Sociomedical Sciences

The MS degree in Sociomedical Sciences trains students to apply social science theories, concepts, and methods with a focus on public health research and discovery.  The program offers coursework in anthropology, ethics, history, and sociology, along with a wide range of public health topics and methods. Students can customize a program that reflects a particular discipline and will have applied trainings in quantitative and qualitative research methods. Prior research coursework and experience are required for admissions.

Course of Study

This program is appropriate for individuals seeking intensive research experience in Sociomedical Science fields and preparation for doctoral study in the social sciences; those who are interested in public health training but do not wish to pursue an MPH; mid-career professionals with health-related interests in fields such as nursing, medicine, health policy, bioethics, journalism, and law; and postdoctoral students seeking to enhance their training.

[Requirements below updated for 2023-2024 academic year.]

Course Requirements

Course Credits
P6025 Introduction to Public Health (online module) 0
P6400 Epidemiology (F) 3
P8719 SMS Master’s Capstone (SP) 3
P8745 Social and Economic Determinants of Health (F) 3
P8750 Race and Health (F) 3
Methods Selective 1 - choose one:
  • P8705 Evaluation of Health Programs (F)
  • P8785 Qualitative Research Methods (F)
  • P8796 Quantitative Research Design (F)
 3
Theory Selective - choose one:
  • P8736 Theories and Perspectives on Sexuality and Health (SP)
  • P8741 Structural Approaches in Global Health (SP)
  • P8755 Medical Anthropology (F)
 3
Methods Selective 2 - choose one:
  • P8705 Evaluation of Health Programs (SP)
  • P8771 Community-Based Participatory Research (SP)
  • P8792 Dissemination & Implementation (SP)
  • P8786 Ethnographic Methods (SP)
 3
SMS Selective - choose one:
  • P8746 Coercion & Persuasion (SP)
  • P8747 Ethics of Public Health (SP)
  • P8709 Gender, Sexuality, Health, and Human Rights (SP)
  • P8762 Community Health & Chronic Disease (SP)
  • P8794 Society, Health Equity and Health Communication (SP)
 3
SMS Elective: any SMS course not already taken for department requirement 3
General Elective (may include courses outside of Mailman) 3
Total Credits 30

 

More information on Admission Process and Requirements.