School of Social and Behavioral Sciences

The School of Social Sciences is committed to the goals of a liberal education by fostering intellectual growth through the study of human behavior, social institutions, history, government, culture, and the criminal justice system. The school prepares students to think critically, communicate effectively, conduct meaningful research, and engage thoughtfully with the complex social, political, and cultural issues that shape local, national, and global communities.

Faculty are dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service while providing students with opportunities for undergraduate research, experiential learning, and community engagement. Through interdisciplinary study, students develop the analytical, quantitative, and communication skills needed for careers in public service, education, business, law, criminal justice, government, social services, and other professional fields, as well as for graduate and professional study.

The school promotes critical inquiry and innovative approaches to understanding individuals, communities, and societies, with particular attention to the well-being of South Texas and the U.S.–Mexico border region. Programs emphasize human development, social interaction, cultural awareness, public policy, governance, criminology, counseling, family and community studies, Mexican American culture and folklore, borderlands studies, and the historical forces that shape contemporary society.

The school offers undergraduate degree programs in Criminal Justice, Criminology, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology, along with a variety of minors that complement students' academic and career goals. Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty advisors to develop academic plans that align with their educational interests and professional aspirations.

Anthropology (ANTH)

ANTH 2301  Physical Anthropology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An introduction to the origins and evolution of humans as reconstructed from the fossil record and from patterns of anatomical, behavioral and genetic similarity among living primates.

ANTH 2302  Introduction to Archeology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

General introduction to the field of archeology. Emphasis on methods of data collection, analysis and a world review of major events in the development of past human civilizations.

ANTH 2346  General Anthropology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Major aspects of culture (social organization, economics, religion, etc.); cultural patterns and sociocultural change; prehistory of humans and the development of their culture.

ANTH 3304  Fundamentals of Archaeology  3 SCH  (3)  

Methods of data collection, analysis and theory in anthropological archaeology. Case studies of cultural development in selected ancient and historic societies. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science.

ANTH 4301  Social Theory  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Development of social theory as represented by Comte, Spencer, Durkheim and Weber, to contemporary schools of thought, including functionalism, conflict, symbolic interactionism, structuralism and world systems theory. Prerequisite: ANTH 2302 or SOCI 1301 and 6 semester hours of advanced Anthropology or Sociology. (Credit may not be obtained in both ANTH 4301 and SOCI 4383.)

ANTH 4303  Folk Medicine  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An examination of the folk medical system of Mexican Americans from an anthropological perspective. Includes an exploration of household remedies (including herbal remedies), folk illness syndromes, various folk healers (including parteras, or midwives, and sobadores, or massagers), curanderismo (folk healing) and brujeria (witchcraft) in present-day Mexican American culture in South Texas and the Southwest. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of Anthropology/Southwest Borderlands Studies or 6 semester hours of social science.

ANTH 4305  Language and Culture  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to the social and cultural aspects of language and provides framework and methodology for studying and analyzing the many elements which make up verbal and non-verbal communication in various speech communities in the United States. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of Anthropology/Southwest Borderlands Studies or 6 semester hours of social science.

ANTH 4348  Multicultural Groups  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Issues of multicultural groups with salient ethnic characteristics; analysis of the concept of ethnic identity and belonging, and examination of the dynamics of group cohesion within political, economic, social, and immigration contexts. Prerequisites: junior standing or approval of the instructor. (Credit may not be given for both ANTH 4348 and SOCI 4348.)

ANTH 4350  Selected Topics in Anthrop  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research in anthropological areas not otherwise treated in depth in available courses. May be repeated once for credit when topics differ. Prerequisite: ANTH 2302 or SOCI 1301 and 6 semester hours of social science.

ANTH 4382  Methods of Social Research  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to the study of the scientific method as applied to social research, including the logic of science, covering the nature of data, hypotheses, concepts and objectivity. Prerequisites: ANTH 2302 or SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of advanced Anthropology or Sociology. (Credit may be obtained in only one of ANTH 4382, CRIM 4382 or SOCI 4382.)

Criminal Justice (CRIJ)

CRIJ 1301  Intro to Criminal Justice  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to the operation of the U.S. criminal justice system including an overview of law enforcement, the judiciary and corrections.

CRIJ 1306  Court System and Practices  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examination of the role of the judiciary in the criminal justice system. Topics include the structure of the American court system, prosecution, pretrial procedures, grand jury process, adjudication process, types and rules of evidence, and sentencing concepts. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 1310  Fundamentals of Criminal Law  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of criminal law, its philosophical and historical development, major definitions and concepts, classifications and elements of crime, penalties using Texas statutes as illustrations and criminal responsibility. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 1313  Juvenile Justice System  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introductory overview of the juvenile justice system in the United States, to include common law roots, case law and evolution of juvenile courts and corrections. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 2313  Correctional Syst & Practices  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introductory overview of modern corrections including its history and current correctional issues and practices. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 2314  Criminal Investigation  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Investigative theory; collection and preservation of evidence; sources of information; interview and interrogation; uses of forensic sciences; case and trial preparation as they apply to the field of criminal justice. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 2323  Legal Aspects of Law Enf  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A study of the procedural rules for judicial enforcement of the substantive criminal law and analysis of constitutional law as it relates to the criminal justice system. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 2328  Police Systems & Practices  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introductory overview of the U.S. system of policing including its history, development and methods of policing. Prerequisite: CRIJ 1301.

CRIJ 3304  Research Methods in CRIJ  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examination of various research, planning and evaluation methods as they apply to the field of criminal justice. Prerequisites: CRIJ 1301 and 6 hours of Criminal Justice.

CRIJ 4301  Criminal Justice Theory  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Survey of the origins and subfields of criminology/criminal justice, how crime is defined and measured, issues affecting victims of crime and leading theories that attempt to explain crime. Prerequisites: CRIJ 1301 and 6 hours of Criminal Justice.

CRIJ 4302  Criminal Justice Ethics  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An examination of the philosophical ideals of ethics that arise in the criminal justice context. Prerequisites: CRIJ 1301 and 6 hours of Criminal Justice.

CRIJ 4304  Organization & Mgmt in CRIJ  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Overview of the various management and organization theories as applied to the criminal justice context. Prerequisites: CRIJ 1301 and 6 hours of Criminal Justice.

