Department of Behavioral Sciences
Understanding the how and why of human behavior is valuable to anyone whose future involves interacting with others, and can lead to a broad range of career options. The Behavioral Sciences offer a unique opportunity for learning that emphasizes both the professional and the scientific aspects of Psychology, Sociology, Child Development, and Criminal Justice.
The mission of the Department of Behavioral Sciences is to provide students with the opportunity to:
- Use the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in the field of their major to promote intellectual development and spiritual growth.
- Understand and apply basic research methods, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and social processes.
- Be prepared for beginning jobs, entry-level work or graduate programs.
- Be prepared to work both with people who are, and those who are not, motivated by values related to the Christian faith
Within each of these programs of study, students may choose either a graduate school preparation track or an applied track designed to provide preparation for beginning jobs. Each course of study can be taken on either the B.A. or the B.S. degrees and the criminal justice major is also available on the B.A.S. degree for students older than 25 who also have work experience within the field of criminal justice.
The department offers the following minors:
Counseling Leadership
Criminal Justice Forensic Science
Faith Development Psychology
Family Studies Sociology
Human/ Social Services
Requirements for BA, Psychology or Sociology
Requirements for BS in Psychology or Sociology