If you are interested in improving the human condition and addressing social problems, you might find yourself researching the best affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degrees to get started in this rewarding field. Behavioral science is a combination of cultural anthropology, sociology and psychology, and students in these programs investigate both the factors that affect human behavior as well as the influence this behavior has on society, workplaces and families. Undergraduates will also learn to apply what they have learned to assist communities through intervention and prevention. Whether you are passionate about working with the justice system, the elderly, children or those struggling with addiction, the following 30 best affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science degrees will prepare you for careers that share a common goal of helping communities and individuals.
Methodology
In order to rank the following 30 best affordable bachelor’s degrees in behavioral science, we scored each school based on three key factors that most undergraduates consider in a program: affordability, class size and student success. To begin, we searched for behavioral sciences bachelor’s degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We then narrowed down the search results of 50 colleges and universities into the top 30 programs based on the methodology. We verified the information provided by the NCES with each school’s website to ensure accuracy.
Average Cost of Attendance
As you start to narrow down prospective colleges and universities for your Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degree, you might be tempted to seek out the cheapest program available for the purpose of saving money. However, also consider other features the school has to offer such as concentrations and specializations, opportunities for internships and the availability of extracurriculars in your major and avoid selecting a school based on tuition alone. For this article, we ranked tuition based on the cost of one academic year of study for in-state students using tuition information provided by the NCES. We also provided rates for out-of-state students for reference purposes only.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Next, we awarded points based on each school’s student-to-faculty ratio. When considering the learning environment and the size of the classrooms at a prospective college or university, keep your own preferences and needs in mind. In other words, do you prefer to blend into the background, completing your studies without too many interactions with others? Are you looking for a program that is more likely to hold you accountable for your work and that allows you to develop close relationships with your peers and professors? Although it comes down to personal priorities, for the purpose of this ranking, we awarded the most points to institutions that reported the lowest student-to-faculty ratios based on the ranges below from NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, we used graduation rates as a measurement of student satisfaction. After all, the happier a student is in his or her program, the more likely that he or she is to remain enrolled at that institution and graduate with a degree. By the same token, those who are unhappy may be more likely to leave, enroll at another school and earn their degrees elsewhere. Factors that could contribute to low graduation rates include unaffordable programs, a lack of or nonexistent academic support, few extracurriculars or opportunities for hands-on learning or inexperienced and unhelpful faculty members. Therefore, we awarded points based on graduation rates from NCES according to the ranges below, giving the highest number to schools with the highest reported rates.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences Degrees
30. Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1957, Missouri Baptist University is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Missouri Baptist Convention. Students seeking an affordable behavioral sciences degree can choose from two top programs at MBU: a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. The major is interdisciplinary in nature, drawing from fields such as sociology, psychology, human services and criminal justice. In addition to completing a rigorous curriculum, undergraduates must participate in a three-hour internship in psychology, human services or criminal justice. Graduates of this cost-effective behavioral science degree are prepared for master’s-level study as well as careers in any field that requires a strong understanding of the human condition.
Degree Options:
BA in Behavioral Science
BS in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $27,124
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,124
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
29. Columbia College
Columbia, South Carolina
Points: 4
Program Website
Founded by the United Methodist Church in 1854, Columbia College is a private liberal arts college for women and a top choice for undergraduates pursuing a low-cost behavioral sciences degree. Columbia confers a low-cost Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science that covers a broad spectrum of academic disciplines such as sociology, psychology and related fields. Through the curriculum, students will analyze the effects of human emotions and reactions on relationships, decision-making and social interaction. Undergraduates of this high-value bachelor’s in behavioral science also learn to analyze behavior, understand actions, identify problems, develop solutions and promote constructive behaviors. Graduates are prepared for careers in social analysis and planning, criminal justice, occupational therapy, social work and counseling.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Science, B.A.
