This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2026-2027 VCU Bulletin. Courses that expose students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning may be added and notification of additional program approvals may be received prior to finalization. General education program content is also subject to change. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
SOCS 291. Issues in Social Science. 1-3 Hours.
Semester course; variable hours. 1-3 credits per semester. Maximum total of 6 credits. An interdisciplinary course structured around social issues pertinent to today's society. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics to be offered each semester and the semester credit for which each course will be offered.
SOCS 302. Diverse Families and Children in the United States. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Focuses on the diversity of family life in the United States. Students are encouraged to analyze and appreciate the differences that emerge from such factors as socioeconomic status, race and ethnicity (language, religion, national origin). Attention is given to the variations and commonalities in how parents teach, guide and influence children and adolescents.
SOCS 303. Marriage and Family Relationships. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Prerequisite: SOCY 101 or permission of instructor. Marriage and the family in contemporary society. Topics discussed will include the effects of masculine and feminine roles on marital and parent-child relationships, how role problems are resolved, sexual adjustments, financial adjustment, family planning and retirement.
SOCS 340. Human Sexuality. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A study of the variety of the forms, sources and consequences of human sexual behaviors and the attitudes, beliefs and values associated with them. The data and its analysis are directed to the significance of sex in human experience.
SOCS 391. Topics in Social Science. 1-3 Hours.
Semester course; 1-3 lecture hours. 1-3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum total of 6 credits. An interdisciplinary course structured around an in-depth study of selected social issues pertinent to today's society. See the Schedule of Classes for specific topics and credits to be offered each semester.