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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Offered By: Department of Health, Behavior and Society

Onsite | Full-Time | 3 – 5 years

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About the PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences Program

The PhD program in Social and Behavioral Sciences is designed for individuals seeking training for careers as social and behavioral scientists, health educators, and health promotion or communication specialists in the public health arena. The curriculum centers on the application of social and behavioral science perspectives to research on contemporary health problems, with a focus on understanding and influencing the social contexts and behaviors relevant to health. In addition to coursework, students complete a written exam at the end of the first year and gain experience in research skills and approaches. With faculty guidance, students develop and present a dissertation protocol in an oral exam. The final dissertation defense is conducted as an oral exam that includes a public seminar.

The program provides rigorous training in research methodology, theory, and program design and evaluation. Research is primarily focused in two areas—health education and communication, and social and psychological influences on health.

PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences Program Highlights

Interdisciplinary theory.

with multi-level perspective

Rigorous methods

with practical application to contemporary health problems

Application of behavioral and social science perspectives

with attention to context

Community engagement

to understand and influence health behaviors that are risk factors in disease and illness

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree In Social and Behavioral Sciences?

Visit the  Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries.

Sample Careers

• Postdoctoral Fellow
• Research Public Health Analyst
• Social Scientist, Food and Drug Administration Center for Tobacco Products
• Health Scientist-Alcohol Program
• Project Director
• Senior Communications Adviser
• Tenure Track Faculty
• Senior Program Officer
• Director of Clinical and Academic Research
• Senior Consultant
• Research and Evaluation Officer
• Program Director, Department of Public Health

Curriculum for the PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU  Academic Catalogue , explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School  Course Directory , and find many more details in the program's Student Handbook . 

Research Areas

The emphasis of the curriculum is on the application of behavioral and social science perspectives to research on contemporary health problems. Understanding and influencing health behaviors that are risk factors in disease and illness, as well as behaviors that can be considered protective and health enhancing, are strengths of the program.

Rigorous training in research methods and program design and evaluation are also key elements of the curriculum. The program focuses its research in the following areas.

This area focuses on the application of principles from education, communication, behavioral, social science and psychological theories to encourage health behaviors conducive to optimal health in individuals, groups and communities. Students are exposed to current research on health education and communication, with particular focus on multilevel, ecological models of health and health behavior, design and evaluation of multifaceted intervention programs and patient-provider communication.

This area focuses on social and psychological factors and processes in the etiology and prevalence of disease in health-care-seeking behavior, disease prevention, long-term care and rehabilitation. Students are exposed to current research on health knowledge, attitudes and beliefs; social and psychological factors in disease etiology; risk reduction; and cultural influences in public health, including cross-cultural and multilevel studies.

Admissions Requirements

For general admissions requirements, please visit the How to Apply page.

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores (GRE) are  optional  for this program. The admissions committee will make no assumptions if a standardized test score is omitted from an application, but will require evidence of quantitative/analytical ability through other application components such as academic transcripts and/or supplemental questions.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

Program Faculty Spotlight

Katherine Clegg Smith

Katherine Clegg Smith, PhD, MA, is a sociologist who examines health experiences and health communication, with a research focus on cancer and chronic disease.

Carl Latkin

Carl Latkin, PhD, conducts biobehavioral interventions for disadvantaged communities, with a focus on social networks, substance use, infectious diseases, and mental health.

Roland J. Thorpe, Jr.

Roland J. Thorpe, Jr., PhD, MS, is a gerontologist and social epidemiologist with nationally-recognized expertise in minority aging, men’s health, and place-based disparities.

Carol R. Underwood

Carol Underwood, PhD '93, MA, MA, studies the role of gender, social class, and marginalization in global health outcomes to contribute to the wellbeing of populations.

Get to Know Our Current Doctoral Students

Learn more about our doctoral students' research interests, publications, and more through our HBS doctoral student pages.

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the JHU PhD Union, the minimum guaranteed 2025-2026 academic year stipend is $50,000 for all PhD students with a 4% increase the following year. Tuition, fees, and medical benefits are provided, including health insurance premiums for PhD student’s children and spouses of international students, depending on visa type. The minimum stipend and tuition coverage is guaranteed for at least the first four years of a BSPH PhD program; specific amounts and the number of years supported, as well as work expectations related to that stipend will vary across departments and funding source. Please refer to the CBA to review specific benefits, compensation, and other terms.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help.

Application and Admissions Procedural Questions

Please direct questions about application and admissions procedures to the BSPH Admissions Office.

Email:   [email protected] Phone:   410-955-3543

General Academic Questions

For general academic questions about the PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences program, please contact our Department's doctoral program coordinator, Krystal Lee, EdD, MPA.

Email:   [email protected]

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Doctoral research is the culmination of graduate study, marking a transition from taking courses to becoming an independent scholar and doing original and significant work. The Division of the Social Sciences offers PhD programs in 10 programs as well as opportunities for joint degrees with other divisions and professional schools at the University of Chicago.

Anthropology Comparative Human Development Conceptual and Historical Studies of Science Economics History Political Economy (in partnership with the Harris School) Political Science Psychology Social Thought Sociology

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The mentorship and support I’ve received through the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS (CIRA) as a predoctoral fellow has been invaluable and was a big factor in my decision to attend YSPH.

PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences

The Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS) Department aims to understand and improve health equity, both domestically and globally. SBS provides instruction in the theory and methods of the social and behavioral sciences that emphasize individual, interpersonal, community, and structural influences on health, illness, and recovery. The primary emphases are focused on (1) understanding the psychosocial, behavioral, community, and societal influences on health in the general population, with a focus on those who are disadvantaged; and (2) creating multilevel interventions that eliminate barriers to health, from infancy to old age. The SBS curriculum takes an interdisciplinary approach and focuses on integrating methods from epidemiology and the social sciences, training scientists with a broad skill set that allows them to answer a host of complex research questions. The department has numerous research strengths including in HIV/AIDS, aging health, community engaged health research, maternal child health, mental health, health equity and disparities, and stigma prevention and health.

This program does not require General GRE test scores.

Learn more about the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences

• Career Outcomes and the YSPH Career Management Center

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Doctoral Degree Programs

The PhD program in the Department of Sociology at Stanford offers rigorous training in sociological knowledge and research methods, and prepares students to embark on successful professional careers in sociology.  Our program prides itself on world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge research programs, and close interactions between faculty and students.

Through coursework, workshops, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships, students work closely with faculty members to develop research skills and experience and gain expertise in the substantive areas of sociology.  In collaboration with Stanford Law School, as well as other research programs on campus, we offer a JD/PhD joint degree and a multidisciplinary environment for students to pursue their intellectual interests in different areas.

