Sociology 301 - Writing in Sociology

What should sociologists write and how? This course looks at writing in sociology, and investigates how writers move from an interest or a hunch to a finished piece of research-based writing. We'll practice various writing skills such as posing questions, crafting thesis statements, and organizing paragraphs into effective arguments. As we do, you will see how our choices as writers can shift the tone and impact of a sociological argument to say more meaningful and specific things about an urgent issue.

Open to Junior & Senior Sociology primary majors only. CW Gen Ed Writing on Place and Identity

How does where we are influence who we are? How do we create places through our everyday routines? This course develops analytical writing skills through asking how the places we grew up, work, and play in shape our identities and our communities. We will especially pay attention to how the places we live in intersect with our racial, gender, and class identities to create different life opportunities and setbacks. Through reading sociological texts, class discussions, conducting interviews, and oral presentations, we will explore how a place is not just a static geographical setting but a dynamic social phenomenon. Given our focus on community development and social inequalities, this course prepares you for careers in community organizing, healthcare, journalism, and other fields in human development.