Division of Social Science

Overview

The Division of Social Sciences at Bluefield College offers studies in a variety of disciplines, including Criminal Justice, Behavioral Science, History, Psychology, and Social Studies. Each area of study includes a sound academic basis as well as opportunities for hands-on experience through internships. The interconnection within these disciplines allows many students in the Social Sciences Division to major in one area and minor in another area within the division.

Majors

Psychology

Bluefield College provides students a liberal arts education in Psychology to offer professional training in the field and to prepare students for graduate studies in Psychology.  A major in psychology involves coursework ranging from learning and memory to personality theories, abnormal psychology, and counseling and psychotherapy. Students are encouraged to think critically and are encouraged to apply psychology to “real-world” issues.   Students may apply what they have learned through completing an internship in psychology. Students may work closely in an office or organization that matches their particular area of interests. The student’s experience culminates in a final senior seminar capstone course that is designed to provide students with the opportunity to complete an applied research project. Find out more about Psychology.

History

Just as reading and writing depend upon the alphabet and vocabulary, historical literacy begins with basic knowledge of the past. Foundational history courses at Bluefield College consist of two-semester surveys in World Civilizations and U.S. History, each part of the college’s General Education program.

Upper-level instruction is split between these same two areas. In European and world history they include Ancient History, Medieval History, Renaissance and Reformation, Early Modern Europe, and Modern Europe. Advanced U.S. history courses include Nineteenth-Century America, Twentieth-Century America, and Virginia History. Complementary courses in other departments include the History of the Christian Church and World Religions. Find our more about History.

Criminal Justice

The Bluefield College student who chooses to study Criminal Justice will be prepared for a career in any facet of the American Criminal Justice System. Law, law enforcement, probation and parole, and corrections are all areas in which our graduates thrive. Presently, the department offers specific concentrations in law enforcement/corrections/probation, and pre-law. Students who wish to specialize in forensics may also direct their degree program to be law enforcement and science-specific. The curriculum will prepare students to pursue graduate studies as well, with many graduates successfully completing advanced degrees. Find out more about Criminal Justice.

Behavioral Science

Bluefield College provides students the opportunity to major in an interdisciplinary degree in Behavioral Science. Students will complete coursework in Psychology and Sociology, providing them with a foundation in both fields. The Behavioral Science major prepares students to enter and advance in careers within the human services field. Coursework will stress skills needed by professionals working in a variety of human services occupations. Find our more about Behavioral Science

CLUBS and ORGINIZATIONS

Psi Chi, the National Honor Society in Psychology, was founded to promote excellence in scholarship and advance psychology as a science. The organization recognizes academic excellence, promotes networking with others interested in psychology, and engages in service projects. To be eligible for membership, students with a major or minor in psychology must be in the top 35% of their class in general scholarship with at least a 3.0 grade point average.