School of Public Policy
Policy is about the way we make decisions in both private and public contexts. Faculty and students in the School of Public Policy are interested in a wide variety of decision contexts and are particularly interested in advancing the social and policy-related dimensions of OSU’s three areas of distinction: sustainable ecosystems, health and wellness, and economic growth and progress. The School of Public Policy offers undergraduate majors and minors in economics, political science, public policy, and sociology, as well as the Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree, PhD in Public Policy, and graduate minors in political science and sociology. School faculty members also participate in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) program.
Undergraduate Programs
The School of Public Policy offers undergraduate major programs in economics, political science, public policy, and sociology; it offers minor programs in economics, political science, and sociology.
Economics Program
The economics program is an excellent choice for students interested in:
- Law school or graduate programs in business, economics, public administration or other social sciences.
- Careers in business or public management.
- Becoming wiser consumers and better-informed citizens.
The study of economics provides a framework for logical thought that can be used to address a wide variety of practical problems and situations. It can provide uncommon insights into society itself. Indeed, people holding degrees in economics are increasingly sought for positions of responsibility and authority in government, business, and industry. The economics major is useful preparation for various careers and for graduate study in many fields, primarily because it does not lead simply to the accumulation of facts but rather develops analytical skills that can be used in many ways.
Political Science Program
Graduates of the political science program pursue:
- Careers in all levels of government, foreign service, national and international nongovernmental organizations, journalism, business or public management.
- Law school or graduate programs in political science, public administration, public policy, business, or other social sciences.
- Elected office.
Students can focus their interests in different subfields, including American politics, public law, political theory, international relations, and comparative politics (for example, Asia, Latin America, Western Europe, Russia). Political science majors are encouraged to incorporate a minor in other social science fields such as economics, psychology, or sociology, or in a field of interest related to their specialization in political science. For example, students with an interest in international relations or comparative politics may choose to minor in a language or in history, emphasizing a specific part of the world. Political science majors also are encouraged to consider the International Degree and IE3 Global Internships.
Public Policy Program
Graduates of the public policy program pursue:
- Careers in public policy analysis, public administration, lobbying and advocacy, nonprofit organizations, community organizing, consulting, research, and more.
- Graduate studies in public policy, public administration, law, urban planning, and other social sciences.
OSU's public policy major is an interdisciplinary program that draws primarily from economics, political science, and sociology to provide graduates with a full toolkit for analyzing and addressing the complex policy issues of this generation. Some of these issues include climate change, demographic and population shifts, rapid development of technology, and an increasingly globalized economy. Students select a major specialization in Environmental Policy, Rural Policy, or Social Policy to deepen their understanding in a policy area that best suits their interests. In a time of tight budgets and high skepticism of government, this program prepares graduates who can develop and implement innovative, evidence-based solutions focused on serving the public good.
Sociology Program
Graduates of the sociology program pursue:
- Careers in community development, criminal justice, business, public policy and administration, social services, non-profit organizations, and research and teaching.
- Graduate programs in sociology, criminology, public policy, social services, human resources, law, social work and other social sciences.
Sociology is the study of human social behavior and sociologists examine interactions within and between groups and resulting social institutions. The undergraduate program in sociology provides a general analysis and broad understanding of human societies and culture for persons in all fields. Selecting courses around a topic or theme of interest adds meaning to one’s education and strengthens the base of understanding from which one can pursue a career or further education.
Graduate Programs
The School of Public Policy offers a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree, PhD in Public Policy, and graduate minors in Political Science and Sociology, and courses applicable toward the graduate degree in Applied Economics. Faculty members also participate in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) program.
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Graduates of the MPP program:
- Are employed at all levels of government as policy analysts, project managers, and managers.
- Work in national and international nongovernmental organizations like the United Nations.
- Pursue further graduate training in law, public administration, public affairs, public policy, and other social science disciplines.
Policy students at OSU focus their studies around environmental and natural resource policy, international policy, social policy, and rural policy, working with strong researchers around campus. Internships with agencies and organizations give policy students real world experience and networks to enhance their classroom education.
PhD in Public Policy
The PhD in Public Policy prepares students for academic or nonacademic research careers in the public, private, and nongovernmental sectors. The Public Policy Graduate Program accepts students with backgrounds in related academic disciplines. Like the MPP, the PhD program offers concentrations in energy policy; international policy; law, crime, and policy; rural policy; science and technology policy; and/or social policy.
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS)
The MAIS program is designed to meet the particular needs and interests of individual students and features collaborative work in any two or three pertinent departments or schools. Sociology faculty members may serve as advisors to students selecting sociology as either a major field or minor field of concentration.
Graduate Minors
Political Science
Master's or PhD students interested in adding a Political Science minor should follow the guidelines within their major program in declaring a minor. All students declaring political science as a graduate minor must contact the program coordinator prior to doing so. See the Political Science website for a listing of requirements for the minor concentration.
Sociology
Master's or PhD students interested in adding a Sociology minor should follow the guidelines within their major program in declaring a minor. The minimum number of credits for sociology is 15 or higher if required by the major. All students declaring sociology as a graduate minor must contact the program coordinator prior to doing so. See the Sociology website for a listing of requirements for the minor concentration.
Undergraduate Programs
Majors
- Economics
Options: - Political Science
Options: - Public Policy
- Sociology
Options:
Minors
Graduate Programs
Major
Minors
Certificates
Catherine Bolzendahl, Director
300 Bexell Hall
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 97331
Phone: 541-737-2811
Fax: 541-737-2289
Email: schoolofpublicpolicy@oregonstate.edu
Website: http://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/spp/
Laura Relyea, Economics Advisor
Phone: 541-737-2369
Email: laura.relyea@oregonstate.edu
Website: http://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/spp/econ/students/economics-advising/
Andrew Edwards, Political Science Advisor
Phone: 541-737-1879
Email: andrew.edwards@oregonstate.edu
Website: http://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/spp/polisci/students/political-science-advising/
Jennifer Edwards, Sociology Advisor
Phone: 541-737-0561
Email: jen.edwards@oregonstate.edu
Website: http://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/spp/sociology/students/sociology-advising/
BSPP Advisor
Because of the interdisciplinary nature of the degree, you can choose to meet with any of our three advisors listed above. We suggest you choose the one whose program most overlaps with your own public policy focus and interests.
Website: https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/spp/ppol/students/academic-advising
Faculty & Staff
https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/spp/about-us/faculty-staff
Economics (ECON)
ECON 199, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 201, +*INTRODUCTION TO MICROECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Introduces the principles of microeconomics including economic scarcity, price theory, consumer behavior, producer behavior, market structure, government role in the market, externalities, and market failure. Additional selected topics may include game theory, behavioral economics, international trade, poverty, and inequality.
Attributes: CFSS – Core Ed - Social Science; CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: ECON 201H
Recommended: MTH 111Z
Available via Ecampus
ECON 201H, +*INTRODUCTION TO MICROECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Introduces the principles of microeconomics including economic scarcity, price theory, consumer behavior, producer behavior, market structure, government role in the market, externalities, and market failure. Additional selected topics may include game theory, behavioral economics, international trade, poverty, and inequality.
Attributes: CFSS – Core Ed - Social Science; CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: ECON 201
Recommended: MTH 111Z
ECON 202, +*INTRODUCTION TO MACROECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Introduces the principles of macroeconomics including the study of the aggregate activity of a market economy, sources of economic growth, inflation, unemployment, and the use of fiscal and monetary policy to address macroeconomic problems.
Attributes: CFSS – Core Ed - Social Science; CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Recommended: MTH 111Z
Available via Ecampus
ECON 311, INTERMEDIATE MICROECONOMIC THEORY, 4 Credits
An examination of demand theory, production and cost theory, game theory, behavioral economics, competitive and imperfectly competitive markets, and general equilibrium and welfare economics. ECON 311 and ECON 411 cannot both be taken for credit toward the economics major.
Prerequisite: ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better
Equivalent to: AREC 311, EC 311
Available via Ecampus
ECON 314, PRICES, MARKETS AND BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Explains determinants of demand and supply. Analyzes alternative market structures and behavioral economics. Assess impact on social welfare of alternative assumptions regarding market competition, externalities, asymmetric information, behavioral economics. Applies behavioral economics to analysis of public policy. Explains why policies often fail to achieve objectives.
Prerequisite: ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better
ECON 315, INTERMEDIATE MACROECONOMIC THEORY, 4 Credits
An examination of macroeconomic aggregates, income determination, aggregate demand and supply. The basic macroeconomic models will be discussed such as Keynesian, Classical, Monetarist, and Neo-Classical. ECON 315 and ECON 415 cannot both be taken for credit toward the Economics major.
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and (ECON 202 [D-] or ECON 202H [D-])
Equivalent to: EC 315
Available via Ecampus
ECON 329, INTRODUCTION TO MATHEMATICAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Mathematical methods of economic analysis. Theory of economic structure and optimization developed through calculus and linear algebra, dynamic systems analyzed through integral calculus and difference and differential equations. The mathematical tools are developed in conjunction with their application to economic problems. Some acquaintance with calculus recommended.
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and (ECON 202 [D-] or ECON 202H [D-]) and (MTH 241 [D-] or MTH 251 [D-] or MTH 251H [D-])
Equivalent to: EC 329
ECON 330, MONEY AND BANKING, 4 Credits
Nature and functions of money; functions and operations of depository institutions; the money market; central banking and monetary policy. (SS)
Attributes: LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and (ECON 202 [D-] or ECON 202H [D-])
Equivalent to: EC 330
Available via Ecampus
ECON 340, INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
An overview of international economics with an emphasis on current events and applications, including classical and modern trade theory and the study of trade and exchange-rate policies. (SS) (See Schedule Comment regarding Bacc Core status.)
Attributes: LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and (ECON 202 [D-] or ECON 202H [D-])
Equivalent to: EC 340
Available via Ecampus
ECON 350, FINANCIAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Discusses how various securities meet the needs of different economic agents and the efficiency of financial markets in meeting those needs. Topics include interest rates, valuation, investment risk, trading and market structure, arbitrage, market efficiency, debt markets, equity markets, and financial derivatives.
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and ECON 202 [D-]
Available via Ecampus
ECON 352, *ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS AND POLICY, 3 Credits
Provides an overview of the interrelationships between economic activity, the environment, and public policy. Through case studies, discussion groups, readings, and group activities, students learn how economists define and analyze environmental problems and the types of policies they advocate for managing environmental quality. CROSSLISTED as AEC 352/ECON 352.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Prerequisite: AEC 250 with D- or better or AEC 250H with D- or better or ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better
Equivalent to: AEC 352
Available via Ecampus
ECON 383, *THE ECONOMICS OF DISCRIMINATION, 4 Credits
An economic analysis of discrimination, focusing on labor market inequities for women and minorities. Historical and current trends in pay, education, and employment disparities, economic explanations for such disparities, and econometric evidence for wage and employment discrimination. (SS) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Prerequisite: ECON 201 with C- or better or ECON 201H with C- or better
Equivalent to: EC 383
Available via Ecampus
ECON 399, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: ECON 399H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 399H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: ECON 399
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 401, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 401
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
ECON 402, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 402
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 403, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 403
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 406, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 406
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 407, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 407
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 408, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 408
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 410
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 411, ADVANCED MICROECONOMIC THEORY, 4 Credits
Rigorous treatment of optimizing behavior of economic agents and markets. Examines utility maximization and demand; cost minimization, profit maximization and supply; perfect competition and monopoly; imperfect competition and game theory; and general equilibrium, social welfare and market failure using sophisticated mathematical tools. Students cannot receive credit toward the major for both ECON 311 and ECON 411.
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and (MTH 241 [D-] or MTH 251 [D-] or MTH 251H [D-])
ECON 414, BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Economic analysis of the effects of social, cognitive, and emotional factors on individual decision making and their implications for market outcomes and policy making. Topics include time inconsistency, decision making under risk, cognitive dissonance, heuristics, social preferences, and experimental economics.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 415, ADVANCED MACROECONOMIC THEORY, 4 Credits
Macroeconomics as an application of general equilibrium theory. Macroeconomic models are developed taking preferences and technology as primitives. The models' short and long run predictions are analyzed and compared to the data. The welfare implications of fiscal and monetary policy are discussed. ECON 315 and ECON 415 cannot both be taken for credit toward the major.
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and (ECON 202 [D-] or ECON 202H [D-]) and (MTH 241 [D-] or MTH 251 [D-] or MTH 251H [D-])
ECON 420, GAME THEORY, 4 Credits
Systematically studies strategic interactions among multiple decision makers with applications in economics, politics, sociology, law, computer science, sports, and biology. Topics taught include static, sequential, and repeated games of perfect and imperfect information.
Attributes: LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 423, PRE-ECONOMETRICS, 4 Credits
Introduction to probability and statistics with an emphasis on estimation and hypothesis testing. Applications to economic models.
Prerequisite: MTH 241 with D- or better or MTH 251 with D- or better or MTH 251H with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 424, INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMETRICS, 4 Credits
Application of statistical techniques, including sampling theory, hypothesis testing, and multiple regression analysis, to economic models. Economic modeling, analysis of economic data, and policy analysis are emphasized.
Prerequisite: (ECON 311 with C or better or ECON 411 with C or better) and (ST 351 [C] or ST 351H [C] or ECON 423 [C])
Available via Ecampus
ECON 427, INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMETRICS WITH CALCULUS, 4 Credits
Addresses both the theory and practice of econometrics, including properties of estimators, modeling economic processes, estimation, hypothesis testing, prediction and interpretation of results. Students cannot receive credit toward the major for both ECON 424 and ECON 427. Lec/lab.
Prerequisite: (ECON 311 with C or better or ECON 411 with C or better) and ECON 423 [C]
ECON 428, ^INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMIC RESEARCH, 4 Credits
Basic methods of economic research: concepts and models; data sources, collection, and presentation; hypothesis formulation and testing; policy analysis. Written assignments apply methods.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with C- or better or ECON 411 with C- or better
Recommended: Prior completion of WR II
Available via Ecampus
ECON 435, PUBLIC ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Composition and growth of government spending; theory of public expenditure; analysis of public expenditure programs; benefit-cost analysis; theory and practice of taxation; analysis of local, state, and federal taxes; government borrowing and fees; current issues in tax and expenditure policy.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with C- or better or ECON 411 with C- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 439, ^PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Theory of public problems and decision making. Evaluation of public policy strategies, selected public programs and individual public projects considering the full range of efficiency and equity effects. Direct and indirect impacts of policy, strength of implicit incentives, administrative feasibility, and problems of policy implementation.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 440, ECONOMICS OF GLOBALIZATION, 4 Credits
Examines the phenomenon of globalization using economic analysis to explore controversial themes of the globalization debate--offshoring, sweatshops, child labor, environmental standards, intellectual property protection, cultural diversity, economic development, immigration, and governance.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
ECON 441, INTERNATIONAL FINANCE THEORY AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Theories and policies of exchange rate regimes; fixed, floating and managed floats; internal and external trade and capital balances; international capital flows and institutions.
Prerequisite: ECON 315 with D- or better
Equivalent to: EC 441
ECON 455, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 4 Credits
Describes the patterns of income, growth, poverty, and inequality across countries and through history with a focus on low-income countries. Examines definitions of development, theories of economic growth, development metrics, and the forces that have led to the distribution of wealth across the world. Analyzes inequality, population, education, health, trade, sustainability, foreign aid, urbanization and related topics.
Attributes: LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Prerequisite: (ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better) and ECON 202 [D-]
ECON 460, INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATION THEORY AND POLICY, 4 Credits
The study of the causes of market structure, the behavior of firms in game theoretic settings, and the welfare implications of competitive and imperfectly competitive markets; United States antitrust and other laws regulating business behavior.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 461, LAW, ECONOMICS, AND REGULATION, 4 Credits
The analysis of the effectiveness of laws and government regulations in fostering economic efficiency and fairness. Topics include the design of laws and policies to promote social welfare and the study of the effectiveness of criminal law, antitrust law, and the government regulation of business in promoting social goals.
Prerequisite: ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 462, MANAGERIAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
The application of microeconomic theory and quantitative methods to management decisions. Case-oriented course emphasizing actual business decisions.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
ECON 464, ECONOMICS OF EDUCATION, 4 Credits
Examines history of K-20 education in the United States. Analyzes education decisions and career choices. Assesses impact of funding formulas, major education reforms, teacher experience, unions on student learning outcomes. Analyzes how educational attainment impacts technological change, economic growth and wage gap in the United States.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
ECON 466, ECONOMICS OF TRADITIONAL AND RENEWABLE ENERGY, 4 Credits
Reviews and analyzes the economics and structure of world markets for various traditional energy (e.g., oil, coal, natural gas), as well as renewable energy (wind, geothermal and solar) with the latter focusing on the Pacific Northwest electrical industry structure and regulatory framework.
Prerequisite: ECON 201 with D- or better or ECON 201H with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 480, LABOR ECONOMICS AND SOCIAL POLICY, 4 Credits
Interaction of workers and firms in labor markets, social policy and its effects on labor markets, human capital theory and education policy, discrimination and other sources of wage differentials, immigration, unemployment, inequality.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
Recommended: Microeconomics
Available via Ecampus
ECON 491, ECONOMICS OF INEQUALITY, 4 Credits
Analyze economic inequality. Describe and measure inequality, historical and current trends in inequality, causes and consequences of inequality, and policy implications.
Prerequisite: ECON 311 with D- or better or ECON 411 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
ECON 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 501, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 501
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 502, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 502
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 503
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
ECON 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 505
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 506, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 506
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 507
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 510, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 517, MICROECONOMIC THEORY FOR MPP, 4 Credits
Familiarizes MPP students who do not have a strong background in microeconomics with the material they will need for their future economics course work.
Recommended: Working knowledge of algebra and geometry.
Available via Ecampus
ECON 520, GAME THEORY, 4 Credits
Systematically studies strategic interactions among multiple decision makers with applications in economics, politics, sociology, law, computer science, sports, and biology. Topics taught include static, sequential, and repeated games of perfect and imperfect information.
ECON 524, INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMETRICS, 4 Credits
Application of statistical techniques, including sampling theory, hypothesis testing, and multiple regression analysis, to economic models. Economic modeling, analysis of economic data, and policy analysis are emphasized.
Recommended: (ECON 311 or ECON 411 or ECON 517) and (ST 351 or ECON 423)
Available via Ecampus
ECON 535, PUBLIC ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
Composition and growth of government spending; theory of public expenditure; analysis of public expenditure programs; benefit-cost analysis; theory and practice of taxation; analysis of local, state, and federal taxes; government borrowing and fees; current issues in tax and expenditure policy.
ECON 539, PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Theory of public problems and decision making. Evaluation of public policy strategies, selected public programs and individual public projects considering the full range of efficiency and equity effects. Direct and indirect impacts of policy, strength of implicit incentives, administrative feasibility, and problems of policy implementation.
Equivalent to: EC 539
Recommended: ECON 311 and ECON 435
Available via Ecampus
ECON 540, ECONOMICS OF GLOBALIZATION, 4 Credits
Examines the phenomenon of globalization using economic analysis to explore controversial themes of the globalization debate--offshoring, sweatshops, child labor, environmental standards, intellectual property protection, cultural diversity, economic development, immigration, and governance.
Recommended: ECON 517
ECON 541, INTERNATIONAL FINANCE THEORY AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Theories and policies of exchange rate regimes; fixed, floating and managed floats; internal and external trade and capital balances; international capital flows and institutions.
Equivalent to: EC 541
Recommended: ECON 315
ECON 555, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 4 Credits
Describes the patterns of income, growth, poverty, and inequality across countries and through history with a focus on low-income countries. Examines definitions of development, theories of economic growth, development metrics, and the forces that have led to the distribution of wealth across the world. Analyzes inequality, population, education, health, trade, sustainability, foreign aid, urbanization and related topics.
ECON 560, INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATION THEORY AND POLICY, 4 Credits
The study of the causes of market structure, the behavior of firms in game theoretic settings, and the welfare implications of competitive and imperfectly competitive markets; United States antitrust and other laws regulating business behavior.
ECON 561, LAW, ECONOMICS, AND REGULATION, 4 Credits
The analysis of the effectiveness of laws and government regulations in fostering economic efficiency and fairness. Topics include the design of laws and policies to promote social welfare and the study of the effectiveness of criminal law, antitrust law, and the government regulation of business in promoting social goals.
Recommended: ECON 201
ECON 562, MANAGERIAL ECONOMICS, 4 Credits
The application of microeconomic theory and quantitative methods to management decisions. Case-oriented course emphasizing actual business decisions.
ECON 564, ECONOMICS OF EDUCATION, 4 Credits
Examines history of K-20 education in the United States. Analyzes education decisions and career choices. Assesses impact of funding formulas, major education reforms, teacher experience, unions on student learning outcomes. Analyzes how educational attainment impacts technological change, economic growth and wage gap in the United States.
ECON 566, ECONOMICS OF TRADITIONAL AND RENEWABLE ENERGY, 4 Credits
Reviews and analyzes the economics and structure of world markets for various traditional energy (e.g., oil, coal, natural gas), as well as renewable energy (wind, geothermal and solar) with the latter focusing on the Pacific Northwest electrical industry structure and regulatory framework.
Recommended: ECON 201 or ECON 201H
Available via Ecampus
ECON 580, LABOR ECONOMICS AND SOCIAL POLICY, 4 Credits
Interaction of workers and firms in labor markets, social policy and its effects on labor markets, human capital theory and education policy, discrimination and other sources of wage differentials; immigration, unemployment, inequality.
Recommended: ECON 311 or ECON 411 or Microeconomics such as ECON 517
ECON 591, ECONOMICS OF INEQUALITY, 4 Credits
Analyze economic inequality. Describe and measure inequality, historical and current trends in inequality, causes and consequences of inequality, and policy implications.
Recommended: ECON 517
ECON 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Recommended: ECON 311 or ECON 411 or Microeconomics such as ECON 517
ECON 601, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 601
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 602, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 602
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 603, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 603
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
ECON 605, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 605
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 606, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 606
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 607, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: EC 607
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
ECON 610, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Political Science (PS)
PS 110, *GOVERNING AFTER THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE, 3 Credits
Constitution-writing in a post-apocalyptic world. Students write a constitution that addresses issues of difference, power, and discrimination. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: PS 110H
Available via Ecampus
PS 110H, *GOVERNING AFTER THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE, 3 Credits
Constitution-writing in a post-apocalyptic world. Students write a constitution that addresses issues of difference, power, and discrimination. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 110
PS 201, *INTRODUCTION TO UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS, 4 Credits
Description and analysis of American politics and government, including such topics as interest groups, parties, elections, media, the presidency, Congress, the Constitution, and the courts.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: PS 201H
Available via Ecampus
PS 201H, *INTRODUCTION TO UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS, 4 Credits
Description and analysis of American politics and government, including such topics as interest groups, parties, elections, media, the presidency, Congress, the Constitution, and the courts.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: PS 201
PS 204, *INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE POLITICS, 4 Credits
Major concepts of comparative politics applied to various political settings; the United States, Western Europe, Communist regimes, and developing countries. (SS) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Available via Ecampus
PS 205, *INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, 4 Credits
Analysis of the international system and factors affecting world politics.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: PS 205H
Available via Ecampus
PS 205H, *INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, 4 Credits
Analysis of the international system and factors affecting world politics.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: PS 205
PS 206, +*INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL THOUGHT, 4 Credits
Explores some of the major theories, concepts and issues in political theory. Analyzes political issues using philosophical methods. Topics include the tension and balance between social welfare and individual rights, the role of the market vs. government regulation, the meaning of equality, toleration and its limits, and competing conceptions of justice.
Attributes: CFAH – Core Ed - Art & Humanities General; CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture; LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Available via Ecampus
PS 299, SPECIAL STUDIES, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 4 credits.
PS 300, ^RESEARCH METHODS, 4 Credits
Qualitative and quantitative approaches to the study of political phenomena. The role of values, theory, hypothesis, data collection, and analysis in evaluating and conducting political science research.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Available via Ecampus
PS 311, CONGRESSIONAL POLITICS, 4 Credits
Congressional politics, both on Capitol Hill and in the district, including campaigns, constituent relations, lobbying, legislating, and the legislature in democratic theory.
Equivalent to: PS 411
PS 312, PRESIDENTIAL POLITICS, 4 Credits
Office, powers, and politics of the American presidency, with reference to other executive offices in American government; emphasis on the importance and effect of the presidency in American politics.
Available via Ecampus
PS 313, CAMPAIGNS AND ELECTIONS, 4 Credits
Political parties and elections, the conduct of electoral campaigns, the electorate and voting behavior, electoral system, exercise of the suffrage, extent and consequences of voter participation.
Equivalent to: PS 413
PS 315, *THE POLITICS OF MEDIA, 4 Credits
Examination of the methods of operation, content and effects of the media in relation to politics and government. Includes analysis of newspaper, radio and television, political advertising, and other forms of political communication. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions
Equivalent to: PS 315H
Available via Ecampus
PS 315H, *THE POLITICS OF MEDIA, 4 Credits
Examination of the methods of operation, content and effects of the media in relation to politics and government. Includes analysis of newspaper, radio and television, political advertising, and other forms of political communication. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 315
PS 317, GENDER AND POLITICS, 4 Credits
Analyzes the role that gender plays in shaping politics and other aspects of society. The course will cover theories of gender difference, gender-based movements, gender and political office, and gender and public policy. (SS)
Attributes: LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
PS 325, *GENDER AND THE LAW, 4 Credits
Legal status of American women, with emphasis on constitutional law, the 1964 Civil Rights Act and its amendments, and various state laws as they relate to the legal rights of women. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
PS 326, JUDICIAL PROCESS AND POLITICS, 4 Credits
Study of the operation, processes, behavior and influence of the state and federal judiciaries, as well as current research in the judiciary as it relates to politics.
PS 331, *STATE AND LOCAL POLITICS, 4 Credits
Role, organization, and functions of government at the state and local level. Satisfies teaching certification requirement for course work in state and local government. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions
Equivalent to: PS 203
Available via Ecampus
PS 341, *EUROPEAN AND EU POLITICS, 4 Credits
Describes and analyzes the political situation in Europe and the European Union. Special focus is given to issues concerning European security and the European Union, its institutions, politics, and the challenges it faces since the opening of Europe to the East. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Available via Ecampus
PS 342, THE POLITICS OF CORRUPTION, 4 Credits
Surveys corruption and how it manifests itself in democracies and centralized states. Topics include theoretical accounts for why corruption occurs, what factors are conducive toward producing corruption, the consequences of corruption, and anti-corruption efforts that have succeeded and failed to rectify corruption.
PS 343, *RUSSIAN POLITICS, 4 Credits
Brief survey of Russian politics in Tsarist and Soviet periods followed by extensive analysis of Russian politics in the late Soviet period under Gorbachev (1985-91), the collapse of the USSR in 1991, and post-Soviet Russian politics (1992-present).
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: PS 343H
PS 343H, *RUSSIAN POLITICS, 4 Credits
Brief survey of Russian politics in Tsarist and Soviet periods followed by extensive analysis of Russian politics in the late Soviet period under Gorbachev (1985-91), the collapse of the USSR in 1991, and post-Soviet Russian politics (1992-present).
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 343
PS 344, *LATIN AMERICAN POLITICS, 4 Credits
The key political, social and economic issues in Latin America. Surveys topics of interest in the region such as economic development, democratization, revolution and political leadership from both an historical and contemporary perspective. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Available via Ecampus
PS 345, *POLITICS OF DEVELOPING NATIONS, 4 Credits
Analyzes the concepts of development and modernization. Also focuses on the economic, political, and cultural problems faced by developing nations. (NC) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
Equivalent to: PS 345H
Available via Ecampus
PS 346, *MIDDLE EAST POLITICS, 4 Credits
The comparative study of the Middle East and North Africa focusing on the internal political dynamics of countries in the region and the international relations among them. Examines issues of political and economic development in their post-colonial context and analyzes impact of nationalism, political Islam, ethnicity, and globalization. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Equivalent to: PS 446
Available via Ecampus
PS 348, *CHINESE POLITICS, 4 Credits
Examines China's post-1949 political and economic development. Special attention is given to the reform era from the late 1970s to the present. The course also addresses the impact of the reforms on society and on the country's relationship with the world. (NC) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity; LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
PS 350, *JAPANESE POLITICS, 4 Credits
Examination of the Japanese political system during the postwar period. Topics include prewar historical influences, political parties, bureaucracy, interest groups, policy processes and issues, political economy, foreign policy, and United States-Japan relations. Attention will also be given to recent dramatic changes in Japan's political system. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
PS 351, AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY, 4 Credits
Overview of the role of the United States in the world since World War II and of the factors influencing the formation of American foreign policy.
Available via Ecampus
PS 354, *INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND GLOBAL POLITICS, 4 Credits
The role of international law and organizations in global politics. How sovereign states interact, and what motivates them to commit to supranational laws and intergovernmental organizations. How international law has evolved since the early 1900s. Intergovernmental organizations and treaties, with emphasis on the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, the World Trade Organization, the European Union, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Available via Ecampus
PS 356, INTERNATIONAL POLITICS OF ASIA PACIFIC, 4 Credits
Examines the most pressing issues facing the region: security and regional economic integration. The major players, their interests, and their differing perspectives on regional issues will be analyzed.
PS 361, CLASSICAL POLITICAL THOUGHT, 4 Credits
Major political theorists from the pre-Socratics through the Scholastics. (H)
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Available via Ecampus
PS 362, MODERN POLITICAL THOUGHT, 4 Credits
Major political theorists from the Renaissance to the mid-nineteenth century. (H)
Attributes: LACH – Liberal Arts Humanities Core
Available via Ecampus
PS 363, *GENDER AND RACE IN AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT, 4 Credits
Traditional canon of American political thought scrutinized from vantage point of feminist and critical race theory scholarship. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: PS 363H
Available via Ecampus
PS 364, CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL THEORY, 4 Credits
Major issues in contemporary political theory. The specific emphasis of the course may vary from term to term, focusing on questions related to theories of justice, theories of democracy, global political theory, or the work of a single important thinker.
