Transform mental health leadership through advanced executive education. Our doctor of behavioral health management program prepares visionary leaders to address the complex challenges facing mental health and human services organizations today. This comprehensive doctorate in behavioral health combines cutting-edge research methodologies with practical leadership skills to create transformational change in communities nationwide. Students in our doctor of behavioral health programs develop expertise in organizational behavior, policy development, and evidence-based practices while maintaining a strong ethical foundation rooted in Christian principles. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on application to ensure graduates are prepared for executive-level positions in behavioral health settings. This innovative doctor of behavioral health management degree addresses the growing need for qualified leaders who can navigate the intersection of mental health care, community services, and organizational management in an increasingly complex healthcare landscape. Explore Degree Apply Now Tuition & Fees Overview of the Doctor of Behavioral Health Management Program The doctor of behavioral health management program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers in mental health administration, community services leadership, and behavioral health policy development. This 63-credit hour doctoral program combines rigorous academic study with practical application to prepare graduates for executive-level positions in diverse behavioral health settings. The curriculum integrates three core components: foundational leadership principles, advanced research methodologies, and specialized behavioral health competencies. Students develop comprehensive skills in organizational management, policy analysis, multicultural competence, and ethical decision-making while conducting original research that contributes to the field of behavioral health management. Educational Leadership Core (30 Hours) Seminar in Doctoral Studies in Executive Educational Leadership Cultural Competence for Educational Leaders Leadership Theory and Applications Rethinking Education with Emerging Technologies Organizational Behavior and Theory Introduction to Academic Writing and Research Christian Worldview for Educational Leaders Ethical Leadership and Governance Public Policy in Education Human Resources Management Research Core (15 Hours) Accountability and Measurement for Current Issues in Education Methods of Quantitative Educational Research Qualitative Research Methodology Applied Research in Education Dissertation Defense Preparation Behavioral Health Specialization (18 Hours) Mental Health Communities Program Planning and Consultation in Mental Health Policies, Economics, and Services in Mental Health Multicultural Issues in Mental Health Community Mental Health Administration and the Law Trauma and Community Crisis Graduation Requirements Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 No grade below a “B” in any course Successful completion of comprehensive portfolio Admission to candidacy Successful dissertation defense Complete degree within six (6) years Department recommendation for graduation What Can I Do with a Doctor of Behavioral Health Management Degree? Graduates with a doctor of behavioral health management degree are positioned for senior leadership roles across diverse sectors of the mental health and human services field. The comprehensive training in organizational management, research methodologies, and specialized behavioral health knowledge opens doors to executive positions in healthcare systems, community organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions. Healthcare Administration Medical and Health Services Managers: $110,680 median annual salary Behavioral Health Program Director Mental Health Services Administrator Healthcare System Executive Clinical Operations Manager Quality Improvement Director Strategic Planning Executive Community Mental Health Leadership Behavioral Health Managers: $105,031 average annual salary Community Mental Health Center Director Nonprofit Organization Executive Mental Health Policy Analyst Community Outreach Program Manager Crisis Intervention Program Director Prevention Services Coordinator Counseling and Treatment Services Mental Health Counselors: $59,190 median annual salary (19% growth projected 2023-2033) Clinical Director Treatment Program Supervisor Substance Abuse Program Manager Therapeutic Services Director Rehabilitation Services Manager Integrated Care Coordinator Research and Academia Healthcare Practitioners: $83,090 median annual salary in healthcare sector Research Director University Professor Policy Research Analyst Grant Development Specialist Program Evaluation Consultant Academic Department Chair Government and Public Service Strong growth projected in mental health-related employment through 2032 State Mental Health Administrator Federal Program Manager Public Health Director Legislative Policy Advisor Emergency Services Coordinator Regulatory Affairs Manager Consulting and Private Practice Behavioral Health Workers: $64,384 median advertised salary Organizational Development Consultant Mental Health Practice Owner Training and Development Specialist Business Development Manager Healthcare Technology Consultant Strategic Planning Advisor Career Outlook Employment in mental health-related occupations and industries has grown over the past decade. Strong growth is projected to continue through 2032, according to BLS. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 19 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. The doctor of behavioral health management program prepares graduates to lead this expanding field, combining advanced research skills with practical management expertise to drive innovation and improve outcomes in behavioral health services across diverse communities and organizational settings. Start your Doctor of Behavioral Health Management degree at Houston Christian University Explore our Doctor of Education in Executive Leadership in Mental Health and Human Services, which provides specialized training for educational leaders working in mental health and human services contexts.