Finalists for the Knight Hennessy scholarships work with Stanford lecturers. Photo credit: Linda A. Cicero / Stanford News Service

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars  develops a community of future global leaders to address complex challenges through collaboration and innovation. Each year, up to 100 students are awarded with funding to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford and participate in an experiential leadership development program that emphasizes collaboration and innovation. Citizens of any country may apply. Visit  khs.stanford.edu  to learn more.

Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD programs advance scientific discovery by training and supporting students doing in-depth research that solves the world’s biggest public health challenges. At the forefront of efforts to benefit the health of people worldwide, the School offers students the opportunity to join in shaping new ideas in public health and implementing them effectively. PhD students benefit from collaborations across public health disciplines and a broad range of academic fields through connections with other Harvard faculties.

All PhD students conduct research through a dissertation, in addition to other avenues of discovery. All PhD programs at Harvard University are administered by the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), and applications are processed through the GSAS online application system . Choose from one of four PhD programs offered collaboratively between Harvard Chan School and GSAS.

• Abbreviation : PhD
• Degree format : On campus  
• Time commitment : Full-time  
• Average program length : Varies between 4 to 7 years based on program

When applying to the PhD, applicants must choose one of the following specialized fields of study. Eligibility requirements vary by program and field of study.  

• Biological Sciences in Public Health
• Biostatistics
• Health Policy
• Environmental health
• Epidemiology
• Global health and population
• Social and behavioral sciences

Career outcomes vary based on field of study and research, but in general, PhD graduates will be prepared for a career in academia, health policy, government agencies, consulting, the pharmaceutical or biomedical industry, and generally improving lives through qualitative and quantitative research.

Admission information

Like all PhD (doctor of philosophy) programs at the School—and the University—the PhD in health policy is offered under the aegis of the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS). Applications are processed through the GSAS online application system located at gsas.harvard.edu/admissions/apply .

HSS welcomes applications from students who are interested in working full time toward a PhD in the social sciences.

All qualified applicants will be considered for admission to HSS's PhD program in the social sciences, which includes the fields of economics, political science, political economy, history, psychology, anthropology, law, and public policy. Admission to this program is highly competitive. The program is deliberately small and selective, with the admissions committee looking for students who demonstrate a commitment to scholarship, a willingness to work hard—as evidenced by letters of recommendation or other achievements—and expressed interests that align with those of the HSS faculty.

General Qualifications

Caltech requires that PhD applicants in any field be able to clearly express themselves in written and spoken English.

Modern approaches to the social sciences require the ability to think abstractly and quantitatively. As such, applicants must be skilled in formal reasoning. Although HSS does not require that an applicant's undergraduate degree be in any of the social sciences, the admissions committee expects every applicant to demonstrate a commitment to research in the social sciences. To be prepared to succeed in the social sciences PhD program, students should have a solid undergraduate background in mathematics, including at least:

• two years of calculus, at the level of Apostol's Calculus , volumes 1 and 2; and
• linear algebra, at the level of Apostol's Calculus , volume 2.

It is also strongly recommended that applicants complete an introductory course in mathematical statistics and real analysis before entering the HSS graduate programs.

Caltech requires applicants whose first or native language is not English to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) as part of the application procedure. HSS is not accepting or considering Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores from applicants to its PhD programs for Fall 2024 matriculation.

Financial Aid

Caltech offers competitive stipends in the forms of fellowships and research and teaching assistantships that are designed to cover tuition and living expenses. Students in good standing generally receive financial support for a maximum of five years. Funding for the summer quarters is not guaranteed; however, it may be provided based on the availability of such funding and on an individual student's performance. As a matter of educational policy, graduate students are expected to act as graduate teaching assistants at some point in their career.

Due to the full-time and research-intensive nature of the PhD programs in HSS, many students are also supported with research assistantships. Graduate students in all programs are also encouraged to apply for external fellowships.

Application Deadlines

To be considered for admission, a complete application, including all supporting material (including TOEFL scores), must be submitted to Caltech no later than December 15. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications online through the Graduate Studies Office website .

If you have questions about the application process, please contact the option manager .

PhD in Social Policy

In this section.

• Current Students
• PhD Student Life
• Degree Requirements
• What We Look For

The joint PhD Programs in Social Policy combine the disciplinary depth of a PhD in political science or sociology with multidisciplinary perspectives and problem-driven research on questions of social policy.

As a joint venture between the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences'  Government and Sociology departments and Harvard Kennedy School, the program is designed for students like you who have broad interests in social policy problems and solutions, spanning topics such as:

• Economic inequality
• Wealth distribution (including high-end wealth accumulation)
• Race and ethnicity
• Poverty and social mobility
• Family dynamics
• Workplace inequities
• Health disparities
• Crime and criminal punishment
• Immigration
• Local politics, neighborhoods, and segregation
• Educational access and inequality
• Political participation and political inequality  

The “discipline-plus” model

The PhD Programs in Social Policy are grounded by a “discipline-plus” structure. You will build a strong foundation in either political science or sociology before embarking on a sequence of multidisciplinary seminars and advanced research in social policy—all of which will focus primarily on the United States and Western Europe.

Research at the core

The joint PhD Programs in Social Policy are targeted toward producing scholars whose research puts them at the forefront of studying key problems in social policy. The skills and cross-disciplinary insights you develop will allow you to identify important unanswered questions and create research strategies that improve our understanding of social problems.

Graduates of the joint PhD Programs in Social Policy leave the program well equipped to pursue careers in leading political science or sociology departments, public policy schools, law schools, think tanks, nonprofit organizations, and in the public sector. 

Social Science MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

The MPhil/PhD at the Social Research Institute provides a route for students to carry out their own research project within a multidisciplinary and multi-method environment. Our research students engage with the academic community within UCL and benefit from a comprehensive research training programme. This programme is available to study both face-to-face and online.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

The normal minimum requirement is a Master’s degree from a UK university in a subject appropriate to the programme to be followed, or a qualification of equivalent standard appropriate to the programme to be followed awarded by a university (or educational institution of university rank) outside the UK. The majority of our successful applicants hold a Merit at Master’s level, and may have additional relevant experience.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 4

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

The Social Research Institute is one of the largest multidisciplinary social science research and teaching centres in London. Our staff include sociologists, psychologists, social scientists and economists. We have research-active staff able to supervise research in our key areas of expertise.

Who this course is for

We welcome candidates who have a commitment to social research. They are expected to identify two potential supervisors prior to applying. Overseas applicants also need to satisfy the English Language requirement.