In-State Tuition: $22,704
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,704
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
28. Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Points: 4
Program Website
Founded in 1950 by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy College is a private institution of higher learning that is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Mercy College provides a cost-effective behavioral science degree in the form of a Bachelor of Science. The multidisciplinary major includes both sociology and psychology as well as optional specializations in health services management, gerontology and community health. Undergraduates of this low-cost behavioral science degree program have many opportunities to engage in career development through credit-earning internships available at a number of worksites throughout the New York City region. Graduates are prepared for employment in law enforcement, government business, human services and education.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $19,042
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,042
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
27. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
A solid school for students looking for an economical behavioral sciences degree, Bellevue University is a private institution of learning that focuses on educational outreach and adult education. However, Bellevue also confers a high-quality Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science degree that strives to understand and explore the effects of human actions and relationships between individuals in society, the workplace and the family. Within the 127-credit program, students build a foundation in sociology and social psychology, counseling and psychology, and they encounter topics in treatment strategies, ethics and multicultural diversity. Graduates of this cheap bachelor’s program are prepared for advanced studies in the field as well as employment in the field of human services.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $7,827
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,827
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
26. Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, California
Points: 5
Program Website
Concordia University-Irvine is a private Christian institution of higher learning that is recognized as a U.S. News & World Report “Top Tier Regional University.” Serving nearly 4,000 students each year, CU-Irvine offers a high-value behavioral sciences degree for undergraduates that trains students through a rigorous curriculum, practicum experiences and research methods courses. This top-ranked program utilizes the tools of sociology, psychology and anthropology to investigate the dynamic between nature and culture, agency and structure and self and society. The major also allows students the opportunity to choose an emphasis such as sociology, psychology, anthropology or general studies.
Degree Options:
In-State Tuition: $35,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,400
Student-to-Faculty Ratio :16:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
25. Felician University
Lodi, New Jersey
Points: 5
Program Website
A private, Roman Catholic institution of higher education, Felician University was founded by the Felician Sisters as the Immaculate Conception Normal School in 1923. Felician University is a solid choice for undergraduates seeking a best-value behavioral sciences degree, offering a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences that encompasses a broad range of disciplines and fields such as criminal justice, political science, business, history, economics, anthropology, psychology and sociology. Students also build a strong foundation in a focus area and develop interpersonal, analysis, critical thinking, communication and research skills. Graduates of this economical bachelor’s in behavioral science are prepared for careers in business, the behavioral sciences and the social sciences.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences
In-State Tuition: $34,320
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,320
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
24. East Texas Baptist University
Marshall, Texas
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1912 as the College of Marshall, East Texas Baptist University is a private Christian university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. ETBU’s School of Natural and Social Sciences offers a top-value behavioral sciences bachelor’s degree in the form of either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. Major requirements within the program include topics in research methods, social psychology, social problems, sociology, psychology, service learning and a practicum in behavioral sciences. Graduates of this cost-effective program are prepared for careers as mental health case managers, human relations directors, market research analysts, behavioral interventionists and caseworkers.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Sciences (B.S.)
In-State Tuition: $26,370
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,370
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
23. Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, Tennessee
Points: 5
Program Website
Founded in 1901 as the Literary and Bible Training School for Christian Workers, Trevecca Nazarene University is a private liberal arts college and one of the most affordable universities for a behavioral sciences degree. TNU confers an inexpensive Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science that combines the disciplines of psychology and sociology. Students complete a core curriculum of classes in social and behavioral sciences, social science research methods and design, a senior seminar in sociology and a senior seminar in historical and current perspectives. This top program is designed for those interested in secondary-level teaching, counseling or related human social services, human development, personnel management and behavioral science research.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Science (B.S.)
In-State Tuition: $25,598
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,598
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
22. Tennessee Wesleyan University
Athens, Tennessee
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1857, Tennessee Wesleyan University is a private institution of higher learning affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Students seeking an affordable degree in behavioral sciences may choose from either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science at TWU, both of which offer concentrations through which students may further specialize their degrees. Undergraduates of this high-value bachelor’s in behavioral science are required to select two out of six available concentration areas: legal interdisciplinary gender studies, legal studies, sociology, psychology, human services and criminal justice. All behavior science degree students complete coursework in key topics such as racial ethnicity, abnormal psychology, gender and society, legal administration and human service skills as well as criminology, ethics in criminal justice, social problems and psychology.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science
Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $24,300
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,300
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 40 percent
21. Martin Methodist College
Pulaski, Tennessee
Points: 5
Program Website
Martin Methodist College is a private liberal arts institution of higher learning and one of the most affordable colleges for a behavioral sciences degree. Established in 1870, MMC offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science, both of which consist of 121 credit hours of study and include coursework in the disciplines of social work and psychology. This low-cost B.A. program features an additional intermediate foreign language requirement, while the B.S. degree includes an additional course in social science, mathematics or science. Undergraduates of this high-value bachelor’s program may select one of two areas of emphasis: human services and counseling or general psychology.
