Graduate
Ph.D. in Behavioral & Community Sciences
Behavioral and community sciences is an interdisciplinary field that refers to the development and evaluation of services and interventions that promote resiliency and social well-being for at-risk populations. The goal of behavioral and community science is to improve community services through early intervention, integrated care, policy and system change, and positive behavioral interventions and support.
Doctoral Program Overview
The PhD in Behavioral & Community Sciences is an interdisciplinary program that prepares students to conduct research to enhance the quality of life and productivity of individuals with social, emotional, academic, and behavioral challenges (e.g., mental illness, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, developmental delays and disabilities, and behavior disorders) and socio-cultural challenges (e.g., poverty, disparities, homelessness).
Program Information
Students and mentors will design an individualized program in areas such as mental illness; substance use; co-occurring disorders; child & adolescent behavioral health; developmental disabilities; positive behavior interventions & support; behavioral health, law, & the justice system; behavioral health disparities; and disability research & policy. Students may design their own unique area of focus if relevant faculty mentorship is available.
Specializations
Students and faculty mentors will design an individualized program of study in areas such as mental illness; substance use; co-occurring disorders; child & adolescent behavioral health; developmental disabilities; intervention design and implementation science; positive behavior interventions & support; behavioral health, law, & the justice system; educational disparities; and disability research & policy.
Professional Preparation
Students will be prepared to conduct research on important societal problems such as: evidence-based practices for individuals with mental illness & substance use disorders; outcomes for children with developmental disabilities; educational & behavioral outcomes for children; mental health & resilience of family caregivers; child abuse, domestic violence; suicide; & other important topics.
Funding Opportunities
Potential sources of funding include Graduate Assistantships, Fellowships, Scholarships, and Research Assistantships. Individuals who apply for Fall admission will automatically be considered for a graduate assistantship upon admission. Graduate assistantships cover most of a student's tuition and provide a biweekly stipend.
Contact Us
For further information, contact Dr. Howard Goldstein at hgoldstein@usf.edu or 813-974-9613, or Allie Montoya at montoya1@usf.edu or 913-974-1990.