Catalog 2018-2019 
    
    Apr 30, 2024  
Catalog 2018-2019 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

SOC 311 Poverty in America

5 credits
This course examines the nature and extent of poverty in the United States. Students will review dominant views of poverty, how poverty is measured, characteristics of poor populations, international comparisons, underlying causes of poverty, and government programs and policies which address poverty. This course includes an examination of homelessness, as an example of severe poverty.

Prerequisites: ENGL& 101 SOC& 101 , and admission to an applied baccalaureate program

Quarters Offered: Winter

Student Outcomes/Competencies:
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

  • Compare and evaluate definitions of poverty
  • Articulate systemic causes of poverty and homelessness in the United States
  • Identify groups at highest risk of poverty
  • Analyze multiple types of homelessness
  • Evaluate evidence-based practices to prevent or respond to poverty and homelessness
  • Detail the scope, eligibility criteria, and application process for services such as Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security retirement benefits, SSDI, SSI, TANF, Disability Lifeline, HEN, and SNAP
  • Distinguish Housing First principles from prior responses to homelessness
  • Explain King County’s use of Clarity HMIS and Coordinated Entry for All


Total Hours: 50 Lecture Hours: 50