Fastest Online Behavioral Health Science Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an accelerated online behavioral health science degree?

An accelerated online behavioral health science degree offers a rigorous, concentrated pathway to understanding human behavior, mental health, and the delivery of support services. 

• You can expect a condensed curriculum covering foundational psychology, sociology, abnormal psychology, counseling theories, research methods, and ethics. 
• Courses are often delivered in shorter, intensive blocks, demanding significant time commitment and self-discipline. 
• Fast-track online behavioral health science degrees are ideal for career advancement or entering human services roles.
• These programs also provide a solid academic foundation for pursuing graduate studies in counseling, social work, or applied behavior analysis, ultimately leading to licensed therapist roles after further education and supervised experience.
• Many programs also include optional or required field experiences or practicums, helping students build real-world experience.

Where can I work with an online behavioral health science degree?

Graduates with an online behavioral health science degree find diverse employment opportunities across a wide spectrum of industries, primarily focused on supporting individual and community well-being. 

• Healthcare Settings. A significant portion of graduates work within psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers, and integrated care facilities. 
• Social Service Agencies. Coordinate resources and advocate for clients, or as community support specialists, connecting individuals to vital services like housing and employment. 
• Non-profit Organizations. The growing demand for behavioral health professionals also extends to non-profits where practitioners are dedicated to mental health advocacy, addiction recovery, or family support.
• Public Health Departments. Contribute to community health initiatives as health educators or community health workers, designing and implementing programs to promote wellness and prevent behavioral health issues. 
• Criminal Justice System. Employed as probation officers or correctional counselors, they assist individuals involved with the law in addressing underlying behavioral challenges and facilitating rehabilitation. 
• Human Resources Departments. Additionally, the analytical and interpersonal skills gained are applicable in human resources departments within various corporations, focusing on employee well-being, conflict resolution, and fostering positive workplace environments. 

While many advanced therapeutic roles require a master's degree, a bachelor's in behavioral health science provides a strong foundation for these jobs and other impactful careers.

How much can I make with an online behavioral health science degree?

Graduates with an online behavioral health science degree can expect competitive earnings that reflect the growing demand for professionals in this field. 

Based on 2025 data from ZipRecruiter, the average wage for behavioral health science professionals is $51,547 per year, with salaries typically ranging from about $37,500 to $63,500. The average pay range varies greatly, indicating opportunities for increased pay based on years of experience, skill level, and location. 

For example, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors reported a median wage of $59,190 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

Meanwhile, marriage and family therapists earned a median wage of $63,780. These figures highlight the solid earning potential across various behavioral health careers.

List of Fastest Online Behavioral Health Science Degree Programs for 2025

1. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Behavioral Health Science that is delivered fully online with accelerated seven- to eight-week terms and multiple start dates, making it a flexible option when paired with generous credit transfer policies and personal course-load approval.

The program offers several specialty emphases to help students tailor their focus within behavioral health.

• Program Length: As short as 18 months 
• Tracks/concentrations: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders; Infancy and Early Childhood Studies; Family Dynamics; Substance Use Disorders; Trauma
• Cost per Credit: $485 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits (accepts up to 90 transfer credits) 
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) 

2. Bellevue University - no logo in RCom database 

Bellevue University offers an online BS in Behavioral Science that features an accelerated cohort format, where students transfer in a minimum of 60 credits and move through one course at a time with a consistent peer group.

This streamlined, interactive model supports faster completion, focused foundational learning in behavioral health science, and a strong professional network. 

• Program Length: As short as 18 months 
• Tracks/concentrations: BS in Behavioral Science
• Cost per Credit: $459
• Required Credits to Graduate: 127 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

3. Wilmington University

Wilmington University has a BS in Behavioral Science online program that offers several tailored concentration options, allowing students to specialize in key areas of behavioral health.

Qualified students can begin stacking graduate-level courses while completing their bachelor’s, gaining a dual-credit pathway to master’s programs like Human Services or Applied Family Science, accelerating their route to graduate credentials and licensure preparation. 

• Program Length: Approximately 18 to 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Case Management; Emotional Intelligence; Human Trafficking Awareness; Human Services; Social Justice Advocacy
• Cost per Credit: $429
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

4. Big Bend Community College

Big Bend Community College (BBCC) offers a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Behavioral Health, which is an accelerated program ideal for those with prior credits from an associate’s degree.

Delivered in a HyFlex format with three live sessions per quarter, students complete six 15-credit quarters and a three-quarter, 240-hour practicum in real-world settings, preparing them for focused roles in case management, addiction support, crisis intervention, and more. 

• Program Length: Approximately 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: BAS in Behavioral Health
• Cost per Credit: BBCC provides a tuition estimate of $7,620 per year
• Required Credits to Graduate: 180 credits (90 credits for the BAS degree and 90 credits from an associate degree)
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

5. Illinois College

Illinois College has an online BS in Behavioral Health program with an asynchronous format that offers flexible learning, allowing students to complete coursework anytime, anywhere, with optional summer sessions for faster completion.

The program provides valuable hands-on clinical experience through practicums, preparing graduates for certifications like the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) exam and various behavioral health careers or advanced studies. 

• Program Length: Approximately 18 months (major coursework can be completed in 15 months)
• Tracks/concentrations: BS in Behavioral Health; BS in Behavioral Health with a concentration in Alcohol and Other Drug Counseling
• Cost per Credit: $375
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits (accepts up to 88 transfer credits)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

How long does it take to complete an accelerated online behavioral health science program?

Accelerated online behavioral health science degree programs are designed to significantly reduce the time it takes to earn your degree compared to traditional four-year programs. While the exact duration can vary by institution and your prior academic background, you can generally expect to complete an accelerated bachelor's degree in behavioral health science in as little as 18 to 24 months.

This faster pace is often achieved through several mechanisms, including condensed course lengths, continuous year-round study with minimal breaks, and the ability to transfer a high number of credits from previous college coursework. 

For those without prior transferable credits or who prefer to study part-time, the completion time might be closer to three to 3.5 years, which is still often quicker than traditional programs due to the accelerated course format.

What is the difference between accelerated and traditional online behavioral health science degrees?

Both accelerated and traditional online behavioral health science degree programs offer flexibility, robust curricula, and the opportunity to prepare for a profession in behavioral health, including the behavior therapist career path. The main differences lie in program duration and pace, as well as the type of student each program may best serve.

Here are the key differences between the two:

Accelerated Online Behavioral Health Science Degree Programs

• Duration: 18 months to 3.5 years 
• Course Format: Short, intensive terms, usually seven to eight weeks
• Pace: Fast-paced, usually one to two courses at a time
• Flexibility: Highly flexible, often asynchronous and self-paced
• Time Commitment: Heavier weekly workload; more assignments in less time 
• Cost: Can be less due to shorter completion times

Traditional Online Behavioral Health Science Degree Programs

• Duration: Four to five years 
• Course Format: Standard semester or quarter system, typically 15 to 16 weeks
• Pace: Moderate pace, full course load each term
• Flexibility: Flexible but with more structure and set timelines
• Time Commitment: Balanced workload spread over a longer period 
• Cost: Standard tuition over a longer duration

Ultimately, deciding between an accelerated or traditional online degree in behavioral health science lies on your needs and commitment as a student. For example, assess whether an asynchronous or synchronous format will work better for your schedule and study habits. The 2024 EducationDynamics report on online college students reveals that 57% prefer asynchronous learning. 

You must also consider how viable it will be to take on a heavier workload and shorter completion times in a fast-track program, especially if you will juggle your studies with work and other obligations. EducationDynamics reports that 51% of undergraduate online students work full time. 

Who should enroll in accelerated online behavioral health science degree programs?

Accelerated online behavioral health science degree programs are particularly well-suited for individuals who are highly motivated, self-disciplined, and eager to enter the workforce or advance their careers quickly.

They are an excellent fit for the following types of students.

Working Professionals

Individuals already employed in human services, healthcare, or related fields may pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for promotions, increased responsibilities, or to meet educational requirements for licensure.

This includes certifications such as Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA online certification, and other licenses and credentials. The flexibility of online learning allows working professionals to balance their studies with existing job demands.

Career Changers

For 45% of online college students, the primary reason to enroll in an online program is to start a new career and earn more money, according to data from EducationDynamics.

Professionals from unrelated fields who are passionate about transitioning into the behavioral health sector can benefit from an accelerated program. These programs offer a fast, efficient way to gain foundational knowledge and skills without taking a prolonged break from their careers.

Associate Degree Holders and Students with Prior College Credits

These programs are often designed as "degree completion" pathways, allowing students to transfer a significant number of existing credits and dramatically shorten their time to graduation.

This is ideal for those who started a degree but did not finish, or who completed an associate degree and wish to efficiently earn their bachelor's.  

Aspiring Graduate Students

An accelerated bachelor's provides a fast track to meeting the prerequisites for advanced studies for individuals planning to pursue a master's or doctoral degree, such as the cheapest online masters in mental health counseling, or other graduate programs in social work, psychology, applied behavior analysis, and other counseling specializations.   

Essentially, these programs thrive with students who can manage a compressed, rigorous workload, are comfortable with independent study, and are driven by a clear career goal in the rapidly growing behavioral health field.

What is the average cost of an accelerated online behavioral health science program?

The average cost of an accelerated online behavioral health science degree, or accelerated ESL programs online, varies significantly depending on factors like residency status and institution type.

• Based on our research for this guide, the estimated annual tuition for a bachelor's program can range from $5,000 to $12,000 for in-state students at public universities. For out-of-state students, this can range from $10,000 to over $25,000. 
• Some private universities offering accelerated online programs, have a per-credit cost ranging from $350 to $500 or more. Many of the programs we looked at for this guide had tuition prices within this range. 
• Online learning can save money by eliminating expenses like relocation, transportation, and parking. According to cost of attendance data from Education Data Initiative, an online degree at a public four-year college is $30,545 cheaper than an out-of-state traditional degree. 
• Public institutions often extend in-state tuition rates to online students regardless of residency to lower costs. However, many private schools also do this. One good example is Grand Canyon University, making it a great option for someone looking for an affordable accelerated online behavioral health science degree program. 

I recommend looking into the different tuition price formats offered by each college or university as many institutions have special rates for military, veterans, non-traditional learners, and students working in in-demand or high shortage professions. 

Can I get financial aid for a fast-track online behavioral health science degree?

Yes, you can get financial aid for a fast-track online behavioral health science degree, and scholarships are available for qualifying students in accelerated programs, similar to opportunities found in accelerated software engineering degree online programs.

• Federal and State Financial Aid. Most accredited accelerated online programs accept federal and state aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans, and other forms of support.
• University Grants and Scholarships. Schools frequently offer their own scholarships, tuition discounts, and personalized financial counseling. For example, Bellevue University students can look into special scholarships offered by the school for Nebraska or Iowa residents. 
• Employer Tuition Assistance. Some employers may offer tuition reimbursement for employees seeking academic credentials. The American Addiction Centers, for instance, has several scholarship programs for those pursuing behavioral health education and addiction-related studies.
• Targeted Grants for Underserved Populations. There are award programs supporting students in low-income or high-need areas. For example, The Behavioral Health Scholarship Program from the California Department of Health Care Access covers up to $35,000 for students willing to serve for 12 months in an underserved area in the state. 
• Professional Organizations and Foundations. Numerous national and local organizations dedicated to mental health, addiction, and social services offer scholarships. For instance, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers up to $20,000 per academic year to qualified students committed to careers in biomedical, behavioral, and social science health-related research.

Always check with your program’s financial aid office for tailored options and deadlines. In addition, make sure to ask for assistance in filling out FAFSA and scholarship applications if you encounter any difficulties.

Education Data Initiative highlights how 24% of students indicated that completing financial aid forms was the biggest challenge of enrolling in an online college. 

It should be noted that figures from IPEDS show that for 2022-2023, 1.44 million full-time, first-time students in public institutions received a form of financial aid.

Furthermore, 1.33 million of them were awarded scholarships or grants. The data shows that the resources are there, but obtaining assistance will take effort on your end. As such, I suggest you maximize all sources of financial aid to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses as much as possible. 

The chart below uses additional data from IPEDS on the number of students who received financial aid by control of institution.

What are the admission requirements for an accelerated online behavioral health science degree?

Admission requirements for accelerated online behavioral health science degree programs typically include:

• Prior college credits or degree. Most accelerated programs require applicants to have completed an associate degree or at least 60 semester hours from an accredited institution. Similarly, students in an accelerated online user experience design course often need prior college-level coursework or relevant experience before beginning the program.
• Proof of high school completion. Submission of an official high school transcript, GED certificate, or equivalent documentation, like a homeschool completion letter or state-approved exam certificate.
• Transcripts. Official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended must be submitted.
• English language proficiency. International applicants must provide additional documents such as proof of English proficiency and evaluated transcripts.
• Resume or work experience. Some schools may consider professional experience as part of their admissions review for adult learners or transfer students.

What courses are included in an accelerated online behavioral health science program?

Accelerated online behavioral health science programs typically include a comprehensive set of courses designed to provide a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, mental health, and social dynamics within a healthcare context. Students in an accelerated exercise science online degree may find some overlapping foundational courses, particularly in human physiology, anatomy, and health behavior, which complement behavioral health studies.

Common courses you can expect to find include:

• Foundational Sciences. Introduction to psychology, sociology, and potentially cultural anthropology.
• Human Behavior and Development. Developmental psychology, social psychology, and psychology of personality.
• Behavioral Health Specifics. Abnormal psychology or psychopathology, psychology of addiction and recovery, introduction to addictive disorders, treatment of mental health disorders, counseling theories, and therapeutic skills.
• Professional Skills and Ethics. Interpersonal communication skills, professional development in behavioral healthcare, ethics and values in behavioral science, and case management.
• Research and Data. Introduction to statistics, research methods, and potentially a capstone course involving research or program evaluation.
• Practicum or Internship. Some programs, like those aligned with addiction counseling credentials, require or offer field experience, often completed in local mental health or treatment centers under supervision, even for online students.

These components ensure students not only understand theory but can apply behavioral health principles in real-world settings. Always check individual program details for practicum availability and requirements. 

If you are interested in other academic programs and fields that cover topics similar to the ones listed above, you can check this comparison of a social work vs psychology degree. 

What types of specializations are available in accelerated online behavioral health science programs? 

Many accelerated online behavioral health science degree programs offer specializations or elective tracks that allow you to focus your studies on specific areas of interest.

These targeted paths help prepare you for niche roles within the broader behavioral health field. Common specialization options include:

• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling. Focuses on treatment strategies, relapse prevention, and client recovery plans. Often aligned with certification requirements like CADC or licensed chemical dependency counselor (LCDC).
• Mental Health and Clinical Support. Covers topics like abnormal psychology, trauma-informed care, and psychiatric disorders. Prepares students for roles in mental health clinics or as a foundation for graduate clinical programs.
• Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health. Emphasizes development, behavior management, and youth-focused interventions. Ideal for careers in schools, juvenile services, or pediatric mental health.
• Crisis Intervention and Case Management. Equips students to respond to emergency behavioral situations and manage long-term care plans. Useful in hospital, correctional, or community agency settings.
• Health and Wellness Psychology. Combines behavioral science with public health, stress management, and holistic health education. Great for those interested in prevention, lifestyle coaching, or integrated care.

While specialization options can be more common at the graduate level, many accelerated bachelor's programs also allow students to pursue certificates or electives aligned with their interests 

Respondents to the EducationDynamics survey on online college students reveal that the majority of students strongly agree that their online education helped prepare them for their careers. Here are additional details. 

How to choose the best accelerated online behavioral health science program?

When selecting the right accelerated online behavioral health science degree program, focus on these key factors to maximize speed, flexibility, and future career potential:

• Generous transfer credit policies. Some programs may accept up to 90 transferable credits from prior coursework, letting you finish your degree even faster. Filing transfer requests as soon as you are admitted is crucial since many programs set deadlines for accepting transfer documentation during the initial term.
• Flexible and fast-track degree completion. Look for 5–10 week intensive courses or 8-week session models; these allow you to move through material quickly and often run year-round, eliminating lengthy academic breaks.
• Self-paced or cohort pathways. Some programs let you set your own schedule, while others follow a structured format where you complete one course at a time with a cohort, enhancing peer support and consistency.
• Alternative credit methods. Programs may grant credits for relevant work experience or offer credit-by-exam opportunities, further reducing time to graduation.
• Multiple start dates per year. More frequent start times help you enroll without waiting for a new semester.
• Track record for graduate and licensure outcomes. Research schools with high graduate acceptance rates into the master’s or doctorate program you plan to pursue, such as the best and cheapest online master's degree in criminal justice, and strong first-time licensure exam pass rates.
• Program meets licensure prerequisites. If you plan to obtain certification or licensure, make sure the curriculum meets coursework requirements outlined by state licensing boards and certification agencies for behavioral health, counseling, or applied behavior analysis.
• Field experience or internships. Opt for programs with practicum or internship placements that count toward licensure hours and provide real-world experience.
• Career and academic advising. Access to dedicated advisors, career services, and alumni networks can help you plan for graduate school or job placement.

Prioritize these features to find an accelerated online behavioral health science program that fits your background, learning style, and professional goals, all while helping you graduate and advance your career as quickly as possible.

While affordability and programs offered are top considerations for online college students, there are other factors that affect the decision-making process when choosing a school.

