Master of Public Health in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences (MPH)

Students will be trained in public health policy and health behavior theories and models to assess diverse populations.

Graduates will be able to design, implement, conduct, and evaluate health education programs to positively impact health behavior change, health promotion, and health outcomes for all people and populations.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified in Public Health Exam and Certified Health Education Specialist Exam.

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Each concentration identifies competencies for each degree offered. These competencies reflect the full range of knowledge, skills, and other attributes that a student will acquire as a result of completing the requirements for a particular degree.

Upon graduation, a student completing the MPH curriculum in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences will be able to:

• Utilize health behavior theories or models for understanding health behaviors;
• Develop an evaluation plan, including process and impact evaluation approaches, for a population-based intervention, program, or issue;
• Apply research methods to address a public health issue;
• Develop or critique health education, health promotion, or health intervention materials, methods or programs; and
• Utilize principles of health communication and risk communication in addressing public health issues or concerns.

The MPH in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences degree is offered to students on a full-time or part-time basis. Courses are available in-person, remote, and/or online. Students will complete a total of 45 credits, including a practicum experience and capstone research project.

If completing the program as a full-time student (nine or more credits per semester), the degree requirements may be completed in as little as two years (four to five semesters). Part-time students taking at least six credits per semester may expect to finish within four years. Taking courses in the summer may help expedite part-time students’ timing.

Dual-degree options are available in partnership with other Rutgers University schools.

Students are also required to register for and complete an Interprofessional Education activity prior to graduation.

Students can earn a post-baccalaureate certificate alongside their degree with an additional 6-12 credits. Contact admissions for additional information at admissions@sph.rutgers.edu.

A complete application includes:

• Completion of the online application
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• Statement of goals, one-to-three pages in length, which addresses:
  • Interest in the program
  • Preparedness for the program
  • Goals and aspirations
• Two letters of recommendation with at least one letter from an academic reference if you are currently enrolled in a degree program or have graduated within the last four years.
• Resume or CV
• GRE General Exam (optional)
• TOEFL or IELTS score for applicants educated in a non-native English-speaking country

Applications are accepted on a rolling, space-available basis following the regular deadline.