Behavioral Economics, Policy and Organizations Carnegie Mellon University

Overview

The Behavioral Economics, Policy and Organizations programme at Carnegie Mellon University provides a rigorous academic foundation in the mechanics of human decision-making. This interdisciplinary course combines economic models with psychological insights to explore how cognitive biases and social structures impact modern society.

Students examine how individuals behave in economic settings and learn how these actions can be influenced through strategic interventions. The curriculum focuses on both theoretical frameworks and applied quantitative methods, ensuring graduates can measure and evaluate the effects of institutional structures on choice.

The department encourages a deep understanding of how people actually behave rather than how they are expected to behave in traditional models.

Why Behavioral Economics, Policy and Organizations at Carnegie Mellon University?

Carnegie Mellon University offers one of the first undergraduate programmes of its kind, providing a unique environment for studying the intersection of social and decision sciences. The institution is renowned for its pioneering research into human behaviour and its practical application to real-world issues.

Faculty members apply behavioural insights to critical societal problems, including employee motivation, inequality in the workplace, and patient adherence to medical treatments. This expertise allows students to learn from leaders who actively design policies for government and business organisations.

The programme emphasises hands-on learning through applied projects. Students engage in collecting original data, designing laboratory and field experiments, and analysing results to develop solutions for contemporary problems. This practical focus ensures that academic theories are tested against empirical evidence.

Facilities and resources within the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences support a collaborative research culture. Undergraduates have the opportunity to work alongside faculty and graduate students, deepening their technical proficiency in data analysis and experimental design.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 67020 per year
• National fee: USD 67020 per year
• Local fee: USD 67020 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Economics
• Psychology
• Behavioral Economics
• Quantitative Methods
• Data Analysis
• Experimental Design
• Evaluation of Behavioral Interventions
• Public Policy
• Organizational Behavior
• Market Design
• Applied Behavioral Research
• Behavioral Economics Capstone Project

Careers with Behavioral Economics, Policy and Organizations

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse professional paths in business, government, and the non-profit sector. The analytical skills gained during the degree are highly valued in roles involving policy design, behavioural insights, and strategic organisational decision-making.

Many alumni secure positions in management consulting, where they apply their understanding of human behaviour to improve corporate efficiency. Others work within public agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of social programmes and to design interventions that encourage positive civic outcomes.

The programme also provides an excellent foundation for advanced study. Graduates frequently pursue master's or doctoral degrees in economics, psychology, and public policy, or enter professional schools to study law and business, leveraging their expertise in decision science.