SSC 325 Research Methods in Criminology and Sociology

3 hours 

This course introduces students to the fundamental methods sociologists and criminologists use to conduct research and gather information about the social world.  It discusses such topics and issues in research as conducting literature reviews, asking research questions, the importance of ethics, the distinctions between qualitative and quantitative approaches, and the implications of mixed methods research.  The course will focus on key works in sociology and criminology to show students how scholars have used these issues in their own research.  Students will demonstrate their understanding by designing their own research projects, collecting their own data, and writing either a research proposal or paper.