Course Listings

Technology in Contemporary Society

BEHS 103 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An interdisciplinary introduction to the role of technology in contemporary society. The aim is to apply principles and concepts from a variety of social science disciplines (e.g., anthropology, sociology, psychology, and gerontology) to explore the influence of technology on society and the effect of technological change on our social lives, including our interpersonal relationships, work, culture, and society. Topics include the way technology changes relationships, the cumulative advantages and disadvantages associated with technology, digital natives versus digital immigrants, the pace of technological change, changes to the nature of how people learn and think, and the meaning of technology in society.

Introduction to Social Sciences

BEHS 210 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An interdisciplinary introduction to the study of society. The objective is to use the combined perspectives of the different social science disciplines to better understand the nature of society. Topics include research methods, ethical considerations in research, and the relationships among the different social sciences. Discussion surveys a range of social sciences. An analysis of social phenomena that integrates insights from the social sciences is also presented. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 201 or BEHS 210.

Diversity Awareness

BEHS 220 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An examination of the many dimensions of diversity within the framework of the social sciences. The aim is to learn how to interact and communicate effectively and appropriately within a diverse society. Emphasis is on using critical thinking to understand stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination and how these phenomena affect society. Discussion explores how adopting a social science perspective on diversity can help to address problems in the workplace, community, culture, and society.

Social Justice Movements

BEHS 250 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An introductory study of movements for social justice from an interdisciplinary perspective. The objective is to use the theoretical approaches and concepts of the social sciences to explain the origin, development, evolution, and outcomes of movements both in the United States and around the world. Topics include individual and group motivations for engaging in social movements; the use of social media; and ways that movements affect culture, society, and government. Discussion explores justice in the areas of climate, race, and gender, among others.

Research Methods in the Social Sciences

BEHS 300 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisites: BEHS 210 and STAT 200. An introduction to the core concepts, research methods, and skills that apply to work in the social sciences. The goal is to begin the process of conducting social science research. Discussion covers the scientific method, as well as quantitative and qualitative research methods specific to the social science disciplines of psychology, sociology, anthropology, and gerontology. Topics also include reliability and validity of data, correlation versus causality, research ethics, institutional review boards, proposal writing, and the unique contribution of interdisciplinarity in social science research.

Disability Studies

BEHS 320 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An interdisciplinary study of disability issues that focuses on understanding and evaluating traditional and current interpretations of the meaning of disability. The goal is to interact and communicate effectively and appropriately in situations relevant to issues of disability. Topics include the construction of images of people with disabilities; attitudes and actions toward those with disabilities; approaches taken by major social institutions (e.g., law, education, religion, the arts) toward disability; distinctions between different models of disability; and current issues in disability studies.

Parenting Today

BEHS 343 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An overview of critical issues in modern parenting in the United States and the world. The objective is to use an interdisciplinary perspective to apply research and theory in family development to practical decision-making, taking into account modern and historical trends such as gender roles, socioeconomic status, and single parenting and the impact of divorce on children. Discussion examines the role of race and ethnicity in parenting, LGBT parenting, and multigenerational and military families.

Alcohol in U.S. Society

BEHS 364 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An interdisciplinary examination of the use and abuse of the drug alcohol from the perspectives of psychology, physiology, sociology, medicine, counseling, law, and public health. The aim is to examine current research and trends in the treatment of alcohol abuse and dependence (including prevention, assessment, and intervention) and to explore the history, etiology, and effects of alcohol abuse and current treatment practices. The effects of alcohol throughout the lifespan are explored in relation to gender, families, race, age, the workplace, and public safety.

End of Life: Issues and Perspectives

BEHS 380 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Formerly GERO 380.) An exploration of death, dying, and bereavement from social, cultural, psychological, biomedical, economic, and historical perspectives. The objective is to clarify one's personal perspective on death and dying, based on a better understanding of end-of-life planning issues, stages of death, and models of care for the dying. Topics include definitions of death, needs of the dying and their support systems, pain management, palliative and hospice care, end-of-life decision-making, cultural meanings and rituals, suicide, euthanasia, homicide, natural disaster, the economics of death and life-sustaining care, family conflict and coping, bereavement, and grieving. Students may earn credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 380 or GERO 380.

Independent Study in Behavioral and Social Science

BEHS 399HS | 1 - 4 Credits

Course Desc: Directed independent study of topics of special interest not covered by regularly scheduled courses in biology. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

Domestic Violence

BEHS 453 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An examination of the complex phenomenon of domestic violence from a multidisciplinary perspective that integrates individual, social, political, cultural/ethnic, economic, legal, and medical viewpoints. The aim is to evaluate research and theoretical models of domestic violence; assess institutional, community, and individual responses to domestic violence; and locate effective resources. Topics include neglect and the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of children, partners, and the elderly. Discussion also covers response systems and mechanisms to prevent and treat violence. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 453 or BEHS 454.

Social Science Capstone

BEHS 495 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: Completion of all required major coursework. A capstone study of the social sciences that integrates perspectives from various disciplines in the field. The aim is to apply theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence to address complex contemporary social problems and become better consumers and purveyors of knowledge and research. Topics include ethical and professional issues inherent in working in the social sciences and the role of advocacy in promoting social change.