What this course will give you

IOE is a world-leading centre for research in education and related social science. We host the UK's largest doctoral cohort in these areas. We are home to many prestigious research centres and projects. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2023), the Institute was ranked first for education for the tenth year running, ahead of Harvard, Stanford, Oxford and Cambridge. In the UK's recent Research Excellence Framework (2021), we were ranked first for research strength and research power in Education, according to the Elsevier REF 2021 Results Analysis Tool. We attract extensive research funding each year and host many prestigious research centres and projects.

Doctoral students at IOE have access to the wider UCL community as well as the education cluster constituting the ESRC  UBEL Doctoral Training Partnership . The Institute's programme has been designed to provide comprehensive and broadly based research training and to meet the requirements of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the UK Researcher Development Framework.

The foundation of your career

Students develop general and specialist skills in research methodology, academic writing and presentation, as well as experience of engaging with a wide range of practitioners across different social science sectors.

Employability

Social Science doctoral graduates are found in a variety of occupational fields and a wide range of career paths including social research, media research, marketing research, human resources, government, health, policy development, charities, education, NGOs, youth work and managerial posts in business and retail.

The Social Research Institute has a wide range of research seminars where students can join discussion of our ongoing projects, and IOE is the base for national and international conferences. The Centre for Doctoral Education holds two annual conferences for doctoral students. There are also opportunities for students to offer specialist reading groups and workshops and to act as facilitators on courses within the research training programme.

Teaching and learning

Our PhD students work closely with a principal supervisor and subsidiary supervisors. At SRI, we have expertise on a wide range of topics. Students will have opportunities to engage in research activities and seminars. In addition, the UCL Doctoral School also offers a range of skills development courses for PhD students.

In addition to UCL's Doctoral Skills Development Programme, IOE's Centre for Doctoral Education provides a comprehensive Research Training Programme.

The Core Course aims to meets the needs of early stage doctoral students.

There is also a wide range of introductory, advanced methods, advanced theoretical, and generic academic skills courses, as well as student-led workshops and reading groups.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) consists of a piece of supervised research, normally undertaken over a period of three years full-time or five years part-time. Assessment is by means of a thesis, which should demonstrate your capacity to pursue original research based upon a good understanding of the research techniques and concepts appropriate to the discipline. It must also represent a distinct and significant contribution to the subject, whether through the discovery of new knowledge, the connection of previously unrelated facts, the development of new theory, or the revision of older views. It should reflect the exercise of critical judgement with regard to both your own work and that of other scholars in the field.

For those who decide not to pursue the full PhD, or are unable to do so, the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) consists of a piece of supervised research, normally undertaken over a period of three years full-time or five years part-time. Assessment is by means of a thesis, which should represent a contribution to the subject, either through a record of your original work or a critical and ordered exposition of existing knowledge.

You must ensure you have adequate time to devote to this research, at least six hours a day (2-3 days a week part time).

Research areas and structure

Our expertise at the Social Research Institute covers the following specialising fields:

• Children’s rights and advocacy; childhood studies; child development; children in care; maternal and child health; reproductive health; health behaviours; health promotion
• Families; family formation; parenting; work and family life; fatherhood; motherhood; food practices
• Gender; sexualities and intimate lives
• Longitudinal analysis; cohort studies cross-cohort and international comparisons
• Lifecourse transitions; intergenerational studies; demography; youth and young adulthood
• Social inequalities; intergenerational and intragenerational social mobility 
• Education; skills and employment; labour market behaviour
• Migration; transnational families; sociology of religion; culture and ethnicity
• Cultural and social psychology
• Political sociology and the study of social movements
• Advanced qualitative and quantitative methods; mixed methods and visual methods
• Systematic reviews of research evidence; study of how research evidence is used in policy, practice and decision making 
• Time use research; time use data to study social life, gender, work/family balance, family and economics

Research environment

The Social Research Institute (SRI) is one of the leading centres in the UK for multidisciplinary teaching and research in the social sciences. With more than 180 academic, research and professional staff, we work to advance knowledge and inform policy in areas including gender, families, education, employment, migration, inequalities, public health, health and child/adult wellbeing. At SRI, our postgraduate research students from all over the world work alongside supervisory teams, staff and current students. Students work closely with their supervisor(s) to develop each stage of research; supervisors also help put together a programme of additional courses and activities to support progress towards completion of the final thesis. We offer a wide range of seminars and teaching opportunities. As research students, you will have opportunities to organise your own reading groups, workshops, and seminars, working with other research students in other departments in IOE and UCL.

In addition to the campus-based mode, we offer the option to study online in a distance-learning mode. Choosing the distance-learning mode means that there are no residency requirements and it is not necessary to attend during doctoral study, the viva examination take place in-person at UCL or online. However, you are welcome to visit and use campus facilities including the library, attend seminars etc. In the first year of full-time study (and first two years of part-time study), distance learners take a series of compulsory research methods modules that are studied online. This typically involves provision of materials (articles, eBooks, videos etc.), forums to facilitate discussion of various tasks, and synchronous sessions to discuss the activities. Alongside these you will work with your supervisors on your research (e.g., using Teams/Zoom and email). In addition, there are other resources and training opportunities to support distance-learning students, e.g., sessions to develop generic skills.

The length of registration for the research degree programmes is 3 years for full-time.

You are required to register initially for the MPhil degree with the expectation of transfer to PhD after successful completion of an upgrade viva 9-18 months after initial registration.

The Centre for Doctoral Education at IOE, UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society provides an extensive Research Training Programme. A mandatory core course is provided that aims to meet the needs of early-stage doctoral students. There is also a wide range of introductory, advanced methods, advanced theoretical, and generic non-credit bearing academic skills courses, as well as student led workshops and reading groups which you can attend.

Full-time MPhil/PhD students are required to fulfil minimum 20 ‘points’ of training activity in their first year, and are encouraged to fulfil the same in their subsequent years of study. This training can be selected from the UCL Doctoral Skills Development Programme, IOE faculty’s Research Training Programme, the multi-institutional Bloomsbury Postgraduate Skills Network, and from other sources. Each point is worth approximately a half-day of face-to-face training, or an online equivalent. Other activities such as attending and presenting at conferences also count towards research training. Students may undertake additional training beyond these minima, as relevant to their research and/or as agreed with their supervisors.

You are expected to upgrade from MPhil to PhD status towards the end of your first year of study if full-time. Students whose performance is satisfactory will transfer from MPhil to PhD status.

