the college of behavioral sciences and community services
Dean of the College of Behavioral Sciences and Community Services
From the Dean of the College of Behavioral Sciences and Community Services
Welcome to the College of Behavioral Sciences and Community Services, where we are actively preparing the next generation of clinical practitioners and community
service providers to walk alongside hurt and wounded individuals during their most challenging moments. Our college is committed to academic excellence as students
master their field of study from a faith-based, Biblical perspective that strengthens their Christian values and helps them develop critical thinking skills essential in
Counseling, Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Social Work.
College Distinctives
Our faculty’s impressive academic credentials, combined with real-world experience, foster lively, engaging discussions in the classroom. Most clinical faculty are licensed professionals who actively practice and have extensive experience in psychotherapy, counseling, and assessment across diverse clinical populations. Criminal Justice professors bring years of law enforcement expertise into our Criminal Justice Lab, giving students hands-on opportunities to develop their skills.
Exceptional Student Opportunities
Our students, past and present, are among the leaders in their fields, whether leading a multi-agency task force on human trafficking, consulting for one of the largest publishers of psychological testing material, or contributing to science through research and publishing their findings in peer-reviewed, professional journals. Our students lead the way.
Accreditation and Recognition
Nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program provides students with a solid academic foundation for entry-level social work positions and qualifies them for Advanced Standing in graduate programs, allowing them to complete their MSW degree in one year instead of two. Our Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is nationally accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This prestigious accreditation recognizes the high quality of our program and ensures that students receive an education that aligns with national best-practice standards for counselor training.
Your Journey Begins Here
We invite you to join our vibrant community, where faith meets business excellence. Our faculty and staff are committed to walking alongside you as you develop into a skilled professional and influential Christian business leader. Whether you are called to entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, accounting, marketing, sports management, or healthcare administration, the College of Business at Nelson University is your gateway to a meaningful career grounded in Christian principles.
Degree Programs and Career Options
The College of Behavioral Science and Community Services offers the following Associate and Bachelor degrees:
| Degree Type | Degree Name | Concentrations |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degrees | Addictions Counseling | |
| Human Services | ||
| Psychology | ||
| Bachelor Degrees | Criminal Justice | |
| Counseling | ||
| Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement (B.A.A.S.) | ||
| Human Services with concentrations: | Counseling | |
| Criminal Justice | ||
| Psychology | ||
| Social Work | ||
| Psychology | ||
| Social Work (CSWE-accredited) |
Future of the College
For those pursuing careers in mental health (Counseling, Psychology, Social Work), earning a graduate degree is essential for licensure and clinical practice. Nearly all our undergraduates pursue graduate training, with most continuing their studies at Nelson University. Our graduate programs include a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, and a Master of Science in General Psychology. In the fall of 2027, our college will offer a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision.