Social Justice Courses at Hamline University
socj 1100 - Introduction to Issues in Social Justice
Goals: This course will introduce students to major streams of social justice thought, including historical social justice movements, theoretical problems having to do with social equality, personal freedom, access to social resources, marginalization, and stigmatization, and the ways in which communities respond to these issues.
Credits: 4 credits
socj 1150 - Living on the Edge: The Asian American Experience
Goals: To familiarize students with various Asian American communities, their origins and immigration to the United States, current conditions in Asian American communities and the challenges they face.
Content: We will learn about Asian immigrants and refugees, read Asian American literature, experience Asian American art and meet members of the local Asian American community. Among the topics we will discuss are stereotype (such as the “model minority”), the role of women in the Asian American community, racism (including the American concentration camps) and assimilation. Students examine the role of cultural heritage in how one views oneself, one’s own ethnic group, and community cultures.
Prerequisites: None.
Credits: 4 credits
socj 3200 - Sexuality and the Law
Goals: To provide students with an overview of the way U.S. Federal and state law regulates sexuality and related aspects of social behavior. In particular, to examine the way that the law provides different rights, privileges, and responsibilities dependent upon one’s sexual orientation. To further one’s understanding of the relationship between the law, as part of the public sphere, and sexuality, which is generally perceived to be a part of the private sphere.
Content: Topical areas include, but are not limited to, the conceptualization of sexual orientation, historical trends, Constitutional law, employment, marriage, military policy, and hate crime legislation.
Prerequisites: None.
Credits: 4 credits
socj 3280 - Shelter for All
Goals: Students will learn about homelessness through the dynamic interplay between theory and practice.
Content: Through service-learning, speakers, and critical articles, students will examine the lived realities of homelessness, investigate its root causes, and identify responses and solutions. Students are required to complete 20 hours of service-learning at community agencies.
Taught: Winter term.
Prerequisites: None
Credits: 4 credits
socj 3360 - Philosophy of Nonviolence
Crosslisted
Listed under Philosophy as PHIL 3360.
Credits: 4 credits
socj 5900 - Social Justice Capstone
Goals: This course will permit major students to integrate theory, knowledge, and practical experience gained in their major using a series of readings, fieldwork experiences, and a major project.
Note: Students may request permission to substitute PHIL 5750: Senior Seminar with the permission of the faculty advisor and the course instructor.
Credits: 4 credits