Online Behavioral Health Science Degrees
Discover Strategies for Supporting Behavioral Change
Grand Canyon University’s online(See disclaimer 1) behavioral health science degrees offer students insights into the factors that influence human behavior and well-being. Through a curriculum rooted in research and practical application, you can explore the intersections of behavioral, emotional, psychological and physical health, fostering positive change in individuals and communities.
Explore Online Behavioral Health Science Degrees
Our online behavioral health science degrees are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field, allowing you to specialize in specific areas. The core bachelor's program encompasses essential topics, including psychology, healthcare ethics and research methods.
As a student, you can choose from specialized emphases like childhood and adolescence disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, family dynamics and early childhood studies. This allows you to customize your education to address the social and developmental challenges faced by individuals and families.
Broaden Your Focus With Related Health Science Fields
In contrast with behavioral health programs, health science programs offer a broader perspective on the healthcare industry, covering areas such as healthcare administration, risk management and ethics in patient care. The curriculum emphasizes understanding healthcare systems and the policies governing patient services, appealing to those interested in system-wide healthcare functions.
Students with a passion for individual well-being may lean toward behavioral health science, while those drawn to the complexities of healthcare systems may prefer health sciences.
Career Paths for Graduates of Behavioral Health Science Programs
With a solid academic foundation in behavioral health studies and human development, graduates may be prepared to explore non-clinical roles focused on assisting individuals and families facing behavioral, emotional or psychological challenges. Although these degrees do not lead to licensure, they provide an educational foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in related fields, such as counseling, psychology or social work.
Graduates of GCU’s online behavioral health science programs may find opportunities in the following positions:
Health education specialist
Social and community service manager
Substance use counselor
Estimated growth for social and community service managers expected from 2023 to 2033(See disclaimer 2)
Median annual wage for social and community service managers in May 2024(See disclaimer 3)
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a degree in behavioral health science is a meaningful step. As you explore your options, you may have questions about the focus of this degree, its potential outcomes and how it compares to other areas in the health sciences. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to guide your decision-making process.
What are behavioral health science degrees?
What can you do with a behavioral health science degree?
What is the difference between mental health and behavioral health science programs?
Find Purpose and Connection at GCU
We emphasize accessible, values-based education with online learning options that support flexibility and connection. Students studying behavioral health science can engage with knowledgeable faculty, participate in interactive coursework and grow within a supportive academic environment.
The commitment to ethical practice and compassionate care is woven throughout the curriculum, aiming to prepare graduates to address the diverse needs of individuals and families.
Admission Requirements
Accreditation
Interactive Learning Platform
Online Student Resources
GCU provides online learners tools and services to enhance your experience. From academic assistance to financial guidance, you can access resources to help you connect and stay on track. These resources assist you in managing your online coursework, exploring tuition options and seeking scholarships, offering support throughout your program.
Prepare to make a difference in the lives of others with a behavioral health science degree from GCU.
Excluding residencies, practicums, internships and field experience.
- COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Community Service Managers, retrieved June 19, 2025.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Social and Community Service Managers as of May 2024, retrieved June 19, 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as social and community service managers, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.