Essential Information
Health psychology graduate programs are mostly available as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs and explore how psychology and behavior influence health and illness. These research-based programs can take four or five years of full-time study and usually culminate in a dissertation. They also often incorporate a clinical practicum to give students an opportunity to apply their research in health psychology to interaction with patients. Graduates who want to practice this branch of clinical psychology usually need to pursue licensure or certification in their state.
University of California - Los Angeles
Located five minutes from the Pacific Ocean and bordered by Beverly Hills and the Santa Monica mountains, the University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA) is home to the #1 graduate psychology program in the nation, according to 2016 rankings from U.S. News and World Report.
The school offers a 5-year PhD in Health Psychology program that stresses interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages research in subjects such as health-related behaviors, neuroscience, stress, cancer, obesity, and the sociology of HIV and AIDS. The program culminates in the doctoral dissertation based on the research students gather over the course of the program.
Alliant International University
Alliant International University is a private, not-for-profit institution that has seven campuses in California, including one in San Diego. Health psychology programs are available through the institution's California School of Professional Psychology. Students can pursue a PhD degree in clinical psychology with a track in health. Enrollees explore the ties between the body, the mind and psychological evaluation methods. Courses cover behavioral medicine, neuropsychology, disease prevention and health promotion.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type & Setting | Programs Offered | Graduate Tuition & Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of California - Los Angeles | 4-year, public; large city | PhD in Health Psychology | $12,946 in-state, $28,048 out-of-state |
| Alliant International University | 4-year, private not-for-profit; large city | PhD in Clinical Psychology Track in Health | $23,801 |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
