This university, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers a doctorate in biological and health psychology. Students may pursue one of two academic avenues--a single biological and health psychology doctorate or a doctorate in combination with the clinical psychology program.
Curriculum consists of a Health Fundamentals group term seminar, and coursework in research methods, statistical analysis and systems physiology. The program requires additional coursework relating to the program's research concentration. Students participate in a Program Research seminar. Students must complete several research papers including a master's thesis, specialty paper and examination and dissertion. Additionally, students much teach at least one class.
University of Pittsburgh
Department of Psychology
Sennott Square, 3rd Floor
210 S. Bouquet St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
412-624-4500
pitt.edu
This program focuses on risk factors that affect health such as drug use, stress, smoking, and at-risk behavioral practices. Students may pursue one of two academic tracks--clinical health or behavioral and community health sciences (BCHS). Students interested in employment at hospitals, physical rehabilitation settings, and health service clinics may consider the clinical heath focus. The BCHS track is for students interested in developing and managing community interventions and pursuing research.
The program explores health service program disparities for major diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and mental and cardiovascular health--particularly for minority subsets. Both programs include research, grant-writing and instructional training. Historically, applicants with a minimum 3.2 grade-point average and a combined GRE score of 1,000 have been considered competitive candidates for admission.
Virginia State University
1 Hayden Dr.
Petersburg, VA 23806
804-524-5000
vsu.edu
This program involves five years of training and study; the program end goal is to graduate exemplary research scientists trained in health psychology. This program focuses on interdisciplinary teamwork and offers research opportunities in HIV/AIDS, heart disease, pregnancy, cancer, depression, bipolar and other psychological disorders. Students will undergo classwork, laboratory, community and clinical training. There is a two-year emphasis on a single research project. Thereafter, students work with at least two faculty members to further explore their research agenda and gain additional experience.
University of California, Los Angeles
1285 Franz Hall
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563
310-825-2961
ucla.edu
Students may study for a clinical health, general health, or community health Ph.D. in psychology. This program concentrates on "the development, implementation, and evaluation of prevention and treatment interventions that involve multiple disciplines."
Students are able to choose health interdisciplinary health courses through other university programs, departments and colleges.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Department of Psychology
Colvard South 4018
9201 University City Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 2822-0001
704-687-4731
uncc.edu