Master of Behavioral Science

An MBS is a graduate-level behavioral science degree that emphasizes understanding human behavior through studying psychology, sociology, and related fields. It examines how individuals and groups make decisions, interact, and respond to various social, cultural, and environmental influences. Students in Western’s MBS program can choose from two concentrations: Rural Community Health or Community Counseling.  

With a spotlight on areas with fewer resources, the Rural Community Health concentration prepares graduates to tackle challenges such as suicide prevention, trauma-informed care, environmental justice, and social isolation. Students gain expertise in culturally sensitive, evidence-based practices for advocacy, education, research, and community health interventions. 

The Community Counseling concentration focuses on non-clinical careers and settings, such as juvenile justice, grief counseling, peer support services, and more. Upon graduation, students in this concentration will be eligible to take the Addiction Counseling Exam to become Licensed Addiction Counselors authorized by the Behavioral Health Administration. An addiction counselor certification opens many doors to meaningful career opportunities in behavioral health. 

Western’s Master of Behavioral Science stands out for its strong focus on real-world application, offering students the opportunity to pursue research-driven projects, hands-on learning, and collaboration with local nonprofit organizations. The program’s immersive curriculum is tailored to address the unique health challenges faced by rural communities like Gunnison, equipping students with the tools to make a tangible impact. 

 Through applied behavioral science projects, students work directly with local organizations, academic institutions, and practitioners to tackle critical issues such as suicide prevention, substance abuse, and trauma-informed early childhood care. By emphasizing culturally sensitive and evidence-based prevention strategies, the program ensures that graduates are prepared to improve the health and well-being of the Gunnison Valley and bring meaningful change to communities worldwide. 

The Master of Behavioral Science uniquely offers an accelerated program for students still pursuing their undergraduate studies. Accelerated degree students will earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Behavioral Science five years. This program combines the study of social institutions and human interactions with in-depth training in health equity, program development, and health communication. Once their BA in Sociology degree is complete, students will join the graduate cohort to engage in hands-on projects, preparing them for careers in behavioral sciences and rural health programs.

The takeaways from this program are truly endless, but here are three that stand out for their real-world applicability following completion of a master’s in behavioral science:

• Applied Research Skills: Students will learn to design and conduct research using methods like data collection, analysis, and community-based participatory approaches to solve various social and health-oriented issues.
• Community Collaboration: MBS students will develop the ability to engage with local organizations, practitioners, and stakeholders to create impactful health interventions tailored to the unique needs of underserved populations.
• Culturally Sensitive Problem-Solving: Our program emphasizes creating health strategies that respect cultural contexts, particularly in rural and Native American communities, fostering meaningful and sustainable change.

An MBS from Western is an excellent degree for folks aiming to work in both clinical and non-clinical settings. As a great master’s degree for therapists and counselors, MBS students can expect to work in schools, non-profits, research firms, public health departments, and other settings that address mental health and wellbeing: 

• Public Health Director 

• Crisis Counselor 

• Licensed Addiction Counselor (Requires a LAC certification) 

• Social Workers 

• Trauma Counselor 

• Peer Support Educator 

• School Counselor 

• Health Educator 

• Case Manager 

Rooted in interdisciplinary training, these careers empower professionals to confront the real-world health challenges rural and marginalized populations face.