Psychology is a form of science which deals with human or animal mental processes and the mind. It extends to "the emotional and behavioral characteristics of an individual" and seeks to answer the "why" of behavior, both "normal" and "abnormal." Students who take courses in psychology typically begin with an introductory class to the field, followed by further coursework in subfields such as cognitive, social, developmental and personality psychology.
History is a source of additional coursework for any student majoring in behavioral science. Defined as "the branch of knowledge dealing with past events," history requirements can vary according to where the student is studying. For example, a behavioral sciences major in Texas might be required to enroll in a Texas history course, while another in Boston will have no such requirement. In addition, students may have the option of pursuing elective courses on topics like the Civil War, Tudor-era history or the African diaspora, instead of pursuing rigid requisites.
Political science is "a social science dealing with political institutions and with the principles and conduct of government." Students who must, or elect to, meet behavioral science requirements with courses in political science begin with an introductory course to the field, followed by further work in subfields.
Students in the United States take a course in American government, another in state and local government, and a third in political philosophy, or its regional equivalent, such as a Western political thought course, while those in other countries take regionally equivalent classes. From there, students typically have the option of pursuing specialized interests through elective coursework. Courses offered in the United States include constitutional law, international politics, public administration, American foreign policy, and women and the law.
Sociology is "the science or study of the origin, development, organization, and functioning of human society," or simply put, the study of society. As a field it is particularly interested in human social interaction and institutions. Students pursuing coursework in sociology are required to take an introductory course to the field, followed by additional courses in major subfield areas. Electives in family, gender and sexuality, conflict, culture, race and race relations, social networks and political sociology reflect the breadth of the field.
Criminal justice in academics deals with law and law enforcement mechanisms of society, such as the police, criminal courts, correctional institutions, juvenile justice agencies and the law. Students who take criminal justice courses begin with an introductory course, followed by requirements and electives in specialized subfields. These fields might include multicultural issues in criminal justice, deviant behavior, women and the law, family law, or corrections.