UG Course Descriptions

An overview of the history and structure of the Pennsylvania and Federal criminal courts. Included is an in-depth analysis of criminal court procedures including initiation of charges, bail, summary proceedings, preliminary hearing, pre-trial motions, trial and sentencing using the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure with case reviews. The course will also focus on the various roles and tasks of the court personnel at each stage of the criminal process. (Pre-requisite: SOC 217)

This course examines the ethical foundation upon which the American system of Criminal Justice operates. During the course, students examine numerous societal issues which directly concern the criminal justice practitioner and the application of discretionary powers. In addition, this course will examine the ethical issues specifically related to the criminal justice profession. Issues include professional communications including government regulation and policy, free speech, client/victim/investigative privacy, accuracy in media and the impact of science and technology on communications.

A sociological examination of rule-breaking behavior, the nature and extent of deviance, and the seven major perspectives on deviance and social control measures. An in-depth analysis of the many varieties of crime, substance abuse, sexual behavior, mental disorders, suicide, and disability.

Examination of the meaning and scope of juvenile delinquency; a comparison of the adult and juvenile justice systems; and a review of the chronological development of delinquency theories with a major focus on gang delinquency processes.

This course will introduce students to the basics of the Juvenile Court and the rehabilitative efforts of the system. High profile cases and court decisions that have affected Juvenile Court policy will be discussed. A look at actual programs in use in Delaware County will give students a glimpse of our local court system.

Examination and discussion of the writings of major theorists, such as Durkheim, Simmel, Mead, Weber, Mills, and Parsons. These individuals and others are used as a basis for discussion of issues and schools of thought in sociology. (Prerequisite: Senior and Junior majors, minors or permission of the instructor)

Analysis of intragroup and intergroup relations of the major minority groups in the U.S., their structures, conflicts, and relations with the dominant culture. The primary focus is on ethnic and racial groups.

A study of how to help people with problems in living. Includes values, skills, and useful theoretical approaches to helping. Special attention to development of self-awareness and use of self in the helping process. Supervised field experience (one day a week) matching the student’s interests, time, and abilities in a variety of settings. (Juniors and Seniors)

A study of the global context of social problems with an examination of cross-cultural comparisons integral to the study of contemporary social problems in the United States. Application of both micro- and macro-level systems of sociological inquiry and explanations will be explored.

Twelve to Sixteen (12-16) hours per week in a field setting under professional supervision working with people in a variety of ways. An intensive, hands-on experience helping people to cope, problem-solve, and gain access to resources they need. Includes group supervision on campus. (Prerequisite: SOC 343)