The Department of Health Behavior and Policy is at the forefront of efforts to promote health, improve healthcare delivery and reduce health disparities.
As researchers and educators, we utilize rigorous quantitative and qualitative methods and engage diverse communities to develop and evaluate programs and policies that have tangible, meaningful impacts on the health of individuals and populations.
Our research findings inform the translation of effective programs and policies into practice, and we provide graduate and postdoctoral training to promote excellence in the next generation of health policy and behavioral science practitioners, educators and scientists.
The dedicated, compassionate faculty and students within this department are leading the way in addressing, challenging and reconstructing the systems that have resulted in life-threatening health disparities for decades. As our efforts and impacts grow, we strive to foster more multidisciplinary research, develop lasting educational programs and continue to expand our research portfolio.
Our Mission
The Department of Health Behavior and Policy is a driving force that promotes health equity through multidisciplinary research, education, training and service. We identify and address behavioral, social, organizational and policy factors affecting the health of individuals and populations. We evaluate how these factors converge to perpetuate structures that have historically disadvantaged segments of the population, and we assess the consequences of these factors to inform decisions locally, nationally and internationally.
Rigorous quantitative and qualitative methods employed by collaborative teams help us to develop actionable solutions. Importantly, we partner with communities, locally and globally, to conduct impactful research, evaluate and inform policy and improve health and care delivery to eliminate disparities and ensure equity.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The Department of Health Behavior and Policy condemns racism in all forms and recognizes that systemic racism undermines the primacy of human dignity and respect.
Our department embraces differences in human experience as a driver of learning, compassion and change, and we continuously strive for our workplace and learning environment to be a place of dignity, professionalism, mutual respect and inclusivity. This will be accomplished by acknowledging past and potential mistakes and embracing opportunities to reflect and improve. Open communication and discussion are encouraged.
- As educators and mentors, we support all our learners in achieving their professional goals, regardless of background, culture or socioeconomic status.
- As researchers, we actively work towards diversifying our scientific endeavors to ensure that research benefits those who have been historically disadvantaged or lack representation.
- As learners, we seek to understand the cause and effect of negative institutional structures of discrimination and their impact on the lives of those in our community and nation. We will be vigilant in our pursuit of knowledge so that we may mobilize it to determine comprehensive solutions to present-day and future problems in society and health.
- As colleagues and peers, we work to ensure that every member of our academic community is respected and valued for who they are and for the qualities they bring to our education, research, and community engagement endeavors.
Learn more about the School of Medicine’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion