An introduction to the field of human services and the conditions in modern society that impact the health of individuals, families and communities. Topics include identification of populations served by human service workers, principles of human services and essential helping skills. Special emphasis is given to Christian involvement in human services and the role of faith-based social service agencies in American society.

Introduction to the general field of sociology. This course includes an overview of several subfields of sociology. Basic theoretical perspectives of sociology are used to provide an explanation of basic institutions and social processes.

An examination of minority and ethnic groups' social issues, cultural beliefs, values, communication styles, learning styles and cultural influences and contributions. The course explores roles within families and society, surveys, demographics and their impact on individuals and society and introduces concepts of gender diversity and women's issues.

An examination of current social issues in light of classical and contemporary theories. Emphasis is placed on the implications of these issues for American society.

A capstone course requiring students to gain field experience through interviews (10) and a supervised work experience (20 hours) with an appropriate agency that is related to the student's area of interest.

An examination of the structure and function of marriage and family life from a biblical perspective. Topics include mate selection, parenting, divorce, transitions in relationships and the family life cycle. Students are exposed to difficult family issues such as blended families, spousal infidelity, midlife crisis and grief and loss in the home.

The study of social problems that are institutional in nature and of policies implemented to alleviate the problems. The course includes a discussion of causes, consequences, and intervention strategies used by private and governmental agencies.

An exploration of the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of death and dying and the process of bereavement in the context of psychology and human services. Students will explore issues related to dying and bereaved persons, and develop their own psycho-social framework for understanding and facing death, terminal illness, life-threatening violence, grief and loss. Issues of worldview as well as beliefs about evil, suffering and life after death will be considered.

The impact of substances including alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine upon individuals, families, and communities is studied. The causes, scope, policy issues, and methods of preventing chemical dependence are investigated. Places emphasis upon developing assessment and treatment skills.

The examination of the philosophy of child welfare as a specific field in human services and a comprehensive overview of the programs, legislative provisions, policies, and services which comprise child welfare institutions. This course emphasizes the importance of culture and diversity as a major force in the delivery of child services.

A study of general and specific group communication theories and their relationship to communication in a variety of settings. Topics include group formation, cohesiveness, groupthink, norms, leadership, decision making and conflict. Students become better leaders and participants through a variety of experiential learning opportunities.

A study of the programs of oral and written communication in world areas where cultural or linguistic boundaries must be crossed.

An examination of how individual behavior is shaped by the situation in which the behavior is emitted. This course addresses the impact of one's physical and social environment upon behavior. Behavior is broadly defined and includes cognitive processing, attitudes, decision-making, and prosocial and deviant actions.

This course explores the social construction of race, ethnicity, gender and social class, the history of majority-minority relationships and the current status of minorities. The course examines prejudice, discrimination, oppression, racism, and implicit bias in addressing multi-level change. Students learn to develop an appreciation for diversity and difference as well as explore the implications of those differences in multicultural practice settings. The course emphasizes a biblical foundation for cultural competency.

An examination of the institution of the family. Issues confronting the family, changes the family is undergoing, and the family life cycle are discussed.

An interdisciplinary approach to the study of aging. This course provides a comprehensive view of the physiological, social, and psychological dimensions of the aging process.