An innovative new executive postgraduate programme in behavioural science has been launched by Durham University.

It is tailored to equip professionals with advanced skills to enable them to drive change through behavioural science.

The MSc degree focuses on real-world application to pressing issues in business, public policy, sustainability, health, and society.

It will be delivered through a mix of online and in-person learning in an 18-month part-time programme.

The Northern Echo: Durham University launches new Executive MSc in Behavioural Science

The course examines how small changes to environments and architecture can spur positive shifts in behaviour.

Its core topics include research methods, applied data science, leadership, communication, diversity management and an applied consultancy-style research project.

The interdisciplinary curriculum features input from leading behavioural science experts from Durham University’s internationally top-ranked Department of Psychology.

The Northern Echo: Durham University's new Executive Msc in Behavioural Science

Programme Director, Professor Mark Rubin of Durham University, said: “People’s behaviour shapes outcomes across every industry and policy area, from health to financial decision making to environmental choices.

“With companies increasingly turning to behavioural science for guidance, this programme meets a growing need for working professionals to gain expertise to improve key metrics from employee wellbeing, to customer retention, to sustainability.”

The inaugural Executive MSc in Behavioural Science cohort begins in September.

The Northern Echo:

Entry is described as “competitive”, requiring a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree and two years’ work experience demonstrating leadership potential.

Professor Markus Hausmann, head of the Department of Psychology at Durham University, said: “We’re proud to leverage Durham’s excellence in behavioural research to translate evidence-based insights to those applying behavioural science at senior levels.”

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He added that the innovative Master’s degree is designed to equip ambitious professionals with the knowledge and skills to drive change through a deeper understanding of human behaviour.

Two short on-campus blocks will provide opportunities for peer networking and exposure to Durham’s unique educational environment.

Prospective students can apply to enrol to the programme via https://behaviouralscience.webspace.durham.ac.uk/, which includes course details.