Behavioral Economics
The Behavioral Economics Bachelor of Science program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how psychological, social, and cognitive factors influence economic decision-making. The curriculum integrates microeconomics, macroeconomics, psychology, decision theory, and experimental methods, allowing students to explore why individuals and organizations make certain choices and how these behaviors affect markets, policy, and societal outcomes. Students engage in empirical research, data analysis, and experimental design, developing the ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world economic problems and social policy challenges.
Throughout the program, students participate in research seminars, case studies, and collaborative projects guided by faculty experts in economics and psychology. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and quantitative analysis, fostering the ability to assess economic behavior through both theoretical and empirical lenses. Graduates leave the program with analytical skills, research proficiency, critical reasoning, and decision-making expertise, fully prepared to address complex challenges in economic analysis, policy, and business environments, while understanding human behavior at both individual and organizational levels.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Behavioral Economics
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Economics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Behavioral Economics
- Introduction to Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
- Principles of Psychology for Economists
- Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis
- Critical Thinking and Research Foundations
Year 2 – Intermediate Economic Behavior
- Experimental Economics and Decision Theory
- Behavioral Finance and Consumer Choice
- Statistics and Econometrics
- Policy Analysis and Economic Applications
Year 3 – Advanced Behavioral Economics
- Psychology of Decision-Making
- Economic Game Theory and Strategic Interaction
- Electives: Neuroeconomics, Public Policy, or Market Behavior
- Applied Research Project
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research
- Seminar in Contemporary Behavioral Economics
- Advanced Data Analysis and Modeling
- Professional Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Behavioral Economics program are prepared for careers in financial services, public policy, marketing, behavioral research, consulting, and data analysis, where understanding human behavior is crucial. Alumni may work as behavioral analysts, policy advisors, consumer research specialists, data scientists, or pursue graduate studies in economics, psychology, or business. The program equips graduates to analyze decision-making patterns, design interventions to influence behavior, and interpret complex datasets to inform strategic decisions. With a combination of quantitative, analytical, and behavioral insight, graduates are highly competitive for positions in both corporate and public sectors, as well as research-oriented environments.
Why Choose This Program
This program stands out for its integration of economic theory, psychological insight, quantitative analysis, and applied research over a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty, opportunities to participate in experimental studies, and access to advanced analytical tools, fostering both theoretical understanding and practical expertise. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary application, preparing graduates to evaluate complex economic behaviors, influence policy and business strategies, and contribute meaningfully to research and practice. For students passionate about understanding decision-making, human behavior, and market dynamics, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
