The mission of the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education (HBHE) is to improve individual and population health through research, workforce training, and community-based programs in the health promotion arena. Faculty conduct research and implement health improvement programs affecting diverse population in a variety of clinical and community settings. These initiatives target diseases that include cancer, stroke, hypertension, obesity, and sexually transmitted diseases.

The department’s educational programs provide students with a foundation in key HBHE concepts, methodologies, theories and planning models. Students learn how to identify causes and solutions to behavioral health problems that take individual, family, community, cultural, and policy determinants into account. Building on that foundation, students develop their skills in effective planning, implementation, management, and evaluation of health behavior and health education interventions. Their learning experiences are designed to develop the skills needed to select and apply appropriate and culturally responsive behavioral and social change strategies to enhance health in communities and at-risk populations. Integral to that training is exposure to current communications theory, practice, and research as applied to public health problems.

Our master’s level graduates specializing in HBHE are prepared for entry-level positions in health promotion in a variety of settings – the Arkansas Department of Health, UAMS, hospitals, universities, schools, businesses, non-profit agencies, clinics, and other community settings. Their work may be in program design, implementation, and evaluation; heath promotions writing; health and wellness education in the workplace; one-on-one health coaching, or as a project manager or assistant for a research project. Graduates are encouraged to obtain national certification as a Certified Health Education Specialist.

Our faculty welcomes the opportunity to discuss with prospective and current students the various degree program options and associated career paths. An appointment can be arranged by calling 501-526-6707. HBHE Offices are located on the third floor of the COPH Building.