Degree Mission Statement

The Mission of the Positive Human Development and Social Change degree program at Life University is to produce change makers by cultivating inner-, social- and systems-level skills and knowledge through a highly interdisciplinary, theory-practice based program that leads students to critical analysis and ethical engagement that promotes human, social and environmental flourishing.

Educational Model

The model integrates three major domains of inquiry, and three levels of knowledge processing, informally called the “three-in-three” educational model unique in the world of higher education. Students study and cultivate personal skills, such as emotional intelligence and ethical mindfulness; social skills such as compassion, empathy and empowering communication; and systems-level understanding, with concentration areas in positive business, positive psychology, contemplative practice, secular ethics, and peace and conflict studies. Alongside regular coursework, practice labs help students deepen their understanding from received knowledge to critical insight and finally embodied understanding.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will gain proficiency from a variety of disciplines in the theory, science and practice of emotional awareness, emotional intelligence and self-regulation; and in the discernment and cultivation of values, meaning and purpose conducive to individual flourishing.
• Students will gain proficiency from a variety of disciplines in the theory, science and practice of social intelligence and prosocial proficiencies such as forgiveness and reconciliation, empathy, impartiality, and compassion.
• Students will develop a sophisticated interdisciplinary understanding of complex systems (economic, cultural, social and political) and how these systems function individually and interdependently.
• Students will gain proficiency in accessing creativity, problem solving capacities, and other practical skills necessary for engaged global citizenship through the cultivation of multiple intelligences, such as emotional, social, creative and intellectual.