Behavioral Science, Bachelor of Science

Purpose

The purpose of the Bachelor of Science degree program in Behavioral Science is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of how social issues, social environments, and cultural influences impact individual and group behaviors. With a Wilmington University Behavioral Science degree, students will gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in careers working with adolescents and teens, families, the elderly, the homeless, the court systems, government agencies, addictions, crisis interventions, and more. Upon completion of the program, students seek careers in the human services, government, business, and industry. Students seeking graduate degree options may consider Master’s degrees in social work, sociology, psychology, human services, public administration, criminology, counseling, or human resource management.

Program of Study

The program includes courses in psychology, sociology, and cultural anthropology. Course work emphasizes normal and abnormal individual development, as well as family, group, and cultural dimensions of behavior. Ethical and professional issues are also addressed. Skill development in interpersonal relations, problem solving, and evaluation of programs and research is stressed. In addition, General Education courses required of all Wilmington University undergraduates provide a well-rounded academic foundation.

Classroom courses provide a blend of theory and application. Students also have the option to explore internship opportunities throughout the community in a variety of settings which provide experiences in applying knowledge and skills. The program is offered statewide, with day and evening classes offered at New Castle, Dover, and Georgetown. The program is also offered in New Jersey at Mt. Laurel and Cumberland. The program is also available online.

Program Competencies

Knowledge:

Demonstrate the ability to define and explain theory and application within the Behavioral Science disciplines with regard to:

1. Change and development at individual, group, and societal levels.
2. Individual differences, group variations, and social deviance.
3. Micro- and macro-level processes involving individuals, groups and societies.
4. Empirical and ethical issues related to the systematic study of individual, group and societal processes.

Skills: Related to the Behavioral Science Disciplines

1. Demonstrate effective oral and written presentation skills.
2. Demonstrate effective critical thinking and problem solving skills.
3. Demonstrate the ability to conceptualize, plan, implement, analyze, and report formal inquiry in the behavioral sciences.
4. Demonstrate effective utilization of current technologies.
5. Demonstrate the ability, skills, and flexible thinking necessary to explore the various applications of behavioral science in the real world, including career options.

Personal and Professional Development

1. Demonstrate an awareness of one’s strengths and limitations, interests, aptitudes, values, goals, commitment to self-directedness, self-discipline, and planning for present and lifelong learning, career identification, and development.
2. Demonstrate an awareness of self in relation to others, including effective interpersonal communication skills, ability to work in teams, and respect for diversity and multiculturalism in a pluralistic society.

Cooperative Education

For additional information about what course placements have already been developed, or to request additional information about how to propose your own co-op placement click “Here”