BAS in Behavioral Health

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Health degree builds upon any associate degree (2-year) degree by adding junior and senior year courses focused on behavioral health. The program is directly aligned with the Behavioral Health Support Specialist credential (BHSS). A bachelor-prepared BHSS delivers evidence-based interventions for common behavioral health conditions (i.e. depression, anxiety, substance use disorders) as part of an integrated care team.

Graduates could expect to serve a variety of populations including young adults, older adults, people experiencing homelessness, people in recovery from addictions, victims of emotional, physical and sexual abuse, victims of domestic violence, veterans, and tribal members. Students graduating from associate degree programs in criminal justice, early childhood education, and medical assistance studies are encouraged to apply. 

The BAS in Behavioral Health degree includes courses in:

  • Psychology of Addiction & Recovery
  • Cultural and Social Issues in Behavioral Healthcare
  • Case Management
  • Therapeutic Skills
  • Treatment of Mental Health Disorders

Students complete a three-quarter long field experience with a local behavioral health clinic in the final year of the program. 

The BAS in Behavioral Health program is delivered in partnership between Big Bend Community College and Wenatchee Valley College. Students are co-enrolled in courses at both colleges, and receive advising, support services, and financial aid from their home college. The BAS in Behavioral Health program is designed for adult learners who need flexibility in their schedules to balance work and/or family responsibilities. Courses are offered in a hybrid modality. Students will meet “live” three times a quarters while the remaining coursework will take place online.

Follow these steps to apply to the BAS-Behavioral Health program

1. Entry Requirements

Prior to admission into the BAS program, math, English, and prerequisites must be finished. Admissions are at the discretion of the application screening committee.

  • Earned one of the following:
    • Associate in Applied Science (AAS) or Associate in Applied Science-Transfer degree (AAS-T)
    • Associate in Arts-Direct Transfer Agreement degree (AA-DTA)
    • Associate in Science degree (AS)
    • Or equivalent degree or 90 college-level credits from an accredited institution.
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA
  • Completion of the following courses with a 2.0 minimum grade from an accredited institution
    • ENGL& 101 (5 credits)
    • ENGL 102 or 235 or 202 or 203 (ENGL& 235 Technical Writing preferred)
    • College-level math course or its equivalent (must meet SQR requirement- MATH& 107, PHIL& 120, MATH& 131/132, MATH& 146 or higher all apply)
    • PSYC&100 General Psychology
    • Humanities course
  • Application for admission to the BAS program
    • Compose a brief essay (250 words or fewer) detailing your interest in pursuing a career in the behavioral health field, highlighting relevant professional and/or personal experiences. The essay should also address professionalism, collaboration, cultural responsiveness, responsibility for learning, and ethical behavior.
    • Students can use the Writing Center and/or ask the program coordinator/faculty for input on the draft. Applicants may not use ChatGPT or other generative AI in writing the short answer response.
    • View scoring rubric and essay examples below

Conditional Admission may be considered for students completing one of the entry requirements in first quarter of the program, capacity dependent.

2. Apply

  • Welcome to Big Bend Community College!
  • Complete Bachelor of Applied Science-Behavioral Health Application
    • Applications received by 11:59 pm April 4, 2025, will be considered for Priority Admission to the Fall 2025 Cohort. 
  • Complete general BBCC application
    • If you are already a Big Bend student and have taken classes within the last six years, there is no need to re-apply to the college. 
    • If you are a Big Bend student and have not taken classes within the last 6 years, please re-apply here. Select RE-APPLY as your student type
    • If you have completed college work at another accredited college, please complete the college application here and select TRANSFER.

3. Get Funding

4. Submit Transcripts

Contact each institution where you earned credits and have an official transcript sent to BBCC for evaluation.
Completed courses at BBCC? We will retrieve your BBCC records for you.
For questions: admissions@bigbend.edu

*Official transcripts cannot be emailed.

Please submit to:
Big Bend Community College
c/o Admissions Office
7662 Chanute Street NE
Moses Lake, WA 98837

Important Note
Completed applications will be screened by committee. If selected, students will receive an acceptance email including important dates and events prior to the first day of classes.

Essay scoring rubric and examples

Compose a brief essay (250 words or fewer) detailing your interest in pursuing a career in the behavioral health field, highlighting relevant professional and/or personal experiences. The essay should also address professionalism, collaboration, cultural responsiveness, responsibility for learning, and ethical behavior.

Grading Rubric: Interest in Behavioral Health Career Essay

This rubric evaluates responses based on clarity, depth, and the inclusion of key themes: interest in behavioral health, relevant experiences, professionalism, collaboration, cultural responsiveness, responsibility for learning, and ethical behavior.

Criteria Exemplary (4 points) Proficient (3 points) Developing (2 points) Needs Improvement (1 point)
Clarity and Organization Response is exceptionally well-organized, clear, concise, and free of errors. Ideas flow logically with strong transitions. Response is mostly clear and organized, with minor errors that do not impede understanding. Response is somewhat clear but may lack logical organization or contain errors that occasionally distract. Response is unclear, disorganized, or difficult to follow due to significant errors.
Interest in Behavioral Health Articulates a strong and thoughtful interest in the field, demonstrating passion and alignment with career goals. Shows interest in the field with some connection to career goals, though explanation may lack depth or specificity. Mentions interest in the field but provides little detail or connection to career goals. Does not clearly express interest in the field or fails to connect it to career goals.
Relevant Experiences Provides detailed and meaningful examples of professional and/or personal experiences relevant to behavioral health. Includes relevant experiences with some detail, though connections to the field may not be fully developed. Mentions experiences, but they may lack relevance or depth in connecting to behavioral health. Does not include relevant experiences or provides examples that are unclear or unrelated.
Professionalism Demonstrates a clear understanding of professionalism with examples of how it applies to the behavioral health field. Discusses professionalism with some relevant examples, though depth or connections may be limited. Mentions professionalism but provides limited examples or lacks connection to the field. Does not address professionalism or provides irrelevant or superficial discussion.
Collaboration Clearly explains the value of collaboration in behavioral health, with specific examples of teamwork and partnerships. Discusses collaboration with general examples, though connections to the field may lack specificity. Mentions collaboration but provides vague or insufficient examples. Does not address collaboration or includes irrelevant or unclear discussion.
Cultural Responsiveness Effectively addresses the importance of cultural responsiveness with relevant examples and thoughtful insights. Acknowledges cultural responsiveness with general examples, though explanation may lack depth. Mentions cultural responsiveness but fails to provide examples or fully connect it to behavioral health. Does not address cultural responsiveness or provides an irrelevant or minimal discussion.
Responsibility for Learning Provides thoughtful examples of self-directed learning, accountability, and commitment to ongoing professional growth. Acknowledges responsibility for learning with some examples, though they may not be fully developed. Mentions responsibility for learning but lacks clear examples or connection to professional growth. Does not address responsibility for learning or provides vague or unrelated discussion.
Ethical Behavior Articulates a clear understanding of ethical behavior with examples or scenarios relevant to the field. Discusses ethical behavior with general examples, though connections to the field may lack detail. Mentions ethical behavior but provides limited examples or fails to connect it to the field. Does not address ethical behavior or includes a vague or minimal discussion.

Scoring

  • 32–28 points: Outstanding response, fully meets or exceeds expectations.
  • 27–21 points: Strong response, meets most expectations with minor issues.
  • 20–13 points: Adequate response, needs more depth or clarity in multiple areas.
  • 12 or below: Weak response, significant improvements needed.
  •  

Essay Examples

  1.  My interest in the behavioral health field stems from a deep passion for helping individuals overcome challenges and improve their mental well-being. Growing up in a culturally diverse community, I witnessed the critical need for mental health services that are inclusive and culturally responsive. This inspired me to pursue a career where I can bridge gaps in care and advocate for equity in behavioral health.

    In my professional experience as a peer support specialist, I worked collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to design and implement client-centered care plans. These experiences taught me the value of collaboration in fostering positive outcomes and the importance of professionalism in earning the trust of clients and colleagues.

