Social Sciences Courses

Teaching Credential Requirements: A Master’s Degree in the discipline is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in the discipline, plus 5 years’ experience teaching the specific course at the high school level, or 12 graduate-level credits in the discipline, may be considered. These credentials remain consistent throughout all disciplines unless the course is marked with the “Higher Teaching Credential” or “Additional Teaching Requirement” label.

Department of Public Safety 

CRIJ 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring/Summer)

This course examines the philosophy, history, objectives, and functions of the criminal justice system as a social institution, along with the relationship of this system to society, and provides an overview of the administration of justice. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 6 - Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

CRIJ 102 Introduction to Policing
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring)

This course is an introduction to law enforcement. It provides an in-depth examination of police behavior, theory, organization, and use of force. Both rural and urban policing styles will be studied with an emphasis on community change, attitudes, special interest groups, and minority relations. (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

CRIJ 103 Introduction to Law and Justice
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring/Summer)

This course provides an introduction to basic issues of law. Students will explore law, the Bill of Rights, court operations, criminal procedure, different types of law, and social change. Students will explore social issues through the lens of the law. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 6 - Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

CRIJ 104 Introduction to Corrections
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring)

This course examines various issues related to corrections including jails, prisons, probation, parole, and other community sanctions. Students will explore correctional theories and trends as well as the current state of corrections in the United States. Inmate adaptation, relationships, culture, prisonization, and prisoners' rights will also be discussed. (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

Department of Social Sciences

PSYC 101 Introduction to Psychology
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring/Summer)

This course introduces the scientific study of the human experience. Through exposure to the diverse sub-disciplines of psychology such as neuropsychology, life span development, social psychology, thinking, language and intelligence, motivation and emotion, health and human flourishing, and psychological disorders, students gain a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them. With emphasis on scientific inquiry and ethical and social responsibility, students taking this course enhance their academic skills, develop knowledge of the discipline, and have opportunities to communicate their understanding with peers, faculty, and professionals in the field. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 6 - Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

PSYC 140 Human Relations for Career and Personal Success
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring/Summer)

This course presents the practical application of social science concepts related to interpersonal or people skills that are important in the modern world. Topics include understanding and managing oneself, dealing ethically and effectively with people, and strategies for success. Students will have the opportunity to earn a Mental Health First Aid Certificate as part of the class. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 6 - Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring/Summer)

This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts, principles, and processes relevant to the study of society and everyday life. The course will examine a diverse range of topics pertaining to human behavior and social structure. A primary focus will be developing a sociological perspective through theory and research. Additionally, discussions of culture, development of the self, micro and macro group processes, deviance, social inequality, social institutions, and social change will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on a contemporary American experience, yet making global connections will also be stressed. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 6 - Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)