Department of Health and Behavioral Sciences
The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Central State University empowers students with diverse and dynamic academic pathways. We offer major concentrations in Criminal Justice, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work, and Sociology, alongside minor concentrations in Criminal Justice, Gerontology, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. Beyond our specialized programs, we are proud to contribute to the broader educational experience by providing essential General Education courses that serve students across departments, including Communications, Secondary Education, and Health and Recreation.
Our department offers degrees designed to prepare students for impactful careers and advanced studies. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Political Science (Public Administration), Psychology, Social Work, or Sociology. Additionally, we offer a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work, and Sociology.
To ensure our students are well-rounded and prepared for success, all majors must meet the General Education requirements, the specific criteria set by the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education, and any additional degree-specific requirements for the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science programs.
Bachelors of Arts programs
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The Criminal Justice major provides an overview of the criminal justice system, the causes of crime, and issues relating to social control. The program is structured around a core of criminal justice courses that include topics in law enforcement, the judicial process, and the correctional system.
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The Political Science program offers a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Public Administration).
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The psychology program is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of the field of psychology. In addition to ensuring the development of professional skills, the program prepares students for graduate study in psychology or employment in the fields of mental health, social services, criminal justice, gerontology, education, and related areas.
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What is your passion? Is social work the right fit for you? Social work is a profession for those with enthusiasm for helping others and addressing societal problems. Most social workers enter the profession because they want to help improve the well-being of people and society. It is an ideal career choice for those who care about social justice, human dignity, and working with diverse populations.
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Sociology is the study of how society affects human behavior. Sociologists investigate the social causes and consequences of human behavior from political protests to the role of race in health care.
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The Department of Health and Human Performance offers the Recreation Program that leads to a Bachelor of Science.