environment. Topics include cross-cultural differences in grief and mourning behaviors, psychological process of the terminally ill, funeral practices, hospice alternatives, and ethical problems related to the medical extension of life.

SC 4383. Applied Research Methods for Social and Health Sciences. 3 Semester Hours.

This course introduces the logic, history, and methods of social science research with applications in social and health sciences. Students learn principles of scientific reasoning, research design, and commonly used methods, including observation, surveys, interviews, content analysis, and experiments. Topics also include research and AI ethics, sampling strategies, descriptive statistics, and qualitative and quantitative data analysis using contemporary tools. Students design and conduct an applied research project addressing a contemporary social issue and present their findings in written and visual formats. Intended for sophomores or juniors, the course builds foundational skills in research, analysis, and evidence-based decision-making applicable across social and health sciences. Prerequisites: sophomore standing or higher and completion of one of the following courses: SC 1311 Introduction to Sociology, or CJ 1301 Introduction to Criminal Justice, or CR 3325 Criminology. This course is offered in the fall only and includes an additional course fee. See fee schedule for details at https://www.stmarytx.edu/admission/financial-aid/tuition/.

SC 4384. Sociological Theory. 3 Semester Hours.

An overview of major global and U.S. social theorists in classical and contemporary eras and their influence on current sociological research and applications. The most common theoretical perspectives—structural functionalism, social conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism will be introduced and explored as different lens that change the way we see and engage in our social worlds. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.

SC 4390. ProSem: Professional Seminar in Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.

This course is designed to provide resources for the college-to-career pipeline for Sociology majors. The course includes three modules centered on forms of capital to provide a general set of tools and guidelines for professional careers after St. Mary’s. The course is an introduction to the professional field of sociology and the related employment industries and a guide to skills required to succeed in graduate school and professional careers. Topics and activities will include, for example: professional development, career searches, network development including online profile revision or preparation, assessment of cultural competencies, and refining professional portfolio materials and experiences. At the completion of the course, students will have professional college-to-career pipeline resources and an increased confidence about multiple options exist for them in their postbaccalaureate lives. Prerequisite SC 1311.