What is a behavioral science degree?

Behavioral science is a field of psychology that centers on the study of people’s decisions, thoughts, and reactions. This area is rooted in the theory that human behavior is guided by external stimuli and conditioning.

Also known as behaviorism, this theory holds that people make choices based on positive or negative reinforcement. For example, a parent who treats their child with an ice cream cone for good behavior is positively reinforcing desired actions, while a parent who punishes their child with a time-out for acting out is negatively reinforcing unwanted actions. Behavioral psychologists believe all human behavior can be explained through this perspective.

A behavioral science degree is a psychology degree that studies people and choices through this lens of behaviorism. There are many different types of behavioral science and behavioral psychology degrees. From bachelor’s degrees to master’s programs to Ph.Ds., behavioral science is an extensive field.

What’s the difference between behavioral science, behavioral psychology, and behavioral economics?

These terms are all intertwined. Ultimately, these all aim to study individual behavior and why certain choices are made.

Behavioral science and behavioral psychology can be used interchangeably. Behavioral science or behavioral psychology is focused on understanding the process behind a person’s actions and decisions, motivations

Meanwhile, behavioral economics studies human behavior through the lens of economic models. Behavioral economics combines psychology and economics to better understand why certain choices are made and to help encourage better choices.

Behavioral psychology degree courses often cover:

• Developmental psychology
• Social psychology
• Research and statistical methods
• Sociology
• Advanced behavior analysis
• Personality disorders