

The Master of Science in Prevention Science and Community Health is a two-year, full-time program that equips students with the skills to design, implement, and evaluate interventions that promote health and prevent disease across diverse communities. The program focuses on public health research, behavioral science, and epidemiology to understand and reduce health disparities. Students explore how social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors shape community health outcomes, and how prevention strategies can address these challenges through collaborative, evidence-based approaches. Core courses emphasize research design, biostatistics, health communication, and policy, ensuring a strong foundation for analyzing complex public health issues from both scientific and social perspectives.
This program is particularly well-suited for individuals who want to work at the intersection of research and community engagement. Students gain hands-on experience through community-based research projects, practicum placements, and interdisciplinary collaborations. The curriculum encourages critical thinking about systemic health inequities and promotes the development of culturally responsive health strategies. Faculty bring expertise in both academic research and field-based interventions, guiding students in translating theory into practice. Whether the goal is to pursue doctoral study or enter the workforce, this program prepares graduates to become leaders in prevention science who can shape policies, conduct meaningful research, and design interventions that make a measurable impact on public health.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Public Health
• Principles of Epidemiology
• Health Behavior Theories
• Introduction to Biostatistics
• Social Determinants of Health
Semester 2 – Methods and Application
• Community-Based Participatory Research
• Health Promotion Program Planning
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Ethics in Public Health
Semester 3 – Specialized Studies
• Intervention Design and Evaluation
• Health Communication Strategies
• Policy and Advocacy in Public Health
• Practicum in Community Health Settings
Semester 4 – Integration and Capstone
• Data Analysis and Interpretation
• Grant Writing for Health Research
• Master's Thesis or Capstone Project
• Professional Development Seminar
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in public health research, nonprofit health organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions. They often take on roles such as public health analyst, prevention program coordinator, health promotion specialist, or research associate. Their training in both qualitative and quantitative research makes them valuable contributors to health initiatives focused on community engagement, policy development, and population-based health strategies. This degree is also an excellent foundation for those pursuing a PhD in public health or related fields. As communities face growing challenges from chronic diseases, mental health disparities, and social determinants, professionals trained in prevention science are essential for designing inclusive, data-driven solutions that improve well-being and equity.
This program stands out for its comprehensive approach to prevention science and community-based research, offering students both the theoretical knowledge and practical tools to make a real difference in public health. The focus on collaboration, social justice, and evidence-informed practice prepares graduates to lead community health initiatives with empathy and effectiveness. Faculty mentorship, applied projects, and a strong emphasis on cultural competence ensure that students are not only prepared to enter the workforce, but also to address the root causes of health disparities with integrity and innovation. If you are passionate about creating healthier communities and advancing equity through prevention, this program offers the academic depth and experiential learning to support your goals.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States