PS 365, AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT, 4 Credits
Political values and theoretical systems in the American tradition, from the Puritans to the present.
PS 366, *FROM ATLANTIS TO UTOPIA: THE POLITICS OF THE IDEAL STATE, 4 Credits
The search for the ideal state has occupied political philosophy since antiquity. From Plato’s Atlantis story through More’s utopia and beyond, philosophers, writers and filmmakers have pondered how to create a perfect state with perfect citizens which will stand the test of time. Each week will combine theoretical reflections from antiquity through post-modernity with a selection of examples from more or less contemporary fiction that will ideally already be known to the audience. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions
Equivalent to: PS 366H
Available via Ecampus
PS 366H, *FROM ATLANTIS TO UTOPIA: THE POLITICS OF THE IDEAL STATE, 4 Credits
The search for the ideal state has occupied political philosophy since antiquity. From Plato’s Atlantis story through More’s utopia and beyond, philosophers, writers and filmmakers have pondered how to create a perfect state with perfect citizens which will stand the test of time. Each week will combine theoretical reflections from antiquity through post-modernity with a selection of examples from more or less contemporary fiction that will ideally already be known to the audience. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 366
PS 371, PUBLIC POLICY PROBLEMS, 4 Credits
The content and the politics of adoption and application of such policy areas as defense, poverty and welfare, macroeconomics, and regulation.
Equivalent to: PPOL 371
Available via Ecampus
PS 372, PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, 4 Credits
The workings of the modern administrative state, processes and procedures through which government acts, and the balance between powerful government, democratic and accountable government, and efficient government.
Equivalent to: PPOL 372
Available via Ecampus
PS 374, *SUSTAINABLE LIVING: PRACTICES AND POLICIES, 4 Credits
Exploration of the role individuals in sustainability practices and policies. Special focus is given to an examination of how individuals can make sustainable lifestyle choices in light of policy regulations, technologies, socio-economic conditions, and cultural values. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions
Available via Ecampus
PS 375, *THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT AND POLICIES, 4 Credits
Political and social evolution of the civil rights movement, emphasizing events 1954-1965, and major contemporary civil rights politics and policies in the South and the nation. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: PS 375H
PS 375H, *THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT AND POLICIES, 4 Credits
Political and social evolution of the civil rights movement, emphasizing events 1954-1965, and major contemporary civil rights politics and policies in the South and the nation. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 375
PS 381, CONSTITUTIONAL LAW: GOVERNMENT POWERS AND CONSTRAINTS, 4 Credits
Explores role of the U.S. Supreme Court in shaping the powers and limitations of the U.S. government. Analyzes the powers of the three main branches of our government, and cases where the powers of these branches clash with one another or with the powers of the states or rights of the individual.
Equivalent to: PS 321
Recommended: PS 201; critical thinking, reasoning, and writing skills
PS 382, CONSTITUTIONAL LAW: CIVIL LIBERTIES, 4 Credits
Explores doctrines pertaining to the First and Second Amendments as well as the right to privacy, such as freedom of speech, of expression, of the press and of the exercise, the right to bear arms and the prohibition against governmental establishment of religion.
Recommended: PS 201; critical thinking, reasoning, and writing skills
Available via Ecampus
PS 383, *CONSTITUTIONAL LAW: CIVIL RIGHTS, 4 Credits
Explores doctrines pertaining to the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments. Issues of discrimination and the reach of the 14th amendment's equal protection clause, and voting rights.
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Recommended: PS 201; critical thinking, reasoning, and writing skills
Available via Ecampus
PS 384, CONSTITUTIONAL LAW: RIGHTS OF THE ACCUSED, 4 Credits
Examines the role of the U.S. Supreme Court in shaping the criminal justice system. Focuses on doctrines related to the 4th, 5th, 6th and 8th Amendments of the constitution.
Equivalent to: PS 323
Recommended: PS 201; critical thinking, reasoning, and writing skills
Available via Ecampus
PS 399, CURRENT PROBLEMS IN POLITICS, 1-4 Credits
Selected issues of recent American and international concern such as Vietnam, Central America, or similar topical issues. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.
Equivalent to: PS 399H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 399H, CURRENT PROBLEMS IN POLITICS, 1-4 Credits
Selected issues of recent American and international concern such as Vietnam, Central America, or similar topical issues. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 399
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 401, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 402, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PS 403, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: PS 405H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PS 405H, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 406, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Section 1-5: Reading. Associated with the internship for which credit is given in PS 410.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PS 407H, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PS 407
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 408, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 409, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 410, POLITICAL SCIENCE INTERNSHIP, 1-12 Credits
Supervised work experience in government- or law-related programs or other public affairs organizations. Reports and appraisals required. Only 4 credits may be applied to the major.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PS 413, ETHICS IN PUBLIC POLICY, 4 Credits
Examines ethical dilemmas in public policy, and provides the opportunity to study the ethical theories of Hobbes, Kant, Mill, and Rawls. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 413/PS 413.
Equivalent to: PPOL 413
Available via Ecampus
PS 427, NUCLEAR NONPROLIFERATION AND ARMS CONTROL, 4 Credits
Examines the history, politics and current challenges involving nuclear weapons proliferation and arms control.
PS 428, TERRORISM AND GLOBAL SECURITY, 4 Credits
Examines US and global security in light of the challenges posed by terrorist organizations.
PS 441, DEMOCRACY AND AUTOCRACY: GLOBAL TRENDS, 4 Credits
Examines global trends in the rise and fall of democratic and autocratic political systems, and analyzes particular case studies of countries. Evaluates and applies theories of why autocratic and democratic political regimes collapse, and in other situations endure.
Recommended: Analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills
PS 446, EAST ASIAN POLITICAL ECONOMY, 4 Credits
Surveys and analyzes the economic and political development of China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Japan is examined as a developmental model for the East Asian Newly Industrializing Countries (NICs) and as a major player in the regional economy. China is examined as a contrasting model in terms of its changing pattern of economic development and its importance for the region.
Equivalent to: PS 346
PS 453, INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY, 4 Credits
Explores the challenges, debates and policy mechanisms related to effective economic development and humanitarian aid for developing countries. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 453/PS 453 and PPOL 553/PS 553.
Equivalent to: PPOL 453
Available via Ecampus
PS 455, *THE POLITICS OF CLIMATE CHANGE, 4 Credits
Covers domestic and international political aspects of global climate change. Examines global climate change through philosophical, legal, ethical, economic, social, political, institutional, and science policy contexts. Topics include local, state, and national activity as well as roles played by presidents, Congress, the Supreme Court, corporations and media. Focuses on international conventions and treaties, tensions between developed and developing nations and possible national security impacts.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Available via Ecampus
PS 457, US-CHINA RELATIONS, 4 Credits
Historical evolution of US-China relationship. Emphasis on economic ties, tensions, and conflicts surrounding trade, investment, security, human rights, political reform, Tibet, and Taiwan.
PS 458, INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL ECONOMY, 4 Credits
Examines topics in which politics and economics meet in the international arena, such as trade, debt, finance, development, multinational corporations, and globalization. Does not require a background in economics.
PS 470, GLOBAL FOOD POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Examines the politics and policy of global food systems as they relate to food distribution, production, and consumption. The cultivation and consumption of food is highly political, and at times, contentious. Specific focus is given to issues like social justice, GMOs, human health, environment and agribusiness.
Available via Ecampus
PS 473, US ENERGY POLICY, 4 Credits
Addresses US energy policy with respect to how the U.S. governs the production and use of different energy sources, along with the management of its energy infrastructure. Examines policies currently in place, as well as proposals for alternatives, while examining the economic, environmental, national security and energy security implications of different policy approaches.
Available via Ecampus
PS 474, INTERNATIONAL ENERGY POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Addresses international energy policies and politics, including trends and socio-political challenges impacting the diversity of global energy sources. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 474/PS 474.
Equivalent to: PPOL 474
PS 475, ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Environmental and natural resource issues and policies in national and regional context, emphasizing public attitudes, elections, Congress, public policy, and relevant national and state agencies.
Available via Ecampus
PS 476, SCIENCE AND POLITICS, 4 Credits
Relationship between science and the political system in political ideas and history, in bureaucratic politics of science policy, and in contemporary scientific disputes.
Available via Ecampus
PS 477, INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Analysis of international environmental theory and politics, the development of international environmental regimes, agreements and treaties, and the process of globalization and the quality of the environment.
Available via Ecampus
PS 478, RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY, 4 Credits
Renewable energy policy with respect to how the U.S. governs the market development, production and use of different renewable energy sources are addressed.
Available via Ecampus
PS 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Selected topics in political science of special or current interest not covered in other courses. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
PS 501, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Independent research project under supervision of graduate faculty.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 502, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PS 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
PS 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PS 506, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Section 1-5: Reading. Associated with the internship for which credit is given in PS 410. Completion of this course is required to receive credit for PS 410. Section 11: MU Field Training, 3 credits. Section 12: ASOSU Field Training, 3 credits.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 508, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 509, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 510, POLITICAL SCIENCE INTERNSHIP, 1-12 Credits
Supervised work experience in government- or law-related programs or other public affairs organizations. Reports and appraisals required.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
PS 527, NUCLEAR NONPROLIFERATION AND ARMS CONTROL, 4 Credits
Examines the history, politics and current challenges involving nuclear weapons proliferation and arms control.
PS 528, TERRORISM AND GLOBAL SECURITY, 4 Credits
Examines US and global security in light of the challenges posed by terrorist organizations.
PS 541, DEMOCRACY AND AUTOCRACY: GLOBAL TRENDS, 4 Credits
Examines global trends in the rise and fall of democratic and autocratic political systems, and analyzes particular case studies of countries. Evaluates and applies theories of why autocratic and democratic political regimes collapse, and in other situations endure.
