Degree Overview: Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Applied Behavioral Science
Majors Overview April 8, 2015Those with an interest in the environmental and psychological effects on human behavior should look into bachelor’s degree programs in applied behavioral science. Students learn about concepts such as the effects of living below or at the poverty level and how mental illnesses change a person’s life.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Applied Behavioral Science
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in applied behavioral science are taught about analyzing and assisting various individuals, including substance abusers and those in poor financial health. Once they complete a bachelor’s degree program in applied behavioral science, students can expect to become adept at offering assistance in improving a person’s life by imparting instruction on prevention strategies, encouraging the development of social relationships, and developing one-on-one relationships with clients.
Schools offer both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Applied Behavioral Science.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma; some schools also expect applicants to have completed postsecondary education before allowing them to enroll; educational requirements could include an associate’s degree program in a relevant field.
Coursework
The focus of the program coursework is primarily on human behavior and the way certain behaviors can affect a person’s physical and mental well-being. The curriculum may also include capstone experiences and projects based on research of target populations, such as drug abusers, adolescents, or children. Core coursework may include topic areas such as the following:
•Adult development
•Research strategies
•Communication
•Family sociology
•Multiculturalism
•Group dynamics
•Social psychology
•Economic relationships
Career Choices
The bachelor’s degree program in applied behavioral science can prepare a student for various careers in social services fields in service settings such as schools, communities, and healthcare, among others. After they complete a bachelor’s degree, students may seek credentials as Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts that would allow them to work with disabled and autistic children. They may seek entry-level positions such as:
•Community assistance worker
•Case management aide
•Human resources worker
•Alcohol abuse counselor
•Social services assistant
Continuing Education Choices
Schools offer master’s and doctoral degree programs in numerous relevant subject areas, such as psychology, social work, or human resources. Students enrolled in these programs may be allowed to engage in further investigation of what motivates human behavior and continue on to more specific or advanced areas in the field.
