Behavioral Health Technician Certificate

The 30-credit hybrid program prepares students for behavioral health or correctional care careers and the National Career Certification Board’s Certified Mental Health Technician certification exam.

Why Study Behavioral Health at Highlands College?

The program can provide both the conceptual and practical physical skills to help correctional officers, psychiatric technicians, EMTs, and other direct care professionals advance their careers. The program has two options, one focused on becoming a behavioral health technician, and another focused on correctional secure care. The program is designed to be completed in one academic year, and will also include a course option where students can earn their Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) license within the certificate program.

What Is Behavioral Health?

Behavioral health focuses on mental health, substance use and behaviors that affect overall well-being. Professionals in the field support individuals experiencing mental health or behavioral challenges, helping them manage daily activities, follow treatment plans and work toward improved health and quality of life.

What Kinds of Jobs Do Behavioral Health Technicians Get?

Behavioral health technicians work in hospitals, behavioral health centers, residential treatment facilities, correctional settings, schools and community agencies. They support individuals experiencing mental health, substance use or behavioral challenges and may assist with treatment plans, daily care and crisis intervention.

Explore Classes in Behavioral Health

As a behavioral health student, you'll explore topics such as mental health, addiction, crisis intervention, patient care, ethics and communication. Courses prepare you to support individuals in behavioral health and correctional settings while developing skills in observation, documentation, safety and recovery-focused care. See more course details in Montana Tech’s academic catalog.

Financial Aid and Tuition Note

As a Certificate, Montana Tech does not offer federal financial aid for this program. Certificate programs are also not eligible for WUE or Advantage tuition rates. If a student has interest in seeking a degree that is eligible for financial aid, they should contact the Financial Aid office at (406) 496-4223 or financialaid@mtech.edu for more information on eligibility.