PS 553, INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY, 4 Credits
Explores the challenges, debates and policy mechanisms related to effective economic development and humanitarian aid for developing countries. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 453/PS 453 and PPOL 553/PS 553.
Equivalent to: PPOL 553
PS 555, THE POLITICS OF CLIMATE CHANGE, 4 Credits
Covers domestic and international political aspects of global climate change. Examines global climate change through philosophical, legal, ethical, economic, social, political, institutional, and science policy contexts. Topics include local, state, and national activity as well as roles played by presidents, Congress, the Supreme Court, corporations and media. Focuses on international conventions and treaties, tensions between developed and developing nations and possible national security impacts.
PS 557, US-CHINA RELATIONS, 4 Credits
Historical evolution of US-China relationship. Emphasis on economic ties, tensions, and conflicts surrounding trade, investment, security, human rights, political reform, Tibet, and Taiwan.
PS 558, INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL ECONOMY, 4 Credits
Examines topics in which politics and economics meet in the international arena, such as trade, debt, finance, development, multinational corporations, and globalization. Does not require a background in economics.
PS 570, GLOBAL FOOD POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Examines the politics and policy of global food systems as they relate to food distribution, production, and consumption. The cultivation and consumption of food is highly political, and at times, contentious. Specific focus is given to issues like social justice, GMOs, human health, environment and agribusiness.
PS 573, US ENERGY POLICY, 4 Credits
Addresses US energy policy with respect to how the U.S. governs the production and use of different energy sources, along with the management of its energy infrastructure. Examines policies currently in place, as well as proposals for alternatives, while examining the economic, environmental, national security and energy security implications of different policy approaches.
Available via Ecampus
PS 574, INTERNATIONAL ENERGY POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Addresses international energy policies and politics, including trends and socio-political challenges impacting the diversity of global energy sources. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 574/PS 574.
Equivalent to: PPOL 574
PS 575, ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Environmental and natural resource issues and policies in national and regional context, emphasizing public attitudes, elections, Congress, public policy, and relevant national and state agencies.
Available via Ecampus
PS 576, SCIENCE AND POLITICS, 4 Credits
Relationship between science and the political system in political ideas and history, in bureaucratic politics of science policy, and in contemporary scientific disputes.
PS 577, INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Analysis of international environmental theory and politics, the development of international environmental regimes, agreements and treaties, and the process of globalization and the quality of the environment.
PS 578, RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY, 4 Credits
Renewable energy policy with respect to how the U.S. governs the market development, production and use of different renewable energy sources are addressed.
Available via Ecampus
PS 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 0-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PS 808, WORKSHOP, 4 Credits
Principles of public administration, administrative organization and procedures, public relations. It will include collaborative governance, leadership, and other issues.
Public Policy (PPOL)
PPOL 002, LEADERSHIP, 0 Credits
Provides students with basic personal and interpersonal leadership skills that can be used within and outside of a work setting. Through practice, the leadership experience help students explore motivation, decision-making, time management, power, team building, conflict, ethics, dealing with change, communication skills, and diversity issues.
PPOL 199, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PPOL 201, INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC POLICY, 4 Credits
Examines the policy making process(es) and implications for the conduct of policy analysis. Reviews the policy implementation process(es) and implications for the conduct of policy analysis. Focuses upon specific quantitative and qualitative policy analysis/program evaluation techniques.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 371, PUBLIC POLICY PROBLEMS, 4 Credits
The content and the politics of adoption and application of such policy areas as defense, poverty and welfare, macroeconomics, and regulation.
Equivalent to: PS 371
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 372, PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, 4 Credits
The workings of the modern administrative state, processes and procedures through which government acts, and the balance between powerful government, democratic and accountable government, and efficient government.
Equivalent to: PS 372
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 399, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-2 Credits
Equivalent to: PPOL 399H
This course is repeatable for 6 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 399H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-2 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PPOL 399
This course is repeatable for 6 credits.
PPOL 402, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PPOL 406, SPECIAL PROJECTS, 1-12 Credits
Associated with the internship for which credit is given in PPOL 410.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 407, SEMINAR, 1-6 Credits
This course is repeatable for 6 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 409, PRACTICUM/CLINICAL EXPERIENCE, 2 Credits
This discussion-based course will cover topics in public policy based on assigned readings.
PPOL 410, INTERNSHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE, 1-12 Credits
Supervised work experience in public policy-related programs, government, or organizations. Reports and appraisals required. Only 5 credits may be applied to the major.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 413, ETHICS IN PUBLIC POLICY, 4 Credits
Examines ethical dilemmas in public policy, and provides the opportunity to study the ethical theories of Hobbes, Kant, Mill, and Rawls. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 413/PS 413.
Equivalent to: PS 413
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 415, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR, 2 Credits
Introduces the public policy profession and begins to prepare students for working together as a cohort. Focuses on research ethics, public service ethics, career opportunities, professional development, and orientation for their course of study.
Recommended: Critical thinking, evaluation, and organization skills
PPOL 421, INTRODUCTION TO POLICY RESEARCH, 4 Credits
Explores research methods and policy analysis as part of a two course sequence on policy research and analysis. Introduces students to qualitative and quantitative research methods, including research design, research paradigms, and ethical considerations. Reviews responsibilities as a researcher through selected modules of the on-line CITI Responsible Conduct of Research training. Prepares students for the material and assignments used in PPOL 422.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 422, ^POLICY ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Overview of common policy analysis approaches, methods and tools used to identify, assess, present and select public policy. Assignments include reading, reflection, exercises and a multi-stage policy analysis memo project using analyses conducted in PPOL 421.
Attributes: CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Prerequisite: PPOL 421 with C or better
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 441, *ENERGY, CLIMATE AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Explores the complex interrelationships between humans and energy, emphasizing the role of energy in critical social issues, including but not limited to: domestic and international conflict, poverty, social change, inter-generational equity, energy transitions and environmental justice. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 441/SOC 482.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
Equivalent to: SOC 482
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 446, THE POLICY AND LAW OF U.S. COASTAL GOVERNANCE, 4 Credits
Examines federal and state policy, legislative and judicial protections of public beach access; ownership and use of tide and submerged lands, including the public trust doctrine; wetland conservation; and the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act. This course is intended to equip future environmental and natural resource professionals with a foundation in US coastal management, especially areas where new professionals will be very involved (coastal development, offshore/alternative energy, and sea level rise/storm hazards). The format includes reading, discussion, and student presentations. Readings will be drawn from the textbook; additional readings will be posted on Canvas.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 447, INTEGRATED POLICY: FOOD, ENERGY, WATER, CLIMATE, 4 Credits
Environmental decisions include trade-offs. Policy choices for sustainably providing Earth's eight billion people with food, energy, and water are urgently needed. Policy sectors (such as food) risk outcomes that are not beneficial, and impose long-term costs and potential catastrophic climate burdens. This transdisciplinary course examines emerging integrated policies concerning provision of food, energy, and water and their relationship to climate.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 448, MARINE POLICY IN THE UNITED STATES, 4 Credits
Introduces students to the history, rationale, achievements, and gaps in American ocean policy. Students will acquire foundational tools of policy analysis and problem solving, and will synthesize and apply their knowledge creatively in order to propose integrated policy solutions to specific contemporary marine issues.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 450, LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM HIGHER EDUCATION, 4 Credits
Analyze leadership theories based on traits, skills, authenticity, situational, servant, inclusive, and transformational leadership models. Examine case studies, empirical evidence and problem sets addressing leadership challenges.
Recommended: Previous leadership studies; analytical, evaluation, and leadership skills
PPOL 453, INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY, 4 Credits
Explores the challenges, debates and policy mechanisms related to effective economic development and humanitarian aid for developing countries. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 453/PS 453 and PPOL 553/PS 553.
Equivalent to: PS 453
PPOL 455, HOUSING POLICY, 4 Credits
Analyzes U.S. federal, state, and local housing policies, and policies that impact housing. Draws broadly from multiple social science disciplines, focusing on consequences, intended and unintended, of policies, while examining promising policy developments aimed at improving housing adequacy, equality, and accessibility. Provides insights on rural v. urban and international comparisons, employing theory and multiple methodologies.
Prerequisite: WR 121 with D- or better or WR 121H with D- or better or WR 121Z with D- or better or WR 121HZ with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 471, PROTESTS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 4 Credits
Introduces core theoretical and methodological issues related to social movements in the US and abroad. Emphasizes social forces giving rise to movements, tactics employed by movements, and impacts of them on society. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 471/SOC 471 and PPOL 571/SOC 571.
Equivalent to: SOC 471, SOC 471H
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 474, INTERNATIONAL ENERGY POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Addresses international energy policies and politics, including trends and socio-political challenges impacting the diversity of global energy sources. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 474/PS 474.
Equivalent to: PS 474
PPOL 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PPOL 501, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-12 Credits
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
PPOL 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-10 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 507, SEMINAR, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 510, INTERNSHIP, 1-12 Credits
Supervised work experience in government, public policy, public affairs or non-profit organizations. Reports and appraisals required.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 511, PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS AND LEADERSHIP, 4 Credits
Provides an historical overview of developments in, and theories associated with, the organization and control of public organizations. Students will critically examine various influential models of bureaucracy, while also learning about the strengths and weaknesses of emergent forms of bureaucratic organization, including networks, public-private partnerships, collaboration, and governance. The course also explores different theories of leadership, assisting students in the development of their own authentic leadership style, and thinking through the application of such theories and styles to the real world of public organization leadership, especially in the fragmented, decentralized, complex, and uncertain contemporary environment of networks, partnerships, and governance.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 512, PUBLIC POLICY THEORY, 4 Credits
Theoretical approaches to the study of the policy process, policy elements, policy tools, (e.g., regulation), and policy typologies.
