Emory University

What you'll study

Coursework covers theoretical foundations in behaviour as well as practical skills in research and intervention design. Typical modules and topics include:

• Research Methods and Statistics: quantitative and qualitative methods, experimental design, survey methods, multivariate analysis and data visualisation.
• Human Development and Social Psychology: developmental trajectories, social cognition, group processes and interpersonal influence.
• Cultural and Community Perspectives: cultural psychology, cross-cultural methods, community-engaged research and social determinants of behaviour.
• Intervention Design and Evaluation: behaviour change theories, programme design, implementation science and outcome evaluation.
• Applied Practicum or Capstone Project: a supervised placement or research-driven capstone that applies methods to a substantive behavioural question in a partner organisation or research lab.
• Ethics and Policy: professional ethics in behavioural research, issues of consent and privacy, and the policy implications of behavioural interventions.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in psychology, sociology, anthropology, public health, or a related discipline. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record, letters of recommendation, a personal statement that outlines research or career goals, and a curriculum vitae. Some background in statistics or research methods is preferred; applicants without formal training may be asked to complete preparatory coursework. GRE requirements vary by cohort and may be optional; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles that apply behavioural evidence to practical problems across sectors. Common career paths include research assistant or analyst positions in academic and government research centres, behavioural scientist or programme evaluator roles in public health agencies and NGOs, user research and behavioural design roles in the private sector, policy analysis, and organisational development or human resources roles that focus on behaviour change and employee wellbeing. The programme also prepares students who wish to continue to doctoral study in psychology, public health or related fields.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers strong interdisciplinary linkages across behavioural science, public health and clinical practice, providing access to faculty with diverse research expertise and to applied partners in the city. Located in Atlanta, students benefit from proximity to major public health institutions and health-care systems, enabling practicum placements and collaborative projects. The university’s emphasis on rigorous methods and ethical practice, combined with small cohort sizes and mentoring, supports hands-on training that prepares graduates for applied and research careers in behavioural science.