Best Master’s in Behavioral Science Programs
A master’s in behavioral science can make you an expert in human behavior. Learn about the diverse courses and career opportunities in this exciting field.At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
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At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
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Are you fascinated by human behavior — why people do what they do? A master’s in behavioral science can advance your understanding of human behavior so you can help people manage behavioral conditions.
Behavioral science is an interdisciplinary field. You’ll gain insights into human interactions and motivations from sociology, anthropology, psychology, and even economics.
This interdisciplinary approach means a master’s in behavioral science is valuable across diverse career paths. As a behavioral scientist, you might work in social services, social and public policy, human resources, healthcare, criminal justice, education, or business.
Popular Online Psychology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Master’s in Behavioral Science Programs
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$36,254
$36,254
8%
6%
$51,156
$51,156
98%
26,675
Private
Yes
$36,254
$36,254
Philadelphia, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$36,254
$36,254
8%
6%
$51,156
$51,156
98%
26,675
Private
Yes
Emory University
Atlanta, GA4 yearCampus
$42,800
$42,800
16%
10%
$53,070
$53,070
95%
14,415
Private
Yes
$42,800
$42,800
Atlanta, GA4 yearCampus
$42,800
$42,800
16%
10%
$53,070
$53,070
95%
14,415
Private
Yes
Teachers College at Columbia University
New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$40,800
$40,800
N/A
14%
N/A
N/A
N/A
4,489
Private
Yes
$40,800
$40,800
New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$40,800
$40,800
N/A
14%
N/A
N/A
N/A
4,489
Private
Yes
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$7,920
$17,568
74%
42%
$5,740
$19,176
80%
9,082
Public
Yes
$7,920
$17,568
Houston, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$7,920
$17,568
74%
42%
$5,740
$19,176
80%
9,082
Public
Yes
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$9,989
$23,951
93%
29%
$10,092
$26,960
86%
27,552
Public
Yes
$9,989
$23,951
Lawrence, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$9,989
$23,951
93%
29%
$10,092
$26,960
86%
27,552
Public
Yes
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ4 yearCampus + Online
$12,879
$12,879
74%
34%
$10,076
$18,908
83%
19,618
Public
Yes
$12,879
$12,879
Glassboro, NJ4 yearCampus + Online
$12,879
$12,879
74%
34%
$10,076
$18,908
83%
19,618
Public
Yes
Popular Courses in a Master’s in Behavioral Science Program
Master’s in behavior science programs offer fascinating courses that provide insight into human behavior. Below, find a list of courses you may take.
Introduction to Psychology
In this course, you’ll learn the basics of the mental processes that drive human behavior.
Coursework covers the history and theories of psychology, including social influence, neuroscience, and learning and psychological disabilities.
The field of psychology crosses disciplines. You may also explore its connections to biology and philosophy.
Crime and Media
This course explores how media representation influences people’s perception of crime.
You’ll learn how different types of media portray crimes, including television, film, and journalism.
Course topics might include sensationalism, media bias, and the media’s impact on criminal justice policies.
Theories of Race, Class, and Gender
This course explores the relationship between race, class, and gender. You’ll learn about social inequalities and intersectional theory, which explores how various identity categories combine.
Sociology of the Family
In this class, you’ll learn about the complexities of family systems. This course also explores how family relationships vary based on social categories like class, race, and gender.
You might also examine families as an institution, including how roles change within families and the impact of social policies on family life.
Social Research
This course equips you with the skills needed to design and conduct research projects to study human behavior within different social contexts.
You’ll explore the ethical considerations behind social research. You’ll also learn how to collect and analyze social data.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Behavioral Science?
Earning a master’s in behavioral science can make you eligible for many careers. In your master’s program, you can choose a specialization such as industrial-organizational psychology or clinical mental health counseling.
After you graduate, you can work in mental health, public health, public safety, public policy, or social services. Specific roles you can pursue include behavior analysts, human resource specialists, and social or community service managers.
According to Payscale, social and community service managers earned an average annual salary of $63,960 as of 2023. Behavior analysts earned around $72,850 per year as of 2024, while human resource managers make 75,380.
Other positions you might explore include clinical psychologist, mental health researcher, rehabilitation manager, and behavioral health manager.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Behavioral Science Programs
Yes, a master’s in behavior science can be a worthy investment if the degree program aligns with your personal interests and career goals.
The degree program can help you develop subject matter expertise, critical thinking and research skills, and a professional network.
A master’s in behavior science can present more employment opportunities with healthy salaries.
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