Contemporary Issues (I)
ANT 301 Indigenous Issues in Native North America (AAIS)Examines key contemporary issues, problems, and prospects of Indigenous peoples and territories in the United States and Canada (a.k.a. Native Americans, First Nations, Inuit, and Metis), using anthropological frameworks of culture and power. Topics include colonization, oppression, human rights, environmental degradation, cultural and linguistic revitalization. Emphasizes Indigenous Native American voices and perspectives. 3 Cr.
FLM 303 Ecocinema (AI)Applies contemporary ecocritical theory to cinematic texts. Raises students’ awareness about the ecological and environmental issues impacting the world today and sharpens students’ critical media analysis skills. Draws on techniques and content of film (Fine Arts) and ecocriticism (Social Sciences and Natural Sciences). 3 Cr.
ANT 304 Native American Images in Film and Media (AIW)From early drawings, photographs and films of visual anthropologists to the shaping of the Western genre in commercial films and TV, images of Native Americans are a real part of the American cultural process. An overview of stereotypical images will emerge as we trace how Native American are (re) presented and etched into cultural memory and examine the sacrificial “killing off” of Indian maidens in the western genre of film. As such, analysis and deconstruction of (re)presentations of racial and gendered stereotypes in mainstream media is a specific goal of this course. Indigenous viewpoints about these images will be a central theme for this learning experiences. 3 Cr.
AAS 305 Urban Sociology (AIY) Considers the process of urbanization and its social consequences. Explores a number of urban theories; the evolution of U.S. cities; suburbanization, immigration, race relations, redevelopment, urban politics and planning, and international comparison. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed with SOC 305.]
ANT 305 Gender, Sex and Power: the View from Inside (AIW) How might your assigned sex and gender categories impact your life? This course explores the power dynamics intertwined within systems of sex and gender. Looking at people's diverse experiences, we will use a multidisciplinary perspective that considers the historical, socio-cultural, and political-economic factors of a range of cultural contexts within the US and abroad. Coursework emphasizes the intersecting connections of sex and gender to race, class, ethnicity and sexual orientation in a globalized and transnational world. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as WMS 305.]
SOC 305 Urban Sociology (AIY) Considers the process of urbanization and its social consequences. Explores a number of urban theories; the evolution of U.S. cities; suburbanization, immigration, race relations, redevelopment, urban politics and planning, and international comparison. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed with AAS 305.]
WMS 305 Gender, Sex and Power: the View from Inside (AIW) How might your assigned sex and gender categories impact your life? This course explores the power dynamics intertwined within systems of sex and gender. Looking at people's diverse experiences, we will use a multidisciplinary perspective that considers the historical, socio-cultural, and political-economic factors of a range of cultural contexts within the US and abroad. Coursework emphasizes the intersecting connections of sex and gender to race, class, ethnicity and sexual orientation in a globalized and transnational world. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as ANT 305.]
PLS 306 The Theatre of Politics (AI)We combine two different disciplines to gain a unique understanding of many of the current issues that face all of us. The texts used for this course are contemporary plays and additional readings from political science texts. The course will be broken into 5 units, all dealing with modern issues in American politics such as race, gender, and medical ethics. There are multiple presentations throughout the semester. Students from all disciplines are strongly encouraged to take this course- the issues studied are relevant to all. 3 Cr.
THE 306 The Theatre of Politics (AI)We combine two different disciplines to gain a unique understanding of many of the current issues that face all of us. The texts used for this course are contemporary plays and additional readings from political science texts. The course will be broken into 5 units, all dealing with modern issues in American politics such as race, gender, and medical ethics. There are multiple presentations throughout the semester. Students from all disciplines are strongly encouraged to take this course- the issues studied are relevant to all. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
PBH 306 Contemporary Issues in Health (AIY)Provides for the identification and analysis of current critical health and health care issues in the US; focuses on ethical, legal, economic, and social implications of controversial health issues; and examines the dynamics of the American health care system from the perspective of the patient, consumer, and health care provider. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
CPS 307 The Cmputrzed Society: The Cmpter in America Since Wrdl War2 (AI)How has the history of the computer shaped our contemporary "digital" era? This course provides a past to our digital present, helping you get your grounding in today's wireless world. Through historical sources, we study how the computer relates to politics, economics, law, race, gender, class, culture, and other factors in recent American history? A particular focus is placed on the hidden history and continued relevance of women in computing. No previous digital or historical training is required, just an eagerness to explore our topic critically and creatively. Course requires a minimum grade of C for major/minor/certification. Crosslisted with HST307. Course requires a minimum grade of C for major/minor/certification. 3 Cr.
HST 308 American Environmental History (AI)This course examines the changing relationships between people and nature over the course of American history, with a focus on the past century. It treats the “natural environment” as a critical factor in history and considers how human activities depended on and affected their world, traces changing environmental attitudes and policies, and assesses how Americans shaped the national (and global) landscape, thereby influencing the character of the U.S. economy and its human, animal, and plant communities. 3 Cr.
SOC 312 Sociology of Religion (AI)SOC 312 Sociology of Religion (A,I). Critically analyzes religion as an institutional structure and belief system and explores the relationship of religion to social change and organization. Attention is given to the theories of the sociology of religion and the interaction of religion and society, especially the impact of social change upon religion. 3 Cr.
BUS 315 International Tourism (AI) Examines the international tourism environment. Covers tourism growth and development and its costs and benefits as an international, economic, social, cultural, political, and environmental phenomenon. Covers trends in international tourism through the exploration of literature relating to international tourism destinations and looks at the role of various constituents in promoting international tourism. Minimum grade of "C" for majors/minors. 3 Cr. [Prerequisite: Sophomore Status.]
PLS 315 Perspectives on Citizenship (AI)Citizenship is a concept central to democratic society yet is one that citizens infrequently reflect upon. Throughout the semester we will take an integrative approach drawing from the humanities and social sciences to explore different facets of citizenship and deliberate about what it takes to be a “good citizen”, what kinds of citizens (if any) do good regimes need/ What practices and institutional structures promote the right kinds of citizenship? 3 Cr.
