At the University of Utah, undergraduate students have an exciting new opportunity. The school just announced plans that it will be adding a behavioral health technician program open to students in any major.
As a result of local demand in this field, University of Utah students will now be able to prepare for state certification as a behavioral health technician (BHT).
Dean of the College of Social Work at the university, Philip Osteen says, “The goal is to broaden our state’s base of skilled behavioral health professionals, alleviating some of the pressure on an overburdened system.”
Funding for the program will be provided by a Behavioral Health Workforce Initiative grant awarded by the Utah System of Higher Education.
The program, which includes virtual simulations, can be completed in just three semesters. Students will then be prepared to sit for the certification examination. Interested students can learn more about the curriculum for the program on the school’s website.
Students who complete the Behavioral Health Technician sequence can apply the credits earned towards other credentials, including the Substance Use Disorder Treatment Training Certificate and even the Master of Social Work degree. They can also enter the workforce as certified BHTs, working under licensed mental health providers to assist in providing care and designing treatment plans for individuals in need of behavioral health services.
The University of Utah has been named one of the nation’s top public schools by U.S. News & World Report. Here at CVO, our editors recently highlighted the university in our ranking of 10 Hidden Gem Online Colleges with Low Tuition and Great Resources.
Source: The University of Utah: New Behavioral Health Technician Program
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