Processes aimed at assisting you during your course of study include the Research Student Log (an online project management tool), and periodic reviews of students’ progress.

Upon successful completion of your approved period of registration you may, if necessary, register as a completing research status (CRS) student while you finish writing your thesis.

The length of registration for the research degree programmes is 5 years for part-time.

IOE Centre for Doctoral Education provides an extensive Research Training Programme. A mandatory core course is provided that aims to meet the needs of early-stage doctoral students. There is also a wide range of introductory, advanced methods, advanced theoretical, and generic non-credit bearing academic skills courses, as well as student led workshops and reading groups which you can attend.

Part-time students are required to fulfil minimum 12 ‘points’ of training activity in each year of study. This training can be selected from the UCL Doctoral Skills Development Programme, IOE faculty’s Research Training Programme, the multi-institutional Bloomsbury Postgraduate Skills Network, and from other sources. Each point is worth approximately a half-day of face-to-face training, or an online equivalent. Other activities such as attending and presenting at conferences also count towards research training. Students may undertake additional training beyond these minima, as relevant to their research and/or as agreed with their supervisors.

You are expected to upgrade from MPhil to PhD status at around 18 months if part-time. Students whose performance is satisfactory will transfer from MPhil to PhD status.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Students should take into account any travel, accommodation and expenses involved in their thesis.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding webpage: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/scholarships/funding-students-postgraduate-research-courses

UCL's Research Excellence Scholarships (RES) are available annually to prospective and existing UCL research students from any country: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/scholarships/research-excellence-scholarship . The UCL, Bloomsbury and East London Doctoral Training Partnership offers studentships annually. More information is found here: https://ubel-dtp.ac.uk/

UBEL, RES and other funding programmes are not available to online and non-resident students.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Applications for this programme are accepted throughout the year. It is highly recommended that students start their programme at the beginning of the academic year (usually the end of September-beginning of October). Two supervisors must be identified and agreed upon prior to submitting a formal application. To identify potential supervisors, check the areas of research interest of staff from the departmental staff lists https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/departments-and-centres/departments/ucl-social-research-institute/

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Social Research Institute

[email protected]

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students .

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Doctorate in Human Development and Social Policy

• Graduate & Professional
• Human Development and Social Policy
• PhD in Human Development & Social Policy

About the Program

The Human Development and Social Policy (HDSP) doctoral program is grounded in the study of relations between public policy and human development. Faculty and students conduct research on how public policy affects human development and well-being, how research on human development across the life span informs policy, and how people affect policy.

• Info session

Core Themes

Positive trajectories and transitions.

• Study of human development and intergenerational issues spanning across children, adolescents, and adults  
• Promote positive developmental trajectories and transitions across the life span.

Inequality Reduction

• Understand and reduce economic, education and health inequalities.
• Recognize and interrogate existing systems of inequality and its impact on communities through our roles and research.

Social Policy Implementation

• Examine how policies are developed, how they change incentives and infrastructures, and how they interact with contextual factors to influence behavior.
• Evaluate how people affect policy through public opinion, civic engagement, political participation, policy implementation and research.

Multidisciplinary Research

• Answer big questions by drawing from multiple disciplines: anthropology, economics, political science, psychology, sociology, and more.
• Employ multiple research methods, combining various quantitative and qualitative approaches to create cutting-edge social science research designs.

Curriculum Overview

Course work in the Human Development and Social Policy (HDSP) doctoral program includes a core curriculum and electives.

View Curriculum

Our Students

HDSP students are prepared through course work, participation in a vibrant community of scholars and active engagement in faculty research to conduct multidisciplinary research that combines cutting-edge empirical research methodologies.

“ Having experience collaborating and communicating across the different traditional disciplines represented within HDSP was also incredibly valuable as I searched for policy jobs after grad school.”

Human Development and Social Policy at Northwestern

Explore the breadth of academic courses offered in the curriculum.

Contact Human Development and Social Policy

Phone Number: 847-491-4329 

Email: [email protected]

Physical Address: Walter Annenberg Hall 2120 Campus Drive Evanston, IL 60208

Ph.D. Programs

At the graduate level, five of our departments have Ph.D. programs: Anthropology , Economics , Political Science , Psychological Sciences , and Sociology . All of these programs achieve excellence by concentrating on selected areas for education and research.

If you are interested in earning a doctorate, you are encouraged to learn about our programs by browsing each department's website and by contacting faculty. Each department strives to make sure that there is a good "fit" between a student's interests and the strengths of the department.

For more information on any of our Ph.D. programs please click on the links below:

• Anthropology
• Political Science
• Psychological Sciences

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Humanities and Social Sciences PhD Pathways

Exploring pathways: finding your match(es).

As graduate students and postdocs in the Humanities or Social Sciences, you have a wealth of resources to help you explore careers that could be a great fit for you. At Yale, you are developing subject matter expertise as well as a broad set of skills in high demand in many job functions and industries.  These skills include critical and innovative thinking, written and oral communications, project management, and qualitative and/or quantitative analysis.  Start by taking stock of your transferable skills, interests and values. This self-reflection will help you structure your career exploration process and develop a professional development strategy to maximize your time at Yale. 

Once you have performed an initial self-assessment, use the resources on this page to explore the diverse array of career paths that are open to Ph.Ds. Thinking broadly about job functions beyond a particular sector or industry can expand your set of opportunities; doing so will be particularly important if you face other constraints, such as geographical limitations, in your search. For example, companies in the tech sector need content writers, project managers, and educators. 

As you go through this process, be sure to dedicate significant time to making connections with alums and others in your careers of interest.  There is no substitute from hearing first-hand from practitioners in the field about their work, the skills required, their path to their current position, and their advice about how to prepare for this career. Read our advice on networking and informational interviewing , and be sure to take advantage of the many opportunities on campus to connect with alums and employers . Even if you are not yet approaching the job market, attending career fairs can be an efficient way to learn from employers about opportunities for Ph.Ds.

As part of your process, consider professional development opportunities that can help you do a deeper dive into career paths of interest and develop relevant skills to fill in gaps on your current resume. There are many ways you can invest in your professional development without disrupting your academic priorities, so review our resources and think carefully abut your objectives. OCS advisers can also help you develop a plan that works for you. 

It is never too early to begin this career exploration process!  Meet with an OCS adviser to help hone a professional and career development strategy to maximize your time at Yale.Make an appointment with us via the Yale Career Link.   For other career exploration resources, see:

• STEM PhD Pathways
• the OCS career community pages with resources by industry and sector

Preparing for an Academic Job Search in the Humanities

• Preparing for an Academic Job Search in the Social Sciences

Humanities and Social Sciences Career Development Activity Packets

These six modules offer activities to jump start your career development. Find easy-to-follow tips and resources to get started on networking, crafting a resume, interviewing, and more. You may follow the curriculum independently, or form your own small group of peers to share findings, discuss challenges, and productively reflect on the completed activities.

