SPRINGFIELD, MO — Graduates of Ozarks Technical Community College’s Behavioral Health Support program will have the opportunity to transfer seamlessly into Evangel University’s Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health program, thanks to a new articulation agreement signed between the institutions.
Evangel’s Behavioral Health degree program was established in the fall of 2017. The new program, offered entirely online, prepares graduates for positions in organizations that serve the behavioral health needs of children, youth and adults. The program also provides a pathway for students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in behavioral health, counseling, human services or psychology.
“This agreement formalizes Evangel’s long-term commitment to serving OTC students in their next steps in career development,” said Dr. Jeff Fulks, coordinator of Evangel’s Behavioral Health program.
OTC’s Behavioral Health Support program debuted in the spring of 2017 thanks to a grant from the Missouri Foundation for Health. The college’s Allied Health department created the degree pathway at the request of community partners and the Missouri Department of Mental Health. The program was designed to meet the needs of local employers within the human services field.
Upon graduation, students in the BHS program at OTC receive an Associate of Applied Science in Behavioral Health Support. Graduates are prepared to work in entry and mid-level positions at any human services agency including mental health treatment facilities, schools or correctional facilities.
“The goal of OTC’s BHS program is to train our students for employment within the social service field upon graduation,” said Amy Shelley, director of OTC’s Behavioral Health Support program. “And now, thanks to the flexible nature of Evangel’s online Behavioral Health degree program, our students have the option to continue their education as well.”
OTC’s Allied Health department is a nationally recognized leader in allied health education. The department offers 13 accredited healthcare programs, as well as a 2,000-square foot simulation center. Within six months of graduation, 98 percent of OTC Allied Health students find gainful employment.
ABOUT OTC
The Ozarks Technical Community College system offers associate degrees and certificates in a variety of technical, allied health and two-year transfer degree programs, as well as workforce development opportunities. Classes are available at six locations throughout southwest Missouri, including the option to earn a complete associate degree online. Find additional resources and information about OTC (including official wordmarks and images) at otc.edu/news.
Ozarks Technical Community College, 1001 E. Chestnut Expressway, Springfield, Mo. 65802 • 417-447-7500 • otc.edu
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Written & Released by OTC — Monday, Jan. 29, 2018