CRIJ 4305  Sem in Criminal Justice (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Intensive seminar in Criminal Justice, culminating in the production of a significant research paper. Prerequisites: Six hours of CRIJ and PSYC 3381 or SOCI 3381.

CRIJ 4320  Law and Society  3 SCH  (3-0)  

In-depth examination of law and society through the philosophy and evolution of legal systems and legal institutions. The major functions of law as agents of social control, dispute resolution and societal engineering are addressed. Prerequisites: POLS 2304 or SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of Criminal Justice, Criminology or Sociology. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4320, CRIM 4320 and SOCI 4320.)

CRIJ 4331  Constitutional Law I  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Survey of American constitutional law, using leading cases, both historic and contemporary, of the Supreme Court of the United States. Establishment of the federal political system for which the Constitution provided and the judicial allocations of political and economic power within that system. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of Political Science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4331, POLS 4331 and CRIM 4331.)

CRIJ 4332  Constitutional Law II  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Survey of American constitutional law using leading cases, both historic and contemporary, of the Supreme Court of the United States. Matters of rights and liberties, their recognition and definition, policies of rights developed by the Supreme Court of the United States. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of Political Science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4332, POLS 4332 and CRIM 4332.)

CRIJ 4333  The American Judicial Process  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Federal judicial system in terms of structure, function and process with stress on court interaction at both intracourt and intersystem levels. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of Political Science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4333, POLS 4333 and CRIM 4333.)

CRIJ 4338  Topics in Criminal Justice  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Focused study of an issue in Criminal Justice. May be repeated for credit when the topic changes. Prerequisite: 6 hrs. of Criminal Justice.

CRIJ 4345  Victimology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examination of the historical role of crime victims, nature of victimization in modern society, the victimization process, solutions to victimization and victim's rights. Emphasis given to the social, legal, psychological and societal aspects of victimization. Victim-offender interaction and societal response to victimization will also be treated. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIJ 4345 and CRIM 4345.)

CRIJ 4907  Criminal Justice Internship  1-9 SCH  (1-9)  

Experiential learning of criminal justice in real-life conditions providing an arena for the application of classroom principles within the context of the day to day reality of the criminal justice system. The internship includes, but is not limited to, field supervision and/or observation. Prerequisites: Junior or Senior status, approval by Program Director, acceptance by Appropriate Organization. May be repeated for a maximum of nine semester hours toward degree.

Criminology (CRIM)

CRIM 2321  Introduction to Criminology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Extent, types, causation, patterns, and organization, apprehension, punishment treatment, agents and agencies related to crime and criminals, including experiences such as field trips and visits to jail may be included. Student must furnish own transportation.

CRIM 3302  Social Deviance  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Survey of the sociological and psychological aspects of deviant behavior. Nature of deviance, types of deviant behavior, causal theories and social policy implications. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 3302 and SOCI 3302.) Prerequisites: SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of Criminology or Sociology.

CRIM 3320  Psych of Criminal Behavior  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Psychological processes related to behaviorism, social learning theory, aggression theory, bio-psychological factors, criminal homicide, sexual offenses, drugs and crime, correctional psychology, the criminal offender and the mentally disordered offender. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 3320 and PSYC 3320.) Prerequisites: PSYC 2301 and SOCI 1301.

CRIM 3321  Introduction to Criminology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Extent, types, causation, patterns and organization, apprehension, punishment treatment, agents and agencies related to crime and criminals, including experiences such as field trips and visits to jail may be included. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 3321 and SOCI 3321.) Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.

CRIM 3322  Juvenile Delinquency  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Incidences, types, causation, patterns, processes, treatment agencies and research as related to juvenile delinquency. Selected practical experiences such as field trips to juvenile institutions. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 3322 and SOCI 3322.) Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.

CRIM 4304  Juvenile Delinquency  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Incidence, types, causation, patterns, processes, treatment agencies and research as related to juvenile delinquency. Selected practical experiences such as trips to juvenile institutions. Prerequisite: SOCI 1301. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 4304 and SOCI 4304.)

CRIM 4320  Law and Society  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An in-depth examination of law and society through the philosophy and evolution of legal systems and legal institutions. The major functions of law as agents of social control, dispute resolution and societal engineering are addressed. Prerequisites: POLS 2304 or SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of Sociology, Criminology, or Criminal Justice. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4320, CRIM 4320, and SOCI 4320.)

CRIM 4321  Criminological Theory (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An overview of the principle theories of criminality and the application of these theories to contemporary crime issues. Prerequisite: CRIM 3321 or SOCI 3321.

CRIM 4325  Corrections  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Overview of social psychological, cultural, sociological and political factors related to the correctional enterprise. Includes treatment of the context of corrections, correctional practices, correctional issues, correctional institutions and correctional perspectives. May include field trips to correctional institutions. Prerequisite: CRIM 3321 or SOCI 3321. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 4325 and SOCI 4325.)

CRIM 4326  Commun Resources in Correction  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An analysis of correctional processes and facilities available at the community level. Topics include: probation, parole, diversion, halfway houses, community reintegration procedures, community treatment centers and volunteer programs. Emphasis is placed on social structure, functions and problems of community-based programs. May include practical experiences such as field trips. Prerequisites: CRIM 3321 and SOCI 1301.

CRIM 4327  Organized Crime  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Social structure and organizational factors leading to the development of organized criminal activity, as analyzed from a sociological perspective. The nature, extent, types, costs, and structure of white-collar crimes will be treated. Prerequiste: 6 semester hours of Criminology.

CRIM 4328  White Collar Crime  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Types of white collar crime; the social structure and organizational factors leading to its development. Its nature, extent, and costs, as well as society's response. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology.

CRIM 4331  Constitutional Law I  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of American constitutional law, using leading cases, both historic and contemporary, of the Supreme Court of the United States. Establishment of the federal political system for which the Constitution provided and the judicial allocations of political and economic power within that system. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of political science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4331, CRIM 4331 and POLS 4331.)

CRIM 4336  Drugs and Social Control  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research pertaining to the social control of drugs. Critical analyses of the normative and legal rules governing distribution, use, and overall consumption patterns in both legal and illegal contexts. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIM 4336, PSYC 4336, and SOCI 4336.)