• Activity #1:   Self-Assessments and Career Exploration
• Activity #2:   Networking & Informational Interviewing
• Activity #3:   Communicating your Skills and Experience
• Activity #4:   Converting your CV to a Professional Resume
• Activity #5:   Preparing for the Behavioral Interview
• Activity #6:   Improving your LinkedIn Profile

Search Office of Career Strategy

Upcoming events, 3-minute thesis competition (2021) third-place winner & audience selection “best in humanities/social sciences” dana hayward, 3-minute thesis competition (2020) audience choice winner amelia kennedy, yana speaker series: impacting the future: social sector job & internship search with jen leybovich, som ’13, yale school of art alumni panel: living and sustaining a creative life, yale careers in theater panel: producing & theater management, what are creative careers creative entrepreneurship, featured news.

Craft & Career – Zina Ellis, YC ’15, actor, performer, educator – Parts 1 & 2

Certification: One Way to Transition to a Data Science Career

Wanted: Non-Finance Recruits who Can See the Forest From the Trees

Public Relations Careers: Options, Job Titles, and Descriptions

Outside The Matrix: Paul Litvak

Career exploration resources, phd pathways in translation and interpretation.

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Sign up for a free ImaginePhD account to access career exploration, networking, skill-building, and job search resources.

PhD Pathways in Research and Analysis

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OCS is pleased to announce new resources to support your academic job search!  These resources are intended to supplement the …

PhD Pathways in Organizational Management

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PhD Pathways in K-12 Education

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PhD Pathways in Higher-Ed Administration

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Employment Data and Trends

Yale gsas program statistics and outcomes.

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Yale GSAS data about Ph.D. admissions, enrollment, degree completion, and employment, by program.

Yale Postdoc Career Outcomes

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Results from a voluntary exit survey given over the  period of January 2015 to March 2021. 

Survey of the Labor Market for New Ph.D. Hires in Economics

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Annual survey conducted by the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Arkansas

Occupational Outlook Handbook – Post-Secondary Teachers

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Wage, employment trends, and job openings for post-secondary teachers, by discipline and georgraphical region, from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Survey of Earned Doctorates

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Summaries of trends in the job markets, postgraduate plans, and median salaries for doctorate recipients, by field of study.

Humanities Indicators

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Data on occupations, earnings, and job satisfaction of new Humanities Ph.D.s from the annual Survey of Earned Doctorates.

Organizations

Career center-american anthropological association, career resources-american economic association, career resources-modern language association, job boards-american mathematical society, professional development resources-american political science association, american statistical association stattr@k, part-time experiences and jobs boards.

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GuideStar non-profit directory provides information on the mission, programs, leaders and financials of over 1.8 million non-profit organizations.

Professional Experiences and Skill-Building for Ph.Ds and Postdocs

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Looking for ways to enhance your skill set and gain professional experience while at Yale? Take advantage of the many …

Social Science Research Network

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Create a free account and search job postings by discipline.

Fellowships | Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library

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The Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library’s fellowship program aims to facilitate research in Yale Library’s special collections by the …

Opportunities and Internships | Public Humanities at Yale

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Check out curatorial opportunities close to home.

Internship Opportunities – Vanderbilt University Press

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Check out internship opportunities with Vanderbilt University Press.

Learn from Other PhDs

Alissa Ardito Ashcroft (PhD ’04, Political Science)

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• Assistant General Counsel Congressional Budget Office

Ellen Babby (PhD ’80, French Literature)

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• Independent Consultant Nonprofit Management

Ariel Bardi (PhD ’15, Comparative Literature)

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Lauren Bierbaum (PhD ’08, American Studies)

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• Senior Research Analyst CREDO, Stanford University

Peter Blodgett (PhD ’07, History)

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• H. Russell Smith Foundation Curator of Western American History Huntington Library

George Camp (PhD ’67, Sociology)

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• President, Executive Director Criminal Justice Institute, Association of State Correctional Administrators

Huiting Chan (Masters ’06, International & Development Economics)

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• Head of Central Bank, Public Sector & Bank Sales, Americas Standard Chartered Bank

Carol Chiodo (PhD ’14, Italian Language and Literature)

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• Director of Distinctive Collections and Digital Scholarship The Claremont Colleges Library

Andrew Cohen (PhD ’17, Sociology)

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• Advertising Strategist Phenomenon

Dina Dommett (PhD ’93, Italian)

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• Director of Student & Programme Services Oxford Saïd Business School

Emily Early (PhD ’11, Anthropology)

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• Associate Curator of Anthropology Arizona Museum of Natural History

Federico Galizia (PhD ’98, Economics)

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• Chief Risk Officer Multilateral Development Bank

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Social Science PhD Program

Where Interdisciplinary Scholarship Produces Innovative Solutions

At the heart of a Maxwell education is the fundamental belief that analyzing and developing measurable solutions to today’s complex challenges requires both disciplinary excellence and interdisciplinary cross-pollination of ideas. 

Since its founding in 1946, our interdisciplinary social science Ph.D. program has been a leading center for innovative scholarship for students whose intellectual interests do not easily fit within the confines of a single social science discipline. With guidance from the social science Ph.D. chair, social science doctoral students develop their own programs of interdisciplinary study, incorporating social theory and research methods from Maxwell’s highly regarded social science and professional programs, including:

• anthropology,
• international relations,
• political science,
• public administration and

our alumni hold a broad range of academic, research and leadership roles

we offer the only interdisciplinary social science Ph.D. program in the country

determine the mix of disciplines appropriate for your unique research interests

One degree, many paths

The Ph.D. in social science prepares students to undertake a broad range of careers including college and university research and teaching, non-academic research, consulting, public service, organizational administration, and institutional leadership.

Notable Alumni

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Olga Boichak

Diane lyden murphy, gearoid millar, deborah alexander, priti ramamurthy.

Professor, Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies, University of Washington

Nicholas Armstrong

Innovative scholarship, diverse viewpoints.

I am Maxwell.

I took urban anthropology and urban geography and urban sociology. I studied with some extraordinary people, and the degree that I got gave me such a broad, interesting education. Whether I was jumping into solving the New York City fiscal crisis or sitting over at HHS trying to figure out how we were going to straighten out a very complex Medicare system, all of that came out of very good training.”

