What can you do with a Master's in Behavioural Science?
We prepare our students to become behavioural scientists with excellent analytical research skills, advanced statistical knowledge and in-depth understanding of human behaviour.
Competences: what you have learned
Besides the necessary theoretical knowledge about behavioural science and training in advanced quantitative data analysis, this programme also teaches you additional skills that every researcher needs: to understand the ethics of research, to understand the process of academic publishing and grant proposals, and to comment on papers and proposals of others. We also encourage students to participate in workshops, colloquia, symposia and conferences to gain experience in the international academic field of behavioural science.
After your studies
The programme provides an excellent basis for a scientific research career. The majority of our graduates have gone on to PhD positions, but there are many other options open to our graduates. We prepare our students to become behavioural scientists with excellent analytical research skills, advanced statistical knowledge and in-depth understanding of human behaviour. This profile makes our graduates highly valuable within various settings, including academia, industrial and commercial settings (e.g. Unilever, CapGemini,), non-profit organisations (e.g. SCP and Cito), and clinical settings (e.g. Kentalis and Praktikon). Another possibility is to combine research with clinical practice in psychology or educational science and become a scientist practitioner. Students who are interested in this latter option usually do a clinical or applied Master's in addition to our programme.
Possible occupations
- Scientific researcher
- Societal reseacher
- Policy-maker
- Scientific practitioner
- Journalist
Discover how Emma experienced this Research Master's programme and how it prepared her for her job as advisor in sustainable behaviour.
The programme offered inspiring elective courses, enabling me to delve into areas of personal interest and gain in-depth knowledge.
- Previous education
- Bachelor Psychology (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Behavioural Science (research)
- Study end date
David Renjaän was a Master's student in Behavioural Science at Radboud University.
Where do you work now and what does your job entail?
I currently work as a PhD candidate and lecturer at the Behavioural Science Institute of Radboud University. During my PhD project, I conduct my doctoral research over a five-year period, culminating in a dissertation. My research is mostly fundamental, focusing on the process of emotional synchronization. However, my research findings could eventually contribute to relationship therapies, to help partners learn more about each other. Or to help parents understand how to better connect and maintain contact with their children. In addition to my research, I am involved in teaching research methods and statistics in the Bachelor's Psychology programme.
Why did you choose to work in this field?
Throughout my Bachelor's studies, I mostly enjoyed the methods and statistics courses. Moreover, the hands-on experience gained during the research project courses—where I learned how to design and conduct an empirical study—further motivated me to pursue an academic career. As a senior student, I began working as a teaching assistant for these research courses, which sparked my passion for education. I also like the open atmosphere at the university. Doing research, sharing knowledge and interacting with students: all these things make my work enormously valuable.
What did you learn during your studies that you now use in your work?
Throughout the Master's programme, I underwent training to develop into a skilled scientific researcher. The curriculum placed a strong emphasis on statistics and rigorous research practices, laying a solid foundation for conducting meaningful scientific research. Additionally, the programme cultivated various academic skills, such as presenting yourself and your research effectively to an audience and collaborating with peers on research projects. Moreover, the Master’s programme offered inspiring elective courses, enabling me to delve into areas of personal interest and gain in-depth knowledge. Taken together, the skills and knowledge acquired during my Master's studies have proven invaluable in my current role as a PhD candidate.
How did you experience this programme at Radboud University? In your opinion, what made this programme special?
The programme provided an intimate setting, with classes led by researchers from the field. This created a vibrant academic atmosphere that greatly enriched the learning experience. The professors treated students as fellow colleagues, embracing new and innovative research ideas. Their enthusiasm for collaborating with students on both minor and major research projects made me feel valued and recognised as a student.
What would you recommend to future students when they choose a study?
When choosing a study path, prioritise what genuinely excites and interests you. Follow your passions and pursue what brings you joy. Stay open-minded to new experiences and possibilities, as your initial expectations may differ from reality and unexpected opportunities may come your way. Don't limit yourself to just one option; allow yourself the opportunity to explore and discover where your true passions lie.
Radboud Career Service
You can always contact the Radboud Career Service of the Faculty of Social Sciences. The Career Service offers students and young alumni guidance and support as they venture into the labour market. Career Service is available for career guidance, job application tips or if you require information about internships and job vacancies.
Keep developing, even after your Master's
Radboud University can also help you develop professionally after your Master's. Through our courses, training, and continuing education programs, you will delve into current issues and strengthen your knowledge and skills. With our education for professionals, you will continue to grow and be prepared for new challenges.