CRIM 4337  Peace Studies  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Analyses of relevant theories and concepts such as peace building, social and environment justice, as well as direct, structural, and cultural violence. Causes and consequences of socioeconomic inequality and human suffering including racism, sexism, and various other forms of prejudice and social discrimination. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIM 4337, PSYC 4337, and SOCI 4337.)

CRIM 4338  Police and Society  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Types of policing agencies and police in contemporary American society, treated in terms of their nature, organization, functions, problems, and components. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology.

CRIM 4340  Topics in Criminology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research in the area of criminology not otherwise treated in depth in available courses. Topics will vary according to needs, interests and capability of the instructor. May be repeated once for credit when topic differs. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology.

CRIM 4342  Substance Abuse  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A general survey of current research on psychological, social, legal and situational factors involved in substance usage and its effect on human behavior and criminal activity. Includes a treatment of therapeutic procedures and facilities. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 4342 and PSYC 4342.) Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology or Psychology.

CRIM 4345  Victimology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An examination of the historical role of crime victims, nature of victimization in modern society, the victimization process, solutions to victimization and victim's rights. Emphasis given to the social, legal, psychological and societal aspects of victimization. Victim-offender interaction and societal response to victimization will also be treated. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIM 4345 and CRIJ 4345.)

CRIM 4346  Gangs and Gang Behavior  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Gangs and gang behavior from a cross-cultural perspective. The historical evolution of gangs in America and Europe. Emphasis on the causes, consequences and social control of gangs in relation to society. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology.

CRIM 4348  Violence  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Types of violence from a historical and cross-cultural perspective, identifying and delineating patterns of violent behavior. Social structure and culture are linked to violence and examined in the context of individuals, groups and societies. Emphasis is placed on the social control of violence. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology.

CRIM 4382  Methods of Social Research  3 SCH  (3)  

Introduction to the study of the scientific method as applied to social research including the logic of science, covering the nature of data, hypotheses, concepts and objectivity. (Credit may be obtained in only one of CRIM 4382, ANTH 4382 or SOCI 4382.) Prerequisites: SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of Sociology.

Government (GOVT)

GOVT 2304  Intro to Political Science  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Development of political science as an academic discipline; the scientific method; major research approaches to the study of political phenomena with emphasis upon the contributions of behavioralists, policy scientists and traditional political scientists.

GOVT 2305  Federal Government  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the structures, functions and processes of the political system of the United States. Fulfills 3 semester hours of the legislative degree requirement of 6 hours.

GOVT 2306  Texas Government  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the structures, functions and processes of the Texas political system. Fulfills 3 semester hours of the legislative degree requirements of 6 hours.

History (HIST)

HIST 1301  United States History I  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the United States from the era of exploration through the period of Reconstruction (1877).

HIST 1302  United States History II  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the United States from the period of Reconstruction (1877) to the present.

HIST 2321  World Civilizations I  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The history of world civilizations from pre-literary times to 1500 CE. Emphasis is on the political, religious, economic and cultural characteristics of these civilizations and their contributions to the contemporary world.

HIST 2322  World Civilizations II  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The history of world civilization from 1500 to present. Emphasis is on the political, religious, economic, and cultural characteristics of these civilizations and their contributions to the contemporary world.

HIST 2327  Mexican-American History I (to ca. 1870)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the economic, social, political, intellectual and cultural history of Mexican Americans/Chicanx before the twentieth century.

HIST 2328  Mexican-American History II (since ca. 1850)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the economic, social, political, intellectual and cultural history of Mexican Americans/Chicanx after 1850.

HIST 2381  African American History I (to ca. 1877)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the social, political, economic, cultural, and intellectual history of people of African descent in the formation and development of the United States to the Civil War/Reconstruction period.

HIST 2382  African American History II (since ca. 1877)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of the social, political, economic, cultural, and intellectual history of people of African descent in the United States from the period of Civil War/Reconstruction to the present.

HIST 3301  Methods of Hist Research  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Procedures and methods of historical research. Introduction to types of historical data, the analysis of sources, the use of computer techniques in historical research and the methods of historical writing. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of history.

HIST 3335  American Military History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Military History course covers military history from early colonial warfare in the eighteenth century to the global war on terrorism in the twenty-first century. The purpose of this course is to lead Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets to understanding the role military officers have played in the development of our country. (Credit may not be obtained in both HIST 3335 and ROTC 3335.)

HIST 4305  History Internship  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Allows students to gain practical experience in an area of public history while earning class credit. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of History.

HIST 4312  Europe in the Middle Ages  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Political, economic and cultural developments in Europe from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Renaissance. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4313  Early Modern Europe  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of themes in European history focusing on the Renaissance and Reformation and religious change; expansion of state power and resistance, new scientific understandings; changing economic and gender roles; the development of Enlightenment ideas. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4317  French Revolution & Napoleon  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of the actors and events of the French Revolution and its impact upon European history concluding with analysis of the role and significance of Napoleon and the Nopoleonic Wars. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4318  Twentieth-Century Europe  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Political, social and cultural developments in Europe from the Belle Epoque through the end of the Cold War. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4334  Civil War and Reconstruction  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Secession, formation of the Confederacy, military campaigns and Reconstruction. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4338  United States Since 1945  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Post-war abundance, the Cold War, social and cultural changes, the Vietnam era, and the post-Nixon years. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4343  African American Heritage: Social Movements and Cultural Impact  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An advanced exploration of African American heritage, tracing the rich cultural tapestry from its African roots to contemporary society. Students will engage in an interdisciplinary examination of the African American experience, encompassing historical, social, cultural, and artistic dimensions.

HIST 4346  Texas History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Spanish background, Anglo-American settlement, the Revolution and Republic, and statehood; economic, cultural, and political development. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4348  Latina/o History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey from the first Spanish settlers to the present. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4350  Latin America  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Historical background of contemporary Latin America. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4356  Mexico  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Political, economic, and social history of Mexico from pre-Columbian times to the present. Emphasis on the last century. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4360  Women in History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Investigation of women's historical place in global themes such as patriarchy, sexual politics, work, religion, peace, colonization and the body. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science. (Credit may not be obtained in both HIST 4360 and WGST 4360.)

