MSc (Economics) Behavioural and Economic Science

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Warwick

Program Overview

This innovative course in the growing area of decision science and behavioural economics combines multidisciplinary expertise from

This interdisciplinary MSc blends economics with behavioural science, offering rigorous training in microeconomic theory, experimental methods, and psychological foundations of decision-making. It’s ideal for students aiming to work in policy, consulting, finance, or research roles that demand both analytical precision and behavioural insight.

Curriculum Structure

Term 1 (Autumn)
Students begin with core theoretical and methodological training. Modules include Microeconomics: Foundations and Applications, which builds a strong base in economic modelling, and Behavioural Economics I, which introduces key concepts like bounded rationality, heuristics, and prospect theory. You’ll also take Experimental Methods, where you learn how to design and run behavioural experiments.

Term 2 (Spring)
The focus shifts to applied behavioural analysis and advanced topics. Students explore Behavioural Economics II, which covers strategic interaction, social preferences, and behavioural game theory. You’ll also take Topics in Applied Behavioural Science, which links theory to policy and business applications, and choose optional modules such as Neuroeconomics or Behavioural Finance depending on your interests.

Term 3 (Summer)
Students complete a dissertation or research project, applying behavioural and economic theory to a topic of their choice. This capstone experience is supported by faculty supervision and may involve experimental design, data analysis, or policy evaluation.

Focus areas

Behavioural economics, experimental methods, decision theory, behavioural finance, neuroeconomics, policy applications

Learning outcomes

Students will analyse economic behaviour using psychological insights, design and interpret experiments, and apply behavioural tools to policy, finance, and strategy.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered jointly by Warwick’s Department of Economics and Department of Psychology, the program is not professionally accredited but is highly respected by employers in consulting, finance, government, and academia.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Warwick ranks in the UK top 10 for Economics (Guardian University Guide 2025) and is consistently recognised for graduate employability and interdisciplinary research excellence.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is designed for students who want to explore how people make decisions and how those decisions shape markets, policies, and institutions. From experimental labs to advanced software training, students gain practical skills in designing studies, analysing data, and translating behavioural theory into applied solutions. Warwick’s interdisciplinary environment and research infrastructure make this a truly immersive experience.

Here’s how the program supports experiential learning throughout the year:

Experimental Methods Module: Students learn to design, run, and analyse behavioural experiments using real participants and lab-based setups
Behavioural Science Laboratory: Access to Warwick’s state-of-the-art Behavioural Science Lab, equipped for controlled experiments and eye-tracking studies
Software Training: Students use Stata, R, and Python for econometric analysis, and Qualtrics or oTree for building behavioural experiments
Group Projects: Modules like Topics in Applied Behavioural Science include collaborative work on policy challenges and behavioural interventions
Dissertation or Research Project: Students conduct independent research, often involving experimental design or data-driven behavioural analysis, supported by faculty supervision
Library Resources: Warwick’s Main Library and Economics Research Collection offer access to specialised journals, databases, and working papers in behavioural economics and psychology
Digital Tools: All students use Moodle for interactive course materials, assignment submission, and discussion forums
Warwick Behavioural Insights Team (WBIT): Opportunities to engage with WBIT, which collaborates with government and industry on behavioural policy design
Career Services: Warwick’s Student Opportunity team offers tailored career support including employer panels, internship listings, and guidance for roles in behavioural consulting, finance, and policy

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are equipped to work in behavioural consulting, policy design, financial services, and research roles that require both economic modelling and psychological understanding. Typical roles include Behavioural Economist, Policy Analyst, Consumer Insight Specialist, and Research Consultant. The program’s interdisciplinary nature makes it especially valuable for employers seeking data-driven behavioural expertise.

Here’s how Warwick supports your future beyond the classroom:

Career Services: Warwick’s Student Opportunity team offers tailored career support including employer panels, internship listings, and guidance for roles in behavioural economics, finance, and policy
Graduate Outcomes: Warwick ranks among the UK’s top universities for graduate employability, with 92% of postgraduates in work or further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
Salary Figures: Graduates from Warwick’s economics programs report strong starting salaries, often exceeding £35,000 depending on sector and role
Industry Partnerships: The program benefits from Warwick’s links with organisations such as The Behavioural Insights Team, Bank of England, and OECD, offering students exposure to behavioural policy and economic research environments
Long-Term Value: Warwick’s reputation in economics and behavioural science offers long-term credibility for career advancement in consulting, finance, and public policy
Alumni Network: Graduates join a global network of professionals working in behavioural research, economic strategy, and policy innovation

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of the MSc (Economics) Behavioural and Economic Science are well-prepared for PhD programs in economics, behavioural science, or psychology at Warwick and other top institutions. The program’s emphasis on experimental methods, data analysis, and interdisciplinary theory provides a strong foundation for doctoral research and academic careers.