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Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Behavioral Science

Overview

Does human behavior fascinate you? Would you like to know how biology contributes to behavior, or how to resolve interpersonal issues? In this online program, you'll gain a deeper understanding of complex issues in sociology, psychology, counseling, and management, ranging from cross-cultural and ethical issues to conflict resolution. (An on-campus option may also be available; contact a student advisor for details.) The knowledge and insight you'll gain are valued by many industries, including human and social services, health care, education, and business.

The Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science program offers students a basic foundation in the diverse fields of psychology, social psychology, and human development and behavior. The program is experience-based and emphasizes the reciprocity of knowledge and direct application. Because of the breadth of its offerings, this major can be directly applied in multiple areas of business and corporate operations. It also has direct and immediate application in human services positions and operations, or can provide a solid base for advanced study in various behavioral science disciplines. Participation in this program will also enhance personal development through the acquisition of new knowledge and insight into group interactions and communication.

The U.S. Department of Education requires the University to provide the following information about each of our programs that lead to gainful employment in a recognized profession.

74.35% of students who completed the program during the most recent federal award year did so within normal time.1

 

RELATED OCCUPATIONS2

 

PROGRAM COSTS3

$30,400
Includes cost per credit, application fee, and fees for resources (books/eMaterials) for students completing the program in normal time.

 

MEDIAN GRADUATE DEBT4

  • Federal: $33,244
  • Private: $0
  • Institutional: $0

 

1The on-time completion rate identifies the percentage of students completing this program during the most recent federal award year who completed it within "normal time." The term "normal time" means the length of time it would take a student to complete this program if the student is continuously enrolled, takes one course at a time, and successfully completes each attempted course. Students enrolled in this degree program are typically nontraditional students. Students may exceed "normal time" for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, internships, practicums, clinical rotations, student teaching or administrator experiences required for licensure. Normal time to complete the program is 63 months.

2Graduates of this program will be educationally qualified to enter the occupations listed. Visit onetonline.org for job descriptions.

3The range provided represents the sum of tuition and typical fees required to complete the program within normal time, based on the University's 2012/2013 tuition levels. The actual costs that will be incurred by a particular student to complete this program will depend upon factors specific to that student. Tuition rates for this program may vary due to factors such as: (i) geographic location of the student; (ii) modality of coursework; (iii) military service; and (iv) future changes in tuition rates. The number of credits required for a particular student to complete the program will be dependent upon various factors, including: (i) transfer credits available; (ii) repeated coursework; and (iii) completion of additional specializations within this program. Please contact a student advisor for additional information.

4The figure represents the median amount of debt incurred by students who completed the program during the relevant federal award year. The actual amount of debt a particular student will incur to complete this program is dependent on various factors specific to the student. Please contact a student advisor for additional information.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Differentiate the major concepts and issues in thinking, information processing, concept formation, language, problem solving, creativity, and development of intelligence.
  2. Discriminate between normal psychology (e.g., self-actualization or "emotional intelligence") and the etiology of the more common disorders of anxiety, depression, and conduct problems.
  3. Demonstrate the principles of effective versus ineffective teams and groups based on collaborative and conflicting interpersonal behaviors.
  4. Compare societal, cross-cultural, and gender theories and the practical implications on each within a diverse community structure.
  5. Explain the principles and effects of social influence, conformity, social attraction, and social perception on personal development.
  6. Describe the theoretical basis for conflict management and interpersonal effectiveness in situations of human conflict and hostility.
  7. Discuss differences in moral/ethical behavior in different cultures.

Required Coursework

 

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS – 42 CREDITS

SELECTIVES (SIX UNDERGRADUATE ELECTIVE COURSES) – 18 CREDITS

COMMON BODY OF KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS – 18 CREDITS

LIBERAL ARTS CORE REQUIREMENTS – 15 CREDITS

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS – 33 CREDITS

BEH 311 Social Psychology
BEH 312 Personality Theories
BEH 317 Biological Basis of Behavior
BEH 318 Addictions
BEH 407 Motivation and Achievement
BEH 411 Lifespan Development
COM 423 Group Dynamics: Teambuilding, Negotiation, and Conflict Management
BEH 430 Theories of Counseling*
BEH 440 Abnormal Psychology*
RES 321 Behavioral Research Design, Tests, and Measurement*
CAP 485 Integrated Capstone*
 

CREDITS REQUIRED FOR DEGREE: 126

*Indicates courses requiring a prerequisite.