MSc Behaviour Change

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Surrey

Program Overview

The MSc Behaviour Change at University of Surrey offers an interdisciplinary exploration of how behavioural science theories and methods can be applied to real-world challenges such as health, sustainability and policy. It suits graduates and professionals who wish to design, implement and evaluate behavioural-change interventions across various contexts.

Curriculum Structure:
In the first year of study students begin by exploring modules like Gathering and Using Evidence in Behaviour Change and The Psychology of Real-World Behaviour Change, where they learn foundational research methods and apply psychological theory to concrete behaviour-change problems. In subsequent semesters, students engage with units such as Behaviour Change: Philosophy, Politics and Policy and Behavioural Change Solutions, which deepen their understanding of how behaviour-change frameworks are embedded within policy, sustainability and organisational settings. The year culminates with the major Behaviour Change Research and Practice Project, where students conduct an independent research or consultancy-style project that applies theory and method in a real, applied setting.

Focus areas: "behaviour-change theory, intervention design, research methods, sustainability, policy"
Learning outcomes: "Students will develop skills in designing, implementing and evaluating behaviour-change interventions, apply interdisciplinary behavioural science methods in real contexts, and critically reflect on ethical, cultural and policy dimensions of behaviour change."
Professional alignment (accreditation): The programme aligns with applied behavioural-science practice standards and prepares students for roles in behaviour change consultancy, policy, health and sustainability settings (though it is not a chartered psychology route).
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Surrey is recognised for high postgraduate satisfaction in psychology and reports strong employment or further-study outcomes for its taught master’s graduates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical skills through real-world projects and access to specialised research groups. They utilise facilities including the Environmental Psychology Research Group and digital tools for studying human-environment interactions. The programme's experiential components include:

Research Groups: Direct involvement with the Environmental Psychology Research Group
Software: Training in SPSS and NVivo for quantitative and qualitative analysis
Live Projects: Real-world environmental assessment and design evaluation projects
Digital Tools: Use of simulation software and digital mapping for environmental studies
Research Project: An applied dissertation addressing real environmental challenges

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Behaviour Change at the University of Surrey are equipped with advanced knowledge and practical skills to apply behavioural science in real-world contexts to address global challenges such as sustainability, health, and social justice. Typical roles include Behavioural Scientist, Public Health Consultant, Policy Advisor, and Sustainability Officer.

Surrey’s Careers and Employability Service offers personalised career coaching, internship and placement opportunities, employer networking events, and professional skills workshops.
97% of Surrey psychology masters graduates find employment or continue in further study within 15 months, with competitive salaries in health, policy, and consultancy sectors.
The program collaborates with a range of organisations including NHS trusts, government bodies, charities, and private sector firms specializing in behaviour change.
The MSc is grounded in cutting-edge interdisciplinary research and practical applications, ensuring long-term value for careers in science, policy, and consultancy.
Graduates demonstrate strong outcomes in research, policy implementation, and intervention design roles globally.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often progress to PhD research, specialist policy roles, or consultancy careers in behaviour change and public health.

Additional Information & Requirements

A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree (or recognised equivalent international qualification) in a field related to people-environment studies, such as psychology

India- An overall average of 60% or 65% in your undergraduate study depending on the institution you have completed your degree.

USA- Bachelor's degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 2.8 out of 4.0.

IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with 6.5 in each component.

TOEFL- 95 overall Reading 22 Listening 21 Speaking 23 Writing 22

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