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 19% job growth rate in behavioral science-related jobs (such as substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors) is projected from 2023-2033. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 and state 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 2023-2033.

A behavioral science degree can position you to work in these people-focused roles.

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.

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.