In This Section

Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science will demonstrate the following:

Content: knowledge and skills (theories, concepts, terms) consistent with the standards of APA, AAA, and ASA

  • Explain the major historical theories of psychology, anthropology, sociology and their influence on developing theories, the individual and society
  • Understand and critique methods of critical analysis/research and articulate their influence on the field of psychology, anthropology, and sociology for an understanding of human behavior
  • Verbalize and analyze the terminology of psychology, anthropology, sociology

Critical thinking skills, analysis and synthesis of the research literature across the behavioral sciences including psychology, anthropology, and sociology

  • Use and apply psychology, anthropology, and sociology concepts to explain personal experiences and recognize the limitations of personal experience in understanding empirical phenomenon
  • Differentiate the behavioral science theoretical foundations from pseudoscience/anecdote as well as develop an understanding of cultural, sociological and psychological perspectives
  • Contrast and compare Western Culture and the Judeo-Christian worldview
  • Use quantitative and/or qualitative analyses to argue for or against a particular hypotheses within specific contexts (research, professional practice and daily living)
  • Think critically about theory and research in psychology, sociology and anthropology and integrate evidence from diverse worldviews

Communication: speaking and writing skills; technology literacy; research skills

  • Conduct and write a review that summarizes part of the anthropology, psychology, and sociology literature, applying fundamental strategies such as a thesis focus, an informative middle and an effective conclusion resulting from effective drafting, revising, and editing
  • Use and define terms and concepts of the discipline and, applying them appropriately, show a strong & direct link between concepts and assigned reading
  • Deliver effective oral presentations in a variety of communication settings, using standard diction of American English in a professional manner including dress and demeanor
  • Lead and participate effectively in group discussions, applying active listening skills and a respect for diverse views in interpersonal settings
  • Select the most appropriate sources and databases for accessing and obtaining the needed information in order to ascertain the reliability, validity, accuracy, authority, timeliness, and point of view or bias of a given source.

Integrity/values: academic integrity, discipline specific ethical issues; an understanding of ethics; respect for social diversity

  • Understand and demonstrate academic integrity, including honor code requirements within university, community and professional settings
  • Apply ethical standards of the professions of psychology, sociology and anthropology to research and practice
  • Understand the Christian worldview and apply Biblical values and moral/ethical principles to research and practice
  • Demonstrate sensitivity to issues of social diversity and exhibit respect for socially diverse groups

Project management: team work skills; informed participation in multiple levels of community applying academic studies to the workplace and professional environment

  • Work collaboratively and respectfully with individuals with diverse backgrounds
  • Adapt to new workplace environments and changing professional needs
  • Develop leadership and self-management skills to work effectively in a variety of social and group contexts
  • Respond appropriately to feedback from supervisors and team members
  • Apply academic knowledge to a variety of work and social contexts to enhance interactions and performance