Program Overview

Introduction to Health Behavior Science

The Health Behavior Science major is designed for students interested in the social and behavioral aspects of health. At the University of Delaware, students enrolled in this major complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree.

Why Study Health Behavior Science at UD?

Graduates from the Health Behavior Science program have a high acceptance rate when applying to post-baccalaureate programs. The program offers experiential opportunities both in and out of the classroom, allowing students to gain skills in health education, counseling, management, resource development, and research. Courses include hands-on labs and real-world experiences in community and simulated medical settings.

Career Opportunities and Graduate Paths

Health Behavior Science graduates work in a wide variety of practice settings, including:

• Health-care and medical settings, such as hospitals and clinics, as part of the interprofessional health-care team
  • Communities and public health to help Americans achieve and maintain good health
  • Private practice, operating their own consulting businesses, potentially working with a variety of clients or focusing on specific groups like athletes, those with eating disorders, or children
• Collaboration with private companies, such as supermarkets, food manufacturers, or pharmaceutical industries
• Media and communication, including vlogs, social media, and print/web-based journalism, like magazines
• Universities and research areas, teaching students about health behavior or conducting research to answer important scientific, clinical, and policy questions Many graduates continue their education by attending graduate school for health behavior, public health, or other allied advanced degrees.

Health Behavior Science Curriculum

Students in the Health Behavior Science program take foundational sciences like biology, psychology, and sociology early in their academic careers. In their junior and senior years, there is a greater focus on health behavior-specific courses, including:

• Health Behavior Theory
• Health Education
• Health Program Planning To earn a Bachelor of Science degree, students must complete 120 credits and meet specific requirements, as outlined in the University of Delaware Catalog. The average number of credits per semester ranges from 12 to 17, with winter and summer sessions available to help lighten the load of regular semesters.