Equivalent to: PS 571
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 521, UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL RESEARCH, 4 Credits
Study of basic concepts and principles of qualitative and quantitative social research, including selection of general strategies and specific designs, conceptual and operational measurement, sample selection, data collection, data processing and analysis techniques, interpretation and reporting. Utilizes reports of social research in scholarly journals, popular media, and agency documents. Emphasis on critical evaluation and interpretation.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 522, QUANTITATIVE METHODS FOR PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Covers a variety of techniques for analyzing quantitative data, including linear regression, logistic regression, and other techniques. Emphasis is placed on working with data and software to answer research questions. Prior knowledge of hypothesis testing and descriptive statistics is assumed.
Prerequisite: PPOL 521 with C or better and ECON 524 [C]
Equivalent to: SOC 516
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 523, QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS, 4 Credits
An introduction to the theory and methods of qualitative research. Students will be exposed to various qualitative research methods through practical field exercises. These include ethnographic field observation, content analysis, interviewing, focus groups and unobtrusive measures. Other commonly used methods of collecting qualitative data are also examined.
Equivalent to: SOC 518
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 524, APPLIED RESEARCH METHODS, 4 Credits
Application of sociological theory, concepts, and methods. Topics vary but may include program evaluation, social impact assessment, policy analysis, focus group research, survey research, among others.
Equivalent to: SOC 519
Recommended: SOC 204 or SOC 204H and at least one upper-division course in sociology.
PPOL 541, ENERGY, CLIMATE AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Explores the complex interrelationships between humans and energy, emphasizing the role of energy in critical social issues, including but not limited to: domestic and international conflict, poverty, social change, inter-generational equity, energy transitions and environmental justice. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 541/SOC 582.
Equivalent to: SOC 582
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 544, COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE, 4 Credits
Explores and develops the norms, rules, institutional design, decision-making dynamic, and politics of collaborative governance arrangements for complex natural resource problem settings. Designed to bring together traditional adversaries, government agencies, and citizens to resolve and improve management of collective public problems, collaborative governance for natural resources is now an important problem-solving tool that is employed in thousands of communities, watersheds, and landscapes around the world.
PPOL 546, THE POLICY AND LAW OF UNITED STATES COASTAL GOVERNANCE, 4 Credits
Examines federal and state policy, legislative and judicial protections of public beach access; ownership and use of tide and submerged lands, including the public trust doctrine; wetland conservation; and the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act. This course is intended to equip future environmental and natural resource professionals with a foundation in US coastal management, especially areas where new professionals will be very involved (coastal development, offshore/alternative energy, and sea level rise/storm hazards). The format includes reading, discussion, and student presentations. Readings will be drawn from the textbook; additional readings will be posted on Canvas.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 547, INTEGRATED POLICY: FOOD, ENERGY, WATER, CLIMATE, 4 Credits
Environmental decisions include trade-offs. Policy choices for sustainably providing Earth's eight billion people with food, energy, and water are urgently needed. Policy sectors (such as food) risk outcomes that are not beneficial, and impose long-term costs and potential catastrophic climate burdens. This transdisciplinary course examines emerging integrated policies concerning provision of food, energy, and water and their relationship to climate.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 548, MARINE POLICY IN THE UNITED STATES, 4 Credits
Introduces students to the history, rationale, achievements, and gaps in American ocean and coastal policy. Students will acquire foundational tools of policy problem solving, critique, and analysis, and will synthesize and apply their knowledge creatively to propose integrated policy solutions to specific contemporary marine issues.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 550, LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM HIGHER EDUCATION, 4 Credits
Analyze leadership theories based on traits, skills, authenticity, situational, servant, inclusive, and transformational leadership models. Examine case studies, empirical evidence and problem sets addressing leadership challenges.
Recommended: Previous leadership studies and current or previous leadership experience
PPOL 552, INTERNATIONAL COMPARATIVE RURAL POLICY, 4 Credits
Examines and compares the role of rural policy in different cultural, political and administrative contexts at the international, national, state, regional and local levels. The course also provides the opportunity to study the nature and implications of new forms of governance in rural contexts in North America and Europe.
PPOL 553, INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY, 4 Credits
Explores the challenges, debates and policy mechanisms related to effective economic development and humanitarian aid for developing countries. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 453/PS 453 and PPOL 553/PS 553.
Equivalent to: PS 553
PPOL 554, PUBLIC POLICY THROUGH THE LENS OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION, 1 Credit
Examines complex identities and social groups and highlights how they face unique challenges due to the systems of power at work, both in current and past political, economic, and social frameworks. Encourages students to bring their own perspectives and lived experiences to the course and leaves them with a broader understanding of how the public service sector interacts with these identities.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 555, HOUSING POLICY, 4 Credits
Analyzes U.S. federal, state, and local housing policies, and policies that impact housing. Draws broadly from multiple social science disciplines, focusing on consequences, intended and unintended, of policies, while examining promising policy developments aimed at improving housing adequacy, equality, and accessibility. Provides insights on rural v. urban and international comparisons, employing theory and multiple methodologies.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 571, PROTESTS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 4 Credits
Introduces core theoretical and methodological issues related to social movements in the US and abroad. Emphasizes social forces giving rise to movements, tactics employed by movements, and impacts of them on society. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 471/SOC 471 and PPOL 571/SOC 571.
Equivalent to: SOC 571
Recommended: SOC 204
PPOL 574, INTERNATIONAL ENERGY POLITICS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Addresses international energy policies and politics, including trends and socio-political challenges impacting the diversity of global energy sources. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 574/PS 574.
Equivalent to: PS 574
PPOL 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PPOL 602, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PPOL 603, THESIS, 1-12 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
Available via Ecampus
PPOL 607, SEMINAR, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PPOL 609, PRACTICUM, 1-12 Credits
This course is repeatable for 24 credits.
PPOL 613, ADVANCED POLICY THEORY I, 4 Credits
First of two-class series introducing a comprehensive review of public policy theory focused on examining theoretical approaches to understanding the complex and contentious assumptions and premises that pose challenges to the way we conduct public policy.
PPOL 614, ADVANCED POLICY THEORY II, 4 Credits
Second course in a two-course series providing a comprehensive review of public policy theory. The course examines theoretical approaches to understanding the complex and contentious assumptions and premises that pose challenges to the way we conduct public policy.
PPOL 621, ADVANCED QUANTITATIVE METHODS, 4 Credits
Methods used in research in the social sciences, focused on causal inference in public policy contexts. Covers methods used at the frontier of research to estimate the causal effect of policies on outcomes, including instrumental variables, regression discontinuity, and difference-in-differences estimation.
Recommended: ECON 524
PPOL 622, ADVANCED POLICY ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Introduction to advanced quantitative modeling used in policy analysis, with an emphasis on the application of modeling techniques to research papers. Focus is predominantly on counts and zero-truncated modeling, time series, and panel regression.
Prerequisite: (ECON 524 with B+ or better and PPOL 522 [B+]) or PPOL 621 [C+] or (AEC 523 [C+] and AEC 525 [C+])
PPOL 628, ADVANCED QUALITATIVE METHODS, 4 Credits
Focus on epistemological approaches, research design, data analysis techniques and critiques of qualitative research, with emphasis on participant observation and interviewing. Culminates in the written and oral presentation of a qualitative research proposal, including preliminary results from fieldwork conducted during the course.
Prerequisite: ANTH 591 with C or better or HDFS 538 with C or better or PPOL 523 with C or better or SOC 518 with C or better
PPOL 699, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Sociology (SOC)
SOC 199, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 204, *INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY, 3 Credits
Development and application of sociological concepts and perspectives concerning human groups; includes attention to socialization, culture, organization, stratification, and societies. Consideration of fundamental concepts and research methodology.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: SOC 204H
Available via Ecampus
SOC 204H, *INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY, 3 Credits
Development and application of sociological concepts and perspectives concerning human groups; includes attention to socialization, culture, organization, stratification, and societies. Consideration of fundamental concepts and research methodology.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: SOC 204
SOC 205, *INSTITUTIONS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 3 Credits
Sociological study of the dynamic organizational nature of society through analysis of social change and major social institutions such as family, education, religion, the economy, and political systems.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: SOC 205H
Available via Ecampus
SOC 205H, *INSTITUTIONS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 3 Credits
Sociological study of the dynamic organizational nature of society through analysis of social change and major social institutions such as family, education, religion, the economy, and political systems.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions; HNRS – Honors Course Designator; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Equivalent to: SOC 205
SOC 206, *SOCIAL PROBLEMS AND ISSUES, 3 Credits
Examination of social problems with particular focus upon U.S. society. Sociological perspectives on definition, description, and analysis of contemporary and recurrent problems in industrialized societies. Investigation of causes and consequences of social problems considered in societal context. (SS) (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination; LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Available via Ecampus
SOC 207, PROBLEMS IN CRIME AND JUSTICE, 3 Credits
Analyzes contemporary issues in crime and justice, with a focus on U.S. society. Explores the causes and consequences of major problems and issues in crime and justice including gang activity, terrorism, white collar and environmental crime, gun attitudes and violence, challenges associated with policing, drug use, and mass incarceration.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 241, INTRODUCTION TO CRIME AND JUSTICE, 3 Credits
Provides a sociological understanding of criminal justice system institutions and processes. Emphasis is placed on understanding the criminal law; police and policing; courts and the prosecution process; and prisons, jails and corrections.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 242, CRIME AND MEDIA, 3 Credits
Provides a better understanding of how the media constructs perceptions and stereotypes of crime and the criminal justice system. Emphasizes on contemporary crime topics by examining current news outlets, crime TV shows, movies, and podcasts. Provide the tools necessary to decipher fact from fiction in the media representation of crime and the criminal justice system.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 280, INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIETY, 3 Credits
Introduces the subdiscipline of environmental sociology that focuses on the relationship between society and the environment. Explores the basic concepts in sociology and applies them to a range of environment and natural resource issues. Examines social policies and actions to address environmental challenges.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 299, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: SOC 299H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 312, *SOCIOLOGY OF THE FAMILY, 4 Credits
Survey of the family as a social institution. Addresses historical and cultural perspectives with emphasis on family diversity, variations in family form and life style, interdependence between family and other institutions, analysis of major family issues, forces for change in the family. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Equivalent to: SOC 312H
Available via Ecampus
SOC 312H, *SOCIOLOGY OF THE FAMILY, 4 Credits
Survey of the family as a social institution. Addresses historical and cultural perspectives with emphasis on family diversity, variations in family form and life style, interdependence between family and other institutions, analysis of major family issues, forces for change in the family. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOC 312
SOC 313, SOCIOLOGY OF INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS, 4 Credits
Examines the microsociological dynamics of intimate relationships. Perceptions and expectations of intimate relationships are explored. Specific attention will be given to issues, processes, and factors that are involved in the construction and management of intimate relationships in contemporary society.
