INTERVIEWER:
Hello!
So you want to know more about Ashford University’s
Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Behavioral
Science.
Well, you’re in luck because joining us
today is Dr. Trevor Belcher, Associate Dean
in the College of Health, Human Services,
and Science.
Also joining us is Reyna Sund, Ashford’s
Director of Career Services and Alumni Relations.
Welcome.
REYNA:
Thank you.
INTERVIEWER:
Trevor and Reyna are going to help us understand
the degree program a little bit better.
The first question I’m hoping you can answer
is what exactly is Applied Behavioral Science?
TREVOR:
Sure.
In a nutshell, it’s the application of multidisciplinary
research and knowledge to solve real world
problems.
With an understanding of behavioral sciences,
students can begin to understand why people,
individuals, and groups behave in certain
ways, as well as address problems that may
impact organizations, companies, and even society
in general.
INTERVIEWER:
That actually sounds a lot like psychology.
How is applied behavioral science different?
TREVOR:
Yeah, you’re correct to note the overlap
with the field of psychology.
Psychology does, in fact, fall under the larger
umbrella of behavioral sciences.
Sociology, logic, ethics, even law is considered
behavioral sciences.
So, in essence, applied behavioral science
is the broad interdisciplinary field that
looks at each of these areas and how it influences
human behavior.
INTERVIEWER:
And what will students learn in the degree
program?
TREVOR:
In addition to psychology and sociology, the
program includes courses on statistics and
research that help students begin to understand
how to collect and interpret data.
It also includes courses in the areas of business
and communication, as well as two new courses
that explore human services and gerontology.
One of the main goals with this program is
to produce graduates who can look at complex
social issues and use their knowledge to find
solutions.
REYNA:
That focus on problem-solving is reflected
in the career paths that applied behavioral
students pursue after they graduate.
INTERVIEWER:
What type of jobs will graduates be prepared
for?
REYNA:
We often see graduates pursue different types
of fields that focus on social issues and
diversity.
Some of the common fields that applied behavioral
science graduates pursue include human resources,
youth services, human services, urban planning,
consumer sciences, and law enforcement.
TREVOR:
Understanding why people behave certain
ways and being able to find solutions to real
world problems are often keys to making a
lasting difference.
Both are valuable skills and that’s what
we teach in the applied behavioral sciences
program.
INTERVIEWER:
Well, thank you both for taking the time to
explain the program in depth.
TREVOR and REYNA:
You’re welcome.
INTERVIEWER:
If you have any additional questions on Ashford’s
online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral
Science program, please explore the degree
page on Ashford.edu or speak with an Enrollment
Services Advisor.
