MSc Behavioural and Economic Science

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Warwick

Program Overview

This interdisciplinary MSc combines behavioural science, psychology, and economics to explore how people make choices and how those choices impact markets, policy, and society. It’s ideal for students with a background in psychology, cognitive science, or behavioural disciplines who want to apply experimental and analytical tools to real-world decision-making.

Curriculum Structure

Term 1 (Autumn)
Students begin with foundational modules that build core knowledge in behavioural theory and experimental design. You’ll study Foundations of Behavioural and Economic Science 1, which introduces key concepts in judgement, decision-making, and game theory, alongside Methods and Analysis in Behavioural Science, where you’ll learn how to design experiments and analyse behavioural data using tools like R and Python.

Term 2 (Spring)
The focus shifts to advanced applications and interdisciplinary integration. Modules such as Foundations of Behavioural and Economic Science 2 explore topics like social preferences, heuristics, and neuroeconomics. You’ll also take Topics in Behavioural and Economic Science, which links theory to policy, business, and consumer behaviour. Optional modules allow you to tailor your learning — including Behavioural Finance, Cognitive Psychology, or Neural Bases of Decision Making.

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

Decision theory, behavioural economics, cognitive psychology, experimental methods, behavioural finance, neuroeconomics

Learning outcomes

Students will design and interpret behavioural experiments, apply psychological insights to economic contexts, and evaluate decision-making models across disciplines.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by Warwick’s Department of Psychology and supported by Warwick Business School and Department of Economics, the program is not professionally accredited but is highly respected by employers in behavioural consulting, finance, and policy.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Warwick ranks in the UK top 10 for Psychology and 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 apply behavioural theory in real-world contexts, from experimental labs to policy design. You’ll gain practical skills in data analysis, experimental design, and interdisciplinary research — all supported by Warwick’s cutting-edge facilities and collaborative learning environment.

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

Behavioural Science Laboratory: Students have access to Warwick’s dedicated Behavioural Science Lab, equipped for controlled experiments, eye-tracking, and decision-making studies
Experimental Design Training: The Methods and Analysis in Behavioural Science module teaches students how to build and run experiments using platforms like Qualtrics, oTree, and PsyToolkit
Software Access: Students use R, Python, and SPSS for statistical analysis and behavioural modelling
Group Projects: Modules such as Topics in Behavioural and Economic Science include collaborative work on behavioural interventions and policy applications
Dissertation or Research Project: Students conduct independent research, often involving experimental design, data collection, and behavioural analysis, supported by expert supervision
Digital Learning Tools: All students use Moodle for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and engaging in online discussions
Library Resources: Warwick’s Main Library and Psychology Research Collection provide access to specialised journals, databases, and working papers in behavioural science
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 public policy

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are equipped to work in behavioural consulting, policy design, consumer research, and financial services. Typical roles include Behavioural Scientist, Policy Advisor, User Experience Analyst, and Research Consultant. The program’s interdisciplinary structure and research-led teaching make it highly attractive to employers across sectors.

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 science, public policy, and finance
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 psychology and 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 behavioural science and interdisciplinary research 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 Behavioural and Economic Science are well-prepared for PhD programs in behavioural science, psychology, or economics at Warwick and other top institutions. The program’s emphasis on experimental methods, cognitive theory, and interdisciplinary analysis provides a strong foundation for doctoral research and academic careers.