Degree Options:
B.A./B.S. Behavioral Science Degree
In-State Tuition: $24,246
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,246
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
20. New York Institute of Technology
New York, New York
Points: 6
Program Website
New York Institute of Technology is a private research university that offers cost-effective undergraduate and graduate degrees on two contrasting campuses: the energized, vertical campus in New York City and the scenic, green campus in Long Island. Established in 1955, NYIT confers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science with a concentration in sociology/social work that consists of major requirements in sociology, research methods, abnormal psychology, statistical analysis, psychology and the physiological basis of behavior. The social work/sociology concentration includes a four-credit field placement and covers topics such as marriage and the family, juvenile delinquency, anthropology, communication and interviewing techniques and social problems.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Sciences – Sociology / Social Work, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $36,890
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,890
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
19. Saint Francis University
Loretto, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1847 under the tradition of the Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular, Saint Francis University is a private liberal arts institution of higher learning and a top choice for undergraduates seeking an affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degree. Offered through Francis Worldwide at SFU, the Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science provides a Franciscan approach to the field, focusing on bringing ethics and compassion to every interaction. The 128-credit interdisciplinary program combines a social work, sociology and psychology core with a liberal studies curriculum that reflects the goals of Franciscan Higher Education. Graduates of this cost-effective bachelor’s in behavioral science are prepared for master’s-level studies as well as for employment in administration, human and social services or related fields.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Science, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $36,410
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,410
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 69 percent
18. California Baptist University
Riverside, California
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1950 as California Baptist College, California Baptist University is a private liberal arts university that is affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention. The inexpensive Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science at CBU draws from sociology, psychology and anthropology to give undergraduates a broad perspective of human behavior. Through the curriculum, students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the evaluation, assessment, research and study of human behavior. Concentrations are offered in six areas of study: sports psychology, industrial and organizational psychology, social work, medical anthropology, lifespan development and forensic psychology. Graduates of this top Baptist college are prepared for master’s-level study in anthropology, social work, sociology and psychology as well as employment in social service careers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $33,478
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,478
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
17. Concordia University-Nebraska
Seward, Nebraska
Points: 6
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for a behavioral sciences degree, Concordia University-Nebraska is a private institution of higher learning and one of nine schools that make up the Concordia University System. Established in 1894, Concordia offers a cost-effective Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science that involves the study of general psychology, sociology and other social sciences such as cultural anthropology, criminology, social psychology and abnormal psychology. Through the curriculum, students of this top bachelor’s in behavioral science examine complex problems of human behavior and interaction to prepare for careers as social service specialists, nonprofit managers, counselors, social workers and police officers.
Degree Options:
B.A. in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $32,220
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,220
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
16. Concordia University Texas
Austin, Texas
Points: 6
Program Website
Students seeking a low-cost behavioral sciences degree may consider attending Concordia University Texas, a private liberal arts and sciences university and a member of the Concordia University System. Through Concordia’s College of Arts & Sciences, undergraduates may pursue an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences that draws from the academic areas of sociology and psychology. Majors work within a Christian environment, benefitting from small class sizes and direct access to professors who have a combination of practical and research experience in their fields. In addition to completing a rigorous curriculum, students from this high-value university also have the opportunity to gain hands-on, real-world learning through travel courses, field assignments and service-learning projects.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences
In-State Tuition: $31,810
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,810
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
15. Point Park University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Established as Point Park Junior College in 1960, Point Park University is a private liberal arts university that enrolls around 4,100 undergraduate and graduate students each year. The school’s inexpensive Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences program integrates social sciences, anthropology, psychology, sociology and social work courses to provide undergraduates with insight into the relationships between humans, their environments and their cultures. The major from this cost-effective university includes concentrations in sociology, industrial social work and social work, and students participate in seminars and institutional practicums during their junior and senior years to gain invaluable real-world experience.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences
In-State Tuition: $31,450
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
14. Walsh University
North Canton, Ohio
Points: 6
Program Website
Walsh University is a private Roman Catholic institution of higher learning that began as a liberal arts college in 1960. At Walsh, students may opt for a program that combines a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences and a Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development. This pathway, designed for students seeking a career in mental health counseling, can be completed in just six years of full-time study. The curriculum from this top-value university includes both undergraduate sociology and psychology courses as well as a graduate professional-counselor education. This high-quality program also emphasizes practical hands-on training through internships and laboratory training and meets educational requirements for counselor licensure in the state of Ohio.
