Christian Behavioral Science

BACHELOR OF ARTS

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. This approach integrates psychology, anthropology, sociology and political science with theology.

Minors and Concentrations
Christian Behavioral Science Minor

Optional Concentrations:
Forensic Psychology Concentration
Industrial and Organizational Psychology Concentration
Life Span Development Concentration
Medical Anthropology Concentration
Social Work Concentration
Sports Psychology Concentration

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning Outcomes
Apply Now

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. The CBS program 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.

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.

Marriage and Family in the Christian Community

CBS 303

A comparison of marriage and family systems in biblical and American cultural perspectives. Family roles and relational development will also be addressed.

Biblical Wisdom and Human Behavior

CBS 415

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.

Models of Christian Counseling

CBS 423

An examination of current Christian-oriented counseling approaches toward the development of a personal integrated model of counseling that is distinctly Christian.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Christian behavioral science will be able to:

SLO 1: Demonstrate 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.
SLO 2: 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.
SLO 3: 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.
SLO 4: 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
SLO 5: 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
SLO 6: 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.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

Request More Information

Career Opportunities

Church-Based Counselor
Professional Christian Counselor
Ministry Worker
International Missions Consultant
Human Resources Manager
Social Services Worker

*Some career opportunities may require further education

51–63

Units

6

Concentrations

2001

Student Testimonials

"I chose this major because I wanted to understand people more and had a desire to help others. Since being in this program, I've learned life and people skills and have grown in wisdom."
Cameron Jaramillo, 2019

"I was challenged by some people that I really respected in my life to look into this major. I decided to try out a class and ended up loving it. I learned so much about myself as a leader and as a person. I love the professors because they challenge me as an individual to not only grow as a leader, but to also grow in my faith. They are very open and candid about their lives and experiences. It’s nice getting to learn from them."
Madison Brown, 2019

"I'm very intrigued by psychology and wanted an education that relates to my faith. Discussing different aspects of faith and learning more about psychology and behaviorism has helped me explore and solidify what I believe. I plan to go on and get my MFT and become a Christian counselor."
Katelynn Jarboe, 2021

Alumni Spotlight

"The wisdom and guidance I received during casual moments of conversation have been just as valuable to me as the knowledge received in the classroom. CBS has taught me that Scripture speaks to counseling, and has prepared me to enter a secularly dominated field with my faith foundations rooted in the authority of Scripture."
Melanie Overton, 2016

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Bruce Stokes

Professor of Anthropology

My field of anthropology connects with all aspects of human behavior and thought. There is nothing beyond the interest of an anthropologist. My ethnographic research of the Messianic Jewish Movement has allowed me to travel around the world and especially in Israel. For the anthropologist, the world is our laboratory. If I stay curious and eager to learn, the students catch that and follow in kind.

See Profile >

Nathan Lewis

Professor of Psychology

I am fascinated by how psychological ideas about people compares with what the Bible teaches about life, people, and relationships. I pursued this interest through two graduate degrees in psychology and counseling. I love challenging students to think about life from a biblical perspective and assisting them in their journey toward greater understanding.

See Profile >

Bruce Stokes

Professor of Anthropology

My field of anthropology connects with all aspects of human behavior and thought. There is nothing beyond the interest of an anthropologist. My ethnographic research of the Messianic Jewish Movement has allowed me to travel around the world and especially in Israel. For the anthropologist, the world is our laboratory. If I stay curious and eager to learn, the students catch that and follow in kind.

See Profile >
Nathan Lewis

Professor of Psychology

I am fascinated by how psychological ideas about people compares with what the Bible teaches about life, people, and relationships. I pursued this interest through two graduate degrees in psychology and counseling. I love challenging students to think about life from a biblical perspective and assisting them in their journey toward greater understanding.

See Profile >