Bachelor of Applied Science: Behavioral Healthcare

Earn Your BAS in Behavioral Healthcare

There is a growing need for mental health and substance abuse treatment services. Our Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Healthcare (BASBH) prepares students with the knowledge and skills to support a diverse client base in a variety of human services careers after graduation.

Our fully accredited BAS in Behavioral Healthcare program follows a cohort model that empowers you to pursue a meaningful career providing compassionate, community-based care to those in need support.

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Contact

Grace Jones

Full-Time Faculty

Social Sciences & Humanities (SSH) Division

Email

360-475-6838

Mia Steben

Outreach Coordinator

Social Sciences & Humanities (SSH) Division

Email

360-475-7108

About our Program

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

Analyze behavioral health concepts such as current trends, theories, approaches, and best practices
Recognize institutional and social barriers that impede access, equity, and success for individuals and families within behavioral health systems
Effectively analyze, evaluate, and conduct behavioral health research
Identify the structures, functions, and organizations which comprise the local healthcare system, with a particular focus on behavioral healthcare organizations
Demonstrate the ability to adhere to professional, ethical standards, including confidentiality and sensitivity when working with diverse populations within the behavioral health field
Demonstrate clear, concise, and effective written, electronic, and verbal communication skills with clients, families, and interdisciplinary team members to enhance person-centered care and health outcomes
Complete both brief screenings and biopsychosocial assessments to include co-occurring disorders and develop and monitor client-centered treatment plans in the context of family community, and cultural identities

Student Learning Competencies

Student can expect gain exposure and experience with the following skills, knowledge and abilities upon completion of this program:

Critical Analysis: The student effectively evaluates information and creates solutions through observation, reflection, reasoning, and experience.
Communication: The student effectively conveys information and ideas by adapting their communication style to different situations and audiences when speaking, writing, and listening to others.
Global Awareness & Cultural Competency: The student effectively engages with the multicultural world by studying the practices and perspectives of varying communities and cultures.
Information Literacy: The student effectively engages in a reflective process of inquiry to find, evaluate, use, and ethically create content.

10 FAQs

Q: What steps should I take if I don’t have my associate's degree but want to join this program?

A: Contact Dr. Cohen (@email) to do an ed plan to map out remaining needed classes.

Q: Is there an application deadline?

A: We can accept students up to the week before classes but students who apply earlier are better served. Please keep in mind that waiting and submitting a late application to the program may affect financial aid distribution, as the processing of financial aid usually takes several weeks.

Q: How do I apply?

A: Apply here.

Q: Can I join the program at any time?

A: No, fall entry only.

Q: Who do I contact for advising for this program?

A: If you already have an associates or bachelors, please contact Dr. Jones (@email); if not, Dr. Cohen will advise.

Q: When will I find out if I’m accepted?

A: Typically within two weeks of applying.

Q: What does it mean for this program to follow a cohort model?

A: Students begin the program together and progress through all the same classes until graduation.

Q: Can I attend online?

A: No, this is a hybrid program with in-person instruction that occurs one evening per week and homework submitted online.

Q: What is the practicum?

A: It is a course that occurs at a worksite. The BAS faculty will help you find a placement in your area of interest.

Q: Will this degree prepare me for a master’s program?

A: Yes, we are currently working with local master's degree programs to secure articulations which will make it easier for you to gain entry to master's programs so long as you have the GPA required for the program.

Apply Today for Fall 2025

Apply Today for Fall 2025

Our program is now full and can no longer receive applications.

What is an Applied Bachelor's Degree

Applied bachelor’s degrees fill skills gaps in practical, market-driven fields where job requirements have advanced beyond the associate degree level. They add junior and senior levels to two-year professional technical education. Students build upon their already valuable two-year degrees to land higher-paying jobs and promotions, while employers get rounded skill sets they seek in bachelor’s degrees.

Compassionate Care Starts Here

Launch a fulfilling career in Behavioral Healthcare as a social worker, substance abuse counselor or one of many other career opportunities. Watch this short video to find out more.