REL 315 International Tourism (AI)Examines the international tourism environment. Covers tourism growth and development and its costs and benefits as an international, economic, social, cultural, political, and environmental phenomenon. Covers trends in international tourism through the exploration of literature relating to international tourism destinations and looks at the role of various constituents in promoting international tourism. Minimum grade of "C" for majors/minors. 3 Cr.
AAS 316 The African Novel (AI)Examines major authors and movements in the development of the novel in Africa. Primary emphasis is on the texts themselves, but with attention to their social and historical contexts. 3 Cr. (Fall.) [Cross-listed as ENG 316.]
ANT 316 Food and Culture (AIO)Because the consumption of food serves our most basic need, explores how food is one of the most culturally elaborated areas of human experience. Also explores the production, preparation and consumption of food as guided by cultural rules and taboos that define social relations, ethnic identity, gender, and class. Examines contemporary issues that center on food, among them food policy, hunger, obesity, sustainable agriculture and the genetic modification of foodstuffs. 3 Cr.
HST 318 Approaching Religion (AI)Introduces students to disciplinary methods used by scholars in the humanities and the social sciences to study religion and its cultural artifacts, including literary, philosophical, and historical analysis. The course is structured as a series of case studies, in which different religious texts, traditions, and phenomena are analyzed from discrete and carefully defined methodological perspectives. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
ENG 318 Approaching Religion (AIW)Introduces students to disciplinary methods used by scholars in the humanities and the social sciences to study religion and its cultural artifacts, including literary, philosophical, and historical analysis. The course is structured as a series of case studies, in which different religious texts, traditions, and phenomena are analyzed from discrete and carefully defined methodological perspectives. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
PHL 320 Philosophy of Science (AI)Offers a general introduction to the philosophy of sciences. Topics considered include Aristotelianism and the scientific revolution, the possibility of scientific progress, the nature of scientific explanation, what, if anything, science can tell us about the external world, and how the natural and social sciences might inform our philosophical theorizing. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
AAS 321 Modern Africa (AI)Explores continuities and diversity in the African experience, focusing on the eras of colonization and decolonization (c.1870s-1970s). Students are introduced to major events in modern African history while engaging in discussions regarding central themes in African historiography, including cultural encounters, gender roles, the conflicting demands of tradition and modernity, religion, development, and violence. Cross-listed with HST 321. 3 Cr.
ANT 321 Global Friction: Conflict in the Anthropocene (AI)Studies the global problem of modern world cultures and societies in conflict, from a cultural perspective of friction. Gives particular attention to how the economic, political and social interests of major international powers shape confliict outcomes throughout the global south. Considers conflict resolution strategies from the anthropological record for human cooperation. 3 Cr.
HST 321 Modern Africa (AI)Explores continuities and diversity in the African experience, focusing on the eras of colonization and decolonization (c.1870s-1970s). Students are introduced to major events in modern African history while engaging in discussions regarding central themes in African historiography, including cultural encounters, gender roles, the conflicting demands of tradition and modernity, religion, development, and violence. Cross-listed with AAS 321. 3 Cr.
PHL 321 Medical Ethics (AI)Using case studies, examines some of the complex ethical issues in medicine today: abortion on demand; euthanasia for defective newborns and for the terminally ill; medical experimentation and informed consent; psychosurgery and behavior control; genetic counseling and research; and allocation of medical resources. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
PLS 323 Development & Globalization (AI)Examines transnational and international processes shaping the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of social life. Attention is paid to economic and financial globalization, the place of the state in globalized world, and global struggles over health, the environment, and human rights. Students will explore factors influencing cross-cultural communication and cooperation. Course requires a minimum grade of D- (for General Education/Major/Minor/Certification). Cross listed with INS 323 and SOC 323. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
INS 323 Development & Globalization (AI)Examines transnational and international processes shaping the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of social life. Attention is paid to economic and financial globalization, the place of the state in globalized world, and global struggles over health, the environment, and human rights. Students will explore factors influencing cross-cultural communication and cooperation. Course requires a minimum grade of D- (for General Education/Major/Minor/Certification). Cross listed with PLS 323 and SOC 323. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
SOC 323 Development & Globalization (AI)Examines transnational and international processes shaping the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of social life. Attention is paid to economic and financial globalization, the place of the state in globalized world, and global struggles over health, the environment, and human rights. Students will explore factors influencing cross-cultural communication and cooperation. Course requires a minimum grade of D- (for General Education/Major/Minor/Certification). Cross listed with INS 323 and PLS 323. 3 Cr.
PHL 326 Political Philosophy (AI)Studies major political theories in the Western tradition, and critically examines such salient questions as: Why should some people have political power over others? Why should people obey any government? What are the alternatives, if any, to a political society? 3 Cr.
AAS 328 Racial and Ethnic Relations (ADI)Explores the dynamic qualities of race and ethnicity in terms of definition, meaning, and experience. Topics include the role of race and ethnicity in social relations, major theoretical orientations on racial and ethnic stratification, and the consequences of and resistance to racial and ethic inequality. Cross listed with SOC328. 3 Cr.
SOC 328 Racial and Ethnic Relations (ADI)Explores the dynamic qualities of race and ethnicity in terms of definition, meaning, and experience. Topics include the role of race and ethnicity in social relations, major theoretical orientations on racial and ethnic stratification, and the consequences of and resistance to racial and ethic inequality. Cross listed with AAS328. 3 Cr.
PHL 329 Philosophy and Evolution (AI)Focuses on how evolution through natural selection bears upon philosophical questions about things such as knowledge, consciousness, language, sex, gender, religion, and morality. 3 Cr.
SOC 329 Sports and Society (AIY)Focuses of sports as social and cultural phenomena. We will use sociological concepts and critical thinking to investigate such issues as: How do sports and sport participation affect our lives? How do sports impact our ideas about masculinity, femininity, class inequality, race and ethnicity, work, leisure, achievement, competition, individualism, aggression, and violence? How are the organization and meaning of sports connected with social relations in groups, communities, and societies? How are sports connected with important spheres of social life in societies (such as education, politics, economics, media, and religion)? 3 Cr.
ANT 331 Environmental Anthropology (AIY)Examines nature/human relationships cross-culturally, through the lens of Anthropocene and political ecology theories that aim at understanding and explaining the impact of the human species on planet Earth, with the goal of making evidence-based assessments of the near-future possibilities for life on Earth. Covers climate change, the 6th big extinction event, changing land and water conditions, and human responses to these changes. 3 Cr.
SOC 332 Health, Medicine and Society (AIY)Examines current knowledge about the relationship between society, the individual, and the social structure of the medical system. Topics include the social construction of health and illness; social disparities in morbidity & mortality; the medicalization of human experience; the social experience of illness; and the organization and financing of medical care. 3 Cr.
BIO 333 Contemporary Issues in Life Science (AI)Credit not applicable to the major in biological sciences. What is life? When does human life begin? How do genes control life processes? Is it natural/ ethical to alter the genetic makeup of species, including humans? What drives pharmaceutical companies and drug development? Explores controversial issues raised by modern biotechnology. Reviews background information for identifying, understanding, and analyzing critical issues facing the life sciences. 3 Cr. (Fall.)
FRN 333 French Hip-Hop and Rock: How Music Mirrors Society (AI) Traces the development of popular music in France and the manner in which it reflects societal change. Contextualizes cultural transformation from the youth revolt of the 60’s to the modern day issues of racial/religious integration. Studies the effect of globalization and increasing influence of America on French mainstream culture. Students will listen to a wide variety of songs, analyze their lyrics in translation and view video selections from television and cinema. 3 Cr. [Prerequisite: FRN 350 or 355.]
FCE 333 French Hip-Hop and Rock: How Music Mirrors Society (AI)Traces the development of popular music in France and the manner in which it reflects societal change. Contextualizes cultural transformation from the youth revolt of the 60’s to the modern day issues of racial/religious integration. Studies the effect of globalization and increasing influence of America on French mainstream culture. Students will listen to a wide variety of songs, analyze their lyrics in translation and view video selections from television and cinema. 3 Cr.
FCE 334 Ghosts of Contemporary Spain (AI)Through cultural products and practices (novels, essays, plays, newspaper articles, films, art) students will identify cultural assumptions behind constructions of race, class and gender privilege, sexual behaviors, and religious values in contemporary Spain. Immigration, terrorism, domestic violence, anti-establishment movements, and nationalism are among the topics of this course. 3 Cr.
ANT 336 Environment, Traditional Arts and Women's Lives (AIW)Cross listed with WMS 336 What is the relationship between cultural and biological diversity when seen through the lens of "folk arts," rituals, story telling and material culture? In a time of rapid climate change, the traditional ecological knowledge of indigenous peoples as reflected in their artwork, stories, beliefs and their environmental stewardship holds lessons for us all. It enhances scientific knowledge of local environments and broadens our understanding of diversity. 3 Cr.
WMS 336 Environment, Traditional Arts and Women's Lives (AIW)Cross listed with ANT 336. What is the relationship between cultural and biological diversity when seen through the lens of "folk arts," rituals, story telling and material culture? In a time of rapid climate change, the traditional ecological knowledge of indigenous peoples as reflected in their artwork, stories, beliefs and their environmental stewardship holds lessons for us all. It enhances scientific knowledge of local environments and broadens our understanding of diversity. 3 Cr.
ANT 337 Introduction to HAUDENOSAUNEE Studies (AI)Introduces Haudenosaunee studies through a holistic lens of art, activism, and survivance; with emphasis on the contemporary sociocultural relevance of Indigenous traditions and politics in New York State and beyond. Work with Indigenous theories to analyze and critique the substantial anthropological literature about the Haudenosaunee, including ‘Iroquoianist’ archaeology, ethnography, and history. 3 Cr.
PLS 338 Global Issues (AIY) Covers a selection of issues such as military weapons growth, problems of world order, gender issues, terrorism, globalization, international politics of energy, food, population growth and natural resources. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Cross-listed with INS338.]
FRN 340 Hip-Hop Music and Culture (AI)Crosslisted: with FCE340. Historical and societal analysis of Hip-Hop culture as it moved from its humble beginnings in the south Bronx in the 1970s to become a national and international movement with an ever growing influence on popular consciousness across the globe. Highly interdisciplinary course that covers music, dance, art, film, social revolutions, economic inequality, film, television, gender, class and race. 3 Cr.
FCE 340 Hip-Hop Music and Culture (ADI)Crosslisted: with FRN340. Historical and societal analysis of Hip-Hop culture as it moved from its humble beginnings in the south Bronx in the 1970s to become a national and international movement with an ever growing influence on popular consciousness across the globe. Highly interdisciplinary course that covers music, dance, art, film, social revolutions, economic inequality, film, television, gender, class and race. 3 Cr.
HST 343 History of the Soviet Union (AIO)Highlights the multiple legacies of the Russian Empire; examines the Russian Revolution; explores the nature of the Stalinist regime; and seeks to explain the collapse of the Soviet Union. 3 Cr.
PHL 343 Data, Robots, and Value: Ethics in the Age of Technology (AI)Using case studies, this course considers diverse ethical issues in the design and use of emerging technologies. Such issues include algorithmic fairness, big data and privacy, the ethics of artificial intelligence, the value of simulated lives and virtual reality, as well as issues regarding autonomy, misinformation, and polarization. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
ENG 345 Issues in Science Fiction (AI)Covers significant developments in the history of speculative and science fiction. Explores major themes such as sex, science and prejudice. Includes representative authors such as Wells, Asimov, Heinlein and Le Guin. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
WMS 351 Disability Studies and American Literature (AI)Synthesizes an introduction to disability studies with narrative and linguistic analysis. Includes a number of 20th and 21th century American literary texts in multiple genres (including drama, novels, short stories, memoir, and poetry) through the lens of disability studies. Integrates knowledge from multiple knowledge areas (Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Arts) and disciplinary perspectives (including medicine, sociology, political science, history, cultural studies, and literary studies). Students will be expected to learn the basic tenets of disability studies and apply them to upper level literary analysis. Crosslisted with ENG351. 3 Cr.
