Health, Behavior and Society
We discover and apply ways to change human behavior to improve public health.
Health, Behavior and Society Headlines
A Wider Lens on Aging
Public health research examines aging at every level, from molecular to societal.
Reducing Racial Disparities in Dementia
Step one in closing the gap: Measure the impact of structural racism.
What We Know (and Don’t) About Nicotine Pouches
A recent addition to smoking-alternative products is the oral nicotine pouch, which contains crystalized nicotine powder and comes in a variety of flavors—and appeals to the youth market.
What We Do in the Department of Health, Behavior and Society
Our Department is dedicated to research, education, and practice on public health issues rooted in human behavior and social conditions—from smoking and substance use to diabetes and HIV and more. We develop and evaluate individually targeted interventions, work with communities to address social factors that affect health, and improve public policy and other structural factors to improve the health of millions at a time.
Learn how the Department of Health, Behavior and Society partners with communities to change behaviors, eliminate health disparities, and improve the health of their citizens.
Health, Behavior and Society Highlights
8
HBS-led centers, institutes, and units
55+
Primary HBS faculty
2
HBS faculty members named to the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Behavioural Insights and Sciences for Health
130+
HBS master's and doctoral students
Health, Behavior and Society Programs
We offer three master's degrees, one PhD, and seven certificate programs focused on behavioral and societal impacts on public health.
We also offer two combined bachelor's/master's degrees to Johns Hopkins University undergraduate students of all majors.
Master of Health Science (MHS) in Health, Behavior and Society
The MHS in Health, Behavior and Society is an advanced, STEM-designated research degree offering training in theory and methods of social and behavioral sciences and public health.
Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) in Health Education and Health Communication
The MSPH in Health Education and Health Communication is a STEM-designated program that offers specialized academic training in health education, health promotion, and health communication.
Master of Science (ScM) in Genetic Counseling
The ScM in Genetic Counseling is designed to prepare graduates to provide genetic counseling with an emphasis on clients’ psychological and educational needs.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social and Behavioral Sciences
The PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences trains graduates to apply social and behavioral science perspectives to research on contemporary health issues.
Centers and Institutes in the Department of Health, Behavior and Society
We are home to eight Centers, Institutes, and Units that engage in research and practice around our work.
Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs
Center for Qualitative Studies in Health and Medicine
Institute for Global Tobacco Control (IGTC)
Institute for Health and Productivity Studies (IHPS)
Lighthouse Studies at Peer Point
SOURCE, Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center
SPARC Women's Center
Gender Equity Unit
Health, Behavior and Society Faculty
Get to know our HBS faculty members.
Tahilin Sanchez Karver, PhD ‘21, MPH, employs social and behavioral theory and mixed-methods to research stigma, HIV prevention and treatment, and sexual and reproductive health to inform equitable, community-driven interventions.
Michelle Kaufman, PhD, MA, designs, implements, and evaluates technology-driven interventions to reduce health disparities and promote wellness among vulnerable populations.
Ryan Kennedy, PhD, is a behavioral scientist who works to advance tobacco control policies in the U.S. and around the world.
Amy Knowlton, ScD ’97, MPH '92, researches how marginalized African Americans’ relationships and support networks affect their community’s health and well-being.
Support Our Department
A gift to our department can help to provide student scholarships and internships, attract and retain faculty, and support innovation.