Based on 2024 survey data from EducationDynamics, here are the most important factors that lead students to consider a school for their online education:

• Affordability - 62%
• Programs offered - 56%
• Overall reputation of school - 38%
• Ease of admission - 37%
• Scholarships offered - 34%
• Reputation of specific program - 31%
• Proximity to home/work - 29%
• Credit acceptance policies - 28%
• Quality of faculty - 26% 
• Ease of finding information on school/program webpage - 23% 

What is the career outlook for graduates of accelerated online behavioral health science programs?

The job market for behavioral health science graduates remains strong. Demand continues to rise due to growing public awareness of mental wellness, ongoing societal stressors, and the recognition of behavioral health as a key part of overall healthcare.

According to O*NET OnLine, employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow by 19% from 2023 to 2033. This translates to roughly 48,900 job openings per year.

The National Center for Health Workforce Analysis (NCHWA) also anticipates workforce shortages for certain behavioral health roles. By 2037, unmet needs in these professions could reach between 36% and 90%.

Furthermore, the overall market for behavioral health in the U.S. is predicted to grow in value in the next few years, with analysts projecting its worth to increase to $132.46 billion by 2032 from $92.14 billion in 2025.   

As previously discussed, graduates with an accelerated online behavioral health science degree can pursue a wide range of rewarding roles across various settings. Many of these positions and professions come with good salaries. You can look at the current reports on behavior analyst salary and data on average earnings for similar roles to get a better comparison of job opportunities.   

While some high-growth roles require only a bachelor’s degree, others—like licensed counselors or clinical psychologists—need additional graduate education and licensure. Accelerated programs are ideal for those seeking to enter the workforce quickly or prepare efficiently for further studies.

To help you explore your career options, I've prepared a chart outlining the projected annual job openings for roles commonly pursued by behavioral health science graduates below.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Accelerated Online Behavioral Health Science Degree

Is accreditation a key factor for accelerated online behavioral health science degrees?

Accreditation is essential in confirming that an accelerated online behavioral health science program meets established academic and industry standards. Students should verify that the institution is accredited by a recognized regional or national accrediting body, as this not only ensures eligibility for federal financial aid and professional licensure but also enhances credibility with future employers. Evaluating these quality assurances can provide a competitive edge and align your education with the industry’s evolving standards. For additional context on balancing quality with cost, consider exploring the most affordable online psychology degrees.

What challenges do students face in accelerated online behavioral health science programs?

Accelerated online behavioral health science programs can present a rigorous pace that demands exceptional self-discipline and time management. Students may encounter a condensed curriculum that limits opportunities for extended discussion and in-depth exploration of complex concepts, potentially requiring additional supplemental learning strategies. The intense course load can also challenge work–life balance, particularly for those juggling employment or family commitments. Additionally, the reliance on virtual platforms may reduce some face-to-face networking opportunities and hands-on experiences compared to traditional settings. Evaluating program support services and learning resources is essential to ensure the educational investment aligns with long-term career objectives. For a perspective on diverse and cost-effective educational paths, consider the cheapest BCBA online programs.

Other Things You Need to Know About Accelerated Online Behavioral Health Science Degrees

Are online students in accelerated behavioral health science programs assigned academic advisors or mentors?

Yes, most online accelerated behavioral health science programs assign academic advisors or faculty mentors to support students.

These professionals help with course planning, career guidance, and staying on track for graduation. This is especially important in fast-paced formats where personalized support can improve both retention and academic success.

How accessible are mental health and tech support services for online students?

Mental health and tech support services are highly accessible for online students in accelerated programs. Many schools offer 24/7 IT help desks, virtual counseling, teletherapy, and wellness resources tailored for remote learners.

These ensure that students receive timely support for both technical challenges and emotional well-being throughout their studies.

Can I take multiple classes at once to graduate faster from an accelerated degree program?

Yes, many accelerated online behavioral health science programs allow students to take multiple classes simultaneously, enabling faster graduation.

However, course load restrictions may apply to ensure students manage the intensive pace effectively. As such, I recommend checking with your program’s policies before enrolling in multiple courses at once.

Is a behavioral health science degree the same as psychology? 

A behavioral health science degree is not the same as psychology.

Behavioral health science is a broader interdisciplinary field that examines human behavior within social, cultural, and biological contexts. Meanwhile, psychology specifically studies the mind, emotions, and mental processes.

However, both prepare students for different roles within the broader behavioral health field.