Behavioral Sciences disciplines study different social aspects of human behavior and the ways in which humans have developed and interacted in the context of their own social reality. The Behavioral Sciences disciplines included in this Option are Sociology, Anthropology, and Psychology. Sociology examines social behavior, social interactions, social institutions, and social change. Anthropology adds to the knowledge about past and contemporary societies and cultures as well as the origins of humans. Psychology, as a science, concentrates on individual behavior and personality although it also looks at different social aspects of human behavior. These disciplines together not only help us to better understand our everyday reality, but also provide an understanding of our own culture, diverse cultural practices found in the United States and other societies, and the wide variations of norms and values from one society to another. The Behavioral Sciences Option offers an interdisciplinary approach connecting and mapping concepts from Sociology, Anthropology, and Psychology. Students in this Option will use the tools of Behavioral Sciences theories and research. They will acquire critical thinking and intellectual skills such as comprehension, application, analysis, and evaluation. They will also become familiar with team work and communication skills that will prepare them for future studies in Sociology, Political Science, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Ethnic/Women’s studies, Anthropology, Social work, and Counseling. Credits earned in this Option can be transferred toward a bachelor’s degree in any of the disciplines mentioned above. After completion of a bachelor’s degree, students can pursue graduate studies in these fields. This Option will also provide a strong background for entry level positions as caseworkers, case managers, counselors, group workers, child advocates, family managers in social services, community organizations, non-profits, health services, and other agencies. Agencies are aware of the specialized skillset necessary to effectively navigate our diverse, pluralistic, and changing world. Behavioral Sciences provides an extensive skillset focused on cultural competency and thus the ability to understand the values, needs and interaction of people from diverse cultures. _____________________________________________________________________________________ The Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Behavior and Social Institutions Option requires 12 credits. Group One The following courses are required (3-9 credits): PSY 101 – General Psychology (Recommended for Flexible Common Core.) SOC 101 – Introduction to Sociology (Recommended for Flexible Common Core.) ANTH 101 – Introduction to Anthropology Group Two Student may choose one to three of the following courses, depending on the number of courses taken in Group One for a total of 12 credits (3-9 credits): SOC 105 – Social Problems SOC 140 – Race and Ethnicity SOC 150 – Criminology PSY 110- Life Span Development PSY 115 - Educational Psychology PSY 120 - Abnormal Psychology PSY 170 – Cultural Psychology PSY 182 - Social Psychology PSY 140 - Psychology of Women PSY 144 - Personality PSY 146 - Small Group Dynamics