Behavioural Science MSc
Behavioural Economics for Sustainability ECON5169
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: Adam Smith Business School
- Credits: 10
- Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
In this course we study how theories, methods and practice from behavioural economics and psychology can be applied to address environmental and social sustainability concerns. The course will begin with a critical review of what sustainability means and how it relates to economic decision making. We will then discuss contemporary environmental and social sustainability challenges and the different levels of decision making within their processes. We will review existing evidence and key models from behavioural economics and psychology to inform our critical discussion of relevant interventions and their outcomes. Throughout the course we will ask whether a new field of behavioural science is needed to tackle sustainability questions. During the last portion of the course, students will design and peer-review novel behavioural interventions (public or private) that address sustainability concerns.
Timetable
■ Lectures (5 x 2-hour) on-campus during weeks 7 to 11. Asynchronous activities will be provided for preparation and as additional learning materials (e.g. online pre-reading discussion boards, reflective Moodle quizzes, etc.).
■ Tutorials (2 x 2-hour) on-campus during weeks 9 and 11. Asynchronous activities will be included for preparation and as additional learning materials (e.g. online use cases, discussion boards, idea pads, etc.).
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
1. Written assignment, including essay; Individual; 1000 words; 50%; ILOs 1-3.
2. Written assignment, including essay; Individual; 500 words; 30%; ILOs 2-3.
3. Peer review; Individual; 500 words; 20%; ILOs 4.
Course Aims
This course aims to equip students with insights and tools from behavioural economics and psychology to address contemporary sustainability challenges.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
1. Critically discuss contemporary environmental and social sustainability challenges and the multiple levels of economic decision making they entail.
2. Analyse existing evidence and key models from behavioural economics and psychology related to environmental and social sustainability concerns.
3. Design and evaluate novel behavioural interventions for addressing contemporary sustainability challenges.