Additional information about senior education here.
The department offers B.S. degree programs in Psychology, Sociology and Criminal Justice. The department also offers minors in Psychology and Sociology and certificates in Criminal Justice, School Psychology, and Social Justice.
The department offers a wide range of Psychology and Sociology courses, which are described in detail in the undergraduate bulletin. The courses being offered this semester and in the near future can be seen on the RAIN system.
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Psychology explores issues like the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness, why people behave the way they do, and how thinking, memory, and language work.
The B.S. degree in Psychology is designed to introduce the students to the scientific evaluation of psychological theory and to familiarize them with the application of fundamental principles of behavior. It will provide a broad background for those who desire to pursue an advanced degree in the behavioral sciences or those who aspire to a career in social service.
The major professional opportunities for a person in the B.S. degree program in Psychology are to be found in social service areas of the public sector. Many students with this degree find employment with the State Department of Family & Children Services, the Department of Offender Rehabilitation, Juvenile Courts, and various mental health/mental retardation agencies operated by the State Department of Human Resources. Other opportunities exist with federal agencies such as the Department of Labor and Social Security. Particular job titles with these agencies include Social Work Technician, Social Worker, Pension Counselor, Behavioral Specialist, Mental Health Technician, Counselor, and Probation Officer.
Bachelor of Science in Sociology
Sociology is the study of social life, such as the social causes and consequences of human behavior. It investigates the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, as well as their formation, development, and interactions.
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology is designed to familiarize the student with the structure and functioning of society, to develop greater understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural groups, to stimulate constructive analysis of sociological patterns, to encourage further research on human social behavior, and to prepare students for productive careers in a wide variety of occupations and professions.
Sociology is a popular major for students planning futures in such professions as law, business, education, architecture, medicine, social work, and public administration. Various occupations and professions are available at the local, state and national levels to the person who majors in sociology. While many sociologists hold positions in social service and educational fields, an increasing number hold a wide variety of jobs in such sectors as business, the health professions, the criminal justice system, and in government. Sociologists also teach at the community college, college, and university levels, as well as increasingly at high school levels across the nation.
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is to prepare students for employment within the criminal justice system in the areas of municipal, state, and federal law enforcement; corrections; juvenile justice and probation, etc. by providing students with a foundation of the knowledge, principles, theories, and functions common to the American Criminal Justice system.
Upon completion of the Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, students will: demonstrate mastery of the essential content of the criminology core curriculum, demonstrate the ability to critically analyze major concepts and theoretical perspectives in criminal justice, demonstrate an understanding of essential elements of academic and professional writing, demonstrate an understanding of academic and professional research and scholarship and demonstrate an understanding of professional and ethical values in the criminal justice field.
The program is offered through the eMajor collaborative degree program with Dalton State College. All classes are online.
Criminal Justice Certificate Program
The purpose of the Criminal Justice Certificate Program is to provide students with knowledge about the U.S. criminal justice system. The program is offered through the eMajor collaborative degree program with Dalton State College. All classes are online. Completion of the Criminal Justice Certificate Program certifies that individuals are familiar with the purpose, function, and operation of the criminal justice system.
School Psychology Certificate Program
The Certificate in School Psychology is designed to provide students with some knowledge and background in the psychological concepts related to school psychology. School psychologists provide support and interventions to students; consult with teachers, families, and other professionals to improve support strategies and coordinate needed services. This 18-hour certificate is open to all students (including psychology majors). It does not lead to any professional licensure or guarantee acceptance into a graduate School Psychology program; however, it will be beneficial to students who pursue that path.
Social Justice Certificate Program
This Certificate in Social Justice explores issues that challenge humanity worldwide. Through considering the topic of social justice, students will develop an understanding of the different values, priorities, and beliefs held by communities of people around the globe and some of the most urgent challenges facing humanity today. This 18-hour certificate is open to all students.
Minors in Psychology and Sociology
The minors in Psychology or Sociology offer a secondary concentration in these disciplines for non-major students. These minors require less coursework than the corresponding major (18 hours) and provide greater flexibility in choosing courses. Please see the Psychology or Sociology minor curriculum sheet for further details.