University of Technology Sydney

What you'll study

The programme covers core behavioural economics theory alongside applied methods for measuring, modelling and changing behaviour. You can expect units in cognitive and motivational foundations of choice, experimental and field methods, behavioural game theory, and applied areas such as behavioural public policy, behavioural finance and consumer decision-making.

Practical skills training is a strong focus: typical modules teach experimental design and laboratory methods, survey and field experiment implementation, statistical and econometric techniques for causal inference, and data visualisation. Students also study ethics and the practical challenges of translating behavioural evidence into interventions ('nudges'), and have options to specialise through electives or a research project.

The programme structure usually mixes taught coursework with a capstone or research component. The capstone can take the form of an industry-linked project, a policy brief, or an independent research thesis depending on the chosen stream and electives. Assessment commonly involves a combination of written assignments, experimental reports, data analysis projects and presentations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in economics, psychology, statistics, commerce, behavioural science or a closely related discipline. A background in quantitative methods or demonstrated numeracy is preferred because of the programme’s emphasis on experimentation and data analysis.

Candidates without a strong quantitative undergraduate background may be considered if they can demonstrate relevant professional experience or have completed bridging studies in statistics or research methods. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.

Selection typically takes into account academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining relevant interests and goals, and any relevant professional experience or research experience in applied settings.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Behavioural Economics find roles across government, private and not-for-profit sectors. Common career paths include positions in behavioural insights and policy teams, regulatory bodies, public and private sector consultancies, and research roles in think-tanks and universities.

Other employers value these skills in areas such as user experience and product teams, marketing and consumer analytics, financial services (behavioural finance, risk and compliance), and program or evaluation units that design and test interventions. Graduates are equipped to work as behavioural economists, policy advisers, behavioural researchers, experiment designers, analytics specialists and consultants.

Why study at University of Technology Sydney

UTS provides a practice-focused learning environment with strong links to industry and government, enabling students to apply behavioural methods to real-world problems. The university supports hands-on experimentation through facilities and labs used for behavioural research and field trials.

Located in Sydney, UTS offers access to a broad network of policy bodies, financial institutions and private-sector employers, which helps with networking and industry project opportunities. The programme’s mix of theoretical grounding and applied research prepares graduates to both conduct rigorous analysis and implement behaviourally informed solutions in professional settings.