University of Iowa

What you'll study

The programme emphasises rigorous empirical research on behaviour across the lifespan, drawing on perspectives from psychology, public health, sociology and neuroscience. Core training covers advanced research design and methods, statistical modelling, and theoretical approaches to behaviour change. Students typically progress through a combination of coursework, laboratory- or field-based research, teaching experience, and a sustained doctoral dissertation.

• Core methods and statistics: advanced regression, multilevel modelling, structural equation modelling, longitudinal data analysis, causal inference and experimental design.
• Theory and specialisation seminars: health behaviour theories, social cognition, developmental and lifespan approaches, behavioural economics, and cognitive-behavioural frameworks.
• Research apprenticeship: working closely with faculty on ongoing projects in laboratories or community settings, including participant recruitment, data collection, and primary authorship of manuscripts.
• Applied practicum and translation: development and evaluation of interventions, implementation science, programme evaluation and dissemination strategies.
• Teaching and professional development: opportunities to serve as a teaching assistant, deliver guest lectures, and undertake training in grant writing, ethics, and science communication.
• Doctoral dissertation: an original, hypothesis-driven research project that contributes to knowledge in behavioural science and demonstrates mastery of methods and theory.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have a relevant master’s degree or a strong honours bachelor’s degree with significant research experience. Typical background areas include psychology, public health, sociology, neuroscience or related behavioural sciences. Selection emphasises research potential and fit with faculty expertise.

• Academic transcripts showing evidence of strong performance in quantitative and research-focused coursework.
• A detailed CV or résumé highlighting research experience, publications or presentations if applicable.
• A personal statement describing research interests, career goals and potential faculty mentors at the University of Iowa.
• Contact information for academic referees who can comment on research potential; most applicants provide two or three letters.
• Evidence of quantitative preparation and research skills; some applicants will have completed courses in statistics, research methods or programming.
• Proof of English proficiency if English is not the applicant’s first language, as required by university regulations.

Standardised tests (such as the GRE) may be optional or considered on a programme-by-programme basis; applicants should consult the department’s admissions guidance for current practice. Admission is competitive and research fit with potential supervisors is a key determinant.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for a variety of research and leadership roles. Common career pathways include:

• Academic positions (postdoctoral research, tenure-track faculty) in behavioural science, psychology, public health or allied disciplines.
• Research scientist roles in government agencies, non-profit research organisations, and health departments that require expertise in programme evaluation and policy-relevant research.
• Applied research and evaluation positions in healthcare systems, behavioural health services, and community organisations focusing on intervention development and implementation.
• Data science, measurement and analytic roles in industry, technology firms and consulting where advanced quantitative skills are valued.
• Leadership roles in translational research centres, programme development, and evidence-based policy initiatives.

Why study at University of Iowa

The University of Iowa offers a strong research environment with interdisciplinary collaboration across departments that study human behaviour, health and society. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, access to diverse research populations and opportunities to engage in both laboratory and community-based research. The university supports doctoral students with professional development resources, teaching experience and a culture that encourages translation of research into practice and policy. For students seeking rigorous methodological training combined with applied and theoretical breadth, the University of Iowa provides the resources and mentorship network to build a research career in behavioural sciences.