Degree Options:
B.A./M.A. Counseling & Human Development
In-State Tuition: $29,980
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,980
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
13. Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, South Dakota
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1885 as Dakota University, Dakota Wesleyan University is a four-year institution of higher learning affiliated with the United Methodist Church. DWU provides a top-value Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences that blends both psychology and sociology to build careers focused around human relationships and interactions. In this program, students take courses that examine the research, theoretical and historical methods of the behavioral sciences. In addition, DWU’s low student-to-faculty ratio offers the opportunity for one-on-one interactions with professors who care about their students. Graduates of this top bachelor’s in behavioral science are prepared for careers in social science research, public opinion research and social psychology.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences
In-State Tuition: $27,640
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,640
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
12. Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, Hawaii
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded by the Society of Mary in 1955, Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private Marianist institution of higher learning and one of the best universities for a behavioral sciences degree. The school’s Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences is an interdisciplinary, expansive course of study that focuses on anthropology, geography, sociology and psychology. This top program stresses hands-on, dynamic learning and offers critical opportunities for service-learning. A sociology and social policy concentration is also available. Graduates of this best-value bachelor’s in behavioral science are prepared to pursue advanced degrees or careers in a number of fields, including sociology, anthropology, government and law.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Sciences (B.S.)
In-State Tuition: $25,374
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,374
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
11. Purdue University Northwest
Hammond, Indiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 2016, Purdue University Northwest is a public university that operates two campuses in northwest Indiana: one in Westville and one in Hammond. A member of the Purdue University System, PNW offers a cheap Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences that is centered around the study of the human condition — both past and present. The curriculum is comprised of coursework in psychology, anthropology and sociology, and issues of culture, gender, ethnicity and race are addressed. Students of this best-value bachelor’s in behavioral science benefit from an environment designed to contribute to their success, including opportunities for hands-on learning and research as well as small class sizes taught by dedicated, expert faculty.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences
In-State Tuition: $7,691
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,367
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
10. Andrews University
Berrien Springs, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded as Battle Creek College in 1874, Andrews University was the first institution of higher learning established by Seventh-day Adventists. Andrews provides an inexpensive Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences that is comprised of core courses in social psychology, psychology and research methods. Students from this low-cost university also investigate anthropology, sociology, social thought and theory and the history and systems of psychology. Emphasis areas are provided in public health, anthropological archaeology and anthropology. Andrews offers valuable opportunities for undergraduate in-the-field research beginning as early as the program’s second year, and students graduate with their own research portfolios to use when finding employment.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Sciences BS
In-State Tuition: $29,288
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,288
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
9. Tabor College
Hillsboro, Kansas
Points: 7
Program Website
Tabor College is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Mennonite Brethren Church. Established in 1908, Tabor adheres to the Anabaptist doctrine and offers a cost-effective bachelor’s degree in behavioral science that provides students the opportunity to understand and explore their Christian faith in the context of the helping professions. Students benefit from practical, hands-on learning experiences that open the window to real-world situations and environments. Graduates of this top Christian college are prepared to work as counselors, research assistants, crisis interventionists and social workers as well as to enter graduate programs in the behavioral sciences or related fields.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Science Major
In-State Tuition: $28,260
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,260
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 42 percent
8. University of Michigan-Dearborn
Dearborn, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Michigan-Dearborn is a public university and one of the two regional campuses that make up the University of Michigan System. Established in 1959, UMD provides a best-value behavioral sciences degree that encompasses the disciplines of sociology, psychology and anthropology. It is designed for students seeking careers in human services such as criminology, counseling, social work or treatment/prevention programs in mental health. Students of this cheap bachelor’s in behavioral science must complete an internship as part of the program requirements, and options are available in criminal justice and psychology. Undergraduates may also conduct independent research projects in sociology, psychology or anthropology under the supervision of a faculty member.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Sciences Major
In-State Tuition: $12,930
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,158
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 56 percent
7. Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1968 as Wilmington College, Wilmington University is a private institution of higher learning that serves more than 20,400 undergraduate and graduate students each year. Wilmington’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences confers an inexpensive Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science that focuses on the impact of cultural influences, environments and social issues on both group and individual behaviors. Combining coursework in cultural anthropology, sociology and psychology, this best-value program blends practice and theory through hands-on learning experiences and internships. Motivated students may elect to follow the accelerated degree path that combines the B.S. in Behavioral Science with a Master of Science in Applied Family Science.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $11,210
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,210
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 24 percent
6. University of Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Kansas is a high-quality, public research university that was founded in 1865. The flagship university of the state, KU offers a unique Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience designed for undergraduates interested in the biological bases of thought and behavior. Behavioral neuroscience majors take courses in a number of departments in order to acquire knowledge in the realms of statistics, psychology, computer science, biology and chemistry. Students of this low-cost bachelor’s in behavioral science must also complete an applied research experience in the form of a research practicum, independent study or laboratory/fieldwork in human biology.