    I take responsibility for my learning by seeking ongoing professional development, such as trauma-informed care training and cultural competency workshops. These opportunities enhance my ability to provide ethical and effective care while respecting diverse perspectives and experiences.

    My lived experiences, including supporting a family member through mental health challenges, have reinforced my commitment to this field. These personal and professional journeys drive me to act with integrity, empathy, and ethical responsibility, ensuring that I serve clients with the compassion and respect they deserve while advancing equity in behavioral health care.

  2.  I am deeply committed to serving in the behavioral health field because of my passion for supporting individuals in overcoming challenges and improving their well-being. My interest stems from both professional and lived experiences. Professionally, I have worked as a community support worker, where I collaborated with diverse teams to develop individualized care plans. This role emphasized the importance of cultural responsiveness, as I served clients from various backgrounds, ensuring their unique needs were met with respect and sensitivity.

    On a personal level, my lived experience of supporting a family member through mental health challenges has reinforced my understanding of empathy, resilience, and the value of ethical behavior. It also taught me the critical role of professionalism, as I witnessed the profound impact that reliable, respectful, and skilled practitioners can have on individuals and families.

    I am committed to continuous learning, regularly seeking opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills. I understand the value of collaboration in the behavioral health field and strive to foster partnerships that prioritize the well-being of clients. My dedication to ethical practice ensures I approach every situation with integrity, confidentiality, and fairness. I aim to bring these qualities into the BAS Behavioral Health program and my future career.

  3. My passion for serving in the behavioral health field stems from a deep commitment to improving mental health and well-being in diverse communities. Growing up in a multicultural environment, I witnessed the profound impact of unaddressed mental health challenges, particularly in underserved populations. These experiences instilled in me a sense of responsibility to advocate for culturally responsive care, ensuring individuals feel seen, heard, and valued regardless of their background.

    In my professional journey, I have cultivated skills in active listening and empathy, collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams to support individuals in crisis. For example, during my time volunteering at a crisis hotline, I worked closely with counselors to provide immediate support while respecting confidentiality and ethical standards. This role reinforced the importance of professionalism, ethical behavior, and responsibility for learning, as I consistently sought feedback to improve my ability to serve callers with sensitivity and care.

    I view behavioral health as a collaborative effort that requires continuous self-reflection and education to adapt to evolving needs. My dedication to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment aligns with the core values of this field. By pursuing the BAS Behavioral Health degree, I aim to further develop my skills and contribute meaningfully to this vital profession.

  4. I am deeply motivated to serve in the behavioral health field because of my passion for helping individuals and communities navigate challenges and achieve well-being. My interest stems from both professional experiences and personal growth. I have worked in environments requiring collaboration with diverse teams, which taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication in achieving shared goals. I also bring a culturally responsive approach, valuing the unique experiences and identities of each person I serve, and striving to provide equitable care.

    My lived experiences have instilled in me a commitment to ethical behavior and professionalism. I believe that building trust through integrity, accountability, and empathy is foundational in this field. I continuously seek opportunities for learning and self-improvement, understanding that this profession demands a dedication to evolving knowledge and skills.

    I have also witnessed the transformative power of behavioral health services in addressing systemic inequities and fostering resilience. These experiences have inspired me to pursue the BAS Behavioral Health degree to deepen my expertise and enhance my ability to make a meaningful impact. Through professionalism, collaboration, and a focus on ethical and culturally responsive care, I am committed to contributing to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

    •  

What employers are saying

  • The intersection between behavioral health workforce shortages and the demands for services have proved difficult for individuals to access care when needed. I’m grateful to Big Bend Community College & Wenatchee Valley College for partnering with local organizations in creating educational degrees to support this work and allow residents opportunities to complete their education locally. I’m excited about the potential of growing our own!

    Dell Anderson
    Executive Director, Renew Grant Behavioral Health & Wellness
BAS Information Sessions

Interested in our Bachelor of Applied Science – Behavioral Health program? Make plans to attend one of our live, virtual Information Sessions to learn how you can build on your associate degree and gain real-world skills to grow in your career.

Each 30-45 minute session will cover program and course information, career possibilities, ways to pay for college, how to apply and more!

