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MPH in Behavioral Health and Sciences
Exploring human behavior through the lens of public health can help to address lifestyle choices and prevent the spread of disease in communities. A Master of Public Health in Behavioral Health Science can prepare you to work with patients to mitigate harmful habits and make a positive change.
Students in these advanced degree programs can explore the ways that social, physical and mental factors impact human behavior, and how that behavior dictates patient care and treatment.
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Earn your Master of Public Health (MPH) from UNC-Chapel Hill's top-ranked Gillings School of Global Public Health in as few as 16–20 months. Our CEPH-accredited online learning experience offers three concentrations: MPH Leadership, MPH Nutrition, Food Systems and Health, and Applied Epidemiology. No GRE required.
- Three accredited concentrations: MPH Leadership, MPH Nutrition, Food Systems and Health, and Applied Epidemiology
- Curriculum includes applied field experience. Field placement services available.
- Part-time and full-time program options
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. GRE scores are not required.
Master of Public Health
Founded in 1997, the Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University is dedicated to empowering underserved populations and advancing the health of communities around the globe. Our live, online classes feature a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling you to form close connections with your peers and GW faculty in an engaging learning environment. Earn your MPH in as few as 12 months and make a meaningful difference in public health — without having to relocate — with MPH@GW. No GRE required.
- Complete in as few as 12 months
- No GRE required
- Live, online classes
- Accredited by CEPH
- Distinguished faculty actively working in public health and policy
- Top-12 ranked public health school 1
What Is the Online MPH in Behavior Health Sciences?
Public health is concerned with the overall well being of communities and society at large. Much of public health can be determined by individual behaviors, such as a person’s diet, level of physical activity, drug use and other activities. Earning your MPH in Behavior Health Sciences can give you the tools to identify the behaviors that lead to various health outcomes and help patients develop good habits.
In an online MPH program, classes may cover the psychology of behavioral health, how to communicate effectively with the public and provide plans for change or improvement. Socioeconomic factors, cultural norms and biological determinants can also influence people’s behavior. Learning how to identify the differences present within society can help you develop tailored solutions to accommodate the needs of diverse groups.
What to Expect as a Student
In an online MPH in Behavioral Health and Sciences program, students benefit from a quality curriculum while having the flexibility to learn from anywhere. This can open opportunities to learn while working or attending to other responsibilities, as well as the option to attend classes from anywhere in the world.
This degree concentration is a great option for individuals interested in psychology and sociology within the context of public health. Students can learn how biology and experience each play a role in the development of personality, impulse control and resilience — factors which can influence a person’s behavior.
What You Can Do With an MPH in Behavior Health Sciences
An MPH in Behavior Health Sciences gives you the option to pursue a variety of career paths. You might help develop programs to increase mental health awareness or work directly with patients to increase their quality of life. Take a look at some of the potential work settings for behavioral health specialists below.
- Community health centers
- Schools
- Health departments
- Field research
- Government policy
- Mental health centers
- Corrections facilities
Pursuing behavioral health studies can give you a better idea of what it’s like to work in different environments. Programs may offer opportunities to conduct field research or work with real patients. These activities can help you determine where you want to take your career once you complete your degree.
Top Salaries & Careers for the MPH in Behavior Health Sciences
If you’re interested in landing a job that utilizes your MPH in Behavioral Health Sciences, you’re probably wondering about the potential pay associated with different roles in the field. While your interests and skill set can help you narrow your focus, salary can be a determining factor when it comes time to apply for a job. Here are a few examples of different roles and their average annual pay as of May 2026 and reported by the BLS:
- Speech-Language Pathologists: $95,410 (+$11,270 from 2022)
- Social and Community Service Managers: $78,240 (+$4,000 from 2022)
- Dietitians and Nutritionists: $73,850 (+$7,400 from 2022)
- Health Education Specialists: $63,000 (+$3,010 from 2022)
- Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors: $59,190 (+$9,480 from 2022)
Last updated: May 2026
Last updated: May 2026