Department of Behavioral Sciences

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The Department of Behavioral Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, a Bachelor of Arts degree in applied behavioral sciences and a minor in psychology. In each of these programs, students learn essential analytical, critical thinking, problem solving, research, and communication skills.

Psychology currently ranks as the second most popular undergraduate major in the United States. The discipline of psychology embraces all aspects of the human experience - from individual brain functions to the actions of social groups within society. The understanding of behavior, thoughts, and emotions is the scientific enterprise of psychologists.

Students in the psychology program take classes on a variety of topics such as developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology in order to gain a broad and well-rounded understanding of the field. They also use the scientific method to answer empirical questions, design research projects, and collect data in an effort to better understand and improve the human condition.

Psychology is well-suited for students who are interested in applying scientific methods to enhance understanding of human behavior, emotion, and cognition. While many of our graduates enter careers or graduate programs within the field of psychology, the major also provides a marketable educational foundation for students who plan to pursue careers in education, research, human resources, advertising, marketing, as well as political, medical, or legal professions.

The applied behavioral sciences major is designed to provide introductory knowledge and training in the discipline of psychology along with select courses in related fields. Foundational courses are supplemented with additional coursework in applied fields related to the behavioral sciences such as communication studies, social work, counseling, sociology, the health sciences, and/ or business.

Elective courses are chosen individually by students, with guidance from their faculty advisors, in areas that will broaden their knowledge and skill sets in the behavioral sciences and better prepare them for the specific careers they plan to pursue upon graduation.

The applied behavioral sciences degree program is well suited for students who have multidisciplinary interests and who plan to pursue careers rather than graduate programs after completing their degree.

Faculty

Laurel C. Newman, associate professor of psychology and chairperson of the department of behavioral sciences
Jessica M. Blaxton, assistant professor of psychology
Jason R. Finley, assistant professor of psychology

Programs

• Applied Behavioral Sciences, B.A.
• General Studies, Psychology Emphasis, B.A.
• Psychology, B.S.

• Psychology Minor

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