Degree Options:
BS in Behavioral Neuroscience
In-State Tuition: $11,148
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,358
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
5. University of Southern Maine
Portland, Maine
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Southern Maine, formerly the University of Maine at Portland, is a multi-campus institution of higher learning and a member of the University of Maine System. USM’s inexpensive Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences is an interdisciplinary program in which students gain an understanding of sociology, psychology and anthropology. The major provides flexibility and allows students to either design their own area of study or pursue a predesigned specialization such as regulatory ethics, public health or counseling. Graduates of this cheap bachelor’s in behavioral science are prepared for careers in public policy, law, public safety and public health, mental health and social services.
Degree Options:
BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences
In-State Tuition: $8,918
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,294
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
4. San Jose State University
San Jose, California
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1857, San Jose State University is the oldest public university on the West Coast. The founding campus of the California State University System, SJSU is also a solid choice for students seeking an affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degree. SJSU’s BA in Behavioral Science offers an interdisciplinary perspective on human behavior and consists of core coursework in anthropology, sociology and psychology. Students of this cheap bachelor’s in behavioral science then specialize in one of these three areas by completing two additional upper-division courses. Graduates of this top-value university are prepared for careers in which they work with people and social science data.
Degree Options:
BA , Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $7,796
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,676
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
3. University of Delaware
Newark, Delaware
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1833, the University of Delaware is a sea-, land- and space-grant university and the largest institution of higher learning in the state. UD confers a unique Bachelor of Science in Health Behavior Science that investigates how environmental, social and individual factors shape humans’ well-being and health across the lifespan as well as how professionals can promote healthier lifestyles. The curriculum from this top bachelor’s in behavioral science includes topics in anatomy and physiology, epidemiology and biostatistics, community health assessment and planning, aging, health coaching and health communication. Students of this high-quality university are also required to choose a related minor to specialize in a specific discipline.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Health Behavior Science
In-State Tuition: $13,680
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,310
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 81 percent
2. California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, California
Points: 8
Program Website
Recognized among the top most affordable universities for a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degree, California State University-Dominguez Hills is a public university and a member of the California State University System. Offered through the College of Natural and Behavioral Sciences, this top-ranking Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science at CSU-Dominguez Hills provides undergraduates with a solid foundation of human behavior as well as the social, political, cultural, psychological and biological factors that influence such behavior. Students of this cheap bachelor’s in behavioral science also master key behavioral science concepts and theories drawn from political science, anthropology, sociology and psychology as well as practical skills and knowledge with enduring career applicability.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science
In-State Tuition: $6,942
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,822
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
1. University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, Texas
Points: 9
Program Website
Recognized as the most affordable university for a behavioral sciences degree, the University of Houston-Clear Lake is one of four distinct campuses that make up the University of Houston System. Established in 1971, UHCL’s College of Human Sciences and Humanities confers a top-value Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences that includes 120 hours of coursework in geography, social work, criminology and sociology as well as psychology and anthropology. Students learn from professors and faculty members with experience in many disciplines and are known as leaders in their respective fields of study. Graduates of this best bachelor’s in behavioral science degree program are prepared for careers in governmental service organizations, cultural organizations and social and community service organizations.
Degree Options:
Behavioral Sciences B.S.
