This is an archived copy of the 2017-2018 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.sierracollege.edu.

SSCI 0010. Introduction to Ethnic Studies

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to the diverse cultural, social, economic, historical, and political issues relating to the past and present life circumstances of Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and other "old" and "new" immigrants. Topics also include majority-minority relations, implications of racism, and intergroup relations. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0013. Dialogues in American Culture

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduces students to a variety of contemporary topics through guest lectures and discussions. Explores the rich diversity of people, cultures, and opportunities within America, emphasizing theoretical and practical understanding of diversity. Employing a wide range of interdisciplinary social and behavioral science perspectives. The lecture-discussions and films explore topics including ethnicity, aging, (dis) ability, social class, gender, sexual orientation, religion, race, identity, politics and science. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0020. African American Culture and Experience

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to the study of African American culture and experience in the United States. Places the African American experience at the center of the discourse and incorporates methodology from other disciplines that serve as a foundation for integrative and comparative perspectives. A critical examination of the African American experience and its antecedents. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0025. Mexican American/Latino Culture and Image

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to Mexican American/Chicano/Latino culture using a comparative and interdisciplinary approach with focus on representation in media and popular culture. Course designed to provide an awareness of social, political, economic and cultural aspects of Mexican American, Chicano and Latino life in United States inclusive of social movements and protests. Field trips may be required. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0028. Independent Study

Units: 1-3
Designed for students interested in furthering their knowledge at an independent study level in an area where no specific curriculum offering is currently available. Independent study might include, but is not limited to, research papers, special subject area projects, and research projects. See Independent Study page in catalog. (CSU, UC-with unit limitation)

SSCI 0030. Immigration, Community and Culture: The Asian American Experience

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to Asian American cultures in the United States from mid-1800's to present using a comparative and interdisciplinary approach. Examination of the development and evolution of Chinese, Filipino, Asian Indians, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese communities within the context of social, historical, economic, and political forces within the United States. Topics include immigration and settlement issues, social movements, assimilation, media images, stereotypes and discrimination, community building, art and popular culture. Field trips may be required. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0035. Immigrants and Refugees in America: The European Experience

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Survey of immigration, acculturation, assimilation and cultures of peoples from northern, western, southern, eastern and central Europe. Includes a comparative overview of pre-immigration, immigration and post-immigration experiences of the people from these groups to the United States. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0041. Introduction to Native American Studies

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Survey of the cultures of Native American people of North America focusing on the social, religious, economic, and artistic nature of various native groups. Examination of the antiquity, distribution, and linguistic history of native cultures. Addresses the contemporary status of native cultural traditions taking into account social change and adaptation. Emphasis on geographic, cultural, historical, and botanical environment of local native cultures. An optional field trip may be included. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0045. Native American Cultures and the Impact of Federal Policy

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
In-depth study of Native American cultures and the impact of state and federal laws pertaining to tribal sovereignty and self-governance. Covers the effects of and resistance to colonization and cultural appropriation upon Native American cultures and religions. Students gain a practical understanding of the legal, political and cultural challenges faced by Native American tribal nations in our own region and across the country. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0050. Ethnic Images in Film

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Interdisciplinary approach to study ethnic culture, race, socio-economic class, and gender in the United States through the medium of film. Examines film content for representation and accuracy, the multiple dimensions of media stereotypes, and the authenticity of diverse ethnic experiences with particular emphasis on gender, race and class. Note: not a course in film making or film criticism. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0300F. Italian Life, Culture and Politics

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to Italian life and culture through the exploration and examination of history, politics, economics, art, literature and traditions. Special attention will be given to the Medici banking system, the Italian City Republics as well as the period known as the Italian Renaissance. (CSU, UC)

SSCI 0300G. Oaxacan Life and Culture

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to Oaxacan life and culture through exploration of its history, culture, politics, ecology and challenges. Emphasis includes the relationship between Southern Mexico and U.S. cultures. Involves field trips to local artisan villages, ecological preserves, museums, archeological sites and guest lectures. (CSU, UC)