Donna Shalala M.A., PH.D. (SOCIAL SCIENCE) Former: U.S. Representative (FL-27); president and CEO Clinton Foundation; president, University of Miami; U.S. Secretary, HHS

Read our story “Freshman Rep From Florida”

Graduate students will conduct cutting edge research alongside faculty mentors and in Maxwell's 15 research centers.

2024 Best Online PhD in Social Science Programs

If you are an analytical individual with a drive to help others, you might consider earning a PhD in Social Science.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

This degree is also a beneficial option for anyone who is interested in building their research abilities, understanding global communities, and developing a set of transferable skills.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Social Science Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers a PhD in Social Welfare. This is an on-campus program that can be enrolled in full-time or part-time. Coursework can typically be completed in 2 years by full-time students and 3 years by part-time students. Students are also required to complete a dissertation.

Case Western Reserve University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers a Doctorate in Public Administration and Policy. It requires the completion of 49 credit hours. The program covers how to conduct policy analyses, design and conduct research studies in public administration, and report research findings and their implications. Online courses are live and follow a regular schedule. ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University offers a PhD in Social Studies Education program that is designed to prepare students for working in teacher education at the postsecondary level. Classes can be taken on campus or online. Courses include Research on Social Studies Education, Teaching and Learning Historical Literacy with Media, and Historical Nonfiction for Teaching History.

The Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo offers a Doctor of Social Work that can be earned fully online as a part-time student. The program requires the completion of 39 credits and is aimed at experienced social workers. It incorporates a trauma-informed and human rights perspective. Students may start in the fall semester only.

The University at Buffalo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers both a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Services and a Doctor of Psychology. Online students may take just one course at a time, and courses are 6 or 9 weeks long. Up to 30 approved credits may be transferred into the program. University of Arizona’s doctoral programs emphasize research and social justice matters.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

The University of Tennessee—Knoxville offers a Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice and Leadership. The online program includes three years of rigorous coursework, with two classes each semester. Online students must also spend one week each summer on campus in Knoxville.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania offers a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work. Online students may complete their coursework and dissertations simultaneously and can usually finish within 3 years. Online classes meet two evenings each week for two hours. The program also includes on-campus immersion experiences.

The  University of Pennsylvania  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Southern California

The University of Southern California offers an online Doctorate of Social Work. The program aims to help students learn how to develop practical, applied solutions to large-scale social challenges. The standard track is nine semesters, and the accelerated track is seven semesters. The program is fully online with no required fieldwork, clinicals, or internships. The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission.

Walden University

Walden University offers a PhD in Social Work. Students may choose a specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision, Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration, or Social Work Education. This is a research-based program designed for working professionals. Students begin focusing on their dissertations from the first course.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University offers a Doctor of Social Science in Prevention Science. This is an interdisciplinary program that includes the study of public health, human development, developmental psychopathology, education, behavioral sciences, and more. It requires the completion of thirteen courses for a total of 39-48 credits.

Wilmington University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

PhD in Social Science Programs

Similar to a master’s in social science program, in a PhD program, there are many disciplines that fall under the umbrella of social science. The following are some typical areas that you may choose to focus on as you earn your doctorate degree. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Anthropology

Human services.

Regardless of the specialty you select, you will still receive a strong foundation in social science and related courses.

At its core, a degree in anthropology centers around the study of humankind. Not only will you have the opportunity to research historical communities and cultures, but you will also examine modern-day societies as well.

Learning to conduct effective research and using information about the past to impact the future are important parts of this degree. After earning a PhD in Anthropology, there are a number of career options available. Many graduates go on to work in the fields of museum curation, government, education, and social work.

Students earning a PhD in History can develop expertise in analyzing and conducting historical research. Many programs also focus on building conscientious leaders and teachers. You can use the lessons you learn about the past to educate and inform the decisions you make about the present and future. A degree in this field can lead to a wide variety of career paths.

Many graduates pursue careers as educators, research fellows, historians, and policy analysts. Because doctoral history programs require a high attention to detail and strong writing skills, some graduates also find jobs as authors or archivists.

A doctoral degree in human services can provide you with a deeper look into the work and impact that human service organizations provide. You will likely leave with a working knowledge of the ethical guidelines in the field and with leadership skill sets.

Careers in this field typically serve the community and improve the lives of the individuals who inhabit them. Depending on your previous educational background, you may choose to do several different things with a PhD in Human Services. An eligibility worker supervisor, specialist director, and licensed clinical social worker are just a few examples of the career paths available in this field.

Students who are working toward their PhD in Sociology will study societies and social interactions. Programs in this field usually prepare you for work in teaching or research.

Graduates tend to go on to become teachers or researchers, but there are other options available as well. For example, you may choose to pursue work in a medical health center or a government agency. Most PhD professionals in this field end up in a nonprofit or research-based organization.

A doctoral degree in psychology will look different depending on the specialty that you choose. Doctoral psychology programs typically offer an opportunity to conduct extensive scientific research and to strengthen your skills in this area. You will often pair this research with real-world practicum experience.

Because you can tailor a degree in psychology to fit your interests, there are a wide variety of potential career paths. Some professionals choose to become teachers, counselors, and social workers. Others pursue positions as clinical psychologists.

Social Science Careers & Salaries

With a social science doctoral degree, there are a wide range of potential career paths that you may take. The positions that you are qualified for will vary depending on your specific area of study within your social science PhD program.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics , here are the annual median salaries for common careers within the social sciences.

Because you can tailor this degree to fit your interests, it can often lead to work that is personally fulfilling. With options in a variety of sectors, such as nonprofit or private, you can help your community in the way that feels best to you.

Social Sciences Doctorate Curriculum & Courses

While each university has its own unique curriculum, there are typical classes within each discipline that you may take as you complete your doctorate in social sciences.

Here are some common courses that may be offered:

• History Research : In this course, you’ll learn methods of effective research specific to social studies as well as how to identify and analyze credible sources.
• Historical Methods : This course focuses on using primary sources to conduct research and write about findings.
• Ethnographic and Qualitative Methods : Focusing on fieldwork methods, this course explores topics such as project design, observation, and data-collection and analysis.
• Development of Anthropological Thought : In this course, you’ll learn about the evolution of anthropological thought, including the ways in which scientific and intellectual thought-patterns have changed.
• Foundations and Methods of Psychology : This course is a foundational exploration of the history of psychology, and it takes a deeper look into the research tools and methods used to conduct psychological studies.
• Development of Human Behavior : This course examines the ways in which external events impact human reactions.
• Grant Writing : This course dissects the process of grant writing and details each step, including the statement of need and executive summary.
• Human Service s Theory : This course examines modern approaches to research in the human services field, and you’ll also learn to design ethically informed research projects.
• Sociological Theories of Development : This course provides a study of the history of sociological theories as well as an overview of key figures and important dates.
• Dissertation : Most PhD programs close with a dissertation. This course will be a chance for you to learn about the dissertation writing process and begin plans for your own work.