In-State Tuition: $7,002
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,954
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 81 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences Degree?
The field of behavioral sciences is vast and encompasses anthropology, sociology and psychology. Therefore, a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences prepares graduates to work mainly in the field of human services and other related industries. Students may also choose to pursue graduate study in fields like human services administration and counseling. Earning a master’s can open the door to careers as a market research analyst, clinical social worker, criminologist, anthropologist and more. However, for the purpose of this article, we wanted to look at job options for those with an undergraduate degree in behavioral sciences such as:
- Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselor
- Social Worker
- Social and Community Service Manager
- Social and Human Service Assistant
- Health Educator and Community Health Worker
- Behavior Support Specialist
- Operations Manager
- Social Worker
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Criminal Profiler
- Human Resources Specialist
As we can see, a degree in behavioral sciences prepares graduates to work in several environments, including health services management, counseling, law enforcement, education and human services. Within these fields, students are able to work with crisis intervention services, government agencies, the elderly, youth, families, those struggling with addiction and disadvantaged populations.
What is the Salary Potential for a Behavioral Sciences Degree?
Determining the salary potential for a graduate who has obtained a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences is difficult, namely due to the vastness of the field. As we have seen, a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences can lead to a number of occupations, and salaries depend on location, employer, level of experience, education and the position itself. To learn more about average earnings, we consulted the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and found average salaries for three popular occupations within this field: social workers, social and community service managers and substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors — each of which requires a bachelor’s degree for entry-level employment.
According to the BLS, social and community service managers earned an average salary of $65,320 per year as of May 2018. The top 10 percent of professionals earned more than $111,150, while the lowest 10 percent brought home $40,720. The median annual wages for social and community service managers in highest-paying industries in which they were employed include:
- Local government, excluding hospitals and education: $83,660
- Professional, civic, grantmaking, religious and similar organizations: $70,080
- Residential care and nursing facilities: $61,940
- Community and vocational rehabilitation services: $59,940
- Family and individual services: $59,400
In addition, the BLS indicates that social workers earned an average of $49,470 per year as of May 2018. The top 10 percent earned more than $81,400, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,750. Similarly, substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors reported an annual median wage of $44,630, with the highest 10 percent bringing home more than $72,990 and the lowest 10 percent earning less than $28,240. The top-paying industries for these counselors include the government, hospitals, individual and family services and both outpatient and residential mental health and substance abuse facilities.
What Will You Study in a Behavioral Sciences Bachelor’s Degree Program?
The field of behavioral science requires rigorous studies in order for students to understand the science behind human behavior. The best affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degrees help undergraduates build a foundation of multidisciplinary knowledge through the analysis of sociology, physiology, biology and both developmental and cognitive psychology. Students can expect to take coursework in behavioral and social sciences, behavioral psychology and development with core classes in statistics, data analysis and research. Depending on the program, the curriculum may prepare students to sit for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst exam. Course topics may include:
- Social Psychology
- Statistical Analysis in Social Sciences
- Childhood Development
- Abnormal Psychology
- Behavior Analysis
- Interpersonal Communications
Most programs also require a hands-on internship through which students gain supervised, real-world experience working with an organization in their field or with their population of interest. In addition, most Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degrees offer undergraduates the opportunity to specialize or focus on a certain emphasis are to further focus their degree such as organizational psychology, abnormal psychology or counseling. Other concentrations may examine topics in:
- Criminal justice
- Childhood development
- Addiction
- Applied behavioral analysis
- Community health
- Adults with disabilities
In the case of schools that do not offer areas of specialization, students are typically able to select elective courses tailored to their career goals and interests instead. The skills acquired through specializations and appropriate electives can provide graduates with a competitive advantage when it comes time to pursue employment in their respective fields. Regardless of the program you select or the specific field in which you intend to work, we hope that our list of the top 30 best affordable Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences degrees provides a helpful starting point as you begin to narrow down possible schools and programs to meet your professional goals.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable bachelor’s in behavioral sciences degree.
More Rankings of Interest:
- 35 Top Value Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Degrees
- 25 Best Affordable Online Master’s in Psychology
- 30 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Family Consumer Science
- 50 Most Affordable Colleges with the Best Return
- 25 Most Affordable Online Master’s of Social Work
- 20 Best Affordable Colleges for Psychology Degree Online
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns