2023-2024 BSC Catalog Updated_UG ONLY_FINAL[82]

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
251
SO 177, 277, 377, 477 Special Topics in Sociology (1)
An exploration of a selected topic or problem in sociology. May be repeated for credit
when the focus of the course is different. Prerequisite: SO 101.
SO 190 ES Drugs and Society (1)
An introduction to the sociological perspective as it is applied to drug use. Emphasis is on
the social construction of drug use and drug users with a main focus on why the laws
surrounding drug use are so punitive in some cases and so permissive in others. An
Explorations in Scholarship and Public Health Studies designated course. Fall.
SO 201 EL Introduction to Poverty Studies (1)
An examination of wealth distribution, social inequality, and the complexities of poverty
through interdisciplinary perspectives. The course uses theoretical and methodological
frameworks from different disciplines to explore how access to resources shapes all
aspects of the human experience. Through experiential learning activities, students will
learn how wealth inequality affects the community and their own lives. An Experiential
Learning designated and service-learning integrated course. (Also listed as PVS 201.)
Fall.
SO 202 CI Contemporary Social Problems (1)
The application of sociological principles and perspectives in the analysis of current
issues. The impact of social change, deviations from norms, and conflicts between social
structures and social goals and values are considered in relation to social problems. A
Community Interests designated course. Prerequisite: SO 101.
SO 205 Sociology of the Family (1)
A study of the relationship between the family and the changing external environment as
well as the dynamic processes within the family. Historical and cross-cultural
perspectives are considered along with alternatives to the traditional family. Prerequisite:
SO 101.
SO 208 Criminology (1)
An investigation into the social processes involved in the criminal justice system. Crime
and delinquency, police organization and behavior, and the sociology of law are stressed.
Prerequisite: SO 101.
SO 213 Introduction to Public Health (1)
An introduction to the concepts and principles of public health, the science of protecting
and improving population health through the promotion of healthy lifestyles, disease and
injury prevention, and the detection and control of infectious diseases. Emphasis is placed
on applying social, cultural, biological, and environmental perspectives to frame issues of
health and wellness within and across populations. A Poverty Studies and Public Health
Studies designated course. (Also listed as PHS 213.) Fall.
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2023-2024