The department has rolling admissions. To ensure the highest likelihood of a timely review for a particular semester, please submit all application materials to the department by the deadline. We recommend you submit your application as soon as possible rather than waiting until the deadline.

• Spring: November 1
• Summer (A/C): April 1
• Fall: July 1

All materials can be included in the online application. GRE scores are not currently required.

• University of Florida Graduate School Application submitted and application fee paid
• Cover letter/statement of purpose describing your areas of professional interest, areas of personal interest and reasons for pursuing a Masters Degree in Health Education and Behavior
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Pursuant to Florida Statute, your application requires inclusion of all post-high school education and employment, as well as information about ongoing international affiliations and research funding.
• Three letters of recommendation (PDF):
  • At least one letter should come from an academic source (e.g. prior college instructor, academic advisor, etc.). This requirement (academic letter) is waived if the applicant has been out of school for more than five years.
  • The remaining letters should come from a professional source with preference for recommendations from someone who knows the applicant in a supervisory role rather than as a peer.
  • Letters from family, friends or spiritual leaders are not acceptable.
  • Applicants should request that their references comment on the following in their letters of recommendation: written and oral communication skills, competency in health education and behavior, work ethic, analytical skills and problem-solving skills.
• GRE scores are not currently required or reviewed as part of the application.
• For both domestic and international applicants, a health education interest questionnaire will be emailed to the applicant once an application has been submitted. An application will not be considered complete until the online questionnaire responses are submitted.
• A minimum 3.0 GPA for all upper-division undergraduate coursework is required.
• Non-UF Students: Submit official transcripts from all previous colleges attended to the Office of Admissions (201 Criser Hall, PO Box 114000, Gainesville, FL 32611-4000)
• International Students: Submit an official transcript, mark sheets and diploma/degree certificate in the native language from every university or college attended to the Office of Admissions (201 Criser Hall, PO Box 114000, Gainesville, FL 32611-4000). Applicants must also submit certified, literal (exact) English translations for documents not originally issued in English.
• International Students: There is a minimum required score of 80 on the IBT TOEFL or 550 on the PBT TOEFL. Have scores sent to UF institution code 5812. 

You may submit your application any time before the deadline. Applicants are encouraged to submit supplemental material as soon as possible to avoid a delay in processing.

You can check the status of your application at any time here.

Applicants typically receive an admissions decision, accepted or denied, within two weeks of submitting a completed application.

Admitted students will receive further instructions regarding orientation, how to register for courses and required textbooks and materials.

Step into a wide range of impactful roles with the specialized expertise you’ll gain in UF’s HEB M.S. program as a future health education specialist:

• Public health agencies (local, state, and national, including the CDC): Apply your skills in health promotion, program planning, data-informed decision making, and policy to improve population health.
• Hospitals and healthcare systems: Support patient education, chronic disease prevention and management, and behavior change initiatives that enhance health outcomes. 
• Community organizations and health clinics: Lead outreach efforts, design evidence-based interventions, and strengthen community health programs.
• Schools, universities, and college health programs: Promote wellness through education, prevention programming, and student-focused health initiatives.
• Corporate and employee wellness programs: Develop and implement workplace wellness strategies, health coaching, and engagement initiatives that support a healthier workforce.
• Graduate and professional programs: Many graduates continue their education in advanced health and research fields, pursuing programs in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, public health, and PhD-level research specializations that prepare them for leadership in healthcare, academia, and scientific discovery.

Across these settings, you’ll be prepared to design, implement, and evaluate programs that make a measurable difference in the health of individuals and communities.

Propel your career forward. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, careers in health education and community outreach are expected to see growth ranging from average to much faster than average through 2034. This growing demand reflects nationwide efforts to improve public health outcomes, expand community outreach, and invest in professionals who can lead meaningful health initiatives.

Major organizations, including the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) and the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), recognize the growing demand for professionals with expertise in health program planning, public health communication, data analysis, grant writing, and community engagement. As the field moves toward telehealth and technology-driven solutions, digital health literacy and evaluation skills have become more valuable than ever, making these advanced competencies essential for today’s health leaders.