Upcoming information sessions:

Wednesday, Jan. 22

12 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 3

12 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 26

6 p.m.

Wednesday, March 19

6 p.m.

Please contact Melissa Husebye, BAS Program Specialist with any questions at bas@bigbend.edu

*link is the same for all sessions

Click to join Zoom meeting
Career Possibilities and Earnings

BHSS credentialing begins in January 2025 and will expand behavioral health services, especially in primary care teams at community health, rural health, and hospital centers. Graduates of the BAS in Behavioral Health program can also find employment in behavioral health agencies, serving as case managers, crisis responders, peer counselors, care coordinators and client advocates and will enhance the presence of behavioral health specialists in law enforcement and corrections.

BHSS sample job description

BHSS employment case examples

*Courtesy of University of Washington Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and the Ballmer Group

Graduates of the BAS Behavioral Health program are eligible to continue their education into graduate school including programs such as Master of Social Work, Counseling, and other human service related degrees.

For current employment and wage estimates:

Tuition, Fees, & Other Costs
WA Resident Tuition $7620/yr
Technology Fee: $287.75/yr
Learning Materials Estimate: $605/yr
BAS Fee: $120/yr
Total: $8,631

*Cost/Fees based on 2024/2025

Financial Aid Scenario

About the Program

Student Learning Outcomes

When this program is completed, the student will be able
to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the structures, functions, and organizations within the healthcare system, with a specific focus on Behavioral Health organizations
  • Communicate proficiently with clients, families, and members of the care team, utilizing suitable channels to enhance personal care, contribute to positive health outcomes, and instill optimism for recovery
  • Exhibit integrity by consistently practicing ethical behavior, developing a meaningful practice of self-care, maintaining confidentiality, self-reflection, and approaching work with cultural sensitivity and humility
  • Demonstrate ability to effectively function as a member of an inter-professional care team in coordinating services and resources
  • Identify and address barriers that hinder access and equity within the Behavioral Health system, delivering culturally relevant services to clients and their families
  • Conduct screenings and assessments, utilizing the gathered information to develop and implement client-centered care plans
  • Demonstrate understanding of various theories of practice to intervene in behavioral health conditions

Full-time Course Schedule

This schedule is based on full-time enrollment.

Quarter One (Fall)

  • AS 100 Survey of Addictions (5 credits)
  • PSYC& 220 Psychological Disorders (5 credits)
  • BH 300 Intro to Behavioral Healthcare (5 credits)

Quarter Two (Winter)

  • PSYC 270 Psychology of Addiction & Recovery (5 credits)
  • BH& 330 Ethics in Behavioral Healthcare (5 credits)
  • BH& 320 Social & Cultural Diversity in Behavioral Healthcare (5 credits)

Quarter Three (Spring)

  • BH& 400 Case Management (5 credits)
  • BH& 340 Professional Development
  • BH& 420 Assessment of Mental Health Disorders (5 credits)

Quarter Four (Fall)

  • BH 360 Treatment of Behavioral Health Disorders (5 credits)
  • BH& 450 Advanced Counseling Techniques (5 credits)
  • BH& 491  Practicum 1 (5 credits)

Quarter Five (Winter)

  • LS Natural Science w/lab (5 credits) *BIOL&100 recommended
  • BH 410 Group Counseling (5 credits)
  • BH 492 Field Practicum II (5 credits)

Quarter Six (Spring)

  • BH& 350 Behavioral Neuroscience (5 credits)
  • BH 493 Field Practicum III (5 credits)
  • Gen Ed Approved General Education (5 credits)

Credits from AAS/AAS-T/AA-DTA degree: 90

+Credits from BAS degree: 90

Total Credits Required: 180

Part-time Course Schedule

This schedule is based on part-time enrollment.

