Master of Science in Applied Health Behavior Research
The Master of Science (MS) in Applied Health Behavior Research (AHBR) is a 33-credit multidisciplinary program that focuses on the applied skills required for the development, management and evaluation of research studies and health behavior programs in academic, clinical and community settings. Students choose one of two concentrations:
- Health Education, Program Planning and Evaluation (HEPPE): This concentration is designed for individuals who want to develop, manage and evaluate health programs in clinical or community settings. Course work focuses on health behavior theory, program planning, program evaluation, health education and program management.
- Health Behavior Research (HBR): This concentration is designed for individuals to develop theoretical knowledge and gain practical research experience in order to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields and/or to manage research studies in clinical settings. Course work focuses on health behavior theory, research methodology, analytic methods and research project management.
For either concentration, students have an opportunity to participate in the one-year mentored research option. This option is for individuals who want to develop theoretical knowledge and gain practical research experience in order to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields or to pursue advanced graduate degrees. It is designed to be completed in three semesters, and it includes 9 credit units of mentored research. In addition, it provides hands-on training for students interested in health-, medical- and psychology-related fields, and it provides students with an opportunity to fulfill specific graduate and medical school core competencies while enhancing their applications to MD and PhD programs.
Program Requirements
The MS in AHBR can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. Registration is open to anyone with a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited university or college in an appropriate field of study. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and students may pursue course work at their own pace. The MS does not require a thesis upon completion of the program, and the GRE is not required for admission.
Required Core Courses for the Master of Science
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| AHBR 508 | Project Management in Clinical and Community Settings | 3 |
| AHBR 514 | Health Behavior Theory | 3 |
| AHBR 525 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
| AHBR 560 | Survey Methods: Design and Evaluation | 3 |
Visit the AHBR curriculum webpage to view concentration-specific required courses and elective options.
Admissions
To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the following:
- AHBR application
- Application fee
- Résumé/curriculum vitae
- Personal statement
- All college transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
Please visit the application section of the AHBR home page or email the program manager for additional information.