Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, research methods and applied practice to examine cognition, social influence, decision-making and behaviour change. Students follow a curriculum that balances core foundations with elective specialisms, and typically choose between a research thesis or an applied capstone/project.

• Core modules — research design and statistics, advanced behavioural theory, ethics in behavioural research, and measurement of behaviour.
• Methods and analysis — quantitative methods (regression, experimental design), qualitative methods (interviews, thematic analysis) and mixed-methods approaches.
• Applied topics and electives — health behaviour and promotion, organisational behaviour and change, consumer and decision-making psychology, programme evaluation, behaviour change interventions, and policy applications.
• Practicum / internship — supervised field placement with local agencies, public health departments, schools or non-profit organisations to apply skills to real-world problems.
• Capstone or thesis — option to complete an applied project (behavioural intervention, evaluation or programme design) or an original research thesis under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Applicants with degrees in psychology, sociology, public health, criminal justice, education, social work, economics or related social/behavioural disciplines are typically well prepared.

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a competitive academic record.
• A personal statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for pursuing the Master’s in Behavioral Sciences.
• Academic transcripts and at least two academic or professional references.
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé documenting relevant experience, including any research, volunteer or professional work in behavioural or social services contexts.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent qualifications.
• Where relevant, applicants with non-traditional backgrounds may be considered if they demonstrate substantial relevant work experience or preparatory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles in applied, research and policy settings. The programme emphasises practical skills in assessment, programme design, evaluation and data analysis that employers value across sectors.

• Research assistant or analyst roles in universities, think tanks and research organisations.
• Programme evaluator or monitoring-and-evaluation specialist for non-profits, government departments and healthcare organisations.
• Behavioural health coordinator, community outreach specialist or health promotion practitioner in public health and social service agencies.
• Policy analyst or consultant applying behavioural science to public policy, consumer behaviour or organisational change.
• Human resources and organisational development roles using evidence-based approaches to improve workplace behaviour and performance.
• Progression to doctoral study (PhD) for students aiming for academic careers or advanced research positions.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a regional, student-centred environment with faculty who specialise in applied behavioural research and community engagement. The programme benefits from close ties to local public health agencies, school districts and non-profits, creating opportunities for practicum placements and collaborative projects.

• Small cohort sizes and accessible faculty mentorship that support hands-on training and supervised research.
• Opportunities for applied learning through practicum placements and community partnerships in Cheney and the greater Spokane region.
• Training in a range of methodological approaches, emphasising transferable skills in data analysis, intervention design and programme evaluation.
• Flexible programme pathways with options for a research thesis or an applied capstone to match academic or professional career goals.