Quarter One (Fall)

  • AS 100 Survey of Addictions (5 credits)
  • BH 300 Intro to Behavioral Healthcare (5 credits)

Quarter Two (Winter)

  • PSYC 270 Psychology of Addiction & Recovery (5 credits)
  • BH& 330 Ethics in Behavioral Healthcare (5 credits)

Quarter Three (Spring)

  • BH& 400 Case Management (5 credits)
  • BH& 420 Assessment of Mental Health Disorders (5 credits)

Quarter Four (Fall)

  • BH 360  Treatment of Behavioral Health Disorders (5 credits)
  • PSYC& 220 Psychological Disorders (5 credits)

Quarter Five (Winter)

  • BH& 320 Social & Cultural Diversity in Behavioral Health Social Science* (5 credits)
  • BH 410 Group Counseling (5 credits)

Quarter Six (Spring)

  • BH& 350 Behavioral Neuroscience (5 credits)
  • BH& 340 Professional Development (5 credits)

Quarter Seven (Fall)

  • BH& 450 Advanced Counseling Techniques  (5 credits)
  • BH& 491 Practicum 1 (5 credits) *Pre-requisite BH& 400 and 25 credits of completed upper-division program credits or instructor permission

Quarter Eight (Winter)

  • LS Natural Science w/lab (5 credits)
  • BH 492 Field Practicum II (5 credits) *Pre-requisite BH& 491 or instructor permission

Quarter Nine (Spring)

  • Gen Ed Approved General Education (5 credits)
  • BH 493 Field Practicum III (5 credits) *Pre-requisite BHAV& 492 or instructor permission

Credits from AAS/AAS-T/AA-DTA degree: 90

+Credits from BAS degree: 90

Total Credits Required: 180

FAQ

Which quarter can I begin?

The BAS in Behavioral Health program accepts new cohorts each fall quarter.

Do I need to apply for the program?

Yes. Students interested in the BAS in Behavioral Health program must complete an application and be admitted into the program. All applicants will receive a letter indicating if they have been admitted into the program. If you are interested in starting the program in the fall, you should meet with an advisor to determine if you have met the entry requirements.

Can I attend part-time?

Yes. Students can attend part-time and complete the program in 3-years. There is a schedule available for students intending to pursue this option.

What if I am a justice-involved student?

While a criminal background check is not required during the application process, applicants who are offered admission will need to complete a three-quarter field practicum. It is important for students to understand that many human services agencies may require a criminal history background check to participate in the on-site field practicum.

A criminal history revealed in the background check will not automatically disqualify an applicant from admission to the program. However, it may limit the range of field practicum placements available to the student. BBCC and WVC cannot guarantee field practicum placement for students with a positive criminal background report. Completion of the field practicum is a required component of the BAS-BH program. 

How are classes offered?

The BAS-BH program is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of working professionals and place-bound students. To provide flexibility and accessibility, courses are offered in a hybrid format. Students will attend live sessions three times per quarter, with the remainder of the coursework completed online, ensuring a balanced and convenient learning experience.

Faculty will use web-enhanced technology during live-sessions to ensure students can participate at the host site or from home.

How does the partnership with WVC work?

Students are co-enrolled in courses at both colleges, but will receive advising, support services, and financial aid from their home college. 

What are the practicum requirements?

BAS-BH students will complete a three-quarter field practicum in their second year.

  • Field practicums will be delivered at local behavioral health organizations
  • Students will complete at least 240 hours of field work to develop skills and meet BHSS criteria
  • A criminal history background check may be required by human services agencies to participate in on-site field practicum. 
Important Note about Transfer Degrees

Students who wish to transfer to a graduate program should obtain the institution’s catalog and review the program’s requirements to which they would like to transfer.

BAS-BH Contact
BAS in Behavioral Health Team

Husebye, Melissa

BAS/Workforce Education Program Specialist
melissahu@bigbend.edu
(509) 793-2120
Niki Allinson

Allinson, Niki

BAS Success Coach
nikia@bigbend.edu
(509) 793-2121
Kaja Devine

Devine, Kaja

Criminal justice/Psychology Assistant Professor
kajad@bigbend.edu
(509) 793-2180
Kris Lau

Lau, Kris

BAS Instructor (WVC)
klau@wvc.edu
(509) 883-9922
BAS Coordinator, Anne Ghinazzi

Ghinazzi, Anne

Director of Title V and Other Grants
anneg@bigbend.edu
(509) 793-2322
Additional Links