ENG 351 Disability Studies and American Literature (AI)Synthesizes an introduction to disability studies with narrative and linguistic analysis. Includes a number of 20th and 21th century American literary texts in multiple genres (including drama, novels, short stories, memoir, and poetry) through the lens of disability studies. Integrates knowledge from multiple knowledge areas (Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Arts) and disciplinary perspectives (including medicine, sociology, political science, history, cultural studies, and literary studies). Students will be expected to learn the basic tenets of disability studies and apply them to upper level literary analysis. Crosslisted with WMS351. 3 Cr.
ENG 353 Bible and Modernity (AI)Provides an interdisciplinary investigation of controversies surrounding the Bible in the modern world. 3 Cr.
CSC 356 Life in the Digital Age (AI)Studies the impact of new technologies on a global society. Includes the changing nature of privacy and growing use of government surveillance, ie. national ID cards and RFID tracking. Also considers the Internet's effect on societal communication and differences in gender communication patterns, issues of freedom of expression and censorship, the influence of technology in the workplace and at home, and other relevent topics. 3 Cr.
HST 357 Modern American Dream: Economics and U.S. Society & Culture (AIV)Examines the critical influence of economics on American society and culture since the late 19th century. Looks at the modernization of agriculture, industry, and labor, the emergence of mass consumption, the economics of foreign policy, and the influence of economics on race, gender, ethnic, and class relations during this period. In short, examines the many factors that influenced how people imagined and strived for the "American Dream" of economic success. 3 Cr.
ENG 359 Romantic Nationalism and the Origin of Human Rights (AI)Examines the simultaneous origins of human rights and the modern idea of the nation. Studies literary texts that represent this intersection in antebellum America. Texts include James Fenimore Cooper, Last of the Mohicans, Daniel Defoe's Moll Flanders; and important theoretical works on the rise of the modern idea of nationhood and on the origins of human rights. Draws on material from the Humanities and Social Sciences. Fulfills American Literature before 1900 requirement. 3 Cr.
AAS 360 Africa Today (AIW)Seeks to deepen students' understanding of contemporary Africa. Gives attention to issues which have profoundly affected the lives of multitudes on the second largest continent. Includes issues such as slavery, racism, colonialism and neocolonialism, desertification, hunger and malnutrition, civil wars, the problem of refugees, development and underdevelopment, and the reality of winds of change in Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
WMS 360 Sex and Culture (AIW)This course focuses on building an understanding of human sexuality in culture and the concept of sexual citizenship. Topics include cultural significance of biological sex differences; intersectional and comparative analysis of sex/gender roles; patterning of heterosexuality, homosexuality, and transsexuality cross-culturally; gendered experiences of sex and sexuality; biopsychosocial approaches to gender and sexuality; and cultural representations of sexuality. Students will contrast theories about biological, psychological, and social origins of sex and gender role differences across cultures in order to evaluate the effects of power differences and social institutions on sexual identity and gender relations. 3 Cr.
SOC 361 Sociology of Families (AIW) Provides an introduction to sociological theory and research on intimate relationships and families in the US. Examines historical and contemporary variations, with the main focus on the gendered nature of marriage and family life. Looks at intimacy and family formation through topics such as love, marriage and sexuality. Investigates key concerns in family life such as the balance of power, negotiating work/family roles, parenthood and divorce. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as WMS 361.]
WMS 361 Sociology of Families (AIW) Provides an introduction to sociological theory and research on intimate relationships and families in the US. Examines historical and contemporary variations, with the main focus on the gendered nature of marriage and family life. Looks at intimacy and family formation through topics such as love, marriage and sexuality. Investigates key concerns in family life such as the balance of power, negotiating work/family roles, parenthood and divorce. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as SOC 361.]
GEL 362 Energy and Mineral Resources Issues (AI)Examines the significance of energy and mineral resources to modern social, economic, and political forces. Covers current issues involving energy and mineral resources through local to global case studies. Requires participants to discuss perspectives on energy and mineral resource development and exploitation, present use and management, and alternatives to current utilization practices. Not acceptable credit towards any major or minor offered through the Department of the Earth Sciences. 3 Cr. (Even Spring.)
ESC 362 Climate Change & Global Warming Issues (AI)Explores aspects of the global warming debate, including the present scientific understanding of climate change, uncertainties associated with future climate predictions, and how developed, developing, and underdeveloped countries perceive potential impacts of climate change. Assesses how science impacts and is impacted by politics. Not acceptable credit towards any major or minor offered through the Department of the Earth Sciences. 3 Cr. (Odd Fall.)
PLS 362 Women in Western Political Thought (AI) Covers major theories of sexual politics, which include Freud's theory of femininity, reform liberalism, socialist theory, and the theory of radical feminism. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Cross-listed as WMS 362 & PHL 362.]
PHL 362 Women in Western Political Thought (AI) Covers major theories of sexual politics, which include Freud's theory of femininity, reform liberalism, socialist theory, and the theory of radical feminism. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Cross-listed as WMS 362 & PLS 362.]
WMS 362 Women in Western Political Thought (AI)Covers major theories of sexual politics, including Freud's theory of femininity, reform liberalism, socialist theory, and the theory of radical feminism. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as PLS 362.]
