Herzing Launches Doctor of Behavioral Health with Two Specializations

What is a Doctor of Behavioral Health degree?

Herzing University now offers a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) — a 54-credit, fully online applied doctorate with two specializations, Clinical and Management — designed for master's-prepared professionals ready to lead integrated behavioral healthcare systems, launching June 1, 2026.

Quick Facts

Who this program is for

• Behavioral health professionals with a master's degree who want to lead at the system and organizational level
• Social workers, counselors, psychologists, nurses and public health professionals seeking an applied doctorate — not a research-focused PhD
• Leaders and administrators looking to build skills in financial management, data analytics, strategic planning and organizational transformation (Management specialization)
• Advanced clinical practitioners focused on integrated care, complex behavioral health conditions and psychopharmacology (Clinical specialization)
• Professionals who want to integrate their work experience directly into doctoral coursework and a capstone project

What you'll learn and what you can do

Both specializations share a core curriculum covering integrated behavioral health, healthcare policy, health equity and stigma reduction, population health, telehealth and digital behavioral health, AI-supported healthcare innovation and leadership and program development.

Clinical specialization adds

• Clinical pathophysiology for behavioral health professionals
• Evidence-based interventions for complex and co-occurring conditions
• Psychopharmacology in integrated care settings
• Addictive behaviors and neurophysiology

Management specialization adds

• Quality improvement and outcomes evaluation
• Data analytics for healthcare leaders
• Behavioral health financial management
• Strategic planning and change management

The program includes a capstone project built across all semesters. Students select a real behavioral health challenge early on, complete a literature review, conduct research and participate in an applied project.

The DBH does not provide a pathway to licensure and does not qualify graduates to prescribe medication. Graduates may use the title "doctor" in academic and professional settings.

Common job titles graduates may pursue:

• Director of Behavioral Health
• Behavioral Health Program Director
• Clinical Director
• Integrated Care Management Manager
• Behavioral Health Quality Manager
• Integrated Behavioral Health Consultant
• Professor

Frequently asked questions

What is a Doctor of Behavioral Health degree?

A DBH is a practice-focused doctoral degree designed for professionals who want to lead improvements in behavioral health, mental health and integrated care systems. It differs from a PsyD (psychology practice), DrPH (public health), DSW (social work) and PhD (research) in its emphasis on applied, systems-level behavioral health leadership.

How long does the DBH take?

The program takes 18 months to complete full-time (4.5 semesters). Part-time students may take up to 36 months. Total credits: 54.

Is the program available online?

Yes. All coursework is delivered 100% online, mostly asynchronously with some synchronous participation required.

What are the admission requirements?

Both specializations require a minimum 3.0 GPA, official transcripts, a personal statement and a review of professional work experience. The Clinical specialization requires a master's degree in a behavioral health-related field. The Management specialization accepts any master's degree from an accredited university. Licensure is not required.

Does the program require a practicum or internship?

No. The DBH does not require a practicum or internship. The capstone project serves as the applied learning component.

The bottom line

Herzing's Doctor of Behavioral Health is the right fit for master's-prepared professionals who want an applied, workforce-driven doctorate that builds leadership and systems expertise in behavioral health.

Related Herzing programs and resources

- Doctor of Behavioral Health at Herzing

- Behavioral Health programs at Herzing

- Healthcare programs at Herzing