Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Mission

The Behavioral and Social Sciences Department is committed to training and equipping Christ-centered professionals who live out their vocational calling with excellence in service to individual, families, organizations, communities, and society.

Overview

This department encompasses the fields of behavioral sciences (criminal justice, psychology, social work, and behavioral health (online only)) as well as social sciences (government, history, and social science education). The behavioral and social sciences encourage the appreciation of the multicultural heritage of humankind, the complexity of influences on human behavior, and the integration of these approaches within a Christian worldview. 

Within the domain of the behavioral sciences, students prepare for graduate studies or careers in advocacy, counseling, case management, consulting, human resources, neuropsychology, mental health, social work, law enforcement, investigations, military service, and criminal justice. Coursework explores human development, social problems and policies, counseling theories, brain and behavior, criminal investigation, and more. In addition, the behavioral sciences offer specialized minors in Biopsychology, Forensic Science, and Psychology and the Church. 

Within the domain of the social sciences, students prepare for graduate studies or careers as educators, historians, public officials, government and civic leaders, business administrators, lawyers, prosecutors, journalists, and more. Coursework explores history, government, economics, geography, anthropology, sociology, and international studies. Furthermore, the social sciences offer specialized minors in Pre-Law, Leadership, Military Science, and Social Anthropology.

Internship and practicum opportunities within the behavioral and social sciences include numerous local and regional placements in social service agencies, community mental health centers, museums, law offices, para-church organizations, and government offices. In addition, students have opportunities to attend professional conferences related to their majors, in Washington D.C., Chicago, Nashville, and Jefferson City.