HIST 4370  Crucial Topics Eur Hist  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Specialized topics in European History. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Prerequisites: 12 semester hours of history and/or political science.

HIST 4380  Crucial Topics U.S. History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Specialized topics in United States History. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisites: 12 semester hours of history and/or political science.

HIST 4392  Crucial Top Latin Am History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Specialized topics in Latin American History. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Prerequisites: 12 semester hours of history and/or political science.

HIST 4394  Crucial Topics World History  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Specialized topics in World History. May be repeated for credit as the topic changes. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of History and/or Political Science.

HIST 4397  Advanced Seminar Topics (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Capstone experience for history majors, focusing on one of the major fields of the department: United States, Latin American, European, Non-Western, and World. Completion of this seminar with a minimum grade of C is required of all history majors prior to graduation. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: 12 semester credit hours in history.

Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS)

HDFS 2320  Foundations of Human Dvpt  3 SCH  (2-2)  

Introduction to psychosocial and family development at all stages of the individual and family life cycle. Overview of the theories and enhancement of development and growth in physical, mental, social and emotional areas within a family context.

Fee: $5.00

HDFS 2321  Prenatal Infant & Toddler Dev  3 SCH  (2-2)  

In-depth study of the theories of child growth and development from conception through the first two years. Includes interactions with caregivers, peers and the environment.

Fee: $5.00

HDFS 2322  Family & Community Health  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Personal, family and community health problems; community and government health agencies; principles of first aid and home care of the sick with special reference to the care of children and the aged.

HDFS 2323  Marriage & Family Relations  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Analysis of the family unit as a group of interacting members at each stage of the life cycle. Emphasis on the cultural and social influences upon dating, intimacy, commitment and marriage. Exploration of positive communication skills and relationship enhancement techniques and alternate life styles in modern society.

HDFS 3320  Development of Early Childhood  3 SCH  (2-2)  

In-depth study of the theories of child growth and developmental as they relate to each developmental domain during early childhood. Observation and participation required.

Fee: $5.00

HDFS 3322  Parenthood  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Parenthood Basic principles and skills for parent effectiveness, diverse parenting situations, parent-child interaction and communication. Methods, materials, and techniques for teaching parenting. Prerequisite: junior standing.

HDFS 3333  Child Advocacy & Protection  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course will focus on each developmental domain and explore what impact child maltreatment has on development, behaviors, and relationships. The course will explore root causes of each type of abuse, prevalence, and impact at the individual, filial and community level. This course includes examination of state and national-level evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies. Enrollment is open to any students interested in child advocacy but can be difficult to discuss at times. Prerequisite: Junior Standing.

HDFS 4320  The Family in Later Life  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Family-oriented problem solving and its relation to major gerontological issues such as intergenerational struggles, independence, loneliness, alternative living arrangements; an examination of family kinship patterns in later life; relationships with spouse, adult children and siblings.

HDFS 4321  Development in Young Adulthood  3 SCH  (3-0)  

In-depth student of the theoretical approach related to development during early adulthood. Includes discussion of various transitions emerging adults are faced with (e.g., starting college, delaying family); social and economic pressures and motivation that impact and shape behaviors and choices made during young adulthood.

HDFS 4322  Family Theory  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of theories (e.g., social exchange systems) that focus on filial structure, communication, family stressors and dynamics with a postmodern approach. Assesses central tenets of each theory and how they can help facilitate an understanding of the family today (e.g., public policy).

HDFS 4343  Special Topics in HDFS  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This special topics course focuses on recent developments in theory, philosophy, research and/or applied approaches to human development and family studies. Course may be repeated for credit when topic changes.

Philosophy (PHIL)

PHIL 1301  Introd to Philosophy  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Inquiries into the nature of the self, the universe and society as they relate to various definitions of reality, truth and value with readings from major works of classical and modern philosophers.

PHIL 2303  Introduction to Logic  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Surveys formal methods of deductive and inductive logic with an emphasis on syllogistics, truth-functional logic and quantificational logic. Topics include Venn Diagrams, truth tables, quantifiers, rules of inference, formal proofs and probabilistic reasoning.

PHIL 2340  Professional Ethics  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This interdisciplinary course explores ethical principles, frameworks, and dilemmas encountered across professional fields. Students will analyze ethical tensions that arise in professional practice, examine professional codes of ethics from various disciplines, develop strategies for ethical decision-making, and practice interprofessional communication in diverse, real-world scenarios. Suitable for students in nursing, public health, business, education, engineering, criminal justice, and other professional programs.

PHIL 3313  Applied Ethics  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to contemporary moral issues: corporate responsibility, abortion, capital punishment, drug legalization, animal rights, gay marriage, economic quality, free speech, etc.

PHIL 3315  Philosophy of Religion  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A philosophical examination of issues basic to religion, including the relation of faith to symbols and language, religious understandings of the nature of man, the traditional proofs for God's existence, the relationship of religion to philosophy, to culture, to science and to morality.

PHIL 3346  Symbolic Logic  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Surveys propositional and quantificational logic. Topics include translations between formal languages and English, logical consequence, formal methods of proof and elements of metatheory. Prerequisites: 3 semester hours of PHIL or MATH or consent of instructor.

PHIL 4303  Philosophy of Mind  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Surveys the nature of consciousness and the mind-body problem. Topics include the question whether computers could think, dualism, functionalism, mental causation and mental representation. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of PHIL or PSYC or consent of the instructor.

PHIL 4305  Epistemology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Surveys theories of knowledge and skepticism. Topics include a prior knowledge, foundationalism, coherentism, theories of perception, externalism and contextualism. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of PHIL or consent of instructor.

PHIL 4317  Moral Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Well-being, moral responsibility, ethical naturalism, innateness or morality, moral heuristics and biases, moral intuitions, emotions and sentiments, morality and evolution, egoism and altruism, moral disagreement, character and virtue,psychopathology, and moral development. (Credit may not be obtained in both PHIL 4317 and PSYC 4317.)

PHIL 4337  Philosophy of Language  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Surveys topics such as speech acts, truth and meaning, proper names, demonstratives, propositional attitudes, conversational implicature and private languages. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of PHIL.

PHIL 4394  Special Problems in Philosophy  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Special studies in philosophy. Course may be repeated for credit, if different topic is offered.

Political Science (POLS)

POLS 2340  World Politics  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Analysis of the contemporary state system and forces shaping the world in which we live. Students will be given a framework within which to analyze global political issues and international institutions and their impact on American politics and government.

POLS 3302  Research and Analy in Pol Sci  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The practice of political science. The construction of research designs; major research tools; methods of political analysis; political science writing. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4312  Interest Group and Pol Parties  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Formation, structure and functions of interest groups and political parties within the political system. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4314  State and Local Govt and Admin  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Structure and functions of governmental institutions; administrative practices of state and local governments. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4321  Polit Theory Ancient and Med  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The theories of the major thinkers of the periods and of their development. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4322  Polit Theory Early Mod and Mod  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Theories of the major thinkers and the related intellectual and political movements. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4331  Constitutional Law I  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of American constitutional law, using leading cases, both historic and contemporary, of the Supreme Court of the United States. Establishment of the federal political system for which the Constitution provided and the judicial allocations of political and economic power within that system. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of political science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4331, CRIM 4331 and POLS 4331.)

POLS 4332  Constitutional Law II  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A survey of American constitutional law using leading cases, both historic and contemporary, of the Supreme Court of the United States. Matters of rights and liberties, their recognition and definition, policies of rights developed by the Supreme Court of the United States. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of political science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4332, CRIM 4332 and POLS 4332.)

POLS 4333  American Justice Process  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The federal Judicial System in terms of structure, function and process with stress on court interaction at both intracourt and intersystem levels. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of political science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4333, CRIM 4333 and POLS 4333.)

POLS 4341  International Relations (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The underlying principles governing political relations among sovereign states and the application of these principles to contemporary international problems. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4342  International Org (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Basic features, functions and problems of international organizations through the League of Nations, the United Nations, and its specialized agencies and other important regional organizations in the context of the world situation. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4343  International Law  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An introduction to the study of international law. This course examines the definition, object and sources of international law as well as its relationship to domestic law and to the study of international relations. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of political science. (Credit may not be obtained in both CRIJ 4343 and POLS 4343.)

POLS 4351  Comparative Politics  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The structures, functions, and processes of selected political systems. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4354  Govt and Polit of Latin Amer  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The structures, functions and processes of the political systems of the nations of Central America, the Caribbean and South America. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4355  Govt and Politics of Mexico  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The structures, functions and processes of the political system of Mexico. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4361  Public Administration  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The place of public administration in government; the relations of the bureaucracy to other government institutions and the public. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4363  Policy and Policy Making in US  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Public policy and its formation through the interaction of political groups and governmental institutions in selected areas of public policy; relevant comparisons to other national systems. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science.

POLS 4370  Spec Studies in Polit Sci  1-3 SCH  (1-3-0)  

An intensive examination of special topics of study in political science. Course may be repeated for credit when the topic of study changes. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Political Science or consent of the instructor.

Psychology (PSYC)

PSYC 2301  Introd to Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Scientific method of psychology; psychological phenomena and basic processes necessary to understanding human behavior.

PSYC 2305  Women Issues in Health and Sex  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examines health and medical issues for women, legal and political realities that influence women's lives and important aspects of intimacy and sexuality with a focus on both physiological and psychological development. (Credit can be received in only one of PSYC 2305, EDHL 2305 or WMST 2305.)

PSYC 2306  Human Sexuality  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Biophysical and psychological aspects of human sexuality. (Credit may not be obtained in both PSYC 2306 and SOCI 2306.)

PSYC 2308  Child Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A scientific study of the child as a sentient organism. The best methods of child study; native and learned behavior patterns and their development; the nature, amount and significance of individual differences; typical and atypical child behavior; emotions; play; language; work in specific capacity and interest; growing personality. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and sophomore standing.

PSYC 2314  Lifespan Developmental Psyc  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Human growth and development through the prenatal, child, adolescent, and adult stages of life. Physical, emotional, psychosocial, and cognitive influences from conception to death will be addressed.

PSYC 3301  Social Psychology (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Theory and phenomena of social psychology. The nature and type of social variables and the methods used to study them. The effect of social variables upon the behavior of individuals. (Credit may not be obtained in both PSYC 3301 and SOCI 3301.) Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of psychology or PSYC 2301 and 9 additional semester hours of social sciences courses.

PSYC 3303  Psychol of Pers Adjustment  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Adjustment problems of normal people. Principles of healthy psychological functioning in relation to family, peers, career, community and culture. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 3314  Psychology of Adolescence  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Treats the definition of adolescence, research and theory concerning the biological, moral, sex-role, personality and emotional development. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science approved by the instructor.

PSYC 3315  Health Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examines and defines the nature of illness and healing through the integration of biophysiological, psychoneuroimmunological, psychological and environmental factors. Examines stress and stress management techniques. Prerequisites: 9 hours of social science and PSYC 2301.

PSYC 3320  Psych of Criminal Behavior  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Psychological processes related to behaviorism, social learning theory, aggression theory, bio-psychological factors, criminal homicide, sexual offenses, drugs and crime, correctional psychology, the criminal offender and the mentally disordered offender. (Credit may not be obtained in both PSYC 3320 and CRIM 3320.) Prerequisites: PSYC 2301 and SOCI 1301.

PSYC 3381  Statistics for Behavioral Sci  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Statistics course designed for students in behavioral sciences with a focus on descriptive and inferential statistics. Covers fundamental concepts in sampling, data structure and organization, as well as statistical analysis and interpretation. (Credit may not be obtained in both PSYC 3381 and SOCI 3381.) Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science.

PSYC 3387  Experimental Psychology  3 SCH  (2-2)  

Introduction to experimentation in psychology. Basic experiments will be performed on the discriminal process, motivation and learning. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of Psychology and PSYC 3381 or equivalent.

PSYC 4301  Cross-Cultural Psychology (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Psychological processes related to perception, cognition, human development, psychopathology, gender influences and social behavior from a cross-cultural perspective. Current theories, methods and research findings. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 9 additional semester hours of Psychology. (May be counted as any one of the following: PSYC 4301, ANTH 3301, ANTH 3302, or ANTH 4305.)

PSYC 4303  Environmental Psychology (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Relationships between people and the environments in which they live, work and play, from a broad interdisciplinary perspective encompassing psychology, sociology, urban planning, landscape architecture, public policy and public health. Prerequisites: PSYC 2301 and 9 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4304  Family Therapy  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An overview of family systems approaches to etiology and treatment. Family dysfunctions that result from drug and alcohol usage and other causes are emphasized. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of psychology.

PSYC 4305  Advanced Human Sexuality  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Psychosocial factors in human sexuality with emphasis on sexual adjustment, sexual dysfunctions, sexual variations and new approaches in sex therapy. Appropriate field trips may be included. Prerequisite: PSYC 2306 or SOCI 2306. (Credit may not be obtained in both PSYC 4305 and SOCI 4305.)

PSYC 4306  Intro. to Neuropsychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Comprehensive introduction to the relationship between brain and behavior. Topics include the foundations of neuropsychology, the brain's organization and functional systems, and neuropsychological perspectives of memory, attention, language, emotion, and spatial functions, and their related disorders.

PSYC 4307  Psychopharmacology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to psychopharmacology, summarizing the basic concepts of the functions of the organs and systems of the human body. Identification and assessment of the actions, effects, uses and abuses of legal and illegal drugs.

PSYC 4311  Intro. to Counseling Skills  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to counseling, counseling theories, and interpersonal communication skills that facilitate counseling relationships. Designed for upper-division undergraduates considering a helping profession or who wish to know more about counseling before entering into graduate study.

PSYC 4312  Physiological Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to the physiological substrata of behavior; including basic neuroanatomy, research techniques, basic physiology, sensory processes and central nervous system functions. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301.

PSYC 4315  Sel Topics in Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research in areas of psychology not otherwise treated in depth in available courses. May be repeated once as topics change. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 9 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4317  Moral Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Well-being, moral responsibility, ethical naturalism, innateness or morality, moral heuristics and biases, moral intuitions, emotions and sentiments, morality and evolution, egoism and altruism, moral disagreement, character and virtue,psychopathology, and moral development. (Credit may not be obtained in both PHIL 4317 and PSYC 4317.)

PSYC 4318  App of Behavioral Neuroscience  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of American literature, emphasizing the characteristics of different genres and historical periods and further refining writing skills. Prerequisite ENGL 1301.

PSYC 4320  Counseling Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

in-depth examination of counseling psychology and various theoretical approaches. Includes the implications of these approaches to our understanding of human nature, illness, change, and potential.

PSYC 4322  Psychology of Personality  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A comparison of personality theories and the implications for personality development and change. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4323  History & Systems of Psyc  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Important historical antecedents and contemporary psychological systems. An exit course that integrates diverse material encountered in the discipline. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 6 additional semester hours of advanced Psychology; senior standing.

PSYC 4325  Abnormal Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Personality development and adjustment, causes of abnormal behavior, neuroses, psychoses, suicide, personality disorders and crime. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4328  Psychology of Perception  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Analysis of basic perceptual phenomena and theories of perception. Emphasis on sensation, attention, meaning and structural concepts. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4329  Cognitive Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examination of current information-processing models of human cognition. Emphasis on the processes by which stimuli are identified, by which past information is retrieved and used, and by which one's knowledge is modified. Prerequisites: PSYC 2301 and 9 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4330  Biological Psychology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Explores brain-behavior relationships with special emphasis on clinical examples. How the brain and nervous system produce the human range of feelings and behaviors; sensation, emotion, sleep and dreams, reproductive behavior, language, and memory. Examples of dysfunction include depression, schizophrenia, eating disorders, sleep disorders, aggression, dyslexia and amnesias. Prerequisites: PSYC 2301 and 9 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4336  Drugs and Social Control  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research pertaining to the social control of drugs. Critical analyses of the normative and legal rules governing distribution, use, and overall consumption patterns in both legal and illegal contexts. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIM, 4336, PSYC 4336, and SOCI 4336.)

PSYC 4337  Peace Studies  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Analyses of relevant theories and concepts such as peace building, social and environment justice, as well as direct, structural, and cultural violence. Causes and consequences of socioeconomic inequality and human suffering including racism, sexism, and various other forms of prejudice and social discrimination. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIM 4337, PSYC 4337, and SOCI 4337.)

PSYC 4342  Substance Abuse  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A general survey of current research on psychological, social, legal and situational factors involved in substance usage and its effect on human behavior and criminal activity. Includes a treatment of therapeutic procedures and facilities. (Credit may not be obtained in both PSYC 4342 and CRIM 4342.) Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of Criminology or Psychology.

PSYC 4350  Intro to Learning & Memory  3 SCH  (3-0)  

General principles of learning and memory and an introduction to learning theory. Emphasis motivation, conditioning, and problem-solving. Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of Psychology.

PSYC 4351  Directed Research in Psyc  1-3 SCH  (1-3-0)  

Individual instruction course for advanced and qualified undergraduates to obtain supervised research experience in psychology. Student will assist with a research project by working under the individual guidance of a psychology faculty member. Requirements may entail library research, data collection, data entry, statistical analysis and or assistance in planning and conducting parts of a research project. A paper on the research experience is required. Consent of instructor required. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 semester credit hours. Prerequisites: PSYC 3381, PSYC 3387 or SOCI 4382, PSYC 2301 and 3 other, additional semester hours of Psychology. Credit/Non-credit.

Sociology (SOCI)

SOCI 1301  Introduction to Sociology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of the nature of human societies, social processes, social interaction, groups, culture, institutions and social change.

SOCI 1306  Social Problems  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Survey of contemporary social problems and current trends in the direction of their solution. Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.

SOCI 2306  Human Sexuality  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Biophysical and psychological aspects of human sexuality. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 2306 and PSYC 2306.)

SOCI 2319  Minority Studies  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Macrocultural and microcultural variables such as ethnicity, religion, age, socioeconomic status, language, gender and exceptionality and their impact upon major institutions such as education, labor markets and government.

SOCI 3301  Social Psychology (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Theory and phenomena of social psychology. The nature and type of social variables and the methods used to study them. The effect of social variables upon the behavior of individuals. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 3301 and PSYC 3301.) Prerequisite: PSYC 2301 and 3 additional semester hours of Psychology or PSYC 2301 and 9 additional hours of social sciences courses.

SOCI 3302  Social Deviance  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Survey of the sociological and psychological aspects of deviant behavior. Nature of deviance, types of deviant behavior, causal theories and social policy implications. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 3302 and CRIM 3302.) Prerequisites: SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of Sociology or Criminology.

SOCI 3322  Juvenile Delinquency  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Incidence, types, causation, patterns, processes, treatment agencies and research as related to juvenile delinquency. Selected practical experiences such as trips to juvenile institutions. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 3322 and CRIM 3322.) Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.

SOCI 3381  Statistics for Behavioral Sci  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Statistics course designed for students in behavioral sciences with a focus on descriptive and inferential statistics. Covers fundamental concepts in sampling, data structure and organization, as well as statistical analysis and interpretation. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 3381 and PSYC 3381.) Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science.

SOCI 4305  Advanced Human Sexuality  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Psychosocial factors in human sexuality with emphasis on sexual adjustment, sexual dysfunctions, sexual variations and new approaches in sex therapy. Appropriate field trips may be included. Prerequisite: SOCI 2306 or PSYC 2306. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 4305 and PSYC 4305.)

SOCI 4306  Medical Sociology  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay among social determinants, health, and illness, within the framework of sociological perspectives, theories, and methodologies. The course examines the impact of age, gender, and socioeconomic status on the health of various demographic groups, as well as the dynamic relationships between health professionals, patients, and social institutions. Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.

SOCI 4308  Selected Topic in Sociol  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research in areas of sociology not otherwise treated in depth in available courses. May be repeated once for credit when topics differ. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of Sociology.

SOCI 4309  Latina/o Immigration  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course examines Latina/o migration experiences in the U.S. Major themes covered in the class include migration patterns, traditional vs. new destinations, social and political inequality, and labor market struggles. The impact of immigration law as well as the intersection of race, gender, class and other social categories are also examined as they relate to immigrants and their descendants.

SOCI 4310  Population Problems  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to demographic concepts, such as fertility, mortality and migration of human populations in a larger social and cultural contest, and to population problems in modern society. Prerequisites: SOCI 1301 or 6 semester hours of social science.

SOCI 4320  Law and Society  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An in-depth examination of law and society through the philosophy and evolution of legal systems and legal institutions. The major functions of law as agents of social control, dispute resolution and societal engineering are addressed. Prerequisites: POLS 2304 or SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of Sociology, Criminology or Criminal Justice. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIJ 4320, CRIM 4320, and SOCI 4320.)

SOCI 4336  Drugs and Social Control  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Literature and research pertaining to the social control of drugs. Critical analyses of the normative and legal rules governing distribution, use, and overall consumption patterns in both legal and illegal contexts. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIM 4336, PSYC 4336, and SOCI 4336.)

SOCI 4337  Peace Studies  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Analyses of relevant theories and concepts such as peace building, social and environment justice, as well as direct, structural, and cultural violence. Causes and consequences of socioeconomic inequality and human suffering including racism, sexism, and various other forms of prejudice and social discrimination. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of social science. (Credit may not be obtained in more than one of CRIM 4337, PSYC 4337, and SOCI 4337.)

SOCI 4341  Sociology of Aging  3 SCH  (3)  

Study of the last stage in the life-cycle of man. The course emphasizes the interdisciplinary approach necessary in the field of gerontology, the biological, psychological and social aspects of the aging process, along with the social impact of growing proportions of aged persons within the social structure of society. Prerequisite: SOCI 1301.

SOCI 4342  Sociology of Death  3 SCH  (3)  

Sociological examination of the dying process and death, encompassing perspectives on the cultural and institutional mechanisms that support survivors during the grieving, mourning, and bereavement processes. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of Sociology.

SOCI 4345  Sociology of Religion  3 SCH  (3)  

World religions in the context of social, cultural, and ideological perspectives that impact social life in a global world. Prerequisites: junior standing or permission of the instructor.

SOCI 4348  Multicultural Groups in the US  3 SCH  (3)  

Issues of multicultural groups with salient ethnic characteristics; analysis of the concept of ethnic identity and belonging, and examination of the dynamics of group cohesion within political, economic, social, and immigration contexts. Prerequisite: junior standing or approval of the instructor. (Credit may not be given for both ANTH 4348 and SOCI 4348.)

SOCI 4382  Methods of Social Research  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to the study of the scientific method as applied to social research including the logic of science, covering the nature of data, hypotheses, concepts and objectivity. Prerequisites: ANTH 2302 or SOCI 1301 and 3 semester hours of advanced Anthropology or Sociology. (Credit may be obtained in only one of SOCI 4382, ANTH 4382 or CRIM 4382.)

SOCI 4383  Social Theory (WI)  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Development of social theory as represented by Comte, Spencer, Durkheim and Weber, to contemporary schools of thought, including functionalism, conflict, symbolic interactionism, structuralism and world systems theory. Prerequisite: ANTH 2302 or SOCI 1301 and 6 semester hours of advanced Anthropology or Sociology. (Credit may not be obtained in both SOCI 4383 and ANTH 4301.)

Planned Course Offerings

This section provides a comprehensive list of courses offered by the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, along with a three-year schedule indicating when each course is expected to be available. Please note that course offerings and scheduling are subject to change based on faculty availability and student demand. It is recommended that students consult with their academic advisor to plan their course schedule accordingly.

Anthropology (ANTH)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
ANTH 2301 X X X X X X
ANTH 2302 X X X X X X
ANTH 2346 X X X X X X
ANTH 3304 X     X    
ANTH 4301     X   X  
ANTH 4303           X
ANTH 4305 1            
ANTH 4348           X
ANTH 4350 X X X X X X
ANTH 4382         X  

1 This course is available during the summer term only.


Criminal Justice (CRIJ)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
CRIJ 1301 X X X X X X
CRIJ 1306 1            
CRIJ 1310   X   X   X
CRIJ 1313 X X X X X X
CRIJ 2313 X   X   X  
CRIJ 2314         X  
CRIJ 2323 1            
CRIJ 2328   X   X   X
CRIJ 3304 X X X X X X
CRIJ 4301 X   X   X  
CRIJ 4302            
CRIJ 4304   X     X  
CRIJ 4305 X X X X X X
CRIJ 4320 2            
CRIJ 4331  X     X    
CRIJ 4332    X        
CRIJ 4907 X X X X X X
CRIJ 4345 1            
CRIJ 4907 X X X X X X

1 This course is offered when sufficient interest or need is identified by the Department of History, Political Science and Philosophy.
2 This course is cross-listed with CRIM 4320 and SOCI 4320. For availability, refer to the planned course offerings for Criminology and Sociology on this page.


