Social & Behavioral Sciences

The social sciences are concerned with the study of human society and with the relationship of individuals in, and to, society.  The behavioral sciences, particularly psychology, are concerned with the study of the actions of humans and animals. The key effort of the behavioral sciences is to understand, predict, and influence behavior.

Students studying these programs, such as psychology, communication and political science, are interested in why we behave the way we do. They learn to think deeply, communicate effectively and analyze patterns so that they may counsel, research and go on to make effective change in the world.

High Demand Skills

According to the Consortium of Social Science Associations, “Knowledge derived from social and behavioral science research has made our population healthier, our democracy fairer, our nation safer and our economy stronger.” 

"Employment of life, physical and social science occupations is projected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations, which will result in about 124,800 new jobs." (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Why Scranton?

The University of Scranton offers rigorous courses in the social and behavioral sciences, grounded in the Catholic and Jesuit liberal arts tradition and made practical by real-world experiences. Professors – top-notch in their fields – ensure that students have the skills necessary to analyze human behavior. Through service and internships, students gain knowledge that ultimately enables them to better understand the depths of the human condition.

“By putting theory to practice in the community, our students gain invaluable experience and perspective.” – Paul Datti, Ph.D., Director, Counseling and Human Services Department

Our graduates use what they have learned inside and outside the classroom to help their clients and make a real difference in society. They are “men and women for and with others.”

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