If you choose to major in Behavioral Science, you will study a combination of psychology, biomedical science, and social science to examine complex problems of human growth and behavior. You will research the biological factors behind human behaviors, using them to answer a myriad of questions such as the following: Why is learning a language as an infant easier than as a teenager? What are the roots of violence? If these questions interest you, consider majoring in Behavioral Science.
Education
According to the College Board, this major is typically offered at the bachelor’s degree level. Your course load will be an equal mix of science and psychology classes. Expect to study biology, research methods, social psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive psychology. You should also be prepared to spend a lot of time in the lab, doing research and preparing presentations.
What to know before you apply
Many colleges that offer this major require students to complete internships or field work before graduation. Take a look at the hands-on opportunities that will be available to you as part of your study. You may have the opportunity to intern at a shelter, prison, special-education classroom, or another site where you will study human behaviors in real world situations. There’s also a good chance you will need to pursue a graduate degree, depending on what field of work you’re interested in.
Colleges offering related fields of study
• Mount Mary University: Milwaukee, WI
• Frostburg State University: Frostburg, MD
• Concordia College: Bronxville, NY
• Wade College: Dallas, TX
Salary
After graduation, you may choose to work in a variety of different fields including sociology, psychology, or even for the government as a criminologist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, sociologists earned a median pay of $74,960 per year in 2012; psychologists earned a median pay of $69,280 per year in 2012.
