University of Kansas

What you'll study

This master's emphasises multidisciplinary study of behaviour, integrating perspectives from psychology, sociology, public health and applied behavioural science. Core study typically covers advanced research methods and statistics, behavioural theory, experimental and quasi-experimental design, measurement and psychometrics, and ethics in research and practice.

• Research methods and statistics: courses in quantitative and qualitative methods, multivariate statistics, and data analysis applied to behavioural data.
• Behavioural theory and application: contemporary theories of behaviour change, learning theory, social-cognitive approaches and systems-level perspectives.
• Programme evaluation and implementation: design and evaluation of interventions, implementation science, cost-effectiveness and policy translation.
• Practicum or fieldwork: supervised placements with community agencies, healthcare providers or research teams to apply methods in real-world settings.
• Thesis or capstone project: an independent research thesis or an applied capstone project that demonstrates mastery of a research question or an evidence-based intervention.
• Electives and special topics: options can include health behaviour, organisational behaviour, child and family interventions, substance use, or advanced measurement.

Programme structure is typically a combination of coursework and a research or practicum requirement; full-time and part-time pathways may be available, and students often work closely with faculty on funded research projects.

Entry requirements

Admissions seek applicants with a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, public health, education or a related discipline. Relevant work or research experience strengthens an application.

• Academic qualification: an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution; a solid academic record in quantitative coursework is preferred.
• Prerequisites: prior coursework in statistics or research methods is often expected; applicants without these may be asked to complete preparatory courses.
• Application materials: typically include a personal statement outlining research interests and career goals, a CV or résumé, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
• Standardised tests: some programmes may consider or require standardised test scores; check the department guidance for current policy.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of applied and research roles across sectors that rely on evidence about human behaviour. Typical career paths include:

• Research assistant or coordinator in university, hospital or government research units.
• Programme evaluator or data analyst for non-profit organisations, public health departments, and policy institutes.
• Behavioural scientist or specialist within healthcare systems, community agencies or corporate settings (e.g. organisational development, workplace wellbeing).
• Roles in programme implementation and monitoring for international development, social services or education sectors.
• Progression to doctoral study (PhD) for careers in academic research and higher education.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers access to faculty with active research programmes in applied behavioural science and related fields, enabling students to gain hands-on experience on ongoing projects. The university’s interdisciplinary environment supports collaboration across psychology, public policy, education and health, and students benefit from connections with local and regional community partners for practicum and evaluation work.

Facilities and centres associated with behavioural research at KU provide training in advanced methods, opportunities for grant-supported assistantships and a community-oriented approach to translating research into practice. The programme’s balance of rigorous methodology and applied practicum is well suited to students seeking careers that bridge evidence and action.