Sociology of Migration

Catalog description

This course will provide a comprehensive review of the theories and current sociological research on international migration, with a focus on migration to the United States. We will first examine historical (1880-1920) and contemporary (1965-present) patterns and trends in U.S. immigration. We will then explore questions of immigrant incorporation (and exclusion) through interrogating how our laws and institutions shape the everyday lives of immigrants and their descendants. As such, we will explore patterns and trends in immigrants' ethnic identity; educational and occupational attainment; fertility and family dynamics; civic and political engagement; and health, well-being, and mortality. Throughout the course, we will focus on how structural (namely, federal and state immigration policies) and social factors shape immigrants' incorporation. Counts as a Communication Intensive course. Counts as a Human Diversity & Commonality course.