Social and Behavioral Sciences
The Master of Public Health in Social and Behavioral Sciences provides an extensive academic foundation for understanding how social structures, cultural norms, and behavioral patterns influence public health outcomes across different communities. The program integrates core principles of sociology with public health methodologies, allowing students to explore how individual choices and societal conditions interact to shape population well-being. By engaging with theories of behavior change, community systems, and health equity, students gain the ability to apply evidence-based analysis, research-driven interpretation, and strategic problem-solving to complex public health challenges. This interdisciplinary emphasis enables learners to understand the broader social forces that shape health decisions and to evaluate how these forces can be addressed through targeted interventions.
Over two years, students develop a strong research orientation through exposure to analytical tools, field experience, community engagement, and health program evaluation techniques. The curriculum emphasizes the study of health disparities, social determinants, cultural influences, and structural barriers, while also enhancing students’ capacity to design, implement, and assess effective public health strategies. Through advanced coursework, research mentorship, and applied practice, learners build a solid understanding of public health systems, behavioral interventions, and the sociological frameworks necessary to interpret population-level outcomes. This comprehensive approach prepares students to produce meaningful contributions in academic, clinical, and community settings where social insight and public health expertise must work together.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Degree Type: Master of Public Health
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Location: Yale University, United States
- Field of Study: Sociology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Social & Behavioral Health
• Principles of Public Health
• Social and Behavioral Science Theory
• Research Methods in Population Health
• Community Health Assessment
Semester 2 – Behavioral Applications & Health Systems
• Health Communication Strategies
• Social Determinants of Health
• Program Planning and Intervention Design
• Seminar in Behavioral Health Trends
Semester 3 – Applied Practice & Community Engagement
• Behavioral Epidemiology
• Evaluation of Health Programs
• Advanced Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis
• Electives in Sociology or Public Health Policy
Semester 4 – Thesis & Professional Preparation
• Independent Research / Master’s Thesis
• Public Health Policy Analysis
• Professional Development Workshop
• Presentation and Academic Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are equipped with the sociological and public health expertise needed for a wide range of roles that address health disparities, community wellness, and behavioral determinants of health. Many find career opportunities in public health departments, international health organizations, non-governmental health agencies, and research institutions, where they contribute to population-level strategies, program design, policy evaluation, and community-based interventions. Because the curriculum blends behavioral science with evidence-focused public health training, graduates are prepared to collaborate on health promotion initiatives, conduct needs assessments, lead community engagement efforts, and evaluate the long-term impact of health programs. This diverse skill set allows them to work in settings dedicated to improving health equity, shaping data-informed policies, and supporting vulnerable populations through culturally sensitive and scientifically grounded approaches.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want a rigorous and well-structured academic path that connects behavioral science, sociology, and public health into a coherent analytical framework, offering a foundation built on advanced behavioral science training that supports both research and practice. Its four-semester model provides ample opportunity to deepen methodological expertise, explore community dynamics, and develop strong interpretive skills while engaging with contemporary health issues. Through seminars, applied projects, and faculty mentorship, students gain the capacity to design effective interventions, understand the root causes of health disparities, and evaluate programs with precision. The curriculum’s integration of theory, field experience, and data-driven analysis ensures that graduates leave with the professional confidence, interdisciplinary insight, and practical competence necessary to make meaningful contributions in public health environments where social understanding and behavioral insight are essential.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 203 432 2300
Email: admissions@yale.edu
Address: University of Yale, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
