Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Family Sciences
This is an archived copy of the 2022-2023 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://pointloma-public.courseleaf.com.
Mission Statement
As followers of Christ, our mission is to nurture servant scholars who critically and empirically evaluate social systems, cultural patterns, and basic human needs to constructively engage as agents of hope with individuals, families, and communities.
Purposes
- To provide students with understanding of social environments and patterns of human behavior.
- To help students understand themselves and others in the context of local, national and global societies through the comparison of societies and cultures.
- To prepare students to work with many populations and issues in a variety of settings in the United States and elsewhere in the world.
- To provide students with the tools for study and analysis of the structure and functioning of social groups, social institutions, and societies.
- To provide students with an understanding of the multiple factors that influence the development and quality of life of individuals, families, and communities throughout the lifespan.
- To provide students with the ability to identify appropriate resources to use in application for problem solving.
- To provide students with the ability to analyze research data or original published works and use critical thinking skills for evaluating products, research, or theories.
- To provide students with the ability to examine the value of societal diversity and ethical treatment of others as a result of their Christian faith.
- To provide professional education for employment in the criminal justice systems and generalist social work practice, dietetics, nutrition, food, child development, adolescent development, and the foundation for post-graduate study.
Tradition of Excellence
- A major in Child and Adolescent Development prepares the graduate with an optimal interactive environment to study and learn about the ways children grow and form relationships on a physical, emotional, social, and intellectual scale. Combining real-world coursework with professional preparedness enables the graduate to confidently step into a graduate program or a career serving children and families.
- A major in Dietetics prepares the graduate to understand evidence-based science, to promote a healthy lifestyle, and interact with patients and clients. Graduates will learn how to evaluate patients’ nutrition and health needs, and hone the ability to prevent and treat many types of conditions and diseases. Guidance and resources are given to successfully pursue internships and Master degree programs to become a registered dietitian.
- A major in Nutrition prepares the graduate to serve people and gain in-depth knowledge to promote healthy lifestyle choices. The graduate will understand with global awareness how decisions around food directly affect health and well-being and be trained to master skills in community nutrition, counseling healthy individuals, and metabolism.
- A concentration in Food builds upon the core Nutrition curriculum and prepares the graduate in learning what it takes to manage a restaurant, oversee food service operations, comply with health codes, and interact with customers.
- A concentration in Counseling builds upon the core Nutrition curriculum and prepares the graduate by studying the social impact of how psychology impacts our nutritional health.
- A concentration in Sport Fitness builds upon the core Nutrition curriculum and prepares the graduate by studying fitness assessment, exercise physiology, and kinesiology.
- A major in Sociology is foundational for the understanding of human society and social behavior. The graduate in Sociology is equipped for many ministry, corporate, and human service positions, in addition to being prepared for post-graduate study in Sociology, which can lead to positions in higher education, research, business, government, and law.
- A concentration in Criminal Justice builds upon the core Sociology curriculum and prepares the graduate for positions in all components of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The graduate is prepared for postgraduate study in Criminal Justice, Sociology, law, and other fields.
- A major in Social Work prepares the graduate for entry into professional social work in a generalist practice. The Social Work graduate is prepared for post-graduate work in the profession.
- A minor in Child Development as a complement to other disciplines.
- A minor in Criminal Justice as a complement to other disciplines.
- A minor in Nutrition as a complement to other disciplines.
- A minor in Sociology as a complement to other disciplines.
Career Opportunities
The Department of Sociology, Social Work and Family Sciences prepares students to be effective leaders in the work force.
Students are prepared for careers in business, industry, public and private agencies, schools, institutions that provide goods, services, education, and information to individuals, families, and communities.
A number of students were hired while still in internships, and many graduates have secured professional employment during or shortly after completion of their undergraduate study. Popular careers students enter include research design, public relations, human services, probation and criminal justice, social work, social welfare, counseling, health care administration, teachers, school administrators, social service agents, family/adult educators, dietitians, community service agents, nutrition educators, and healthcare specialists and many other rewarding fields.
Many graduates continue their education at the post-graduate level in Sociology, Social Work, Child Life, Child Development, Family Studies, Public Health, Nutrition Education, Dietetics, Psychology, Education, and law. Students have entered schools such as the University of California-Berkeley, University of Chicago, University of Colorado, Duke University, University of Southern California, San Diego State University, Loma Linda University, and the California Western School of Law.
Faculty
Co-Chairs - Susan DeCristofaro Rogers, M.A. and Kevin Modesto, Ph.D.
Kellye Carroll, A.B.D.
Grand Canyon University
Susan DeCristofaro Rogers, M.A.
Point Loma Nazarene University
Academic Director-Early Childhood Learning Center
James Gates, Ph.D.
University of Florida
Kevin Modesto, Ph.D.
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Cindy Swann, M.S., R.D.
San Diego State University
Director of Dietetics
Jimiliz Valiente-Neighbours, Ph.D.
University of California, Santa Cruz
To view requirements for majors, minors, and certificates, see the Degree Program Information page.
Family and Consumer Sciences
The study of physical, social, emotional, cognitive growth and development of the child, from prenatal months through adolescent years.
A study of the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of the individual throughout the lifespan.
The study of the process of prenatal, infant and toddler growth and development which will include: exploration of the impact of culture, atypical behavior and development, socialization techniques, interpersonal relationships of infant-toddler and caregivers, suitable environments for health and safety, and legal requirements for infant-toddler care.
The study of early childhood education theories and philosophies. Practice of principles, curriculum, methods, material and special needs of preschool and children in first through third grade are discussed. Students gain experience in appropriate lesson plan writing with developmentally appropriate practices.
Developmental changes and challenges of adolescents and their families as they deal with current societal issues, autonomy, peer relationships, sexuality, parent-adolescent communication, values, teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and adolescents as parents. These major issues affecting adolescents and their families are examined using data from a variety of theoretical, empirical, and clinical viewpoints.
The study of strategies of guiding children with special needs. The role of the adults influencing the child's social, emotional, cognitive and physical growth and development are investigated. Family systems theories and educational methods, environments and programs are explored as it relates to the special needs child's developmental stages. A wide variety of children's exceptionalities are included giftedness, physical challenges, learning disabilities, and behavior disorders.
This course provides students with a comprehensive study of family development. Students will explore family education models including an understanding of diversity in family systems based on race, culture, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and child-rearing practices. Students will strengthen their ability to meet needs of families by developing a parent education workshop and handbook.
A study of the development of the child as influenced by the family, school, and community. Emphasis is placed on analyzing the social influences on family systems, child care, schools, poverty, peer groups, mass media, diverse cultures and community services on children's development.
Application of basic principles in the guidance of young children. To examine the multidimensional roles of the early childhood program director/administrative styles, management tools and interpersonal skills that contribute to effective leadership.
Supervised practicum in laboratory experience in an approved early childhood center. It is designed for students who plan careers in early childhood and family support programs. Students become familiar with observing the development, guiding, and teaching children in a preschool program.
Career-related work experience in which students observe and actively participate using their acquired skills and knowledge. Students are under the supervision of a department faculty supervisor and a qualified on-site supervisor.
An individualized and detailed research study from selected topics. The research topic must be approved and supervised throughout the semester.
Analysis and discussions of interrelated issues found within the areas of Family Sciences. Topics studied are research, public policy, professionalism, leadership, and historical significance. In this capstone, the student will create a professional eportfolio including introduction, professional statements, personal assessments, achievements, community service, practical application and work samples will be included. Each student will present his or her personal eportfolio to a panel of interested parties for assessment. This capstone gives students the opportunity to develop a professional voice.
Examines a personal approach to healthful living that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, relational, spiritual, and environmental aspects of wellness and self-care. Course topics to include nutrition and exercise, cultivating joy, stress reduction, and gratitude.
