HEALTH BEHAVIOR SCIENCE

The Health Behavior Science major includes 120 credit hours. In addition to completing the major coursework, students choose an approved minor. Upon completion of the curriculum, students will be prepared to:

1. Define and describe concepts of health and health promotion.
2. Examine and discuss current issues in health behavior science.
3. Explain and predict health behaviors across diverse populations.
4. Measure the health status of a targeted population.
5. Apply appropriate evidence-based theories and models to change health behaviors.
6. Collect, analyze, interpret, and describe qualitative and quantitative health data.
7. Design, implement, and evaluate health promotion, education, and behavior change strategies, programs, and interventions to address human health and disease.
8. Work independently or as part of a team to solve a problem related to health promotion.

View a sample of the curriculum here.

Health Behavior Science graduates work in a variety of settings, including, but not limited to, medical facilities, college campuses, government agencies, non-profit organizations, corporate worksites, and health-related businesses. In these settings, professionals work with diverse populations across the lifespan. 

Within healthcare settings, career options include working one-on-one with patients and families, as well as supporting specialized populations. Health Behavior Science graduates also pursue advanced studies in fields such as medicine, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. On college campuses, career paths may focus on promoting student health through residence life, recreation programs, and counseling services. In government agencies, graduates may work with local and state public health departments, contribute to statewide councils, or support national initiatives targeting specific health issues. Careers in non-profit organizations often focus on health-related program development, needs assessment, marketing and communication, and community outreach. Within corporate worksites, graduates may lead employee wellness or worker assistance programs. Health-related businesses also employ graduates to support education, marketing, and program implementation.

Health Behavior Science graduates are prepared to: 

• Measure the health and wellness of specific populations

• Identify priority populations for interventions

• Plan health promotion programs for specific audiences

• Conduct program evaluations 

• Provide health-related screening services

• Coach or counsel individuals to reach health goals

• Lead workshops, training sessions, or educational classes

• Develop and implement communication or social marketing campaigns

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in behavioral science-related careers is projected to grow over the next decade. Specifically, employment of Community Health Workers is projected to grow by 13%, Health Education Specialists by 7%, and Survey Researchers by 4% from 2023 to 2033. 

Health Behavior Science students choose a minor program of study to complement their major. A minor allows students to specialize in an area of interest and strengthen their preparation for careers within the field of Health Behavior Science.

Suggested minors for Health Behavior Science students include:

• Biology

• Business Administration

• Dance

• Disability Studies

• Entrepreneurial Studies

• Exercise Science

• Forensic Science

• Health, Physical Activity, and Disability

• Leadership

• Medical Social Services

• Nutrition

• Public Health

• Psychology

• Strength and Conditioning

  Learn more about our minors

   

  Health Behavior Science majors are not able to minor in Health and Wellness.