Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences

The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences is one of the most academically diverse units of the University. The Department offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in African Studies and History, and Bachelor of Science degrees in Behavior Analysis, Criminal Justice, and Sociology. These programs prepare students for graduate studies and career goals. Students will receive specialized training and gain exposure to multidisciplinary activities designed to help them develop historical consciousness, awareness of civic responsibilities, appreciation of cultural diversity, understanding of both human and nonhuman animal behavior, and interpersonal relationships.

Africana Studies

The Africana Studies Program is a multidisciplinary field of inquiry committed to preserving African and African American culture. Established in 1997 at Georgia’s first public Historically Black University, it is the premier degree-granting program of Black Studies in the city of Savannah. Africana Studies graduates find employment in schools, museums, libraries, archives, and agencies that address issues related to the experiences of Africans and African Americans. The Program also prepares students to pursue graduate studies in Black Studies, history, psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, law, and related fields.

Behavior Analysis

The Behavior Analysis Program at SSU is unique in the nation for its undergraduate degree offering. Graduates can begin a career helping people live better lives or pursue graduate studies in behavior analysis, psychology, and related fields. Students will learn the fundamental principles of behavior and the science of behavior change in a context of ethical responsibility. The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses (BEHV 3103 , BEHV 3104 , BEHV 3105 , BEHV 3117 , BEHV 3740 and BEHV 4117) toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst Examination®. Applicants will have to meet additional requirements to qualify.

Criminal Justice

The Criminal Justice Program is one of the most popular majors at SSU with a large student enrollment. The Program provides an understanding of how the justice system functions and an exploration of scholarship related to crime and the administration of justice. Students are trained with analytical, critical thinking, writing and technology skills. Criminal Justice majors are employed in law enforcement, public safety and related positions, or pursue graduate law degrees. A fully-online option is available.

History

The History Program offers courses in American, African-American, African, Asian, European and Latin American history. Rigorous courses and internships led by experts in the field prepare students for graduate school and careers as teachers, museum professionals, researchers, documentary filmmakers, journalists, and beyond. Program graduates demonstrate literacy in the content and uses of historical information, as well as gain critical thinking and writing skills, and knowledge of academic conventions in research papers.

Sociology

The Sociology Program provides students with an opportunity to study social life, including the causes and consequences of human behavior. The Program focuses on training students in research methods, statistics, theory, demography, and observation within our social environment. The goal is to prepare students for graduate school or employment in a wide range of occupations in the public and private sector, such as social research, education, the health professions, business, social service, data processing and numerous other potential fields of interest. The study of sociology is also a popular undergraduate major for students planning further study in professions such as law, business, education, social work, public administration, and urban and regional study.