Nutrition
Introduction to the role of nutrition in human health with respect to essential nutrients, factors that affect eating habits, nutrition research and social media, and establishing a healthy lifestyle.
Development of technique and application of fundamental scientific principles of food preparation. Establishment of quality standards for food products and food safety.
A study of the principles of nutrition science and their evidence-based application of nutrition to health/homeostasis, disease prevention and disease treatment.
The fundamentals of food preparation, and application of these principles to quantity food production in commercial and non-commercial settings. Emphasis is placed on the use of quantity food preparation equipment, menu planning, and production.
The influence of world cultures and ethnic food habits on food patterns. Lecture, computer applications and food preparation laboratory.
Introduction to the purpose, methods, and scientific basis for assessment of nutritional status in total health care for individuals and groups. Includes anthropometric, biochemical, clinical and dietary methods for assessing nutritional status.
A study of the delivery of nutrition services in the community setting, with an emphasis on disease prevention and health promotion in vulnerable populations. Topics discussed include nutrition epidemiology, food policy, cultural competence in nutrition education, food insecurity, and socioeconomic factors affecting food consumption, nutrition status and health.
Application of principles of community nutrition programming, including field experience and observation of nutrition services provided by community-based organizations and governmental entities.
A study of nutrition specifically applied to the stages of human development and the life cycle. Current scientific literature is reviewed and applicable research methodologies are discussed. The role of statistics in scientific research is reviewed.
A survey of current evidence-based nutrition principles and guidelines corresponding to gender differences in health. Topics include dietary prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancers, and osteoporosis in women as well as special needs in pregnancy/lactation, menopause and weight management.
Theories integrated from physiology, biochemistry and nutrition. An in-depth study of nutrients and their role in human metabolism. Current research on human metabolic processes is analyzed.
Practical experience in techniques that will enhance patient/client communication for nutrition education. Discussion and application of counseling methods, adult learning, motivation theory, lesson planning, group communication techniques, medical charting techniques and the general nutrition care process.
A study of nutrition status and assessments; nutrition care strategies; and the modification of normal food intake with emphasis on dietary adjustments necessitated by certain disease and disorder processes and conditions focusing on the hospitalized and/or ambulatory patient.
Case studies, medical chart notation practice, opportunity to interact with dietetic professionals working in clinical fields.
A study of the effect of nutrition and health on the development of the child, pre-natal through adolescent. Attention is given to nutrition related health problems and dietary planning.
Application of the principles of successful organization and management for effective food service operations. Topics include responsibilities of food service manager and administrative responsibilities of a food manager.
A study of specialized food production techniques and operation principles for home-based or small catering services. Recipe and menu development, cost marketing and implementing a catering operation will be discussed.
Analysis of the composition and chemical structure of food that affect the color, flavor, texture, aroma, and nutritive quality. The application of this information for careers in the food industry. Current research in food technology and food consumption patterns is investigated.
Career-related work experience in which students observe and actively participate using their acquired skills and knowledge. Students are under the supervision of a department faculty supervisor and a qualified on-site supervisor.
An individualized and detailed research study from selected topics. The research topic must be approved and supervised throughout the semester.
Analysis and discussions of interrelated issues found within the areas of Family Sciences. Topics studied are research, public policy, professionalism, leadership, and historical significance. In this capstone, the student will create a professional eportfolio including introduction, professional statements, personal assessments, achievements, community service, practical application and work samples will be included. Each student will present his or her personal eportfolio to a panel of interested parties for assessment. This capstone gives students the opportunity to develop a professional voice.
Sociology
An introduction to sociology, basic concepts, theories, development as a discipline, and the tools of social investigation.
An introduction to the basic concepts, methods and findings of cultural anthropology. Emphasis is on the comparative study of contemporary cultures to develop an understanding of the cultural diversity that confronts society and the common threads that bind people together.
An introduction to and comparative examination of the components of the justice process dealing with delinquent and criminal behavior. Examines criminally deviant behavior in a complex society.
