Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship Expands

University of Jamestown (UJ) is excited to announce the expansion of its Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship Program through partnerships with Sharehouse of Fargo, ND, and the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (ND DOCR). This initiative builds on the program’s success and its existing partnership with Terros Health in Arizona, which launched in 2024. These collaborations help address the critical shortage of behavioral health professionals in both North Dakota and Arizona, while providing students with paid, hands-on training and classroom instruction. 

The Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship Program at UJ is an industry-led career and education pathway that equips students with the skills, credentials, and experience needed to succeed in the growing field of behavioral health. By partnering with organizations like Sharehouse, ND DOCR, and Terros Health, the program offers students diverse opportunities to work in addiction recovery, correctional rehabilitation, and community mental health settings. 

Why This Career Matters
Behavioral health technicians are on the front lines of addressing the mental health and substance use crises that affect millions of Americans. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in behavioral health-related fields is projected to grow by 22% by 2031, far outpacing the average for all occupations. In North Dakota, rural communities face significant barriers to accessing mental health services, while Arizona continues to experience a high demand for professionals to support its growing population. 

“This program is about more than just education, it’s about creating solutions to real-world problems,” said Elsie Motter, Director of Behavioral Health & Clinical Counseling and Assistant Professor at the University of Jamestown. “We are giving our students the tools they need to make a meaningful impact on their communities. These partnerships are also demonstrating the benefits and innovation of collaborative education to career pathways.” 

Program Highlights and Career Opportunities
The Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship Program combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing students to “earn while they learn.” Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of roles, including mental health support, addiction recovery assistance, and crisis intervention. The program also provides a pathway for career advancement, with opportunities to pursue further education and leadership roles in behavioral health. 

Students, employers, and community members interested in learning more about the Behavioral Health Technician Apprenticeship Program are encouraged to visit www.uj.edu/academics/programs/behavioral-health-technician or contact the University of Jamestown directly. 

For partnership opportunities or additional information, please contact: 

• Heidi Larson (North Dakota)
  Associate Vice President of Career Center and Employee Relations
  Phone: 701-252-3467 ext. 5520
  Email: hlarson@uj.edu 

• Robert Stenson (Arizona)
  Director of Business and Governmental Affairs, UJ Accelerated
  Phone: 602-922-9933
  Email: robert.stenson@uj.edu