ANT 363 Anthropology of Religion (AI)This course introduces the study of religion from an anthropological perspective, and suggests the human capacity for religion is a generally adaptive trait that has profoundly shaped the evolution of the human species. Religious ideas may be perennial philosophical questions, but religious behaviors are real enough. One of religions evolutionary features is its capacity to unite and organize individuals into coherent groups that help each other to survive. The flip side of religion is its capacity to incite groups to kill and destroy other groups with whom they disagree. Within anthropology, there are diverse approaches to the study of religion. This course will engage with the new biocultural synthesis that draws on neuroscience, consciousness studies, and ethology, in addition to surveying the varieties of religious phenomena discovered through ethnography and comparative and historical studies. The format of the class will be a combination of lectures, general discussion, and focused group learning. 3 Cr.
ESC 364 Water Resources Issues (AI)Studies water and hydrologic perspectives on problems of politics, the economy, and the environment. Addresses issues involving water quality or supply by case studies ranging in scope from local to international. Requires participants to address and debate points of view in selected issues involving water resources. Not acceptable credit towards any major or minor offered through the Department of the Earth Sciences. 3 Cr. (Fall.)
SOC 364 Sociology of Gender (AIW) Analysis of the development and role of gender in society. Investigates key issues for men and women that emerge in diverse social environments such as the home and workplace and in educational, religious, and political institutions. Topics included how gender in learned, the role of gender in systems of inequality, and how the meanings of gender have changed over time. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as WMS 364.]
WMS 364 Sociology of Gender (AIW) Examines gender as a social construction, embedded in interpersonal interactions, social institutions, and cultural systems, comparing gender in the US to gender in other cultures. Explores topics such as how we learn gender, how gender serves to maintain systems of inequality for men and women, and how the meanings of gender have changed over time. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as SOC 364.]
ENG 365 Confronting Death (AI)Students are encouraged to consider the implications of human mortality through a varied program of reading that addresses the following issues: the plausibility of life after death, public and private mourning and consolation, the ethical permissibility of suicide, and the effects of modern biomedical advances on our understanding of death. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
HST 366 Modern Imperial Britain (AIO)Explores British national and imperial history from 1815 to the present. Students consider major events in modern British history while engaging in discussions regarding systems of dominance, modes of resistance, the concept of a liberal empire, nation building, changing notions of class, gender, race, and citizenship, and the role of Britain in the world today. 3 Cr.
ANT 368 Forced from Home: Becoming a Refugee (AI)Refugees and asylum seekers are people who are forced to flee their homes due to civil war, political repression and other forms of violence. This course examines the challenges faced by displaced populations including efforts to survive, to seek safe passage and to access places of asylum. Course topics include the contemporary refugee crisis, the dehumanization of the displaced and the debates over the right to asylum and movement. 3 Cr.
SOC 369 Sociology of Sexuality (AIW) Sociologists of sexuality understand that sexual identities, desires and behaviors are socially constructed. Each varies historically and culturally. Course examines the social sources of sexual meanings, values, institutions and identities. Additionally, student will explore the influence of other domains and institutions such as the family, the workplace and education over sexuality. 3 Cr. (Fall.) [Cross-listed as WMS 369.]
WMS 369 Sociology of Sexuality (AIW) Sociologists of sexuality understand that sexual identities, desires and behaviors are socially constructed. Each varies historically and culturally. Course examines the social sources of sexual meanings, values, institutions and identities. Additionally, student will explore the influence of other domains and institutions such as the family, the workplace and education over sexuality. 3 Cr. (Fall.) [Cross-listed as SOC 369.]
ANT 373 LGBTQ+ Cultures (AIW)Explores the history and emergence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cultures in the U.S. from the 1940s to present. Topics include the history of the movement before and after Stonewall; the intersections between sexuality and ethnicity, gender and social status; and urban/rural/suburban differences in attitudes and approaches within the homosexual rights movement. Cross-listed as SOC & WMS 373. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
SOC 373 LGBTQ+ Cultures (AIW)Explores the history and emergence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cultures in the U.S. from the 1940s to present. Topics include the history of the movement before and after Stonewall; the intersections between sexuality and ethnicity, gender and social status; and urban/rural/suburban differences in attitudes and approaches within the homosexual rights movement. Cross-listed as WMS & ANT 373. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
WMS 373 LGBTQ+ Cultures (AIW)Explores the history and emergence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cultures in the U.S. from the 1940s to present. Topics include the history of the movement before and after Stonewall; the intersections between sexuality and ethnicity, gender and social status; and urban/rural/suburban differences in attitudes and approaches within the homosexual rights movement. Cross-listed as SOC & ANT 373. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
PLS 374 Sociology of Human Rights (ADI)Examines the history, theories, and institutions of the modern human rights regime to understand key issues such as universality, the right to life, free speech, humanitarian intervention, war, genocide, human rights activism, globalization, and states of emergency. In addition, it examines how human rights norms change and analyzes some of the challenges of contemporary human rights advocacy. Elective course in SOC & PLS. Cross listed with SOC 374. 3 Cr.
SOC 374 Sociology of Human Rights (ADI)Examines the history, theories, and institutions of the modern human rights regime to understand key issues such as universality, the right to life, free speech, humanitarian intervention, war, genocide, human rights activism, globalization, and states of emergency. In addition, it examines how human rights norms change and analyzes some of the challenges of contemporary human rights advocacy. Elective course in SOC & PLS. Cross listed with PLS 374. 3 Cr.
WMS 375 Gender in Latin America (AI) Analyzes traditional gender roles in Latin American culture and the intersection between race, ethnicity, socioeconomic class and gender identity in socialization processes that perpetuate the exclusion of women from the spheres of power. Examines the impact of patriarchy and globalization on the lives of women and their contribution to different social spheres, especially in politics, literature, and art. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as FCE 375 and SPN 375.]
BUS 378 Business, Government and Society (AI) Investigates the market and non-market business environments to develop the student’s ability to critically analyze commercial, social, and ethical situations from the perspectives of different organizational stakeholders. Explores how businesses interact with their broader environments. Topics include globalization, public policy, government regulation, consumer rights, corporate social responsibility, environment concerns, employee rights, and corporate governance. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Prerequisites: ENG 112, BUS 377 recommended, & Juniors only.]
