Social and Behavioral Sciences

Explore human behavior: how people think, act, and shape society. A degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences gives you the tools to understand communities and drive change.

From psychology to politics, anthropology to social work, NAU’s programs in Social and Behavioral Sciences help you understand people and systems, and give you the skills to support and improve them.

What is Social and Behavioral Sciences?

Help people thrive by understanding what drives behavior. Social and Behavioral Sciences explores how individuals and societies function, and how to support communities through policy, advocacy, and care. You’ll study topics like mental health, social justice, and cultural change, applying research and empathy to real-world challenges.

What you'll study

In your courses, you’ll explore the ways people think, act, and relate, and gain real-world skills through research, fieldwork, and internships. Depending on your major, you might study:

  • Psychology and mental health support
  • Social justice and inequality
  • Government systems and public policy
  • Cross-cultural and historical perspectives
  • Social welfare and community development

You’ll gain practical experience through community partnerships, applied research, and internships across Arizona so you graduate ready to make an impact.

Career possibilities

Your degree opens the door to careers in education, law, healthcare, social work, public service, and more. Many students go on to graduate programs in psychology, counseling, public health, or policy.

Social and Behavioral Science degrees at NAU

Explore NAU’s degrees in psychology, political science, criminology, sociology, anthropology, and social work and find a path that aligns with your purpose.

Find your Social and Behavioral Science degree

FAQs: Social and Behavioral Sciences degrees

What’s the difference between sociology, psychology, and social work?

Psychology explores individual behavior and mental health. Sociology focuses on social systems and group dynamics. Social work is centered on helping people navigate life challenges and access support.

Can I get involved in research as an undergrad?

Absolutely. NAU undergraduate students support faculty research on mental health, justice reform, political movements, and more.

Will this degree help me work towards social change?

Definitely. Social and Behavioral Science programs prepare you to tackle issues like equity, justice, mental health, and policy reform in real communities.

What support is there for students who want to go to grad school?

NAU offers advising, mentorship, and support for graduate school applications. Many students continue at NAU in advanced programs like public health, social work, counseling, or policy.

Will I get hands-on experience?

Yes! You’ll gain real-world experience through internships, field placements, and service-learning projects that help you build skills, and your résumé, before graduation.