
We prepare students to apply theories, concepts, and methods of the various social and behavioral science disciplines to the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs that prevent illness and promote health.
K. Leroy Irvis Fellowship for doctoral students
The Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences is actively recruiting doctoral students for the K. Leroy Irvis Fellowship, which supports outstanding and diverse graduate students and prepares them for academic and/or research careers. Each year, the School of Public Health selects distinguished doctoral applicants to participate in this prestigious program, which provides five years of financial support, plus academic guidance and cohort-based mentoring.
Interested applicants must apply to the doctoral program by the deadline; award recipients matriculate as full-time students in Fall 2025.
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Our Mission
We seek to improve and promote health and equity by engaging individuals, communities, and systems through our research, teaching, and practice.



News

Public health in action: Antonio Gumucio’s mission to transform public health
For Antonio Gumucio, an MPH student at Pitt’s School of Public Health in behavioral and community health sciences, public health is more than a field of study—it’s a calling that bridges science and community.

Off ramp: Why it's important to plan for retirement from driving
Steven Albert, professor of behavioral and community health sciences, said in an interview that, while individuals face better emotional and psychological outcomes if they plan ahead to retire from driving, most people don’t do it.

Finding purpose in public health, one frame at a time
Lindsey Palmer’s journey from photographer to MPH student in behavioral and community health sciences and public health advocate is anything but traditional, yet it's deeply intentional. Every experience has brought her closer to work that feels meaningful.