College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
At the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS), you’ll explore how people, places, and systems connect. Our programs focus on real issues like justice, equity, community, and the environment.
Why students choose SBS
#1
public relations school in Arizona
75%
social science graduates are employed six months post-grad
#7
online social work degree program in the nation
Start where change begins
Community focus
We offer programs that help you grow into the kind of leader your community needs. Through hands-on learning, we’ll prepare you for a world and workforce where communication, diversity, and critical thinking are essential.
Our programs focus on people and communities. You’ll learn how to support others and create real change at home or across the world. Our graduates leave ready to make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and entire communities.
Learn by doing, guided by experts
You’ll work closely with knowledgeable and active faculty who know the field because they’re in it. Smaller classes mean more support and 1-on-1 interactions. You’ll get hands-on experience through internships, fieldwork, research, study abroad, and paid opportunities.
Career preparation is built into everything you do here. Through projects, lab work, and partnerships across Arizona, you’ll gain experience that connects directly to your goals. You’ll also learn through research-based instruction that helps you think deeper and apply what you know in practical ways.
Support that makes a difference
At the Institute for Human Development, we focus on building skills and understanding for working with people with disabilities. Our work supports individuals at every stage of life and helps shape programs that lead to real change. You’ll have the chance to learn, research, and be part of efforts that make communities more inclusive and informed.
Make a difference through service
At the Center for Service and Volunteerism you can get involved in service work that matters. We connect students, older adults, and others with volunteer opportunities through national service programs. By working with local schools and nonprofits, we help you find ways to support your community and make a difference.
Take the next step
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences featured degrees
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BA in Anthropology -
BS in Applied Indigenous Studies -
BA in Communication Studies -
BS in Communication Studies -
BS in Communication Studies with Organizational Communication emphasis -
BS in Creative Media and Film with Documentary Storytelling emphasis -
BS in Creative Media and Film -
BS in Creative Media and Film with Independent Filmmaking emphasis -
BS in Creative Media and Film with Media Studies emphasis -
BS in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Communication
- BA in Communication Studies
- BS in Communication Studies
- BS in Communication Studies with Organizational Communication emphasis
- BS in Creative Media and Film with Documentary Storytelling emphasis
- BS in Creative Media and Film
- BS in Creative Media and Film with Independent Filmmaking emphasis
- BS in Creative Media and Film with Media Studies emphasis
- BSJOUR in Journalism
- BS in Photography
- BS in Strategic Communication
- BS in Strategic Communication with Advertising emphasis
- BS in Strategic Communication with Public Relations emphasis
- BFA in Visual Communication
- BFA in Visual Communication with Animation emphasis
- BFA in Visual Communication with Graphic Design emphasis
- MA in Communication
- MA in Communication with Documentary Studies emphasis
- MA in Communication with Strategic Communication emphasis
- MA in Communication with Communication Studies emphasis
Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation
- BS in Geography, Environment, and Society
- BS in Parks and Recreation Management with Community, Commercial and Tourism emphasis
- BS in Parks and Recreation Management with Outdoor Education and Leadership emphasis
- BS in Parks and Recreation Management
- MS in Geographic Information Science with Remote Sensing
- MS in Geography
- MA in Sustainable Communities
Department of Politics and International Affairs
Department of Social Work
Department of Sociology
Department of Applied Indigenous Studies
Department of Anthropology
Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Department of Psychological Sciences
Women's and Gender Studies Program
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Institute for Human Development
Ethnic Studies Program
I chose NAU because there was a smaller student population than the other public universities. I stayed at NAU because of the community that forms at a smaller university. I also had excellent professors and an opportunity to pursue a degree that has allowed me to help other people throughout my career.
Ready to apply?
We’re here to help you get started. Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, education, or community service, our programs offer the tools and support to help you grow into the leader you want to be. Join a community that values people, purpose, and action.
Support student success
Your gift helps us continue building inclusive communities and preparing students to lead with purpose. When you donate, you’re investing in hands-on education, meaningful service, and real-world impact. Every contribution strengthens our ability to support individuals, families, and communities—locally and globally.