Christian Behavioral Science, BA
CBU created the Christian behavioral science major to address the relationship of biblical truth to the knowledge drawn from the behavioral sciences, providing students with a distinct and decidedly Christian perspective of human behavior.
Program Intro
CBU’s Christian behavioral science program integrates psychology, anthropology, sociology and political science with theology. It prepares people for a culture that has moved away from a religious worldview, teaching students how to function fully in a pluralistic world from a Christian worldview.
Why Study Christian Behavioral Science at CBU?
Integrate the Bible with the behavioral sciences
Students enjoy instruction from expert Christian professors who have years of experience in their fields. They acquire the skills necessary to directly apply their new learning to ministry and social service contexts.
Serve the world and the community
CBS students have the opportunity for service and scholarship both locally and internationally. Students can register for internships for academic credit in a number of community, church and nonprofit organizations. They also have the opportunity to serve alongside their professors for local service projects.
What You'll Learn
Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Christian behavioral science will be able to:
- Demonstrate the foundational knowledge of psychology, anthropology, sociology and theology including the major historical theories, terminology, and research methods and their influence on the individual and society.
- Demonstrate critical thinking and skills in analysis, synthesis, and use of evidence; problem solving (reflective & analytical), differentiating the behavioral science theoretical foundations and theology from pseudoscience/anecdote as well as cultural religious perspectives from Biblical perspectives.
- Demonstrate good writing skills selecting the most appropriate sources and databases to conduct and write a review that summarizes part of the anthropology, psychology, and sociology literature.
- Demonstrate effective oral presentations in a variety of communication settings, in a professional manner including dress and demeanor with an ability to lead and participate effectively in group discussions with a respect for diverse views in interpersonal settings
- Apply ethical standards of the professions of anthropology, psychology, and sociology to research applying Biblical values and moral/ethical principles to research and practice while demonstrating sensitivity to issues of social diversity and exhibit respect for socially diverse groups
- Demonstrate relational skills through informed participation in multiple levels of community; working collaboratively and respectfully with individuals with diverse backgrounds and responding appropriately to feedback from supervisors and team members.
Program Details
CBS 303: Marriage and Family in the Christian Community
A comparison of marriage and family systems in biblical and American cultural perspectives. Family roles and relational development will also be addressed.
CBS 415: Biblical Wisdom and Human Behavior
A comprehensive examination of the principles for living found in the biblical Wisdom literature. The principles will be applied to several areas of human behavior.
CBS 423: Models of Christian Counseling
An examination of current Christian-oriented counseling approaches toward the development of a personal integrated model of counseling that is distinctly Christian.
- Forensic Psychology Concentration
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology Concentration
- Life Span Development Concentration
- Medical Anthropology Concentration
- Sports Psychology Concentration
Nathan Lewis, Ed.D.
Professor of Psychology
Director, Graduate Program in Counseling Ministry
Program Coordinator, Christian Behavioral Sciences
Office Phone: 951-343-4348
E-mail: nlewis@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 134
H. Bruce Stokes, PhD
Professor of Behavioral Science
Major Representative, Behavioral Sciences and Christian Behavioral Sciences
Office Phone: 951-343-4269
E-mail: hbstokes@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 133
CBS has prepared me to enter a secularly dominated field with my faith foundations rooted in the authority of Scripture. CBS has taught me that Scripture speaks to counseling.
Melanie Overton '16
Career Possibilities
Christian behavioral science majors can apply their field of study to a variety of careers. Some careers listed below may require further education.
- Church-Based Counselor
- Professional Christian Counselor
- Ministry Worker
- International Missions Consultant
- Human Resources Manager
- Social Services Worker
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.