College of Social & Behavioral Sciences

CSUN College of Social and Behavioral Sciences: Locally Engaged Globally Prepared Logo

CSBS: Locally Engaged, Globally Prepared

The CSBS College motto is "Locally Engaged, Globally Prepared." This is reflected in all we do ranging from faculty to students. We are the home of educators who are committed to decreasing the distance between communities and campus. Our faculty connect to communities through applied research, internships, and clinics and as a result of engagement with faculty-led initiatives, students are prepared to contribute to solving global problems and competing in global markets.

Dean Yan Searcy, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

A Message From Our Dean

Fall 2024

Welcome to a new academic year!  I like new. New shows promise. New signals fresh. New signals better. New suggests excitement. While new is all of those positive elements, new also promotes anxiety about the unknown. It also intimates that the past may have been better before the new way of doing something. This is a fundamental conundrum that manifests in debates about what is better: new or old?  It is a judgment epoxied in values. Artificial Intelligence vs. Authentic Intelligence. Pen and paper vs. iPad. Modern art vs. Contemporary art. An email thank you vs. A thank you card. Building restoration vs. Building renovation.

Departments

Globe focused on Africa

Africana Studies

Learn about the African diaspora to celebrate and honor the Black experience. Raise your critical race consciousness and cultural literacy to challenge systemic racism and inequities. Use your knowledge to champion justice and equity.

Two female Anthropology students looking at the camera.

Anthropology

What makes us human? By studying anthropology, you'll understand how both biology and cultures shape our societies. Prepare for a career understanding and sharing human experiences.

Lady Justice Statue

Criminology and Justice Studies

Develop an in-depth understanding of crime and justice through readings, research and experiential learning. You'll be prepared to analyze crime and fight for justice in your future career. 

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Geography and Environmental Studies

Learn about the natural and man-made geography around you. Analyze and share environmental data to shape the world and create a more safe and sustainable future for all.

Egypt Great Sphinx of Giza and Pyramids

History

Understand the complex past to engage the world as an informed citizen. A degree in history will teach you to think critically and write persuasively.

2 people working together on a laptop.

Political Science

Understand the relationship between a government and its citizens. Learn to analyze institutions and policies. With our classes and internships, you'll be prepared for careers in law, politics and more.

Psychologist writing on a clipboard, patient lying in bed in the background.

Psychology

Understand the human mind and behavior to improve the lives of people around you. Begin your journey toward an advanced degree in psychology.

CSUN student at advising.

Social Work

Address social, political and systemic change through an intersectionality, power and privilege lens. Learn to empower communities and advocate for an equitable and socially just society.

People in the city of Jakarta, Indonesia

Sociology

Study how people form groups and institutions which develop and change over time. With a Sociology major, you'll have the insight and research tools you need to address social problems and inequality.

2 CSUN students recycling folded cardboard boxes.

Sustainability (M.A. Program)

Issues surrounding sustainability impact every aspect of our lives. Become a sustainability professional who can implement practical strategies for businesses, energy resources, healthcare and your community.

Los Angeles city view

Urban Studies and Planning

Help make your community a more beautiful, healthy and equitable place. Learn the skills you need to solve problems in urban areas with the Urban Studies and Planning major.

Professor teaching CSUN students

Master of Public Administration

Develop essential leadership skills for the public sector and learn about strategic management, public policy, government relations, budgeting, finance and more.

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Interdisciplinary Studies

The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers the following Program options: African Studies Interdisciplinary Program, Asian Studies Interdisciplinary Program, California Studies Interdisciplinary Program, Minor in Human Sexuality

 

Upcoming Events

See All SBS Events

Nov 1 —
Nov 4

Africana Studies Week 55th Anniversary: Cementing our Legacy

Time: 12:00 am — 11:59 pm

Get the details

Nov 4 —
Nov 14

Creative Maker Studio Workshops

Time: 11:45 am — 4:45 pm
Location: University Library 265A and Online

Get the details

Nov 7

The CSBS Salon Series featuring Tabitha Brown

Time: 6:00 pm — 9:00 pm
Location: Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts | Zev Yaroslavsky Rehearsal Room

Get the details

Latest News

More News
American Sociological Association Logo

October 28, 2024

American Sociological Association Resolution for Justice in Palestine

Results of an April 2024 vote were released in May 2024 in which ASA members passed a resolution calling “f...

Jessennya Hernandez, P.h.D.

October 28, 2024

Sociology Welcomes New Faculty, Jessennya Hernandez, P.h.D.

About Jessennya Hernandez Jessennya is a queer working classXicana who was born and raised in theInland Empir...

CSUN political science professor Boris Ricks during 2024 commencement.

September 26, 2024

New Scholarship Carries on Legacy of Prof. Boris Ricks

This article was originally published at CSUN Newsroom. Contribute to the Dr. Boris Ricks Leadership Scholars...

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Mail Drop: 8256

Sierra Hall, Room 401, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330-8256

  • Phone: (818) 677-3317
  • Fax: (818) 677-3480

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