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Behavioral Health

Associate of Arts

 

Behavioral Health

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, behavioral health is the study of “mental health and substance abuse, life stressors and crises, stress related physical symptoms and health behaviors.” It is a dynamic and growing field that focuses on promoting positive health behaviors while reducing or eliminating health risk behaviors.

The goal of this program is to foster resilience in an environment that supports students from diverse backgrounds and life experience. The program is designed to transfer to University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s baccalaureate social work program at the Universities at Shady Grove campus. The program also serves to train students for entry level positions as aides or technicians in various mental health disciplines.

The Behavioral Health AA is a designated statewide program. The Maryland Higher Education Commission designates some community college programs as statewide programs. A student may enroll in any of these programs at the same rates as in-county residents if the program is not offered by their local community college or if the student cannot enroll due to an enrollment limit. For more information on statewide programs, please see Curricula Informationnew windownew window.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, a student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of key concepts in behavioral health promotion including: the determinants of mental health; stress; coping; anxiety, mood and personality disorders; substance abuse; and treatment.
  • Identify and model examples of ethical and professional behavior.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of group processes and behaviors including: identity, formation, structure, power, influence, leadership, and performance. 
  • Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Use critical thinking skills to solve problems relevant to the practice of behavioral health.

Program Advising

Available Fully Online
Complete this degree or certificate on your schedule, from anywhere with an internet connection, by taking all your classes online. Find out more about online learning.
Academic advising helps students reach their educational and career goals. Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer.  The program advising guide outlines the degree requirements and is meant to supplement the advising process.

Transfer Opportunities

The program is designed to transfer to University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s baccalaureate social work program at the Universities at Shady Grove campus.  MC has a long history of successfully preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions. See all transfer agreements.

Careers

For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.

Some require a Bachelor’s degree. Careers include psychiatric aide, psychiatric technician, clinical psychologist, community health worker, and occupational therapy assistant. 
  • MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
  • Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.

Curriculum

Suggested Course Sequence

A suggested course sequence for students follows.

 

How To Apply and Register

Related Programs and Courses

General Studies Degree

Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.

Workforce Development and Continuing Education

MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes. These courses are designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.