WMS 382 Queer Theory (AIW)Explores historical developments and contemporary debates within interdisciplinary queer theory. Topics include the development of sex/gender/sexuality categories, the relationship between sexuality and the state, scientific discourses on sexuality, the politics of representation, and processes of identity formation. Important authors include Judith Butler, Judith "Jack" Halberstam, Michael Warner, Michel Foucault, and Eve Sedgwick. Also covers queer theory as a deconstructive method which can be applied broadly. 3 Cr.
WMS 386 Writings By African-American Women (AI)Surveys literary representations in Afro-American fiction from the Harlem Renaissance to the present. Examines the degree to which sexism, cultural stereotypes and racism influence the portrayals and function of women in black American literature. Explores concerns with women's issues and the emergence of the feminist movement in America. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as ENG 386.]
THE 387 Drag Culture, Theory, and Performance (AIW)Drag Culture, Theory, and Performance will revue the history, politics, and culture of drag, through readings, discussion, and performance. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
WMS 387 Drag Culture, Theory, and Performance (AIW)Drag Culture, Theory, and Performance will revue the history, politics, and culture of drag, through readings, discussion, and performance. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
ENG 394 Soldiers, Trauma, and Identity in American Literature (AI)Examines literature of American wars, mostly recent, to understand how the soldier’s identity is tied to American values and how literature registers trauma. Uses readings in Trauma studies to contextualize and engage with literary readings. Requires students to argue for interpretations of texts as representations of trauma. 3 Cr.
PES 396 Women in Sport (AIW)Examines the historical, contemporary and future perspectives of women in sport. Reviews insights from history, psychology and sociology related to women in sport, as well as athletes' perceptions of their performance. Focuses on information and issues which are fundamental to understanding women's participation in sport. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Cross-listed as WMS 396.]
WMS 396 Women in Sport (AIW)Examines the historical, contemporary, and future perspectives of women in sport. Reviews insights from history, psychology, and sociology related to women in sport, as well as athletes' perceptions of their performance. Focuses on information and issues which are fundamental to understanding women's participation in sport. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Cross-listed as PES 396.]
FRN 401 Culture Wars? France and the United States (AI) Analyzes the complex, plural and uneven nature of cultural globalization using France and the United State as case studies. Examines the history of cultural globalization, the nature of culture, the contribution of the media and contemporary information and communications technologies to cultural globalization, the emergence of global culture , globalization and national culture, globalization and cultural conflict and the impact of globalization on attitudes and lifestyles. 3 Cr. [Prerequisite: Two 300-level FRN courses.]
PES 405 Obesity in Society (AI)Provides an interdisciplinary overview of the causes, treatment and prevention of obesity/overweight among children, adolescents and adults in the United States. The complex interaction between psychological, sociological, biological, physiological and environmental factors will be explored. The effectiveness of individual, community and school-based obesity prevention programs will be discussed, as well as safe and appropriate methods of weight loss. Exercise, physical activity and dietary guidelines for Americans will be examined. 3 Cr.
REL 406 Leisure and Aging (AI)Examines various aspects of aging as they relate to leisure in contemporary society, leisure needs of mature adults, services for elderly, and leisure pursuits in the subculture of the aging. Minimum grade of "C" for major/minor. 3 Cr.
AAS 410 Apartheid (AI)Attempts to use certain realities of post-1948 South Africa to cast light on a racial conflict that has raged for more than 500 years over the broad issues of hegemony and economic resources. Grapples with issues such as human rights, the role of international capitalism in development and underdevelopment, Balkanization, Pax Africana and human survival. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
ARH 410 Contemporary Art Criticism (AI) Examines art of made throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, while simultaneously exploring how the "art world" both reflects and resists societal influences. 3 Cr. [Prerequisites: ARH 201, ARH 202 and ARH 420.]
SPN 410 Bilingual Education and Heritage Language Learners (AI)Examines the linguistics of heritage language speakers of Spanish with an emphasis on the United States. The course focuses on the main theoretical models put forward to explain the variation in heritage language outcomes from a morphosyntactic and historical linguistic perspective such as Incomplete Acquisition, the Feature Reassembly Hypothesis and relating Heritage Language Acquisition and Diachronic Change. Swing course SPN510. 3 Cr.
PBH 410 Health Care & Policy (AI)This course provides an overview of health policy and the health care system, its components, organization, and management. Additionally, health care systems in other countries will be described as well as health care ethics. Implications for public health professionals will be addressed. Course requires a minimum grade of C (for General Education/Major/Minor/Certification). 3 Cr. (Spring.)
MUS 412 History of Rock and Popular Music in America (AI)An historical and topical approach to the study of rock music including the study of popular music from the late 19th century into the 21st century, through the blues, jazz, and R&B. The chronological outline places the history of rock music into both socio-historical and political events contexts, while tying in the economic history of the music industry, radio, and the effect of changing media trends. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
AAS 416 Contemporary African American Issues (AI)Deals with the continuing problem of what place black Americans should have in the socio-political scheme, a problem of dramatic contemporary importance because compromise solutions during this century have been short-lived, and because American policies have global implications which could influence foreign policy outcomes in Africa. Requires students to use scholarly articles, monographs and contemporary newspapers as the basis for discussion. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
ANT 416 Exiled to America: Experiences of Refugee Resettlement (AI) Civil war and genocide often force people to flee their homes seeking safety and refuge. Examines refugees living in New York including groups from Burma, Burundi, Somalia and Bhutan. Themes include the causes of displacement, the process of resettlement and adaptation issues. Refugee perspectives are highlighted as well as their interactions with service providers, health professionals, educators and the government. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed with SOC 416.]
SOC 416 Exiled to America: Experiences of Refugee Resettlement (AI) Civil war and genocide often force people to flee their homes seeking safety and refuge. Examines refuges living in New York including groups from Burma, Burundi, Somalia and Bhutan. Themes include the causes of displacement, the process of resettlement and adaptation issues. Refugee perspectives are highlighted as well as their interactions with service providers, health professionals, educators and the government. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed with ANT 416.]
CMC 419 Freedom of Expression (AI)Critically examines the First Amendment by exploring its historical foundations and significant legal, political and philosophical arguments. Explores a variety of contemporary controversies concerning an individual's right to freedom of verbal and nonverbal expression, including hate speech, incitement to violence and obscenity. Examines controversies in a variety of contexts, including the public speaking platform, print, television and the Internet. 3 Cr. (Fall.)
FCE 420 Multiculturalism in the United States (AI) Examines the development of multiculturalism in the United States from its beginnings to the present day. Studies how race, social class, ethnicity, gender, religion, and ability have influenced cultural interrelations of the many groups that compose US society. Analyzes the many theories of multiculturalism and how cultural perspectives have influenced social acceptance, economic possibilities, and political rights of the various groups present in the United States. Minimum grade of C required for teacher certification. Swing course FCE 520. 3 Cr. (Spring.) [Prerequisite: must be JR status.]
AAS 423 Black Feminist Theory (AIW)A critical analysis of Black feminist theoretical approaches to studying Black women's oppression and liberation struggles from 1800s to present. Focus on gender, race, sexuality, and class to understand ways systems of power and dominance operate across state, nation, empire. Analyze seminal theoretical texts, fiction, and poetry to locate feminist theories and practices within a tradition of Black women’s activism, theory, and cultural production. Explores ways Black womanhood has been historically and politically constructed within racialized, economic, kinship, and ableist systems. Considers the value of Black feminist theory in producing and mediating knowledge, explaining gender, race, and class inequalities, developing strategies for social change, and forming a basis for personal and political decision making. Cross listed with WMS 423. Swing course WMS 523. 3 Cr.
WMS 423 Black Feminist Theory (AIW)A critical analysis of Black feminist theoretical approaches to studying Black women's oppression and liberation struggles from 1800s to present. Focus on gender, race, sexuality, and class to understand ways systems of power and dominance operate across state, nation, empire. Analyze seminal theoretical texts, fiction, and poetry to locate feminist theories and practices within a tradition of Black women’s activism, theory, and cultural production. Explores ways Black womanhood has been historically and politically constructed within racialized, economic, kinship, and ableist systems. Considers the value of Black feminist theory in producing and mediating knowledge, explaining gender, race, and class inequalities, developing strategies for social change, and forming a basis for personal and political decision making. Cross listed with AAS 423. Swing course WMS 523. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
EDI 430 Education and Society (AI) Focuses on social, cultural, historical, and philosophical foundations of education, changing roles of teachers within contexts of contemporary schools, and other programs serving children. Considers contexts for students at the early childhood, childhood, middle childhood, and adolescence levels, including students with disabilities and multilingual learners. Swing Course EDI530. 3 Cr. [Prerequisites: Major restrictions apply.]
FLM 430 World History on Film (AI)Investigates the oft-complex topic of historical memory by looking at how filmmakers have shaped historical moments as part of their own lived history as well as for national and international audiences. Stresses the ideological function of films and the contrast between how historians and film makers present the past. Tackles still controversial topics like gender, sexuality, fascism, imperialism, cold war, and Islamic fundamentalism, all topics which play important role in national origins stories. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
HST 430 World History on Film (AI)Investigates the oft-complex topic of historical memory by looking at how filmmakers have shaped historical moments as part of their own lived history as well as for national and international audiences. Stresses the ideological function of films and the contrast between how historians and film makers present the past. Tackles still controversial topics like gender, sexuality, fascism, imperialism, cold war, and Islamic fundamentalism, all topics which play important role in national origins stories. 3 Cr. (Spring.)
AAS 435 Legal Rights of the Disadvantaged (AIW)An issue-oriented course. Provides an understanding of how the US legal system can improve the status of underprivileged persons, such as blacks, Hispanics, women, prisoners, the poor, students, Native Americans, homosexuals, and those with mental and physical disabilities. 3 Cr. (Fall.) [Cross-listed as PLS 435, WMS 435.]
PLS 435 Legal Rights of the Disadvantaged (AI)An issue-oriented course. Provides an understanding of how the US legal system can improve the status of disadvantaged blacks, Hispanics, women, prisoners, the poor, students, Native Americans, homosexuals, and those with mental and physical disabilities. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as AAS 435, WMS 435.]
WMS 435 Legal Rights of the Disadvantaged (AIW)As an issue-oriented course, provides an understanding of how the US system can be used to improve the status of the disadvantaged, such as blacks, Hispanics, women, prisoners, the poor, students, Native Americans, homosexuals, and those with mental and physical disabilities. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as AAS 435, PLS 435.]
WMS 436 Gender Issues K-12 (AI)Course focuses on the issue of gender in schools K-12. It identifies and examines the ways in which gender roles are reinforced in schools. It studies the ways in which race and class interact with gender to influence the schooling experience. Students learn the ways in which teachers and other educators can promote equitable educational experience for all students. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as EDI 436.]
PBH 450 Global Health (AI) This course provides an introduction to the nature of global health issues focusing on factors that determine health in the major geographical regions of the world. The course covers topics regarding child and maternal health, nutrition, epidemiology of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria. Includes discussions about international agencies, NGOs, successful global health interventions and Millennium Development Goals. Course requires a minimum grade of C (for General Education/Major/Minor/Certification). 3 Cr. (Every Semester.) [Prerequisite or corequisite: PBH 488, may be taken concurrently.]
