Behavioral Sciences

Behavioral Sciences Major Requirements

The requirements for the B.S. in Behavioral Sciences degree include courses in sociology, psychology, human services, as well as general education courses and electives. Hands-on experience outside of the classroom is also required for this degree to give you a clearer understanding of opportunities in the field and help you establish important networking connections as you prepare to enter the workforce.

Course Highlights

• SOC220 American Social Problems - A study of the contemporary social problems surrounding major social institutions and society with emphasis on theories for assessing causes and remedies. This course will introduce you to the many opportunities where you can make meaningful change in our society.
• PHL342 Professional Ethics - This course will introduce you to important ethical issues in workplaces. You will encounter possible workplace problems, analyze them through the lens of ethical theories, and develop approaches to coping with ethical conflict. Following a brief overview of moral theories, this course may focus on, among other topics: cheating in the workplace, favoritism, harassment, discrimination, fair compensation, hiring practices, and whistle blowing. This is one of the interdisciplinary requirements in the major that will equip you with real-world knowledge and tactics that you can apply to your career.
• HSV355 Program Design and Evaluation - In this course, you will delve into the process of designing and evaluating programs that meet the needs of a diverse society. Explore the importance of intentionally designed social programs in which evaluation is an integral part, then work through the process of program planning and evaluation while emphasizing the importance of socioeconomic and cultural contexts. If you are passionate about understanding human behavior, committed to social change, and eager to make a positive impact in your community, the program development tools you'll gain through this course will provide practical methods of addressing problems that can be effective in many social fields.

Admissions and Aid

York College has rolling admissions deadlines. Apply any time of year to start in the next fall or spring semester. Just as our courses and personal experiences can be personalized, so can your financial aid package. We have staff members ready to assist you with any questions.

Earn a B.S. in Behavioral Sciences at York College of Pennsylvania

With York College's Behavioral Sciences major program, you can specialize in a certain field or broaden your career prospects across government, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations.

Request more information today or apply now.
 

Prepare for Behavioral Sciences Careers

You can tailor this major by choosing electives that allow you to develop expertise in areas aligned with your career goals, including: 

• Human Services: Courses focusing on counseling, mental health, and case management prepare students to work directly with individuals and families in need.
• Social and Community Services: Emphasis on community development, social policy, and advocacy equips students for roles in organizations that address social problems at the community level.
• Not-for-Profit Management: If you're interested in leadership roles in non-profit organizations, you can focus on courses in organizational management, fundraising, and program development.

Salary Ranges for Behavioral Science Professionals

• Social and Community Service Managers: $71K-$102K
• Caseworker: $50K-$61K
• Urban Planner: $50K-$92K

Experiential Learning in Behavioral Sciences

BEH 495: Experiential Learning in Behavioral Sciences will give you on-the-job experiences in the field of behavioral sciences. Through this course, you will spend a minimum of 120 hours per semester with a selected agency, giving you a real sense of job possibilities while bringing a greater sense of meaning to your academic work. This experience is designed to help you refine your career path and potentially even identify future employers.

Clubs & Professional Organizations

York College of Pennsylvania boasts a vibrant campus life with student clubs and organizations spanning a wide range of passions — from academic honor societies and Greek life to club sports and unique interest groups. 

Gain Highly Transferable Skills

In the B.S. in Behavioral Sciences degree program, students can expect to graduate with:

• Understanding and Application of Behavioral Theories
• Cultural and Social Awareness
• Ethical Reasoning and Professional Practice
• Effective Communication of Behavioral Science Concepts 

Behavioral Sciences Minor and Related Programs

Our Behavioral Sciences minor is a great addition to many primary areas of study. Or, explore one of our many minors to complement your Behavioral Sciences major. 

• Ethics Minor
• Neuroscience Minor
• Psychology Minor
• Sociology Minor