7 Best Online Bachelor's in Behavioral Science Degrees in 2025

Behavioral science majors study different aspects related to human behavior. The best online behavioral science degrees cover multiple stages of human development ranging from childhood to adulthood. Graduates of behavioral science degree programs can work in diverse career paths including mental health counselors, human resources, and case management.

Entering this industry requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree, but that doesn't mean aspiring behavioral scientists need to attend an in-person degree program as online bachelor's degrees in behavioral science are available as well. Many affordable online behavioral science programs are offered by schools nationwide that allow students to earn their college degrees at a low cost, without stepping foot on campus.

Top Online Behavioral Science Degree Programs

Online schools across the U.S. offer behavioral science degrees, including Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts options. Learners can find programs that teach competencies for their desired career paths.

1. Wilmington University

Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in behavioral science in a fully online format at Wilmington University. Learners will review human behavior to develop skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and behavioral psychology. Graduates can continue their higher education at Wilmington by participating in the Dual Credit Advantage program, which lets students use undergraduate credits towards a master's degree.

2. Saint Francis University

Students attending Saint Francis University can participate in a Bachelor of Science in behavioral science degree completion program. Students with an associate degree or equivalent transfer credits can finish their undergraduate degree with full-time or part-time enrollment.

This program can lead directly to graduate school, as well as various careers in mental healthcare, criminal justice, and governmental work.

3. Central Methodist University

The Bachelor of Science in applied behavior analysis from Central Methodist University might not be called a behavioral science degree but learners will receive a behavioral science education that prepares them to sit for additional licensure and certifications. This degree path can lead to work in high schools, medical facilities, and addiction treatment.

4. Bellevue University

Students can enroll in a fully online Bachelor of Science in behavioral science through Bellevue University. Core courses for this degree include human services, addiction treatment theories, and data analysis.

Students can also take advantage of the 50 available elective credit hours to learn skills for certain career opportunities. They can reduce their total costs by transferring an associate degree or previous real-world and military experience.

5. Arizona State University

Arizona State University's online programs include a Bachelor of Arts in social and behavioral sciences. ASU's online courses focus on teaching skills like ethical decision-making, critical thinking, and research methodologies that will apply to any behavioral science career path a graduate chooses to follow.

6. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers two behavioral science bachelor's programs. Students can choose a degree in social work or correctional program support services. Both programs have slightly different core requirements, but there are many shared behavioral health courses, just studied through different lenses.

The University of Phoenix also offers online master's degree programs for students who want to pursue advanced career opportunities.

7. Liberty University

Online students at Liberty University can earn a behavioral science Bachelor of Science degree with one of three concentrations. Students can choose from programs in social services, psychology, and social work. These degrees include coursework that will help students understand human behavior from multiple perspectives and prepare for different careers.

What To Expect From an Online Behavioral Science Program

Online behavioral science degree programs will vary from school to school, but there are many similar courses that you should expect. Students will learn the fundamentals of neuroscience, abnormal psychology, and social work. Most students will also have to take general education classes unless they have transfer credits or an associate degree.

The biggest differences in required coursework will be based on specialization. For example, a student preparing for a substance abuse advocacy career will have different core courses and electives than someone looking to enter human resources.

To better understand these advanced topics, students will participate in research projects, reviewing case studies, and hands-on experiences. Even though these degrees are offered through fully online formats, most students will be required to complete internships or other real-world learning experiences.

How To Make Your Online Degree More Affordable

Online degrees generally have lower tuition rates than their on-campus counterparts, but that doesn't mean there aren't ways to make your education even more affordable. All students, regardless of field of study, should submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each school year. This form determines eligibility for federal financial aid programs which can be applied to online learning.

Federal student aid is just one way to reduce costs. Students can also look into scholarships and grants offered by professional organizations and nonprofits. Unlike student loans, these programs allow students to receive money without having to pay it back.

Lastly, students should speak with their school about work-study programs. These programs are set up with local nonprofits and government agencies and allow students to work in exchange for payment that can be used to pay for school while gaining real-world experience.

Behavioral Science Degree Careers

The main purpose of any degree is to prepare learners for their careers. Behavioral science degrees can lead to numerous careers in the public and private sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, these careers are also in demand, with most having positive job outlooks by 2032. The average growth rate for all careers is 3%, meaning that careers in this industry are expected to exceed average growth.

Here are some of the most popular behavioral science career opportunities with their projected job growth rates according to the BLS:

• social worker (7%)
• market researcher (8%)
• policy advisor (3%)
• health services director (29%)
• substance abuse or addiction counselor (19%)
• human resources specialist (8%)
• clinical psychologist (7%)

It is important to know that not all of these careers can be earned with a bachelor's degree. Some will require a graduate or doctoral degree, while others will require additional licensure and certifications.

Find an Online Bachelor's Degree Program

If you're looking for a rewarding career, a bachelor's degree in behavioral science might be right for you. Many schools nationwide offer high-quality degree programs, so it might be hard to track down the best program for your career goals.

Use the resources on Learn.org to research individual schools and their degree programs. You'll be able to learn about admission requirements, accreditation status, and what you need to do to submit your application today.