School of Behavioral Sciences

The School of Behavioral Sciences houses the Department of Counseling, the Department of Psychological Sciences, the Division of Child and Family Studies, and the Division of Sociology.

At the graduate level, the Department of Psychological Sciences offers the Master of Science in Applied Psychology. All students in the program complete courses in statistics, research methods, theories of learning, and history and systems of psychology. The remaining courses can be chosen from a variety of electives within the psychological and behavioral sciences depending upon the chosen track: Thesis, applied project, teaching, or general options. Upon completion of this program, students will have developed research and writing skills that will further their education at the doctoral level or to pursue a career in applied research, data science, college or university-level teaching, training, development, and many other areas.

Within the Division of Child and Family Studies, the school offers the Master of Science in Child and Family Studies. This is a 30-hour online program with options for a thesis or a non-thesis track. Upon completion of this degree, students may pursue leadership positions in child advocacy, medical facilities working with children, research, government agencies, and college or university-level teaching positions. 

The Department of Counseling offers the Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree includes academic coursework that satisfies both core content areas and clinical experience requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas and complies with our CACREP accreditation. Students interested in becoming a school counselor can take coursework and complete school field experiences to be eligible to take the TExES school certification test.

Mission

The mission of the School of Behavioral Sciences is to provide an academically challenging education, innovative instruction, pioneering research, and impactful community engagement. We merge theory and practice to create high-impact programs which celebrate diversity, inspiring students to build inclusive communities. We equip students with lasting, transferable skills that prepare them for diverse and meaningful careers. 

Vision

The vision of The School of Behavioral Sciences is to advance the application of psychological, developmental, and sociological science and knowledge, by offering high-impact programs with resonance. We will be leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching, research, and scholarship as we serve our professions and communities. We advance innovative solutions to local and global social problems through cutting-edge research and practice and seek to motivate future generations to elevate the public’s understanding of human behavior.