Courses

SOWK 221 Human Behavior

This course is a study of the individual through the life cycle within the social environment. Foci include physical, psychological, social, cultural and religious factors in the development of the self. Dimensions of diversity (including but not limited to gender, race, class and sexual orientation) and their corollaries of privilege and oppression are seen as paramount in understanding how persons achieve optimum well-being. Select theories of development are discussed and critiqued against an understanding of current research, and an understanding of the value of persons and their right to self-determination. A Social World course in the Goshen Core.

Related majors & minors

All majors & minors

  • Art

    The visual and fine arts attract creative individuals who strive to carve out their own niche. At Goshen College, the art major and minor offers a variety of concentrations tailored to different artistic passions and career paths.

  • Criminal Justice & Restorative Justice

    In the criminal justice and restorative justice program, you learn to address crime, harm, and injustice in ways that go beyond punishment—focusing instead on healing, accountability, and systemic change.

  • Deaf Studies

    With a Deaf studies degree, you’ll be equipped to work at the intersection of language, access, and advocacy in diverse fields.

  • Disability Studies

    This interdisciplinary program equips you to understand the lived experiences of people with disabilities and examine how societies define and respond to difference.

  • Nursing

    As a nursing major at Goshen College, you'll study in new state-of-the-art facilities and join a program with a rich history of excellence.

  • Psychology

    Our small class sizes and hands-on learning approach ensure that you won’t just study psychology—you’ll apply it. You’ll have opportunities to conduct original research, present at conferences and complete internships that build your resume and connect classroom learning to real-world settings.

  • Public Health

    Whether you plan to work in community health, epidemiology or health policy—or pursue graduate study in public health, medicine or healthcare administration—being a public health major or minor at Goshen College will prepare you to make a meaningful impact.

  • Social Work

    As a social work major at Goshen College, you’ll develop the knowledge, skills and ethical grounding to work in a variety of settings—from schools and hospitals to community organizations and government agencies.

    All majors & minors