SOC 315, INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH METHODS, 4 Credits
Introduces basic sociological research methods, including study design, measurement, sampling, surveying, and interviewing, as well as ethical and practical dilemmas in constructing sociological research. Emphasizes valuation and critique of existing research.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 316, QUANTITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Provides statistical and computing skills necessary to analyze quantitative sociological data. Covers the construction and interpretation of contingency tables, basic ideas of probability and statistical inference, and an introduction to correlation and regression. Provides an opportunity to learn using at least two statistical software programs. Explores ethical considerations in data reporting.
Prerequisite: SOC 315 with C- or better
Available via Ecampus
SOC 318, ^QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS, 4 Credits
Emphasizes how to read, critique, and conduct qualitative (non-numerical) social research. Builds on social research learned in SOC 315 and focuses on exploring various theories and methods unique to qualitative research. Provides exposure to examples of excellent qualitative research and writing and provides opportunities to hone research skills by engaging in various practical exercises, which may include field observations, interviews, focus groups, and content analysis. Develops writing skills by describing, comparing, and evaluating materials.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Prerequisite: SOC 315 with C- or better
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 340, DEVIANT BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL CONTROL, 4 Credits
Current perspectives, research and theories of deviant behavior. Review and analysis of various approaches and programs designed to prevent and deal with deviant behavior.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 341, POLICE AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Represents a social scientific examination of the field of policing rather than methods or tactics of crime control. Explores the culture of law enforcement and how police officers perform their duties and create their own impressions of their work. Examines how the field of law enforcement is influenced by historical trends, laws, cultural & occupational values, and social institutions. Discusses stereotypes, routine duties, occupational stressors, and deadly hazards of law enforcement which provide opportunities to practice and improve interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
Recommended: SOC 204 and/or SOC 241
Available via Ecampus
SOC 345, *CRIMES AND VIOLENCE IN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS, 4 Credits
Analyzes the historical, social, political, legal, cultural, and psychological aspects of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Addresses definitions of the problem, demographics, survivors, perpetrators, witnesses, bystanders, strategies and tactics of abusers and survivors, along with strategies for prevention, intervention, treatment, and social change. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Available via Ecampus
SOC 349, SERIAL HOMICIDE, 4 Credits
Examines the extent, causes, and social characteristics of serial killers. After examining general criminological theories and the characteristics of “typical murder,” investigates the popular images about serial killers, the motivations of these offenders, the distribution of their crimes over time and across geographical areas, elements surrounding these offenses, and the offenders' methods of selecting victims. Topics include homicide investigation techniques, crime profiling, and the criminal prosecution of serial killers.
Recommended: SOC 204 and/or SOC 241
Available via Ecampus
SOC 350, HEALTH, ILLNESS AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Social and cultural factors in the identification, course, and treatment of illness; analysis of selected health settings and professions.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 351, *SOCIOLOGY OF MENTAL ILLNESS, 4 Credits
Focuses on how social and cultural context impact mental health, and how the very concepts of mental illness, abnormal or crazy are constructed in the first place, then applied by both “mental health” professionals and persons in their everyday lives. Examines major social models of “mental illness,” aiming to understand and evaluate their basic concepts and assumptions, as well as the response to “mental illness,” including how family, friends, troubled persons and professionals interpret, define and respond to “mental illness” and the processes shaping the policies and practices of the mental health enterprise.
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Available via Ecampus
SOC 355, DEATH AND DYING, 4 Credits
An overview of cross-cultural and historical attitudes and practices around end of life, death and dying. Assessment of contemporary legal, professional, cultural and technological issues surrounding end of life/death and dying.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 360, *POPULATION TRENDS AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Basic socio-demographic factors affecting population size, distribution, composition and change; examination of local, national, and international trends, and demographic policy.
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Available via Ecampus
SOC 371, SOCIAL MEDIA AND EVERYDAY LIFE, 4 Credits
Examines key concepts, themes, and theories in the study of social media in today's world. Interconnected themes include communication and the public sphere, self representation, power, and new technologies.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 372, *POPULAR CULTURE, 4 Credits
Critical examination of contemporary popular culture from a sociological perspective. Debates in the field of cultural sociology, including a critique of the distinction between 'high' and 'low' forms of culture, the social distinction between work and leisure time, the influence of society on individual patterns of consumption and personal taste, and the sociology of everyday life. Specific topics include mass media, sports, leisure activities, fashion, youth culture, science fiction, music, talk shows, soap operas, internet chat rooms, personal ads, home shopping, and folklore.
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Available via Ecampus
SOC 381, SOCIAL DIMENSIONS OF SUSTAINABILITY, 4 Credits
Exploration of the social forces driving current views of sustainability. Specific attention will be given to values and belief systems, as well as social institutions in shaping sustainability issues related to ecologically sound, socially just, and economically viable outcomes.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 399, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Selected topics of special or current interest not covered in other courses.
Equivalent to: SOC 399H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 399H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Selected topics of special or current interest not covered in other courses.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOC 399
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 401, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 403, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 406, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 407, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 412, SOCIOLOGY OF WORK AND FAMILY, 4 Credits
Survey of the intersections between families and work; variations in family structure, policies and paid and unpaid work in the United States; interdependence between paid and unpaid family labor and broader social change.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 413, SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY, 4 Credits
Historical and philosophical foundations of sociological theory; major schools of thought and their major contributors.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 418, QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS, 4 Credits
An introduction to the theory and methods of qualitative research. Students will be exposed to various qualitative research methods through practical field exercises. These include ethnographic field observation, content analysis, interviewing, focus groups and unobtrusive measures. Other commonly used methods of collecting qualitative data are also examined. CROSSLISTED as SOC 418 and SOC 518/PPOL 523.
SOC 424, SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, 4 Credits
Examines individuals in social context; explores dynamics of interpersonal relationships; evaluates link between self and society, including concepts of role/status/identity. Contemporary research design, problems, and findings pertinent to social psychology.
SOC 426, *SOCIAL INEQUALITY, 4 Credits
Evolution of social inequality in society. Emphasis upon the causes and consequences of inequality in power, privilege, and prestige in human societies, with special attention to the United States. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Available via Ecampus
SOC 430, GENDER AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Examination of nature and consequences of social differentiation and stratification on the basis of sex and gender. Analysis of social position of women and men in society, focusing on their positions in institutional areas such as the family, politics, work and education. Evaluation of theories of biological, psychological, and sociological bases for the behavior and characteristics of women and men.
SOC 432, SOCIOLOGY OF AGING, 4 Credits
Focuses on the definitions, history, experience and public policies around aging, primarily in the United States. Assesses the implications of a growing older population and explores the diversity of experience of aging across gender, race and social class. Synthesizes data, theory and observations, formulates sociological questions relevant to aging, and evaluates caregiving practices and policies.
Recommended: SOC 204; analytical, collaboration, and critical thinking skills
Available via Ecampus
SOC 437, RACE AND ETHNIC RELATIONS, 4 Credits
Comparative/international perspective on the social construction of race and ethnicity. Social, economic and political experiences of selected groups in the U.S. and other countries are examined.
SOC 438, US IMMIGRATION ISSUES IN THE 21ST CENTURY, 4 Credits
Provides a critical overview of immigration to the United States from a socio-historic perspective. Examines how successive waves of immigrants have influenced American society from the earliest groups of Europeans in the 19th century to the most recently arriving immigrants from Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 439, WELFARE AND SOCIAL SERVICES, 4 Credits
Analysis of social, political, and economic forces affecting welfare and social service systems, with overview of current programs, policy issues, public opinions, occupational aspects and societal impacts.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 440, JUVENILE DELINQUENCY, 4 Credits
Contemporary research and theories of juvenile delinquency. Review and evaluation of various strategies and programs designed to prevent delinquency or for treatment of delinquents.
SOC 441, CRIMINOLOGY AND PENOLOGY, 4 Credits
Review of sociological perspectives on crime and criminal justice, with emphasis upon North America. Review of crime statistics, types of crime, theories of criminality, corrections programs and prisons, and programs to reduce crime.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 442, SOCIOLOGY OF DRUG USE AND ABUSE, 4 Credits
Emphasizes a sociological understanding of drug use, drug problems and drug policy. In order to understand drug use and abuse it is necessary to understand the chemical properties of the substances at issue, the attributes of the people who use and abuse drugs, and the norms and characteristics of the society in which the substance use occurs.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 444, INSIDE-OUT: PRISONS, COMMUNITIES, AND PREVENTION, 4 Credits
Course takes place in a state correctional facility, with OSU students learning alongside "inside" students from the facility for a full quarter. Course content examines prisons, communities, crime, and prevention from a sociological perspective. All students participate in service-learning projects.
Equivalent to: SOC 444H
SOC 444H, INSIDE-OUT: PRISONS, COMMUNITIES, AND PREVENTION, 4 Credits
Course takes place in a state correctional facility, with OSU students learning alongside "inside" students from the facility for a full quarter. Course content examines prisons, communities, crime, and prevention from a sociological perspective. All students participate in service-learning projects.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOC 444
SOC 448, LAW AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
An introduction to social scientific approaches to law, covering major topics in the area. Topics may include disputing, legal consciousness, social movements and law, punishment, legal actors, and legal institutions.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 449, LAW, CRIME, AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Surveys criminal justice policies aimed at enforcing laws, reducing crime, punishing violators, and rehabilitating ex-offenders. Interrogates the behavioral assumptions used in creating and evaluating policies. Examines specific crimes and the policies used to address them.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 450, SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION, 4 Credits
Contemporary perspectives and research on schools, students, teachers and social forces affecting the educational system. Review of comparative and evaluation research on alternative educational strategies and programs. Overview of the literature of educational critics.
SOC 452, SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION, 4 Credits
Social patterns within U.S. religious groups, relation of religious groups to society, and the methodological problems in studying such groups.
SOC 453, SOCIOLOGY OF SPORT, 4 Credits
Critical analysis of sport. Examines sport socialization; deviance; violence; gender; race/ethnicity; professional sport careers; intercollegiate athletics; marriage/family; and the media.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 454, LEISURE AND CULTURE, 4 Credits
Examination of the social, cultural, and global significance of leisure activity (in particular, tourism and recreation) from a historical perspective relative to attitudes, values, behaviors, and use of natural resources.
Attributes: LACS – Liberal Arts Social Core
Available via Ecampus
SOC 456, *SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN SOCIAL CONTEXT, 4 Credits
Study of social aspects of science and technology (values, practices, organization, impacts) by analysis of issues revealing their relationship to other social and cultural processes.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
SOC 460, THE SOCIOLOGY OF GLOBALIZATION, 4 Credits
Examines the sociological effect of globalization on Western and non-Western societies. The course focuses on changes in the global economy and how this has influenced the social structure, patterns of change, and mutual influences among societies.
Attributes: LACN – Liberal Arts Non-Western Core
SOC 470, COLLECTIVE BEHAVIOR, 4 Credits
Examines current theories; focuses on behavior in crowds and diverse social settings including fads/fashions, ecstatic crowds/miracles, natural/technological disasters, urban legends, collective delusions/mass hysteria, protest/demonstrations, riots/mobs.
SOC 471, PROTESTS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 4 Credits
Introduces core theoretical and methodological issues related to social movements in the US and abroad. Emphasizes social forces giving rise to movements, tactics employed by movements, and impacts of them on society. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 471/SOC 471 and PPOL 571/SOC 571.
Equivalent to: PPOL 471, SOC 471H
Available via Ecampus
SOC 471H, PROTESTS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 4 Credits
Introduces core theoretical and methodological issues related to social movements in the US and abroad. Emphasizes social forces giving rise to movements, tactics employed by movements, and impacts of them on society. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 471/SOC 471 and PPOL 571/SOC 571.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
SOC 475, RURAL SOCIOLOGY, 4 Credits
Helps students understand the rich diversity in rural society, with an emphasis on the interdependencies between urban and rural contexts. Current issues and social problems experienced by rural populations and how sociology is used to understand and address issues affecting rural communities are explored.
SOC 480, *ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIOLOGY, 4 Credits
Explores the evolution of environmental thought, paradigm shifts, and institutional structures associated with environmental concerns, social movements, and social impacts.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Available via Ecampus
SOC 481, *SOCIETY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, 4 Credits
Explores the complex interrelationships between humans and natural resources, emphasizing how management decisions and organizations are enmeshed in social and cultural contexts.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
Available via Ecampus
SOC 482, *ENERGY, CLIMATE AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Explores the complex interrelationships between humans and energy, emphasizing the role of energy in critical social issues, including but not limited to: domestic and international conflict, poverty, social change, inter-generational equity, energy transitions and environmental justice. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 441/SOC 482.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
Equivalent to: PPOL 441
Available via Ecampus
SOC 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: SOC 499H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 499H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOC 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 501, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 502, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
SOC 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 506, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 508, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 510, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOC 512, SOCIOLOGY OF WORK AND FAMILY, 4 Credits
Survey of the intersections between families and work; variations in family structure, policies and paid and unpaid work in the United States; interdependence between paid and unpaid family labor and broader social change.
Recommended: SOC 204 or SOC 204H
Available via Ecampus
SOC 513, SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY, 4 Credits
Historical and philosophical foundations of sociological theory; major school of thought and their major contributors.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 524, SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, 4 Credits
Examines individuals in social context; explores dynamics of interpersonal relationships; evaluates link between self and society, including concepts of role/status/identity. Contemporary research design, problems, and findings pertinent to social psychology.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 526, SOCIAL INEQUALITY, 4 Credits
Evolution of social inequality in society. Emphasis upon the causes and consequences of inequality in power, privilege, and prestige in human societies, with special attention to the United States.
SOC 530, GENDER AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Examination of nature and consequences of social differentiation and stratification on the basis of sex and gender. Analysis of social position of women and men in society, focusing on their positions in institutional areas such as the family, politics, work and education. Evaluation of theories of biological, psychological, and sociological bases for the behavior and characteristics of women and men.
SOC 532, SOCIOLOGY OF AGING, 4 Credits
Focuses on the definitions, history, experience and public policies around aging, primarily in the United States. Assesses the implications of a growing older population and explores the diversity of experience of aging across gender, race and social class. Synthesizes data, theory and observations, formulates sociological questions relevant to aging, and evaluates caregiving practices and policies.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 537, RACE AND ETHNIC RELATIONS, 4 Credits
Comparative/international perspective on the social construction of race and ethnicity. Social, economic and political experiences of selected groups in the U.S. and other countries are examined.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 538, US IMMIGRATION ISSUES IN THE 21ST CENTURY, 4 Credits
Provides a critical overview of immigration to the United States from a socio-historic perspective. Examines how successive waves of immigrants have influenced American society from the earliest groups of Europeans in the 19th century to the most recently arriving immigrants from Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 539, WELFARE AND SOCIAL SERVICES, 4 Credits
Analysis of social, political, and economic forces affecting welfare and social service systems, with overview of current programs, policy issues, public opinions, occupational aspects and societal impacts.
Recommended: SOC 204 or SOC 205 or SOC 206
Available via Ecampus
SOC 540, JUVENILE DELINQUENCY, 4 Credits
Contemporary research and theories of juvenile delinquency. Review and evaluation of various strategies and programs designed to prevent delinquency or for treatment of delinquents.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 541, CRIMINOLOGY AND PENOLOGY, 4 Credits
Review of sociological perspectives on crime and criminal justice, with emphasis upon North America. Review of crime statistics, types of crime, theories of criminality, corrections programs and prisons, and programs to reduce crime.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 542, SOCIOLOGY OF DRUG USE AND ABUSE, 4 Credits
Emphasizes a sociological understanding of drug use, drug problems and drug policy. In order to understand drug use and abuse it is necessary to understand the chemical properties of the substances at issue, the attributes of the people who use and abuse drugs, and the norms and characteristics of the society in which the substance use occurs.
Available via Ecampus
SOC 544, INSIDE-OUT: PRISONS, COMMUNITIES, AND PREVENTION, 4 Credits
Course takes place in a state correctional facility, with OSU students learning alongside "inside" students from the facility for a full quarter. Course content examines prisons, communities, crime, and prevention from a sociological perspective. All students participate in service-learning projects.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 548, LAW AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
An introduction to social scientific approaches to law, covering major topics in the area. Topics may include disputing, legal consciousness, social movements and law, punishment, legal actors, and legal institutions.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 549, LAW, CRIME, AND POLICY, 4 Credits
Surveys criminal justice policies aimed at enforcing laws, reducing crime, punishing violators, and rehabilitating ex-offenders. Interrogates the behavioral assumptions used in creating and evaluating policies. Examines specific crimes and the policies used to address them.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 550, SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION, 4 Credits
Contemporary perspectives and research on schools, students, teachers and social forces affecting the educational system. Review of comparative and evaluation research on alternative educational strategies and programs. Overview of the literature of educational critics.
SOC 552, SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION, 4 Credits
Social patterns within U.S. religious groups, relation of religious groups to society, and the methodological problems in studying such groups.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 553, SOCIOLOGY OF SPORT, 4 Credits
Critical analysis of sport. Examines sport socialization; deviance; violence; gender; race/ethnicity; professional sport careers; intercollegiate athletics; marriage/family; and the media.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 554, LEISURE AND CULTURE, 4 Credits
Examination of the social, cultural, and global significance of leisure activity (in particular, tourism and recreation) from a historical perspective relative to attitudes, values, behaviors, and use of natural resources.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 556, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN SOCIAL CONTEXT, 4 Credits
Study of social aspects of science and technology (values, practices, organization, impacts) by analysis of issues revealing their relationship to other social and cultural processes.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 560, THE SOCIOLOGY OF GLOBALIZATION, 4 Credits
Examines the sociological effect of globalization on Western and non-Western societies. The course focuses on changes in the global economy and how this has influenced the social structure, patterns of change, and mutual influences among societies.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 570, COLLECTIVE BEHAVIOR, 4 Credits
Examines current theories; focuses on behavior in crowds and diverse social settings including fads/fashions, ecstatic crowds/miracles, natural/technological disasters, urban legends, collective delusions/mass hysteria, protest/demonstrations, riots/mobs.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 571, PROTESTS AND SOCIAL CHANGE, 4 Credits
Introduces core theoretical and methodological issues related to social movements in the US and abroad. Emphasizes social forces giving rise to movements, tactics employed by movements, and impacts of them on society. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 471/SOC 471 and PPOL 571/SOC 571.
Equivalent to: PPOL 571
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 575, RURAL SOCIOLOGY, 4 Credits
Helps students understand the rich diversity in rural society, with an emphasis on the interdependencies between urban and rural contexts. Current issues and social problems experienced by rural populations and how sociology is used to understand and address issues affecting rural communities are explored.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 580, ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIOLOGY, 4 Credits
Explores the evolution of environmental thought, paradigm shifts, and institutional structures associated with environmental concerns, social movements, and social impacts.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 581, SOCIETY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, 4 Credits
Explores the complex interrelationships between humans and natural resources, emphasizing how management decisions and organizations are enmeshed in social and cultural contexts.
Recommended: SOC 204
Available via Ecampus
SOC 582, ENERGY, CLIMATE AND SOCIETY, 4 Credits
Explores the complex interrelationships between humans and energy, emphasizing the role of energy in critical social issues, including but not limited to: domestic and international conflict, poverty, social change, inter-generational equity, energy transitions and environmental justice. CROSSLISTED as PPOL 541/SOC 582.
Equivalent to: PPOL 541
Available via Ecampus
SOC 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Recommended: SOC 204
SOC 808, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.