School of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Understand and think critically about human behavior, social institutions, world cultures and social justice.

Ornate door

Serve Your Community and the World

Become a distinguished voice in your field and community.

The School of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSS) maintains programs that provide the knowledge, perspective, and practical skills needed to pursue excellence in the fields of human behavior, social science, government and history.

Our graduates pursue careers based on their interests:

  • Working with other cultures, governments, and organizations
  • Influencing public policy
  • Practicing environmental law and sustainability 
  • Investigating crime scenes
  • Learning more about how we got where we are
  • Solving legal issues
  • Understanding what makes people tick
  • Helping others overcome obstacles
  • Serving their community​

Our curricula merge theory with practice to create high-impact programs with resonance. We support subject exploration through research, classroom activities, and community engagement. In addition, each major incorporates opportunities to study outside the classroom, such as internships and study abroad opportunities.

Our Departments

Each program at the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences is a part of a department with dedicated faculty ready to help students achieve at the highest level.

Department of Applied Behavior Analysis, Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Sociology

The Department of Applied Behavior Analysis, Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Sociology provides the foundation for students interested in pursuing careers in law, law enforcement, probation and parole, court administration and corrections.

 

Department of Counseling

The Department of Counseling at St. Edward’s University brings together students who are committed to creating a better world by improving people’s quality of life and ensuring the justice and safety of communities.

Department of History and Leadership

The Department of History and Leadership at St. Edward’s embraces the people and places of the past and examines the complex interplay of culture, ideas and everyday life.

Department of Environmental Science and Policy, International Affairs and Political Science

The Department of Environmental Science and Policy, International Affairs, and Political Science prepares students to be active citizens of the world, fully engaged in environmental, social, and political issues.

Department of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience

The Department of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience at St. Edward’s supports students interested in studying the brain and behavior while developing essential scientific and critical thinking skills.

A student and a professor watch as a student between them digs and takes a soil sample during a field research trip

Our Programs

From Environmental Science to Psychology, the majors and minors offered to students are curated to balance experiential learning opportunities, in-class engagement, and socioeconomic insight.

A student sits in an advisor's office and listens during their meeting.

Academic Advising

The School of Behavioral and Social Sciences provides undergraduate advising to students looking for the guidance and resources to stay on track, take advantage of opportunities and graduate career-ready.

Faculty from the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences stand at a table on Ragsdale Lawn and talk to students.

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty members are innovative thinkers and passionate teachers whose goal is to give students the tools they need to thrive in their lives and careers. We create an environment that cultivates innovation and collaboration.

Advance Your Career With Our Graduate Programs

From virtual to part-time, our graduate programs understand balance. Explore what options the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences offers.

Master of Science in Accounting Analytics

Students pursuing the 30-hour Master of Accounting degree develop technical expertise and graduate ready to complete the CPA exam and advance in their careers.

Master of Business Administration

Students in the MBA program take courses in a flexible, low-residency structure, so they can balance their careers and personal lives with classes that reflect Austin’s business scene.

Master of Science in Business Analytics

Prepare for a career as a business analyst or business leader through practical real-world cases.

Master of Science in Digital Marketing and Analytics

In a 16-month online program, students develop knowledge to manage and apply big data, analytics, marketing automation, user interface design and mobile marketing.

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Stay Connected

To stay informed on school news, success stories and events, follow us on social media.

Dean's Message

Greetings from the hilltop!

The School of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSS) is a vibrant community of faculty and student scholars representing the disciplines of criminal justice, global studies, political science, environmental science and policy, history, psychology, behavioral neuroscience, sociology, and social work.

In our courses, research opportunities and internships, we support our students and embrace a mission of inclusive excellence. We see value in diverse voices, strive for equity and believe our students can change the world.

Skills — often cited as critical to employers — such as critical thinking, problem-solving, emotional intelligence and communication, are at the heart of the BSS learning experience. In addition, BSS students work closely with faculty, study internationally, gain leadership experience and connect with future employers.

We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our student successes, faculty research interests and accomplishments, and engaging experiential learning opportunities. We are fully invested in your success and will work with you to discover, grow and achieve to become your best self.

Catherine Campbell
Dean, School of Behavioral and Social Sciences