This cluster provides foundational coursework in sociology, psychology, and data science for students curious about majors such as Public Health, Media Studies, Social Welfare, and more. Students will explore core concepts in sociology and psychology, gaining insight into society and human behavior, while also learning the essentials of data science. This cluster invites students to learn more about addressing social issues and analyzing human behavior in a variety of contexts.
Course Descriptions
Click on the courses below for more detail.
SOCIOL 1: Introduction to Sociology (3 Units)
Introduces students who are considering majoring in sociology to the basic topics, concepts, and principles of the study of society. This course is required for the major; 1 or any version of 3 is prerequisite for other sociology classes; students not considering a sociology major are directed to any version of 3 or 3AC.
PSYCH 1: General Psychology (3 Units)
Introduction to the principal areas, problems, and concepts of psychology. This course is required for the major; students not considering a psychology major are directed to 2.
DATA C8: Foundations of Data Science (4 Units)
Foundations of data science from three perspectives: inferential thinking, computational thinking, and real-world relevance. Given data arising from some real-world phenomenon, how does one analyze that data so as to understand that phenomenon? The course teaches critical concepts and skills in computer programming and statistical inference, in conjunction with hands-on analysis of real-world datasets, including economic data, document collections, geographical data, and social networks. It delves into social and legal issues surrounding data analysis, including issues of privacy and data ownership.
Meeting Schedule
- SOCIOL 1: MWF 10-11 AM; Discussion MW 12-1 PM
- PSYCH 1: F 12-2PM; Discussion T 1-2 PM
- DATA C8: MWF 10-11 AM
Major Prerequisites and L&S Breadth/General Requirements
| Course | Major Prerequisite | Major Lower Division | L&S Breadth/General Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOCIOL 1 | ISF* Legal Studies* Media Studies* Social Welfare* Public Health* Sociology Psychology* |
N/A | Social & Behavioral Sciences |
| PSYCH 1 | Public Health Media Studies Psychology |
Public Health Media Studies Psychology |
Social & Behavioral Sciences |
| DATA C8 | TBD |
* = one of several classes that can satisfy requirement
+ = recommended, not required
^ = lower division requirement, not required for declaration
