Bachelor's Degree in
Child Behavioral Health
Join the next generation of behavioral health professionals
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This is where purpose takes flight
Created in response to the youth mental health crisis, the child behavioral health program blends rigorous coursework with real-world training typically reserved for graduate study—all in a four-year undergraduate degree. Three options: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), or Bachelor of Education (BEd).
With more than 700 hours of supervised applied training in schools, primary care, and community settings, graduates are equipped to fill critical prevention-focused roles—supporting youth and families while working alongside licensed providers.
Chart your flight path
A 2+2 program: Two years to prepare, two years to practice
Build your foundation
Years 1–2
University of Oregon, community college, or another institution
- ✓ Complete core education and pre-major coursework
- ✓ Connect with pre-CBH students in the Ballmer ARC
- ✓ Gain experience working with youth in community settings
Practice with purpose
Years 3–4
Ballmer Institute at University of Oregon Portland
- ✓ Complete advanced coursework in child behavioral health
- ✓ Train in supervised practicum placements across Portland
- ✓ 10–20 hours per week in community settings
Learning beyond the classroom
This is more than shadowing. You'll apply your training under supervision, working directly with youth and collaborating with behavioral health professionals across Portland. Across both years of the program, you'll spend 10–20 hours per week in supervised practicum settings.
Training sites include:
- Behavioral and mental health agencies
- K–12 schools
- Youth and family service organizations
- Prevention and early intervention programs
- Pediatric clinics and hospitals
Training you can use
Right Away
The CBH major integrates training typically reserved for graduate study into a 90-credit undergraduate degree. Coursework is centered on evidence-based, culturally responsive, and inclusive practice, emphasizing early identification, prevention, and intervention.
What You'll Learn to Do
Ready to land strong
CBH graduates are prepared for bachelor's-level behavioral health provider roles—among the first in Oregon and the nation to hold this credential. They work alongside licensed clinicians to expand access to care, intervene early, and strengthen prevention services in community settings.
Upon graduation, students are eligible to apply for licensure through the Oregon Board of Psychology as a licensed Behavioral Health and Wellness Practitioner.
This Role Is
- ✓Focused on prevention and early intervention
- ✓Part of a behavioral health care team
- ✓Delivering evidence-based services to youth and families
- ✓Working under the supervision of a licensed professional
This Role Is Not
- ✗A replacement for licensed clinicians
- ✗Independent diagnosis or therapy
financial Support
For the Path Ahead
Two exclusive scholarships reduce financial barriers so you can focus on your education and training.
Most Comprehensive
The Ballmer Scholarship
Full Cost
Covers UO resident tuition, fees, and living expenses through a combination of grants and scholarships for up to four years.
- ✓For incoming first-year and transfer students
- ✓Requires UO application and demonstrated financial need
For Current Majors
The Trailblazer Award
$10,000/yr
Renewable for up to two years. Awarded to CBH majors transitioning to UO Portland who are not receiving the Ballmer Scholarship.
- ✓Must be enrolled in the CBH major
- ✓Not a current Ballmer Scholarship recipient
Ready to Join
the CBH Flock?
The major is open to first-year students applying to UO, current UO students, and transfer students from community colleges and four-year institutions.
2.7 GPA
Minimum cumulative college GPA
3.0 GPA
Minimum in pre-major courses
90 credits
Quarter credits (or 60 semester)
1 pre-major course
Completed before applying
Because students work directly with children, teens, and families, academic readiness and professionalism are essential. Students are expected to demonstrate professional conduct and engage thoughtfully with feedback from faculty and supervisors.
Talk to an advisor
Meet with your high school or college counselor and set up a meeting with a Ballmer Institute academic advisor to prepare for the transition to UO Portland.
Apply to the University of Oregon
Visit apply.uoregon.edu and select the pre-child behavioral health major on your application.
Meet admission requirements
Complete at least one pre-major course and meet the GPA and credit thresholds.
Apply for full major status
Submit the CBH application by the published deadline: childrensbehavioralhealth.uoregon.edu/admissions
Still Have Questions?