Provides students with the analytic tools for adopting a sociological perspective in order to better understand their own lives and the lives of others. Emphasis on how sociologists think about the social world, how they research that world, and what we know about the social world based on sociological research. From our most personal experiences such as out identies and our interactions with others to the broader organization of institutions such as family, government, media, religion, economy and education, students will be encouraged to explore how social forces shape their own experiences and life chances and the experiences and life chances of others.

A scientific study of the structure of human societies and the behavior of individual people andgroups in society. Examines the relationship between individuals and societal institutions,processes, and interactions. Provides an overview of the discipline including key concepts, maintheoretical perspectives, the methods and research findings of sociologists, and socialinequalities. Meets Social Science requirement for Liberal Studies. SOC 151 and 161 may besubstituted interchangeably for D/F repeats. SOC 151 and SOC 161 may not be used for duplicatecredit. SOC 161 is required for the Effective Teamwork and Communication minor.