Criminology (CRIM)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
CRIM 2321 X X X X X X

CRIM 3302

X X X X X X
CRIM 3320 X X X X X X
CRIM 3322   X   X   X
CRIM 4304 X   X   X  
CRIM 4320 X   X   X  
CRIM 4321 X   X   X  
CRIM 4325 X X X X X X
CRIM 4326     X     X
CRIM 4327   X   X   X
CRIM 4328 X   X   X  
CRIM 4331 X   X   X  
CRIM 4336 X   X   X  
CRIM 4337   X   X   X
CRIM 4338 X X X X X X
CRIM 4340   X   X   X
CRIM 4342 X   X   X  
CRIM 4348 X   X   X  
CRIM 4382   X   X   X
CRIM 4348   X   X   X
CRIM 4382 X X X X X X

Government (GOVT)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
GOVT 2304 X   X   X  
GOVT 2305 X X X X X X
GOVT 2306 X X X X X X

History (HIST)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
HIST 1301 X X X X X X
HIST 1302 X X X X X X
HIST 2321 X X X X X X
HIST 2322 X X X X X X
HIST 3301 X   X   X  
HIST 4305 X X X X X X
HIST 4313         X  
HIST 4338   X        
HIST 4346 X X X X X X
HIST 4370 X   X     X
HIST 4380 X     X X  
HIST 4392   X        
HIST 4394 X   X      
HIST 4397   X   X   X

Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
HDFS 2320   X     X  
HDFS 2321     X     X
HDFS 2322     X     X
HDFS 2323 X     X    
HDFS 3320           X
HDFS 3322 X     X    
HDFS 3333   X   X X  
HDFS 4320 X     X    
HDFS 4321   X     X  
HDFS 4322     X      
HDFS 4343     X     X

Philosophy (PHIL)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
PHIL 1301 X X X X X X
PHIL 2303 X X X X X X
PHIL 3313 X X X X X X
PHIL 3315 X          
PHIL 3346     X      
PHIL 4303         X  
PHIL 4305           X
PHIL 4317   X        

Political Science (POLS)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
POLS 2340   X     X  
POLS 3302       X   X
POLS 4321            
POLS 4331 X          
POLS 4332   X        
POLS 4333     X   X  
POLS 4341 X          
POLS 4343     X      
POLS 4351       X   X
POLS 4354 X          
POLS 4370   X   X    

Psychology (PSYC)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
PSYC 2301 X X X X X X
PSYC 2305 1            
PSYC 2306 X X X X X X
PSYC 2308 X X X X X X
PSYC 2314 X X X X X X
PSYC 3301 X X X X X X
PSYC 3303         X  
PSYC 3314 X X X X X X
PSYC 3315 X   X   X  
PSYC 3320 X X X X X X
PSYC 3381 X X X X X X
PSYC 3387 X X X X X X
PSYC 4301   X   X   X
PSYC 4303 X   X   X  
PSYC 4304   X   X   X
PSYC 4305 X X X X X X
PSYC 4306 X   X   X  
PSYC 4307   X   X   X
PSYC 4311 X   X   X  
PSYC 4312 X X X X X X
PSYC 4315 1            
PSYC 4317           X
PSYC 4320   X   X   X
PSYC 4322 X X   X X X
PSYC 4323   X   X X X
PSYC 4325 X X X X X X
PSYC 4328 X X X X X X
PSYC 4329 X X X X X X
PSYC 4330 X X X X X X
PSYC 4336 X   X   X  
PSYC 4350   X   X   X
PSYC 4351 X X X X X X
PSYC 4350 X   X      
PSYC 4351 X X X X X X

1 This course is available during the summer term only.


Sociology (SOCI)

Course Fall 2026 Spring 2027 Fall 2027 Spring 2028 Fall 2028 Spring 2029
SOCI 1301 X X X X X X
SOCI 1306 X X X X X X
SOCI 2306 X X X X X X
SOCI 3301   X   X   X
SOCI 3302 X X X X X X
SOCI 3322 X   X   X  
SOCI 3381 X X X X X X
SOCI 4305 X X X X X X
SOCI 4306 X       X X
SOCI 4308 1            
SOCI 4309 X   X   X  
SOCI 4310   X   X   X
SOCI 4320 X X X X X X
SOCI 4336 X   X   X  
SOCI 4337   X   X   X
SOCI 4341 X   X   X  
SOCI 4342       X   X
SOCI 4345   X       X
SOCI 4348           X
SOCI 4382   X   X   X
SOCI 4383         X  

1 This course is available during the summer term only.

Marketable Skills

Texas A&M University-Kingsville is committed to preparing students for success beyond the classroom by helping them develop marketable skills. These are the interpersonal, cognitive, and applied abilities that today's employers value most. Our academic programs are designed to help students build these essential competencies through a blend of academic coursework, hands-on learning, research opportunities, internships, and extracurricular involvement.

Below are the marketable skills provided by each of the school's academic programs.

Criminal Justice

  • Critical thinking
  • Social responsibility
  • Juvenile justice

Criminology

  • Ability to read and understand criminological research
  • Social scientific writing skills
  • Analyze criminological issues, theories, and dilemmas within their social and historical context
  • Ability to conduct social scientific research

History

  • Effective communication
  • Social responsibility
  • Knowledge of United States historical trends and movements

Political Science

  • Critical thinking
  • Social responsibility
  • Urban development policies

Psychology

  • Effective communication
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Personal and social responsibility
  • Empirical and quantitative skills

Sociology

  • Critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Cross-cultural understanding
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Leadership skills
  • Effective communication
  • Data management and computer literacy