What makes humans think and act the way we do? In CBU’s psychology program, students study human relationships, behavior and the mind, exploring the human experience through research, theory and hands-on training. Expert Christian professors, who themselves have years of practical experience in their fields of study, stress the connections between psychology and biblical truth.
Develop friendships with likeminded peers
CBU has a friendly, caring culture that sets it apart from other universities. The
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences offers a number of events for students to
interact with faculty and fellow students from both graduate and undergraduate CBSS
programs. Additionally, internships, research programs and mentoring prepare students
for the work force or graduate level study.
Research alongside faculty
Our students are required to complete a capstone project where they conduct their
own research study from start to finish over the period of four semesters. They then
present their findings in a poster presentation that is open to other students and
faculty. In addition, students have the option to conduct a more ambitious research
study and apply to present at the Annual CBU Student Research Colloquium. Students
may also apply for a role as a research assistant in order to assist a faculty member
in their ongoing research.
Prepare for a future career
Upon completing CBU’s undergraduate psychology program, students will be well prepared
for careers requiring them to work with people, such as business, marketing, law enforcement
and others that call for a sound understanding of the human mind and behavior.
This course is a survey of theories of personality emphasizing the development of basic attitudes and belief systems that influence behavior throughout the life span.
Study of the dynamics, cultural implications and prevention of abnormal behavior.
A survey of modern theories of therapeutic counseling with emphasis on gaining an understanding of the psychological principles underlying these methods.
Students will learn to:
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.
"I want to be a medical social worker and am looking to pursue my master's here for
that. The professors at CBU are great and the classes are fun and interesting. I have
learned more about God through psychology."
Ashley Vidaurri, 2017
"I am interested in criminal justice, and psychology helps me understand people and
how they function. I have been able to greater understand the complexity of the human
mind and how intricate it is, proving that there must be a Creator."
Drew Cummins, 2018
"I chose to major in psychology because I want to make a difference in people's lives.
In the future, I plan to open up a Christian rehab facility and counsel people with
addictions."
Hailey Mount, 2017
"The study of people and how their brains develop is interesting. I love the professors
here; they make the material understandable and interesting. I would like to be a
clinical therapist and I feel my major is supplying me with knowledge to do that."
Victoria De Weese, 2020
"I chose my major because I like to learn about what goes on in the mind."
Brandon Molina, 2020
"I chose my major because the behavior of people interests me. It's training me for
grad school."
Brittany Fowles, 2018
"The classes on counseling are what affirmed that counseling is my passion. Getting
hired in a counseling office has been unspeakably fruitful in giving me a very realistic
taste of what my future entails."
Cody Moberg, 2017
"Psychology taught me to understand human motivation and behavior. This has been invaluable
in preparing me to intentionally build relationships, manage public perceptions, and
accomplish the goals of my employer as a marketing director."
Kelsey Wu Lamb, 2016
"The psychology program has given me the skills and knowledge needed to form an educated
voice that is rooted in biblical truths."
Nick Slayman, 2016
At age 16 I enrolled in college and have been in the university environment ever since. After working at another institution for 14 years, conducting field work in South America, and leading study tours throughout Europe, I came to CBU to serve as the dean of the CBSS in 2014. I spend my free time traveling with my family, including my husband and my two children who joined our family through adoption from Ethiopia.
I first came to CBU as a professor in 2011, but I graduated as a student from the university in 1993. The university has always had a small-school feel despite its growth over the years. As a licensed psychologist, my interests lie in the study of human thriving, cultural diversity, prevention of emotional disorders and child maltreatment. I spend my free time writing and publishing as an indie author.
In 1987 I came to the U.S. with no family, no job, and no money. Despite these circumstances, I trusted God’s plan and pursued higher education. My background includes electrical engineering, intercultural studies, theology, and psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family. I love being a professor at CBU because it allows me to integrate my faith with science.
I've worked with individuals who have committed serious crimes, including homicide and assault. In forensic psychology, it is easy to become cynical and jaded. My faith helps me remain empathic and caring. It reminds me that people who hurt others are usually hurting themselves. My path led me to work with those charged with or convicted of various crimes. And now it led me to CBU.
As an undergraduate, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life until I took General Psychology. Since earning my Ph.D. in psychology, my journey has continued here at CBU where I seek to challenge my students to thoughtfully engage the critical questions of our time. My particular interests are in the boundaries of science and religion and how and why we come to believe what we do about both.
At first I thought I wanted to be a clinical psychologist, but instead found a real passion for research. I love being able to ask a question that interests me, figure out how to test it, and then get to discover the answer. My love for teaching came a bit later. I like talking about things I am interested in, such as psychology, and I love connecting with my students.
At age 16 I enrolled in college and have been in the university environment ever since. After working at another institution for 14 years, conducting field work in South America, and leading study tours throughout Europe, I came to CBU to serve as the dean of the CBSS in 2014. I spend my free time traveling with my family, including my husband and my two children who joined our family through adoption from Ethiopia.
I first came to CBU as a professor in 2011, but I graduated as a student from the university in 1993. The university has always had a small-school feel despite its growth over the years. As a licensed psychologist, my interests lie in the study of human thriving, cultural diversity, prevention of emotional disorders and child maltreatment. I spend my free time writing and publishing as an indie author.
In 1987 I came to the U.S. with no family, no job, and no money. Despite these circumstances, I trusted God’s plan and pursued higher education. My background includes electrical engineering, intercultural studies, theology, and psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family. I love being a professor at CBU because it allows me to integrate my faith with science.
I've worked with individuals who have committed serious crimes, including homicide and assault. In forensic psychology, it is easy to become cynical and jaded. My faith helps me remain empathic and caring. It reminds me that people who hurt others are usually hurting themselves. My path led me to work with those charged with or convicted of various crimes. And now it led me to CBU.
As an undergraduate, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life until I took General Psychology. Since earning my Ph.D. in psychology, my journey has continued here at CBU where I seek to challenge my students to thoughtfully engage the critical questions of our time. My particular interests are in the boundaries of science and religion and how and why we come to believe what we do about both.
At first I thought I wanted to be a clinical psychologist, but instead found a real passion for research. I love being able to ask a question that interests me, figure out how to test it, and then get to discover the answer. My love for teaching came a bit later. I like talking about things I am interested in, such as psychology, and I love connecting with my students.
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Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, Dean
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(951) 343-4487
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