Behavioral Science: The Discipline of This Decade

The Decade of Behavior was launched on Capitol Hill in September, 2000, leading to an increase of behavioral science programs in universities and concern in the public consciousness. Politicians began this initiative because they believed technology can only solve so many problems. Many of the bigger issues, such as some of the leading causes of death and disability, like AIDS and car accidents; the 20 percent of American adults who can barely read or write; and violence, are rooted in behavior.

What Can You Do With a Behavioral Science Degree?

While similar to the social sciences, behavioral science focuses more on communication strategies and decision-making processes among people or animals within social situations. This can include fields like psychology and social neuroscience. Through either online education or a traditional university program, a degree in behavioral science can lead to several career options:

• Criminologist: Use behavioral science training to advise on crime prevention and recognize criminal patterns
• Economic analyst: With a background in behavioral science, you can help to explain the emotional motivation behind consumer's financial choices
• Market research: Behavioral science has been called an emerging occupation within marketing
• Occupational therapist: Learning about how people behave in-depth can help you help them to make important career decisions
• Social and human service assistants: health care workers, case management aides, community support workers, mental health aides, and social work assistants, who all fall within this category, can benefit from a behavioral science degree

Behavioral Science Degree Program Options

Depending on the career you want to pursue, you can earn a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or PhD in behavioral science, all of which are available through online education or on a traditional campus. With the rising popularity of this field, any of these degrees should provide you with numerous career opportunities.
Sources:
Monitor on Psychology, Behavioral Science Claims the Decade
Bureau of Labor Statistics, New and Emerging Occupations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Therapists
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Social and Human Service Assistants

Laura Horwitz has worked as a freelance writer and researcher for seven years in both London and the US, focusing frequently on education and career advice. She has also taught English and journalism. She currently lives in Los Angeles.