Your own curriculum and coursework will be specific to the university that you attend.

Doctor of Social Science Admissions Requirements

Although every university is unique in their admissions criteria, here are some of the typical requirements for doctoral programs:

• GRE or GMAT scores, if required
• Master’s degree
• Minimum GPA from previous programs
• Letters of recommendation

In addition to these criteria, many schools ask you to pay a small application fee. You may also be asked to provide additional documents, such as an admissions essay or employment records. It’s strategic to check the specific admissions requirements for your schools of interest prior to applying.

Accreditation

Although accreditation is a voluntary process, it can say a lot about the quality of education that a school offers. Regionally accredited programs consist of a staff and educational materials that are considered to be up to standard.

Regional accreditation can be an important factor to look for during your school search. In addition to the instructional benefits you can receive, employers often favor candidates who have completed an accredited degree program.

You can check if a school is regionally accredited by visiting the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .   

Financial Aid and Scholarships

As you apply to various doctoral programs in social sciences, it can be helpful to consider available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Federal aid is granted to individuals based on a set of eligibility requirements. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at no cost to you to determine how much aid you qualify for. Federal financial assistance can come in several forms, including direct unsubsidized loans, grants, and work-study programs.

In addition to federal aid, you may also be eligible for state aid, scholarships, or employee education benefit programs. You can check the financial aid guidelines for your specific state, university, or employer for specific details.

What Can You Do with a Social Science PhD Degree?

Because there are so many topics within the social sciences major , a PhD degree in this field can lead to a wide range of career opportunities.

Many professionals who earn their doctorate degree in a social science field go on to provide essential services to their communities. For instance, some work as chief executives, social workers, or psychologists. Others choose to enter into the worlds of education and history as professors, historians, or museum curators.

Every individual’s path post-graduation will look different. There are a number of factors that can impact your career path and salary, such as your work experience, specialty area, employer, and location.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Social Science Doctoral Degree?

It typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete a PhD program, but the length of time can vary based on the required number of credits and how long it takes you to complete your dissertation.

Doctoral programs that do not require a dissertation may be completed in as little as 3 years with full-time enrollment. Alternatively, if you attend part-time, it may take you longer to complete your degree.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD in Social Science vs. Humanities Degree?

It can be helpful to think of social sciences as a scientific approach to studying human nature and communities, while the humanities take an analytical approach.

The program that is right for you will depend on several factors, including your career goals and your individual interests.

Is a Social Science PhD Worth It?

Yes, a social science PhD is worth it for many students. There are so many potential areas of study within the field of social sciences, and you can tailor your degree to fit your personal interests and career goals. Each area of focus provides a unique way to help develop and assist your community.

In addition to a variety of career options, employment in life, physical, and social science occupations is expected to grow 8% over the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). A PhD can also help you qualify for positions in research and academia.

Getting Your PhD in Social Science Online

Earning your PhD in Social Sciences can open up doors to new opportunities. Many professionals who earn their social science degrees leave with a deeper understanding of the interactions between individuals and their communities. They often go on to impact the lives of the people around them through the services they provide.

If you are passionate about using science and research to help others, a Ph.D. in Social Science may be the right degree path for you. A growing number of accredited universities now also offer credible PhD programs online, allowing for more convenience and flexibility.

You can get started today by researching doctoral programs in your chosen field.

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• PhD in Sociology

The Sociology PhD program trains future scholars in the fundamental skills of the discipline of sociology. Students will acquire advanced knowledge of sociological theory and research in their chosen areas of specialization within the discipline in order to make a significant and original contribution to the field. Graduates of the program are prepared to take up teaching and research positions in academia or beyond. Applicants should have at least a bachelor’s degree in any discipline; a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in sociology is preferable but not required.

Learning Outcomes

• Produce and defend an original significant contribution to sociological knowledge.
• Demonstrate mastery of subject material.
• Be able to conduct scholarly activities in a professional and ethical manner.
• Be able to teach undergraduates.

Course Requirements

Candidates admitted to the PhD program must complete 16 courses, including 5 required and 11 elective courses (64 units).

Basic requirements (5 courses for a total of 20 units):

• CAS SO 701 Advanced Sociological Theory (Classical)
• CAS SO 702 Proseminar: Sociological Methods
• CAS SO 708 Contemporary Sociological Theory
• CAS SO 712 Qualitative Methods (or an approved course in qualitative methods in the social sciences)
• CAS SO 724 Quantitative Methods in Sociological Analysis* (or an equivalent Graduate Programs Committee–approved advanced quantitative methods course)

Strongly encouraged (two 2-unit courses run over two terms for a total of 4 units):

• CAS SO 951 and SO 952 Professionalization Workshop

Elective courses (11 courses, can include SO 951 and SO 952, for a total of 44 units)

The CAS SO 701 and SO 702 required courses should be completed in the first year of study. All first-year students are also strongly encouraged to register for CAS SO 951 and SO 952. The student’s remaining coursework should be chosen in conjunction with their advisor. Please consult the Department of Sociology Graduate Student Handbook for further details.

Language Requirement

There is no foreign language requirement for this degree.

Qualifying Requirements

After all courses are complete but before students write their Dissertation Prospectus, they must first meet two qualifying requirements. For each of two subfields of Sociology, students must complete either a: (1) critical essay, (2) critical exam, or (3) research paper suitable for submission to a scholarly journal. Each product shall demonstrate intellectual mastery of theories, concepts, methods, and research in the discipline. Students should select a format for each subfield in consultation with their advisor. Upon completion and approval of each paper, exam, or critical essay, the work is defended in a Comprehensive Oral Examination.

The oral examination will primarily cover the fields in the critical essay and research paper, but it may also cover other substantive, methodological, or theoretical material from the students’ coursework.

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination

Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. A prospectus for the dissertation must be completed and approved by the readers, the director of graduate studies, and the department chair/program director. Candidates must undergo a final oral examination in which they defend their dissertation as a valuable contribution to knowledge in their field and demonstrate a mastery of their field of specialization in relation to their dissertation. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree and the Graduate Student Handbook .

Students who choose to withdraw from the PhD program and graduate with a terminal MA in Sociology must complete all of the requirements of the MA program , including the minimum 8 graduate-level courses (32 units) and the master’s thesis on a project of original research. Students should consult the Graduate Student Handbook for additional details about required courses for the MA program.

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Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Doctoral program.

BSHS Handbook

The student handbook contains more information about the doctoral program in Behavioral and Social Health Sciences.

Ready to apply?

Start the next chapter of your career studying behavioral and social sciences at Brown University.

Our Ph.D. students learn to employ behavioral and social science theory and methods to understand and address contemporary health problems.

BSHS doctoral students in May 2023

The doctoral program in Behavioral and Social Health Sciences is inherently multidisciplinary. By fostering collaboration between scholars at Brown and the communities they serve, our students learn to effectively evaluate, develop and deploy health behavior interventions.

Our faculty and students engage in research that seeks to:

• Identify the social, psychological, and behavioral risk factors for disease and illness
• Understand the psychosocial determinants of health care
• Understand health protective behaviors, relationships, and institutions
• Develop and evaluate health-promoting interventions that are grounded in behavioral and social science theory 

Students in the Doctoral Program in Behavioral and Social Health Sciences demonstrate mastery of relevant theory and methods, assessed via coursework and examinations, and complete a dissertation that represents original research.

Directors of the Doctoral program

Madina Agénor

The behavioral and social health sciences ph.d. at a glance.

As part of their education, all BSHS doctoral students are expected to develop a facility in the following core competencies:

• Analyze and explain health behavior using component principles of behavioral and/or social science theory.
• Critically evaluate quantitative and/or qualitative research methods and draw appropriate inferences from research findings.
• Develop or refine a theory-based public health intervention with clear behavior change goal(s).
• Design a plan to evaluate the fidelity, the active ingredients/mechanisms of change and the efficacy of a health behavior intervention.
• Appraise the state of knowledge and knowledge gaps within a substantive area of health behavior.
• Design and conduct original research on health behaviors and outcomes, using appropriate methods and analyses and adhering to ethical research principles.
• Demonstrate advanced communication skills by authoring original research that is disseminated to the scientific community.

To learn more about coursework, degree requirements, and more, consult the BSHS Ph.D. Doctoral Handbook:

BSHS Ph.D. Doctoral Handbook .

Admission is open to qualified applicants from many disciplinary backgrounds. The program seeks students with strong potential for independent scholarship in Behavioral and Social Health Sciences (BSHS), evidenced by excellence in relevant coursework and recommendations from those in a good position to evaluate the applicant’s capabilities to pursue graduate-level research. The most competitive applicants will have earned a Master’s degree in Public Health or in a behavioral or social science field (e.g., psychology, sociology, anthropology, education, communication), or demonstrated research experience relevant to public health. All applications receive a holistic review.

Submission of GRE scores is NOT required or expected by the BSHS Program. Only if applicants lack other evidence of quantitative, verbal, or analytic writing ability should they consider providing a GRE score. Per Graduate School policy, TOEFL scores are required for students whose native language is not English. However, language proficiency examination scores are not needed from students from a non-US university where the primary language of instruction is English, or for students who hold a Bachelor's or Master’s degree from a US institution.

To be prepared to complete the quantitative requirements for the BSHS degree, a background in probability and/or calculus beyond just experience with statistics is strongly recommended. All applicants are asked to provide a statement about their preparation to engage in doctoral-level biostatistics. 

Students will be matched with a faculty research advisor during admission and therefore should identify potential specific faculty advisors in their application. Potential applicants should review the list of faculty in the Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSS) who are able to take on the advisement and funding of a doctoral student; advisors’ availability can change yearly. When contacting faculty whose research corresponds with their own interests, students should include a description of their research interests/training goals and a CV to help facilitate meaningful conversation and/or appropriate referral to other faculty colleagues. Admission will signify the willingness of one or more faculty members to serve as primary advisors.

The Brown University School of Public Health does not require the GRE . Applicants who would like to submit their GRE results are able to include them as part of their application, however, applicants who do not submit GRE scores will not be penalized. Other standardized tests (e.g. MCAT, LSAT) may be submitted as well. All submitted standardized test scores are interpreted in the context of the entire application; there are no minimum scores required. TOEFL scores are required for students whose native language is not English but may be waived for those who hold a Bachelor's or Master’s degree from a U.S. institution. 

Learn More about Admissions Requirements

All students admitted to the Behavioral and Social Health Sciences Ph.D. program receive full funding in the form of a fellowship, teaching assistantship or research assistantship. The funding package includes tuition, health insurance and an annual stipend. 

Find out more about Ph.D. funding

The Role of Makeshift Medicine in the U.S.

We sat down with doctoral candidate Patrick Kelly to discuss the needs of marginalized Americans who seek care on the periphery of our formal health care system.

Helpful guides, references and links for faculty as well as current and prospective students

Ph.D. in Epidemiology

The Ph.D. in Epidemiology emphasizes the expertise necessary for a research career in epidemiology.

2024 application deadline: The priority deadline is February 1, with a final deadline of June 1. Admission cycle: Fall Assistantship types: teaching, research

The Ph.D. in Epidemiology is a STEM-designated program designed to prepare students for careers in which advanced analytical skills are required in academia, government, industry and research institutions. Students apply epidemiologic methods to understand complex public health problems. The program trains students to become independent investigators through two years of required coursework in epidemiology and biostatistics methods followed by two years (or more) of research. Students must pass a written qualifying exam and complete and defend a research dissertation. As a Tier One research institution, the School of Public Health encourages its Ph.D. students to participate in research projects that advance the field of epidemiology and address current public health issues.  Faculty and students of the School of Public Health conduct state-of-the-art research in a wide range of areas related to public health. Research in the school is supported by grants and contracts from numerous federal, state, local and private sources, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Funding for the Ph.D. in Epidemiology

Qualified Ph.D. in Epidemiology students are offered Graduate Assistant (GA) positions for two years of the program. These positions typically include teaching activities and continuous funding is contingent upon satisfactory performance of the duties and good academic standing. Although funding beyond two years is not guaranteed, GA positions that focus on research and other funding opportunities are available and most students continue to receive support. GA positions include a monthly stipend, health insurance and a tuition waiver. Additional financial support is available through scholarships, fellowships and awards provided by the School of Public Health and the Graduate School. 

This program is part of the  Western Regional Graduate Program  (WRGP), a tuition-savings program that makes out-of-state graduate studies more affordable for students. Through WRGP, you will receive a reduced tuition rate, giving you more educational options for your money.

Questions? Want more information?

Kristen Clements-Nolle Graduate Director of Epidemiology Email: [email protected]