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School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies

About the School

About Us

The School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies encompasses the broad scientific study of the person as an individual as well as the complexity of people as members of communities organized across multiple levels. The school provides students with academic programs of study in preparation for critical and high-demand careers.

The academic programs include undergraduate majors in criminology, psychology and sociology. The minors provide study in criminal justice, mental health services, psychology and sociology. Finally, the school offers teaching specializations in both psychology and sociology.

The school welcomes students representing diverse experiences and backgrounds as lifelong learners to engage with  faculty and staff and consider enrolling in one of the excellent academic programs! Please contact the school to explore these opportunities.

Mission

The School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies is committed to providing a supportive and dynamic teaching and research environment that equips and inspires faculty and students to learn, create, and apply knowledge in psychology, sociology and rural studies. Through teaching, research, service and outreach, faculty will address challenges faced by the individual, society and the world.  

Vision

The School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies will be nationally recognized for its commitment to excellence in teaching and basic and applied research to enhance the well-being of individuals and society.

Core Values

  • Excellence in Research
    • Conduct research using methods and analyses appropriate to our disciplines.
    • Contribute to and disseminate knowledge appropriate to our disciplines.
  • Excellence in Teaching
    • Provide curricula and instruction aligned with national standards for disciplines.
    • Engage students in active learning that stimulates their intellectual curiosity and prepares them for a fulfilling career.
  • Integrity
    • Demonstrate and impart to students an understanding of professional and ethical principles (e.g., American Psychological Association, American Sociological Association, Community Development Society).
    • Work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and inclusion as well as the principles of academic freedom and free speech.
  • Diversity and Inclusion
    • Create, foster and embrace inclusive practices in teaching, research and outreach.
    • Integrate perspectives of individuals from all backgrounds and with varied social identities.
  • Engagement and Outreach
    • Serve as a source of expertise and evidence-based strategies for individuals, communities and organizations facing challenges.
    • Encourage faculty and student involvement in activities that enhance the quality of life of the university, professional and other communities.

The School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies Strategic Goals

Goal One: The school will pursue academic excellence through innovative curriculum and course development, student engagement and a dynamic teaching and learning environment.
  1. Foster academic rigor and promote student success through engaged teaching, learning and advising.
  2. Involve students with faculty to enhance excellence in research and scholarly activities.
  3. Empower faculty, staff and students to collaborate through partnerships within and external to the college.
  4. Graduate engaged citizens who contribute to the public good.
  5. Promote the academic distinctiveness of the department.
Goal Two: The school will engage in rigorous research and scholarship that advances science and/or enhances the quality of life.
  1. Apply student and faculty expertise to produce scholarly works that serve the public good.
  2. Demonstrate the scholarly impact of the school.
Goal Three: Broaden the impact of the school through partnerships, collaborations and academic outreach.
  1. Build strategic partnerships that mutually enhance the academic experience of learners, create career opportunities and contribute to community vitality and development.
  2. Use emerging technologies and institutional collaboration to provide undergraduate, graduate, professional and continuing education centered on traditional and adult learners.
  3. Promote intentional, responsive and sustainable outreach activities.
Goal Four: Secure human and fiscal resources to enhance high academic and scholarly achievement.
  1. Recruit and retain talented, diverse and committed faculty and staff and invest in their professional development.
  2. Engage ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ Foundation to develop and implement a strategic plan for alumni giving.
  3. Effectively and efficiently manage the school resources.
Goal Five: Embrace a culture of inclusion that values diverse perspectives and experiences.
  1. Ensure accessibility and inclusion by building a department climate that provides a welcoming, safe and supportive environment.
  2. Incorporate inclusion, diversity and global perspectives across the curriculum.
  3. Encourage scholarly activities that deepen our understanding of cultural complexities.
  4. Establish meaningful service and outreach partnerships with underrepresented groups.