Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Course and Program Listings

The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers majors in history, history with teacher certification, government and law, psychology, and sociology. Minors are offered in history, government and law, psychology, and sociology. A track in criminal justice is offered in sociology, government and law and psychology. A track in social welfare is offered in sociology. Pre-law advising is conducted through the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Philosophy for the Department of Social and Behavioral Science

The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences seeks to provide the student with a sound academic preparation in each of its disciplines. Students are encouraged to apply ethical standards and a worthwhile sense of values to everyday situations in life and to acquire career skills which will enable them to assume responsible and rewarding positions in social services, business, education, research, or other chosen areas.

The department objective is to equip the student with the necessary intellectual, social, and spiritual qualities needed for a satisfying and productive life. The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers, in conjunction with the School of Education, secondary teacher certification (grades 6-12) in history. Thirty-six semester hours are required in teacher education (students must earn a “C’ or higher in all teacher education and teaching field courses). Please refer to the School of Education section of this catalog for additional information.

Government and Law (GL)

Philosophy for the Area of Government and Law

Courses in government and law are designed to give students an understanding of the American political system, international relations, the politics of countries around the world, and the broad political theory that guides our thinking about the way the world ought to be. Study of government and law will also prepare students for active political life, graduate study in government and law, or a professional field. Such fields include civil service, law, communications, public administration, city management, diplomacy, journalism, public relations, and others.

Pre-Law

Counseling for students interested in attending law school includes information regarding the Law School Admission Test, regional and national law schools, and suggested elective courses. Admission to law school does not require a specific undergraduate major. Nonetheless, law schools prefer that students receive a liberal arts education. Students should consult the pre-law advisor for additional assistance and information.

Psychology (PSY)

Philosophy for the Area of Psychology

Courses in psychology are designed to give the student an understanding of the basic principles of behavior and information processing, including such topics as learning, cognition, perceptual processes, growth and development, personality, and both normal and abnormal behavior. Psychology is a useful major for students planning to pursue careers in research, the helping professions, personnel work, and industry.

As a minor, psychology is especially helpful for students interested in sociology, business, humanities, and ministry.

Programs of study are offered which lead to the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science degrees in psychology. A minor may also be completed in psychology.

Sociology (SA)

Philosophy for the Area of Sociology

Courses in sociology are designed to give the student an understanding of the institutions of society, to include the family, education, religion, political and economic structures, health and welfare agencies, and others.

The student gains insight into group life, values, and social change, as they exist in contemporary society. Sociology is an excellent choice of majors for those interested in pursuing graduate studies or vocational roles in fields such as social welfare work, community mental health services, personnel work, demography, social or market research, gerontology, public administration, criminology, secondary or college teaching, or the ministry.

Programs

Major

Minor

Courses

Government and Law

History

Psychology

Sociology