« Psychology

Behavioral Sciences Degree

Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences

Offered on campus

Prepare to Enter the Helping Profession

The Bachelor of Arts in behavioral sciences program at Point Park University is an interdisciplinary degree program for students with interests in the human and social sciences who wish to explore careers in the helping professions.

Our program prepares entry-level practice work within the community health and social services delivery system while simultaneously providing the knowledge and tools for how to address systemic barriers and incorporate social justice practices into organizations, institutions and communities.

Students in our behavioral sciences major may also pursue further graduate studies in social work, community psychology, community engagement or related fields. With over 3,000 nonprofit organizations in the Pittsburgh region, this versatile career field allows graduates to seek employment working with an organization or community they are passionate about.

Meet Our Faculty

Sarah Schulz, Ph.D., LSW, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychology

Dr. Schulz's research interests are rooted in over 10 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in a variety of mental health settings.

Faculty Bio

Brent Dean Robbins, Ph.D., Professor and Director of the Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

Dr. Robbins' areas of expertise include humanistic, existential and interpersonal approaches to psychotherapy and diagnosis and the phenomenology of emotion and embodiment.

Faculty Bio

Courses & Topics

You will receive a well-rounded education through Point Park's core curriculum and classes in our behavioral sciences major.

Some of the courses in this major include:

Abnormal Psychology
Abusive Behavior
Community and Social Psychology
Counseling Theories and Practices
Introduction to Social Work
LGBTQ Mental Health
Research Methods
Senior Thesis Capstone
Sex, Gender and Identity Politics
Social Welfare Policy
Social Issues

During your junior and senior years, you'll have the opportunity to particpate in semester-long practicums, working in the field with an organization of your choice to gain real-world experience working with individuals, families and communities.

Earn Two Degrees in Five Years

If you are an undergraduate psychology or behavioral sciences student at Point Park University interested in expanding your career options in the psychology field, explore our accelerated, dual degrees 4+1 program.

Our unique program gives you an affordable opportunity to earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology or Behavioral Sciences and a Master of Arts in Community Psychology in five years. Learn more.

Career Options

The social services sector is one of the top sectors for employment nationwide and nonprofit employment makes up almost 25% of total employment in the City of Pittsburgh.

With a bachelor's degree in behavioral sciences, you will have the opportunity to seek employment in a variety of direct practice social work settings including health and mental health clinics, child welfare agencies, homeless shelters, hospitals, substance abuse treatment facilities and criminal justice settings.

Some of these positions include: