William James College Behavioral Health Microcredential Program
Microcredential in Behavioral Health for Disability, Neurodiversity and Medically Complex Populations
(9 credits)
This microcredential certifies the holder has demonstrated competency in understanding and supporting individuals with disabilities, neurodivergent conditions, and complex medical needs. Through rigorous coursework exploring the intersection of disability, chronic illness, and mental health, holders develop expertise in disability psychology, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and integrated behavioral healthcare. They are equipped to provide culturally sensitive, evidence-based support and advocate for inclusive, person-centered care that addresses both psychological and physical health needs. Additionally, they gain the skills to collaborate effectively within interprofessional teams, promote health equity, and support policies that advance the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions.
Courses Required
BSPY235 - Psychology of Disability (3 credits) Blended/Online, 15 weeks taken during Fall semester
BSPY345 - Autism and Neurodivergence (3 credits) Blended/Online, 7 weeks taken during Summer 2 semester
BSPY315- Behavioral Health in Chronic and Medically Complex Populations (3 credits) Blended/Online, 15 weeks taken during Spring semester
These courses are also available in the BS in Psychology and Human Services program.
What You Will Learn
- Evaluate the impact of societal barriers, stigma, and accessibility challenges on individuals with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions and develop strategies to address these challenges effectively.
- Apply evidence-based behavioral health interventions that integrate both physical and mental health considerations for individuals with chronic and medically complex conditions.
- Demonstrate cultural competency in addressing health disparities and providing inclusive, responsive care to diverse populations, ensuring equity in support.
- Design and implement person-centered care plans that incorporate family systems, community resources, and interprofessional collaboration.
Employer Valued Skills
- Cross-functional Healthcare Collaboration
- Cultural Intelligence
- Person-centered Care Planning
- Health Equity Advocacy
- Integrated Care Documentation
- Behavioral Health Integration
Project of Evidence
"Inclusive Care Case Analysis and Intervention Planning”
Course Modality
Courses in this program are offered in Blended or Fully Online formats:
- Online courses combine asynchronous online lessons with three optional synchronous Zoom sessions, and one mandatory 3-hour online Saturday session held over Zoom.
- Blended courses combine asynchronous online lessons with three optional synchronous Zoom sessions, and one mandatory 3-hour in-person Saturday session held on our campus in Newton, MA.
More About This Microcredential
Time to Complete Program: 11 months
Modality: Blended or Online
Support: Students have full access our Academic Resource Center, Library, and Technical
Support while enrolled in courses. Students may also engage in sponsored campus events
as part of the WJC community.
Digital Badge: Yes
Application and Registration
Application and Registration is just one form: Non-Matric Application Form. Non-matriculation registration does not begin until after formal new and continuing student registration has been completed. A non-matriculated student may be bumped from a course if a seat is needed for a matriculated student. The final approval for a non-matriculated student registration into a course is the decision of the academic chair/director whom will be contacted by the Registrar's Office after a non-matriculated application/registration form has been received.
Tuition and Fees
| Behavioral Health for Disability, Neurodiversity and Medically Complex Populations | |
| Total # of credits | 9 |
| Tuition per credit | $600 |
| Student Fees Fall/Spring | $50 |
| Student Fees Summer | $50 |
| Estimated Microcredential Tuition and Fees Based on a student taking 9 credits |
$5,500 |
Additional Information
Refer to the Academic Calendar for class start dates and school closing information.
Microcredential courses passed with a grade of C– or higher are fully transferrable to the BS Psychology and Human Services program, providing students with up to 9 academic credits to apply toward a BS degree.
Students must earn a grade of a grade of C– or higher in every course related to the microcredential and on the project of evidence connected to the microcredential in order to earn the digital badge.
Additional questions may be referred to either the Admissions (617-564-9376) or Registrar's Office (617-327-6777 x1525).