Students have access to statistical packages of SPSS, SAS, and BMDP, as well as the information highway through Internet. Student professional societies and organizations, such as Psi Chi, Sociology Club and Anthropology Club, provide opportunities for student participation and program enrichment beyond the classroom. The disciplines of Sociology and Anthropology combine to offer a holistic approach to the study of humankind. The region's long and varied human traditions, dating from the prehistoric past of 10,000 years ago with Clovis and Folsom remains to the 20th Century mixed culture traditions, provide an excellent natural laboratory for sociocultural studies. The program emphasizes student participation in field and campus laboratory experiences, practicum, and computer competence in analysis of data.
Small classes provide an enriched educational environment for both students and faculty.
Career opportunities include preparation for graduate studies, teaching, cultural resource management, and practice in federal, state, and local agencies, as well as in private businesses and non-profit sectors. The special focus in this field is the individual rather than human societies or cultures. Although it is well recognized that psychology seeks to understand abnormal behavior, knowledge of psychology is essential to understand normal human behavior as well. Psychology employs exclusively the scientific method in applications that range from multifactorial laboratory experiments to single case studies. At Highlands, students experience the diversity within the field through a broad selection of courses.