MSc Behavioural Science

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Stirling

Program Overview

The MSc Behavioural Science at the University of Stirling offers a comprehensive understanding of how human behaviour influences decision-making across personal, social, and organisational contexts. It suits students interested in applying psychological and economic insights to real-world challenges in business, policy, and health.

Curriculum structure:
In the first semester, students explore key theoretical and methodological foundations through modules such as Behavioural Economics, Judgement and Decision-Making, and Research Methods in Behavioural Science. These courses build a strong base in analysing human cognition and economic behaviour. In the second semester, learners focus on applied learning through Applications of Behavioural Science and Experimental Design and Analysis, gaining hands-on experience in designing interventions and experiments. The year concludes with an independent Behavioural Science Dissertation, allowing students to apply research skills to a topic of personal or professional interest.

Focus areas: “behavioural economics; judgement and decision-making; experimental design; applied behavioural science; research methods”
Learning outcomes: “understand and evaluate behavioural theories; apply behavioural insights to policy and business contexts; design and analyse behavioural experiments; develop evidence-based interventions”
Professional alignment (accreditation): Designed in line with professional and research standards in psychology and behavioural science, equipping students for roles in public policy, consultancy, or research.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Stirling ranks highly in The Guardian and QS World Rankings for psychology and behavioural sciences, recognised internationally for its research excellence and graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical skills through health-focused research projects and professional training for Stage 1 accreditation. They utilise the Psychology Department's specialist facilities and have links with health organisations. The programme's experiential components include:

Research Project: A dissertation in health psychology
Professional Training: Stage 1 training towards Health Psychologist registration
Facilities: Access to psychology research laboratories
Applied Focus: Development of health behaviour change interventions
Software: Training in statistical analysis for health data

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Behavioural Science at the University of Stirling equips graduates with expertise in understanding and influencing human behavior, enabling them to excel in roles across business, government, and public sectors. Graduates typically fill positions such as behavioural analysts, policy advisors, market researchers, and organisational consultants, reflecting strong career prospects.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

The university offers mentoring, tailored career coaching, CV and interview preparation, and access to collaborations with renowned organisations such as Cowry Consulting, Siemens, Tesco, and national government bodies.
Graduate employment rates are high, with salaries ranging broadly—average behavioural science roles offer around £42,800 per year according to Glassdoor 2025 data.
Strong partnerships with behavioural insights teams, regulatory bodies, charities, and consultancy firms facilitate rich networking and placement opportunities.
Accredited by AACSB, the program benefits from recognition in leadership and business-related fields, enhancing long-term career and academic value.
Typical roles: Behavioural Scientist, Research Manager, Policy Advisor, Market Research Analyst.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue PhD research or advance into specialist professional training, including psychoanalytic studies such as the MA Psychoanalytic Studies.

Additional Information & Requirements

A minimum of a 2.1 honours degree in Psychology or related subject or a Psychology (Conversion) degree with Merit.

India- 50% from Tier 1 College/University (namely University of Mumbai, University of Calcutta, University of Delhi) or 55% from a Tier 2 College/University.

USA- Relevant Bachelor's degree with a GPA of 2.7.

IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill.

IBT TOEFL 88 overall with 20 in reading, 19 in writing, 19 in listening and 22 in speaking.

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