Behavioral science programs focus on analyzing the patterns and motivations of human behavior, preparing students for highly impactful careers.
Such expertise is in high demand.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a 17% job growth rate in behavioral science-related jobs (such as substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors) is projected from 2024-2034. This is much faster than the projected average job growth rate for all U.S. jobs.
A bachelor's in behavioral science can set you on the path to landing one of these jobs. Also, if the program is offered online, it can help you get a high-value degree even if you have a busy schedule.
We've ranked the best behavioral science programs to help you find the best fit for you.
Bachelor's in Behavioral Science Highlights
The average tuition in 2020 for an in-state behavioral science program after scholarships and grants is $6,122.
Most online bachelor's programs require 120 credit hours to complete, but some are offered in an accelerated format.
In a BestColleges survey, 100% of online psychology, education, and social science students and graduates said they would recommend an online education to others.
Also, 93% of all students said they think earning an online degree has or will have a positive return on investment.
Source: BestColleges 2024 Online Education Trends Report, NCES
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Best Behavioral Science Programs of 2025
Why You Should Get a Bachelor's in Behavioral Science
Step into a high-impact career
A behavioral science degree can prepare you for an impactful career, such as a substance use counselor.Access a broad career field
A degree in behavioral science can open doors to a variety of roles across different industries, including healthcare, education, and corporate roles.Plenty of room to specialize
Many behavioral science programs offer specializations in areas like criminology or sociology, helping you further hone your skills and access higher-paying positions.Fast-growing job sector
Many jobs related to the behavioral science field are projected to grow at a faster-than-average rate.
Benefits of Getting a Behavioral Science Degree Online
Our 2024 Online Education Trends Report found that 85% of online psychology, education, and social science students and graduates think online learning is equal to or better than learning on campus.
Around 70% of all online program graduates told us their education prepared (or will prepare them) for their first job after graduation well, very well, or extremely well.
Additionally, 97% of online college students and program graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
A similar percentage (93%) say they believed their degree would have a positive return on investment.
How to Choose the Best Behavioral Science Program for You
There are several factors you should consider before enrolling in a behavioral science program.
You should make sure to choose an accredited program that meets your schedule. Cost is also an important factor, with in-state programs typically being more affordable than out-of-state programs.
Lastly, consider if the career options after graduation fit your long-term goals.
How Much Does an Online Behavioral Science Bachelor's Degree Cost?
In-State (2019-2020)
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$12,701
Avg. Net Price
$6,122
Out-of-State (2019-2020)
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$23,356
Avg. Net Price
$14,885
Source: NCES PowerStats
Online programs generally cost less than on-campus ones; however, keep in mind that the price varies by program and where you're attending college.
The average in-state tuition and fees for an online behavioral science bachelor's degree were $12,701 in 2019-2020, but that cost is usually offset by financial aid, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The average price after subtracting scholarships and grants was closer to $6,000.
Out-of-state programs tend to be more expensive than in-state programs. The average cost for an out-of-state online behavioral science degree was around $23,500 in 2019-2020, but financial aid brought that price down to just under $15,000.
Once you enroll in a behavioral science program, contact the school's financial aid department to determine your eligibility for aid.
Also, don't forget to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal financial aid could help cut down the cost of your degree.
Find Financial Aid for Your Behavioral Science Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science?
120 Credits
Typical # of Credits
4 Years
Typical Program Length
A bachelor's degree in behavioral science typically takes four years and 120 credits to complete, but there are ways to cut down that time.
For example, you might be able to transfer credits from previous college experience. This can reduce the number of classes you need to take, helping you graduate sooner and lowering your tuition cost.
You can also consider an accelerated program, which condenses classes into shorter, more intensive formats to cut down the overall time required to finish a degree.
What Can You Do With a Behavioral Science Degree?
A behavioral science program can prepare you for jobs in various fields, such as healthcare, education, and business.
With this degree, you may decide to pursue a counseling career and become a substance use counselor or social worker.
Also, if you're interested in working in a clinical setting, you'll most likely have to complete clinical hours andstate licensure requirements in addition to your degree.
Other roles you can consider pursuing include social science researcher, probation officer, and human resources specialist. Human resources roles are projected to grow at a faster than average rate, according to the BLS, from 2024-2034.
A behavioral science degree can position you to work in these people-focused roles.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Social Worker | $61,330 | Social workers work with people and communities to improve their lives. |
| Human Resources Specialist | $72,910 | Human resources specialists handle hiring, recruiting, and personnel for companies. |
| Substance Use Counselor | $59,190 | Substance use counselors help individuals who have substance use disorders during recovery. |
| Social Science Researcher | $58,040 | Social science researchers use data to understand human behavior. |
| Probation Officer | $64,520 | Probation officers work with people on probation to ensure they're complying with the terms set out by the courts. |
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Is a Bachelor's in Behavioral Science Worth It?
An overwhelming majority (92%) of online psychology, education, and social science students and graduates told us they expected their degree to have a positive return on investment. And that expectation is backed up by data.
Graduates of bachelor's programs had an average starting salary of more than $60,000 in 2023, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Those earnings, coupled with more affordable tuition and grants, mean a bachelor's in behavioral science can be worth it.
Also, keep in mind that a behavioral science degree can prepare you for roles across multiple industries, keeping your options open.
Education Beyond a Behavioral Science Degree
A bachelor's degree in behavioral science doesn't have to be the end of your educational journey. If you want to work in a clinical setting as a counselor or break into a more niche field, a master's in behavioral science can help you get to the next level of your career.
Frequently Asked Questions About Behavioral Science Degrees
Behavioral science studies human behavior and human interaction. It draws from sociology, psychology, anthropology, and other fields to understand the motivations and patterns that influence behavior.