PRO 451 Issues in Nursing Leadership and Management (AIY)Overview of the course: This course is designed to examine leadership and management in nursing and involvement of this role in contemporary issues in nursing. Topics will include: leadership and management roles, power in nursing, career choices, overview of responsible delegation, legal and ethical issues in nursing, and examination of controversial topics in health care including nursing educational issues, politics and gender. This course also examines the challenge of sustainability of health care and health care costs in the United States. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
FLM 456 Race, Ethnicity, and Film (AI)This class explores the relationship between racial and ethnic identity, cinematic representation, film production, pleasure, and power. We will investigate the complex representation of people of all races (including whites) in mainstream Hollywood cinema and, to some extent, independent and experimental cinema. We will move beyond the examination of stereotypes to analyze the complex ideological negotiations at play as race relations – onscreen and off – continually adapt to shifting cultural and social circumstances. This is an elective course that would count as such toward the Film Studies Minor or the English Major. 3 Cr.
AAS 457 Dark Continent to Wakanda: The Image of Africa (AI)Students will analyze Western images of African nature, ranging from the idea of Africa as a Dark Continent to the images of Africa in recent films. We will consider how colonial travel, exploration, hunting, and movies constructed ideas about Africa and how those 'old' ideas continue to shape and create major controversies over conservation, tourism, hunting, and movie representations to this day. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as AAS 457 or HST 557.]
HST 457 Dark Continent to Wakanda: the Image of Africa (AI) Students will analyze Western images of African nature, ranging from the idea of Africa as a Dark Continent to the images of Africa in recent films. We will consider how colonial travel, exploration, hunting, and movies constructed ideas about Africa and how those 'old' ideas continue to shape and create major controversies over conservation, tourism, hunting, and movie representations to this day. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as AAS 457 or HST 557.]
MUS 475 Contemporary Social Issues in Music (AI)Explores music’s unique influence in modern Western society. Topics include music globalization, mediaization, music as cultural expression and political change agent through a variety of technological and media formats and live performance venues. Students will examine their own participation in a music culture as well as the participation of others as they implement an original ethnographic fieldwork project. No prior musical experience is necessary. 3 Cr.
SWO 475 Women's Lives (AIW)Examines women as clients, helpers, and policy makers in the context of social forces, values, and attitudes. Explores the theoretical, developmental, political and social implications of women's changing roles. Open to selected upper-division undergraduates. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as WMS 475.]
WMS 475 Women's Lives (AI)Examines women as clients, helpers, and policy makers in the context of social forces, values, and attitudes. Explores the theoretical, developmental, political, and social implications of women's changing roles. Open to selected upper-division undergraduates. 3 Cr. [Cross-listed as SWO 475.]
SWO 476 Issues of Aging in America (AI)Examines the older person as an evolving individual; bio-psycho-social elements in the aging process; major issues related to the older person, the aging process; and the society. Compares the needs of the elderly with the service systems program and discusses methods of intervention specifically needed for the older person. 3 Cr.
CRJ 485 Issues in Juvenile Justice (AI)Provides an in-depth analysis of 10-12 selected topics germane to the juvenile justice system. Includes topics such as child abuse and domestic violence, alternatives for the status offender, ethical issues, children's rights, right to treatment and right to refuse treatment, the politics of juvenile justice, and the court as a socio-legal institution. 3 Cr. [Prerequisite: CRJ 101.]
PSH 494 The Social Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination (AI) This capstone course is designed to familiarize you with basic psychological research on intergroup relations, prejudice, stereotyping, discrimination, and the experience of stigma, in a writing-intensive, low-enrollment seminar. 3 Cr. [Prerequisites: PSH 301 & PSH 341 or PSH 352 & PSH 322 or PSH 351 & PSH 331 or PSH 332 & PSH 384 or PSH 484 & PSH 334 or PSH 486.]
SPN 510 Bilingual Education and Heritage Language Learners (AI)Examines the linguistics of heritage language speakers of Spanish with an emphasis on the United States. The course focuses on the main theoretical models put forward to explain the variation in heritage language outcomes from a morphosyntactic and historical linguistic perspective such as Incomplete Acquisition, the Feature Reassembly Hypothesis and relating Heritage Language Acquisition and Diachronic Change. Assignments/Assessments for graduate students will involve additional reading, research components, and project-based work based on independent inquiry. SPN410 swing course. 3 Cr.
WMS 523 Black Feminist Theory (AI)A critical analysis of Black feminist theoretical approaches to studying Black women's oppression and liberation struggles from 1800s to present. Focus on gender, race, sexuality, and class to understand ways systems of power and dominance operate across state, nation, empire. Analyze seminal theoretical texts, fiction, and poetry to locate feminist theories and practices within a tradition of Black women’s activism, theory, and cultural production. Explores ways Black womanhood has been historically and politically constructed within racialized, economic, kinship, and ableist systems. Considers the value of Black feminist theory in producing and mediating knowledge, explaining gender, race, and class inequalities, developing strategies for social change, and forming a basis for personal and political decision making. Cross listed with AAS 423. Swing course WMS 423. 3 Cr. (Every Semester.)
HST 530 World History on Film (AI)Investigates the oft-complex topic of historical memory by looking at how filmmakers have shaped historical moments as part of their own lived history as well as for national and international audiences. Stresses the ideological function of films and the contrast between how historians and film makers present the past. Tackles still controversial topics like gender, sexuality, fascism, imperialism, cold war, and Islamic fundamentalism, all topics which play important role in national origins stories. Graduate students will watch 1 more full movie a week and do 1 more reaing a week, their papers will be more analytical and longer than the undergraduates. Graduate students will watch 1 more full movie a week and do 1 more reading a week, their papers will be more analytical and longer than the undergraduates. *elective 3 Cr. (Spring.)
HST 557 Dark Continent to Wakanda: the Image of Africa (AI)Students will analyze Western images of African nature, ranging from the idea of Africa as a Dark Continent to the images of Africa in recent films. We will consider how colonial travel, exploration, hunting, and movies constructed ideas about Africa and how those 'old' ideas continue to shape and create major controversies over conservation, tourism, hunting, and movie representations to this day. Graduate students will be responsible for leading discussion twice and will be required to read several additional readings over the course of the semester. Graduate discussion and written work will also be assessed at a higher academic level, and their mid-term and final papers are expected to be longer than that of undergraduates and draw on more sources. 3 Cr.
