Central Penn Kicks off Mental Health Awareness Month with New Behavioral Health Certificate
As Mental Health Awareness Month spotlights the dire need for more mental health professionals to meet a rapidly growing demand, Central Penn College in Summerdale has launched a new nine-month Behavioral Health certificate.
This fully online program allows students to complete 18 credits in just nine months, providing a flexible and efficient path toward a career in behavioral health.
The need for behavioral health professionals is critical, with more than half of the U.S. population residing in Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas as of December 2023. Rural areas, in particular, face a shortage of providers, affecting Central Pennsylvania and surrounding regions.
Krista Wolfe, Vice President of Academic Affairs/Provost at Central Penn College, emphasizes the importance of this new program: “With the rising demand for behavioral health services, our new certificate program is designed to fill a crucial gap in healthcare. This program not only addresses the need for qualified professionals in Central Pennsylvania but also empowers students to make a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.”
According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the U.S. behavioral health market size is expected to grow from $83.7 billion in 2023 to $115.21 billion by 2030, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7%.
Central Penn’s new certificate offers courses in psychology, developmental psychology, medical psychology, abnormal psychology, public health psychology, and sports psychology. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of human behavior, mental health, and emotional well-being.
“Central Penn College is committed to providing in-demand, career-focused education that makes a tangible impact on our community,” adds Wolfe. “Our new Behavioral Health Certificate program is a direct response to the critical mental health shortages in Central Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas. By equipping our students with the skills and knowledge to address these challenges, we’re helping to build a healthier, more resilient region.”
Central Penn College’s online platform allows students to complete the program while balancing work, life, and family responsibilities. With the flexibility and convenience of online learning, students can gain the skills needed to pursue careers in hospitals, schools, social service agencies, and other healthcare settings.
The program is ideal for individuals who are empathetic and interested in why people behave the way they do. The Behavioral Health Certificate program is a fast track to a rewarding career in a rapidly growing field, with projected job growth of 18% by 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Central Penn College offers expert faculty, a real-world-focused curriculum, and career support to help students succeed in their career journeys. Additionally, the certificate can be credited towards an associate or bachelor’s degree, providing a pathway for further education.
This foundation in behavioral health can be an especially helpful and transferable skill for those in the health care field and organizational leadership.
