SOC 495 - Work and Occupations

(3 units) CO10, CO13

Examination of sociological theories and research on work-related issues, such as women and minorities in the workplace, occupational choice and socialization and career patterns.

Prerequisite(s): General Education courses (CO1-CO3) completed; at least 3 courses from CO4-CO8 completed; Junior or Senior standing; SOC 101.

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Spring

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. identify fundamental concepts and theories in studying work processes from a social science perspective, apply theories from previous courses in psychology and/or sociology, and demonstrate knowledge of social-scientific methods for studying human social relations in the domain of work and occupations.
2. recognize characteristic similarities and differences between diverse social and cultural groups, and identify the ways in which such differences shape occupational experiences.
3. use insights from different academic disciplines, explain how institutional arrangements maintain, enhance, or reduce levels of occupational attainment and social mobility, and analyze the sociological processes involved.
4. integrate research and theory from different academic disciplines, identify and analyze issues concerning workers and policy challenges, especially as they concern equity and the mobility of disadvantaged groups.
5. acquire scholarly knowledge about issues concerning workers and challenges, and effectively compose written texts, which systematically analyze the problems, critically evaluate different perspectives and approaches, and communicate possible conclusions.
6. identify the similarities and differences of work and work issues as they confront workers and their families in different countries, evaluate their successes and challenges, analyze the social, economic and policy factors that shape these systems, and explain implications for creating a equitable society.

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