How do you see the world? What are the factors that shape a person's views, values, passions, expectations, and relationships? As we deepen our understanding of social structures and the dynamic roles they play in the world around us, we become empowered with the tools to positively shape our society.
PLNU’s School of Behavioral and Social Sciences exists to nurture servant scholars who critically evaluate social systems, cultural patterns, and basic human needs to constructively engage as agents of hope with individuals, families, and communities.
We provide a collaborative and vibrant environment for you to be challenged and ask big questions, thinking critically and authentically. As you go forth to interact with the diverse needs of the world, you’ll be equipped with the tools, skills, and understanding of human nature, cultural patterns, and social systems. Through a Christian worldview, our dedicated faculty use an application-based curriculum, evidence-based research, and tested methods to prepare you to live out your calling and move forward into graduate programs or career opportunities.
Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC)
Under the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences, our Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) is a laboratory school that serves the community by meeting the needs of children and their parents.
Opportunity for Engagement
Student Research in Psychology
With a major in Psychology, you will have a unique opportunity to conduct research alongside our experienced faculty members.
The Way We Do
Civil Rights Pilgrimage
PLNU’s Civil Rights Pilgrimage allows students to explore key historic sites from the Civil Rights Movement in the American South and examine its ever-present legacy. Hear from Sociology Prof. Glen Laster and Dr. Walter Augustine about the origins of the biannual pilgrimage, and from students who were forever changed by the journey.
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5 Signs You're Meant for a Career in Social Work
Discover if social work aligns with your calling through five meaningful signs. Explore personality traits, values, and skills that indicate you're meant for a career in social work.
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10 Careers You Can Pursue With a Child Development Degree
A career in child development can lead to promising and fulfilling work opportunities as a social worker, speech pathologist, behavioral specialist, and more.
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Political Science vs. Criminal Justice Degrees
Explore the key differences between Political Science and Criminal Justice degrees to make an informed decision about your academic and professional journey.
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What can you do with a general psychology degree?
From counseling to law, psychology graduates find diverse career avenues. Discover what you can do with an online general psychology degree.
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Exploring the Benefits of an MSW Degree
Do you consider yourself a compassionate and driven individual? Are you eager to make a lasting impact? If so, an MSW, Master of Social Work, might be your next step.
School of Behavioral and Social Sciences Programs
An education in psychology, sociology, or social work cultivates deep critical-thinking, interpersonal, and diagnostic skills, which will prepare you for an abundance of meaningful career opportunities. Our programs provide the opportunity to dig deeper into the study of people and society as a whole through intentional, hands-on classes that equip you for a lifelong calling. You’ll also develop a meaningful community of faculty, mentors, and networking connections that provides you with support and resources within and beyond the classroom.
Undergraduate
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.
Faculty
Our faculty serve as both teachers and mentors, committed to guiding you toward a full and purposeful education. By helping you explore thought-provoking and influential ideas and engage complex and difficult questions, you'll have access to an environment devoted to the pursuit of truth. An education at PLNU is both transformative and meaningful.
Location & Contact Us
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!
Locations
Culbertson Hall
Evans Hall
Rohr Hall
Main Campus
Meet Our Leadership Team
Melanie Hulbert
Dean
mhulbert@pointloma.edu
Rosemond Lorona
Associate Dean Traditional Undergraduate
rlorona@pointloma.edu
Daphney Wadley
Associate Dean Graduate, Professional & Accelerated Undergraduate
dwadley@pointloma.edu
Meet Our Staff
Sophia Starner
Director of Operations
sstarner@pointloma.edu
Torianna Vatcher
Operations Coordinator Traditional Undergraduate
tvatcher@pointloma.edu
Melissa McGrath
Operations Coordinator Graduate, Professional & Accelerated Undergraduate
mmcgrath@pointloma.edu
PLNU is committed to continuous and transparent alignment of our curriculum with the highest national standards. Learn about assessment.
