MISSION STATEMENTS

PSYCHOLOGY - The Department of Psychology and Sociology offers an undergraduate psychology major along with a minor and collateral. The purpose of the undergraduate major is to provide students with an understanding of psychology as the science of behavior and experience including the major theories and issues within psychology; to emphasize the role of the liberal arts in higher education and personal development; to promote an appreciation for individual and cultural diversity; to develop critical thinking skills; to develop competence with methods of scientific research and data analysis; to assure that students have the necessary research experiences and coursework to undertake graduate education; and to assist students in developing their skills in library research, scientific writing, public presentations, and computer applications. Psychology majors will become aware of the various career options related to the major. The program also provides opportunities for internships in applied settings. A major in psychology will provide students with a broad-based education that will equip them for entry-level positions in business, government, and a wide variety of human service organizations. The major also prepares students who wish to pursue further education in areas such as law, medicine, business, or seminary, as well as psychology. The department also offers a graduate program.

SOCIOLOGY - The Department of Psychology and Sociology offers a major, minor, and collateral in sociology. The program operates in accord with the general purpose of Francis Marion University by providing an educational program within the liberal arts tradition by presenting a balance of theoretical views and varied analytical orientations. The bachelor's degree in sociology provides students with an understanding of sociology as the scientific study of human social life. It focuses on applying objective and systematic methods of investigation to identify patterns of social life and to understand the processes by which these patterns are established and changed. The program enables students to learn to think critically, to communicate effectively, to appreciate individual and cultural diversity, and to develop their skills in computer applications and library research. The program also provides students with opportunities for internships in applied settings. A major in sociology will provide students with a broad-based education that will prepare them for entry-level positions in business, government, and a wide variety of human service organizations. The major also prepares students to pursue further education in areas such as law, medicine, business, religion, and social services, as well as sociology.