Courses

This course gives students the opportunity to examine and interpret how the socio-cultural context affects the way people speak in that setting. Topics in focus include regional and social dialects, multilingualism, language attitudes and their impact on national and personal identity, linguistic politeness, the maintenance, shift, loss, and spread of languages, and the impact of modern technology. Applications to gender and education are explored in depth.

This course is a sociological examination of families in society. The emphasis is on the structural and cultural aspects of family life. Topics include: theories and methods for understanding families; formation of intimate relationships; mate selection processes, marriage, and parenting; families over the life course; gender issues; and transitions in families.

Provides the student with an overview of the Canadian system of government in a comparative approach that includes study of British, American, and Canadian political and government institutions and practices. A comparative study of how basic concepts, principles, and institutions associated with different expressions of liberal-democratic governments highlight the diversity of political experience, reveal the interdependence of political systems and show the uniqueness of Canada's political system. Particular attention is given to the manner in which Parliament attempts to facilitate and develop public policy which reflects the diverse interests and aspirations of its citizens.

This course aims to provide students with an introductory overview of the micro-level, interpretive tradition in sociology. Focusing on the everyday lived reality of human experience and interaction with social institutions, we will explore a variety of sociological topics like gender, health and illness, technology and social problems from a micro-perspective. This course will help students understand how humans engage in meaning-making activity in their day-to-day lives, and how this, in turn, contributes to the creation of broader sociological norms and institutions

An examination of the complex nature of issues confronting individuals, groups, and society at large. An examination of the various situations which produce these issues, the social symptoms that result, and an evaluation of possible solutions to social problems.

Analyzes the nature, scope, and purpose of criminal law in Canada. This includes the Criminal Code of Canada, crime types, fundamental legal concepts, participants in the criminal justice system, criminal procedure and court processes, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the unique relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canadian law.

This course will offer a sociological examination of youth in society, including identity, subcultures, sexual behavior, music, consumerism, religion, schooling, work, social problems, and other issues affecting youth transitions to adulthood.

A study of human aging in its sociological, psychological, and physiological dimensions. An examination of changing social roles during the life cycle.

The study of culture, social institutions, and systems from a global perspective. Various sociological theories and concepts are examined.