Engages students, from one or more cultural identity groups, in facilitated dialogue about the similarities and differences of experience that exist within a group and/or between and across groups. The goal of intergroup dialogue is for student s to develop comfort with, and skill in, discourse on difficult topics toward the end of fostering positive, meaningful, and sustained cross-group relationships.
A study of the changing nature and function of the family as a basic institution of society with emphasis upon variety related to culture, class, and ethnicity.
An interdisciplinary exploration of life as it is experienced in the urban environment. Students are exposed to broad issues of global urban life with particular focus on the San Diego/Tijuana metroplex. Special attention is given to the variety of ways people create meaningful lives for themselves in multicultural, urban environments and to the social organization that supports the life of the poor.
Social stratification as part of social organization. A review of the major theories, methods of studying stratification and evidence relating to the origin, nature and functioning of systems of social inequality bases of stratification; relationships among class, status and power. Class consciousness and conflict; technological change and social mobility.
The study of crime and criminal behavior, the role of law, efforts at prevention and control.
A study of the youthful offender including theories of cause, the role of law and authority, and current trends.
Analysis of aging within social contexts: the aging process, death, and dying, and the impact of psychological, economic, physiological, and social factors.
A study of the theories and methods of social interactions in the development of personal and group behavior. Topics include attitudes, communication, pro-social, and anti-social behaviors.
This course traces the emergence and development of political and social philosophy, with special consideration given to Plato's notion of justice, Social Contract Theory, Marxism, racial justice, feminism and Poststructuralism.
A survey of the development of various strands of feminist thought, and engagement in current conversations within and about feminism.
This course examines the complex social dynamics and historical legacies of the American Civil Rights Movement (1954-1968). Guest speakers provide interdisciplinary perspectives, while students travel to key sites in the American South.
A study of urbanization as a social process, comparing urban, suburban, and metropolitan phenomena. Attention is given to institutions in changing urban settings, i.e., religion, family as it is applied to ministry.
An analysis of historical and current social factors relating to various ethnic, racial, and status groups. Focus is upon issues of discrimination and oppression.
An interdisciplinary examination of the social and cultural histories of Africa with emphasis on the contact between Africans and Europeans since the late 19th century.
To understand the role of the state in criminal law, this course studies the nature, origins and general principles of criminal law, including causation, defenses of justification and excuse, and criminal liability. Cases highlight and illustrate the general principles and doctrines in the context of real life. Crimes against persons, habitation, property and public order, and morals.
Examination of the federal constitutional provisions which impact the criminal justice system with an emphasis on the amendments in the Bill of Rights dealing with searches and seizures by law enforcement officers, the exclusionary rule, the privilege against self-incrimination, the rights to due process and the assistance of counsel, the death penalty, and constraints on the correctional system.
Investigation and analysis of 19th century and more recent sociological thought, and philosophical and social issues surrounding it. The relation of sociological theory and Christian thought is considered.
Study of social changes in modern societies; the source of change, processes such as social change movements by which change occurs, and the meanings of change for individuals and institutions.
Comparative and analytical study of religion as a social institution; the relation of religion to social stratification, economy, state; religion as an agent of social change and stability.
A study of the relationship between human societies and ecosystems, from how individuals define "nature" and "sustainability" as well as how institutions such as the market and the government work together or against each other that impact communities.
An exploration of the history, nature and trajectories of globalization with particular attention to people groups on the margins. Rooted in ethnographic accounts of how the dominant political and economic systems affect those that have least access to power and wealth, this course critically examines the cultural patterns and social structures associated with globalization and the creative resistance that follows.
A study and application of the methods of social research, completion of a design, collection and analysis of data, and development of a final report.
An introduction the field of medical sociology and to a perspective on health and illness and the health care system. The course examines social and cultural factors related to health and nonhealth, including the nature of the problems addressed by health care institutions, societal responses to disease and sickness, and the institutional and organizational settings of health care.
