BS in Behavioral Health Science: Adolescence and Childhood Disorders Emphasis
Make an Impact on Families With Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health
The Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science with an Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders gives you the opportunity to gain comprehensive knowledge of childhood and adolescent development and behavior, and in particular, a thorough understanding of childhood and adolescent disorders.
Within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, you will explore the biological, emotional and environmental aspects that impact adolescent and childhood development, as well as theories related to physical and behavioral health. The behavioral science classes address the assessment, diagnosis, intervention and best practices for the behavioral health treatment of both children and adolescents. This bachelor’s degree does not lead to licensure.
Online: $485 per credit [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
- 16+ years old
- High School Graduate
- 3.0+ Unweighted GPA
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
- ACT: 19
- SAT: 1000*
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
Earn Your BS in Behavioral Health Science Online
GCU’s childhood and adolescent disorders emphasis is offered through online classes, allowing you to complete your degree on a more flexible schedule. Throughout this bachelor’s program, you will be able to connect with knowledgeable faculty in the behavioral health field and network with peers in the program. You will also have access to online learning resources, including student service counselors and the GCU library.
This Degree Is Offered Online
New online and evening undergraduate psychology or behavioral health science students may be eligible for up to 32% off tuition scholarship.(See disclaimer †)
Take Behavioral Science Classes With a Childhood and Adolescence Disorders Emphasis
As a student, you will have the opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of core competencies in child and adolescent mental health.
Topics covered in this program include:
Theoretical approaches to counseling
Addiction and substance use disorders
Ethics, legal standards and responsibilities in working with minors
Cultural diversity, social justice and spiritual values
Dynamics of trauma
Factors influencing mental health
Behavioral health treatments
Report writing and documentation
Program Capstone
The program concludes with a capstone project designed to be a culmination of your learning experiences. You will develop a proposal focusing on your area of specialty for a community-based behavioral health organization.
All Behavioral Health Science Emphases
For careers in other areas of behavioral health science, GCU offers specialized focus in areas, such as:
Career Paths for Graduates With an Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescent Disorders
This bachelor’s program also lays the foundation for pursuing a graduate degree in child and adolescent behavioral health, counseling, criminal justice, clinical or forensic psychology or human services. You may also choose to pursue career advancement toward clinical psychology, licensed therapy or professional counseling.
As a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science, you can use your skills in child and adolescent mental health to pursue career opportunities in fields such as government, social service and behavioral health.
Some positions that are related to this degree include:
Mental health service technician
Psychiatric aide
Correctional treatment specialist
Social or human service assistant
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about this adolescence and childhood disorders emphasis by reading our answers to these frequently asked questions.
Is a BS in Behavioral Health Science degree the same as a psychology degree?
Is a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science with an emphasis in adolescent and childhood disorders worth it?
What are the most common childhood disorders?
Program Curriculum
General Education Requirements
Core Courses
If you have empathy for the challenges faced by children and adolescents and want to use your skills to help them address behavioral and mental health disorders, complete the form to get started.
(See disclaimer †) MOU 10324: This scholarship is only valid for new student applicants who submit a complete application, meet all requirements for acceptance and start an online or evening Bachelor of Science in Psychology or Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science beginning on or after Feb. 1, 2026. GCU will award eligible applicants a scholarship of 32% off tuition per course for your program. This scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other GCU scholarship/awards. This scholarship will be applied toward your tuition only, and you will not receive funds in excess of your charges.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, March 8). Data and Statistics on Children’s Mental Health. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 5). Children’s Mental Health Orders. Retrieved June 21, 2023.