School of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Welcome

The School of Behavioral and Social Sciences is a robust school within a private liberal arts university that offers a variety of undergraduate degrees. Our programs seek to ask big questions and challenge students to think critically and authentically as they engage the world.

Our faculty are highly skilled experts and qualified professionals who reside in the following departments: Sociology, Social Work, and Family Sciences and Psychology.

Dan Jenkins Sitting on couch in Front of Painting

Faculty Spotlight

Dan Jenkins, Ph.D.

In 2015, PLNU psychology professor Dr. Dan Jenkins was invited to preach at a Thanksgiving Day service. Considering what to share, he felt prompted to write a letter of gratitude to his father to read during the service.

A teacher reads a picture book out loud to a group of small children

Viewpoint Feature

Instilling Gratitude in Children

The best way to teach children to be grateful is to model thankful behavior as part of daily life. But it’s not enough to simply be polite. Dr. Susan Rogers talks about teaching gratefulness to kids.

Alumnus Story

Todd Vance

Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression are at an increased risk for homelessness. Todd Vance, PLNU social work student and Iraq War veteran, has come up with his own method of fighting PTSD.

Group of students meeting with Dr. Brandon Swayer on the ground of McCullough Park

Opportunity for Engagement

Life in the Psychology Department

The Department of Psychology is built on rich collaboration between students and faculty.

Learn More

Opportunities for Engagement

Developing into an individual inspired and guided by purpose doesn't only happen inside the walls of the classroom — it happens by coming face-to-face with new opportunities, people, places, and ideas. From student-run clubs and honor societies, networking events, research conferences, and more, the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences offers diverse opportunities for meaningful engagement.

A female ECLC student worker hands a small orange flower to a child in the playground

Early Childhood Learning Center

The Early Childhood Learning Center is a preschool and training lab for children, parents, students, and teachers to interact, play, work, and learn together.

A PLNU student takes a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower in France.

Study Abroad

Studying abroad has a deeper purpose than exploring a new country. It allows us to understand and appreciate the cultural diversity we encounter overseas.

Student and faculty interacting during student research

Student Research in Psychology

With a major in the Department of Psychology, you will have a unique opportunity to conduct research alongside our experienced faculty members.

Special Olympics

Participate in the transformative power of sports as you cheer athletes onto victory at the San Diego County Regional Special Olympics Track Meet.

Psychology student smiling while engaged in fieldwork

Fieldwork in Psychology

Pursuing a major in psychology at PLNU gives you the opportunity to gain real-world experience that can help you in your graduate studies and career.

Students at PLNU smiling while taking a selfie at graduation in full cap and gown.

Psi Chi

PLNU’s Psi Chi chapter of the National Honor Society of Psychology is a great way for you to get involved and connected in the Department of Psychology.

PLNU students in cap and gown celebrate receiving their diplomas during commencement

Phi Upsilon Omicron

Phi Upsilon Omicron is the national honors society in family and consumer sciences for PLNU students in child development, dietetics, and nutrition and food.

Location and Hours

Rohr Hall
Main Campus

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Holiday hours may vary.

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences or any of our departments, please reach out to us!