BS in Behavioral Health Science: Infancy and Early Childhood Studies Emphasis
BS in Behavioral Health Science: Infancy and Early Childhood Studies Emphasis
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The online1 BS in behavioral health science infancy and early childhood studies degree can provide the ability to balance your education with personal and professional commitments. Throughout your studies you will have access to experienced faculty and student resources.
Grand Canyon University is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a recognized body that upholds rigorous academic standards. This accreditation demonstrates GCU’s ongoing commitment to providing quality education and maintaining excellence.
In this program you will explore topics such as early childhood intervention, developmental milestones, parenting, attachment and the socio-emotional growth of young children. The program covers cognitive development in infancy, childhood trauma and resilience and emotional regulation, while examining neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder.
You’ll also be introduced to practical approaches like applied behavior analysis and behavioral interventions. Additionally, the behavioral health science infancy and early childhood studies curriculum emphasizes diversity in behavioral health, which can equip you to support children and families from various cultural backgrounds with empathy and informed care.
If you are interested in learning more about infancy and early childhood studies and considering earning a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science, explore our answers to these frequently asked questions.
The infancy and early childhood studies concentration at GCU examines factors that strongly influence a child’s development, such as behavioral health, psychology, trauma and family dynamics. This academic program focuses on children from birth to eight years old.
The Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science with an Emphasis in Infancy and Early Childhood Studies program can be a valuable investment for those passionate about supporting the mental, emotional and developmental needs of young children. Focusing on behavioral health, trauma and family dynamics, the program can equip you with the skills to pursue early intervention, child advocacy and social services careers. It can also provide a foundation for advanced counseling, psychology or education studies.
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science with an Emphasis in Infancy and Early Childhood Studies offers a comprehensive introduction to behavioral patterns and milestones in infant and toddler development. This program can equip students with key concepts and skills to support and advocate for young children with family systems and caregiving environments.
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)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
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).
This degree can prepare you for career opportunities supporting young children and their families’ developmental and emotional needs. It can equip you with skills to address behavioral challenges and promote health development.
Graduates of this bachelor’s program may pursue career options in the public and private sectors, including positions in:
Behavioral health
Social services and government
Early intervention programs
Educational support services
Discover how a focus on infancy and early childhood studies can empower you to make a difference.
Each of the core classes, including the capstone project, uphold the following six academic domains specific to behavioral health science and early childhood studies:
Analyze various concepts of behavioral health, such as the history and current trends, theories, approaches and techniques, along with research and best practices.
Study key behavioral health skills, including the DSM manual, ICD codes, clinical documentation, ethics and relevant laws. Analyze the role of assessment, diagnosis and treatment and the scope of practice for behavioral health paraprofessionals and technicians.
Discuss how culture, diversity and social justice impact the behavioral health field. Define the role of religion and spirituality in providing behavioral health services and examine the values and belief systems of behavioral health disorders among cultures.
Evaluate the use of diverse technology for behavioral health, such as electronic medical and health records, record keeping and other related software. Analyze the importance of privacy, security and confidentiality with patient records.
Examine the importance of a professional network in the field of behavioral health, such as roles and expectations, internal and external multidisciplinary teams, along with local and national service entities. Discuss the role of managed care and integrated health system.
Identify behavioral health and development in infancy and early childhood, including assessment and treatment for DC: 0-5 disorders, and the influence of culture, environment, early risk and caregiving systems on children’s well-being.
Excluding residencies, practicums, internships and field experience.
