Health Psychology

• Overview
• Goals
• Career Tracks
• Preparation
• Curriculum
• Faculty

Preparation

Students pursuing a Health focus area are expected to take at least four courses in health psychology or behavioral medicine. The courses need to address and provide opportunities to acquire competencies in each of the major pillars of competence (awareness/attitudes/beliefs, knowledge, and skills) and should be preceded by approval by your committee.

When students prepare for their comprehensive exams, they should ensure that at least one question pertains to health psychology. Alternatively, a published book chapter, journal article, or grant submission in the area of health psychology may fulfill this requirement.
Finally, students are expected to have several research and applied experiences (15 weeks in duration) with a focus on health issues. These could include: Research with faculty, externships, practica, and internships.

Several research groups focus on aspects of health psychology including regular standing open research meetings at the Cancer Prevention Research Center and in individual research teams.