If you are interested in working in areas of mental health care, substance abuse counseling or recovery support; becoming a corrections officer; providing geriatric or foster care; or working in youth and family services — then think about a career in behavioral health. It is one of the fastest-growing fields, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with an expected job growth of 22 percent through 2031.  

Starting in January 2025, Wilmington University will offer its new, 100 percent online associate degree in Applied Behavioral Health. This degree will provide a valuable credential that not only will make new entrants into the field more marketable but also give career changers a valuable credential and training in the field.  

“The need for qualified workers is great, even more so since the pandemic,” stated Dr. Johanna Bishop, Director of Behavioral Science programs.  

Earn a Flexible, Affordable Behavioral Health Degree  

Grounded in mental health, psychology, the sociology of wellness, health sciences, and criminology, this interdisciplinary program blends foundational knowledge and practical skills, including how to work in teams, communicate well, and maintain confidentiality.  

“More often than not, even entry-level positions require higher education; the program really fills that void,” stated Dr. Shiloh Andrus, Chair of the Behavioral Science and Applied Behavioral Health programs. “It’s such a great set of courses.”

Intro to Applied Behavioral Health explores fundamental concepts, societal perceptions, early intervention and treatments, and ethical and legal responsibilities.  

“No matter what your degree is, working with any people, I feel Applied Behavioral Health is a good course to have,” said Audra Watson, an Emergency Technician and Health Science major who enjoyed learning from Andrus. “She was open. She let us express how we felt. She listened.”

Another core course, Applied Behavioral Health Writing Assessment, teaches you to write succinct and organized case notes, which can improve decision-making and continuity of care. 

“It’s a real eye-opener,” stated Cassi Owner, a Behavioral Science major in the class. “It will get you into the mind frame of what questions you’ll be asking your client to get them to open up without being too abrasive.”

While the A.S. in Applied Behavioral Health stands alone as a strong credential, it’s also a stackable one.  

“It’s not just a degree that stops in two years,” Bishop said. “People have lots of opportunities to move forward in this degree.”

Explore Social and Behavioral Sciences 

WilmU’s Dual-Credit ADVANTAGE™ saves you time and tuition by counting select credits from the A.S. in Applied Behavioral Health toward a B.S. in Behavioral Science, B.S. in Criminal Justice, or B.S. in Psychology. You may also be eligible to earn WilmU credit for your prior learning and experience. 

If you’re ready to make a difference in people’s lives, and as Andrus stated, “feel just excited to be a help and to work as someone in an entry-level position to get started,” this is the place for you. 

Learn more at WilmU, a private, nonprofit, open-access, and accredited institution that serves traditional students starting their college careers, non-traditional students, and working adults seeking advancement through higher education.