Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Healthcare

Program Description

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Behavioral Healthcare degree builds on an existing two year degree adding upper division coursework to complete a four-year degree. Applicants are accepted year round. Some courses are offered in a hyflex format and students have the option to attend in person or online. This program starts in fall quarter and can be completed online.  

This degree is designed to provide program graduates with the practical knowledge and skills necessary to enter the behavioral health workforce. The curriculum of the BAS in Behavioral Healthcare degree includes a combination of core courses, specialized courses, and practical experiences. These courses provide students with a strong understanding of human behavior, mental health disorders, and the principles of counseling. After completing the first year of the program, each student completes two five-credit practicums in the behavioral health field. 

Program Code: SAABHBAS

Career Opportunities and Earnings 

Graduates can pursue roles such as case managers, behavioral health technicians, community outreach specialists and a variety of other roles. These positions involve working directly with individuals facing mental health challenges, providing support, guidance, and implementing treatment plans. Furthermore, opportunities exist in non-profit organizations, government agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community health centers. Graduates can choose to continue their education and pursue advanced degrees to expand their career prospects, such as becoming licensed therapists, counselors, or pursuing administrative roles within behavioral health organizations. The demand for professionals in behavioral health continues to grow, making it an exciting and fulfilling field for graduates to make a positive impact on individuals' lives and contribute to the betterment of society. 

For current employment and wage estimates, please visit and search for the relevant occupational term: bls.gov/oes

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of Peninsula College BAS Behavioral Healthcare program students will successfully satisfy the following program outcomes:

• Demonstrate clear, concise, and effective written, electronic, and verbal communication skills with clients, families, and interdisciplinary team members to enhance personal centered care and health outcomes.
• Demonstrate the ability to function effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in coordinating services and resources to meet the needs of diverse populations.
• Effectively analyze, evaluate, and conduct behavioral health research and use to benefit the consumer and family members. Including an abiding hope for recovery for every person.
• Identify the structures, functions, and organizations which comprise the local healthcare system with a particular focus on behavioral healthcare organizations.
• Complete both brief screenings and biopsychosocial assessments to include co-occurring disorders and develop and monitor client-centered treatment plans in the context of family, community, and cultural identities.
• Analyze behavioral health concepts such as current trends, theories, approaches, and best practices for the individual consumer and their families.
• Recognize institutional and social barriers that impede access, equity, and success for individuals and families within behavioral health systems.
• Demonstrate the ability to adhere to professional, ethical standards, including confidentiality and sensitivity when working with diverse populations within the behavioral health field.
• Demonstrate proper use of technologies and processes used to collect and analyze data and easily disseminate to appropriate parties.

Special Features 

• Students in the BAS program have the advantage of a low faculty to student ratio.
• The BAS program does not currently have a waiting list.
• The BAS Behavioral Healthcare program curriculum is designed to prepare students for completing master's degrees in similar fields.

Program Prerequisites

Students entering this program should have basic knowledge of a computer and touch-typing skills. It is recommended that online students complete HUMDV 101. Writing classes are embedded in the program. Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and the use of email are tools BAS students will use throughout the program. Those who are not familiar with or comfortable using those programs should locate online, self-study resources or consider enrolling in courses offered by the college. Students may need to complete prerequisite coursework prior to full admittance to the program. 

• 5 credits of MATH& 107 or higher with a GPA of 2.0 or higher
• 5 credits of ENGL& 101 with a GPA of 2.0 or higher
• Completion of a two-year degree, or equivalent junior level standing with a minimum cumulative GPA of a 2.0 or higher

Approximate Additional Costs

• Request official transcripts from outside colleges (estimated): $20
• Books, supplies and miscellaneous fees: $2400
• Laptop computer: $1000
• Personal health insurance (recommended): $39- $190 per quarter
• Travel/Transportation: varies

Current tuition and fee information is published on the College website at pencol.edu or by calling the Student Services Office at (360) 417-6340.

Financial aid is available to all students who qualify. To learn more about these opportunities, visit pencol.edu/financial.

Application Process 

Applications for admission are accepted year‐round. Once accepted into the program, students may start taking courses in fall quarter. To learn more about the application process, visit pencol.edu/applying-program/bas-application-form.