Designed to provide experience in applied settings. A minimum of three hours per week for a full semester is required for each unit of credit. Placement and plan for internship are developed in consultation by instructor, student, and agency.
Intended for Sociology majors with a concentration in Criminal Justice. This course allows students to gain experience in a criminal justice setting. Students are required to complete a minimum of 12 hours per week in an approved setting in the criminal justice system.
A study of the social foundations of the American education system and the various community settings where education takes place. Emphasis upon current educational dynamics.
Intended for Sociology majors, including those with concentration in Criminal Justice. Course provides opportunity to integrate material learned in other sociology courses as well as opportunity to integrate academic learning with personal experiences. During the course, students will write a senior thesis.
This course will provide a critical introduction to the fundamental principles and practices of restorative justice. The course explores the needs and roles of key "stakeholders" (victims, offenders, communities, justice systems), outlines the basic principles and values of restorative justice, and introduces some of the primary models of practice. It also addresses challenges to restorative justice - the dangers, the pitfalls - as well as possible strategies to help prevent restorative justice from failing to live to its promise.
Selected topics of current interest in depth. Application through travel or special projects may be an essential part of the course.
An intensive study of selected issues. A plan for the study must be approved by instructor and department chair.
This is a Foundational Explorations course aimed at helping students understand and engage human society and the social world, while providing vocational direction for those interested in cultivating a more just and caring society. The course will seek to introduce basic sociological theories used to frame social life; present methodological tools used to view, assess, and understand how social processes influence individuals, families, and society; and provide examples of the practical vocational application of the theories and methods used to live more justly in our contemporary society.
Learn the basics behind the design and development of a research project. From conception to feasibility to proposal. Even if you do not intend to pursue graduate work in the social sciences, understanding social research methodology is vital for almost any career or service position that interacts with statistics, studies, reports, etc. Developing these skills will serve you in becoming a more discriminating consumer of media as well, as media outlets report on studies, polls, and more. At its essence, a methodology course is a sub-division of epistemology ("how do we know what we know"), methodology seeks to answer the related question, "how do we find out?" Students will design and write a research proposal.
Social Work
An historical and contemporary view of the profession of social work within the field of social welfare: the values, the ethical standards, the knowledge base, and the social welfare programs and services where social workers practice.
A study of private and public programs and services that make up the American welfare system. A study of policy analysis and development with focus on the needs of special populations.
Analysis of the effects of family breakdown with special emphasis on children of divorce, single parent families, HIV and drug-exposed children, children of minorities, and children of poverty.
As generalists in the practice of social work the entry-level professional social worker is assisted in the organization of knowledge by a social systems approach. Systems examined include individual development across the life span, families, large and small groups, neighborhoods, communities, and organizations.
A study of the theories and methods of professional social work practice. Focus is upon generalist practice with individuals, families, and small groups.
A study of the theories and methods of professional social work practice with large groups, organizations, neighborhoods, communities, and governments.
Intended for seniors in social work only. The student completes direct practice in an approved field setting, supervised by professional social workers. One (1) unit of credit is given for each 50 hours of approved practice. A minimum total of 200 hours (4 units) is required to be completed. Students may take the course for a minimum of two (2) units each semester.
Intended for seniors in social work only. The student completes direct practice in an approved field setting, supervised by professional social workers. One (1) unit of credit is given for each 50 hours of approved practice. A minimum total of 200 hours (4 units) is required to be completed. Students may take the course for a minimum of two (2) units each semester.
Seminar for social work majors which integrates a liberal arts perspective with the professional social work foundation of knowledge, skills, and values. Students share field practicum experiences from the beginning phases of the social work process as a method of reinforcing their understanding of the professional social worker engaged in generalist practice.
Continuing seminar for social work majors only; continues the sharing of the practicum experience and concentrates on the later phases of the social work process.
Selected topics of current interest in depth.
An intensive study of selected issues. A plan for the study must be approved by the instructor and department chair.