So, you’ve got a thing for why people do what they do? You find yourself psychoanalyzing your dog, your boss, or the barista who misspells your name every single time? Congratulations—you might be destined for a career in behavioral science.
And guess what? Behavioral science jobs are booming. We’re talking global impact, policy influence, UX wizardry and, yes, even opportunities with international organizations. Whether you’re a student hunting for purpose or a mid-career maverick craving meaning, behavioral science is where curiosity meets career.
Let’s break down the brilliance, shall we?
What can you do with a behavioral science degree?
Short answer: a lot more than you think. Long answer: welcome to the Swiss Army knife of degrees.
Behavioral science blends psychology, sociology, and decision-making into one powerful toolkit. Companies, governments, and NGOs are using it to shape everything from climate policy to shopping habits. Behavioral scientists help design better products, improve public health, reduce fraud, increase savings—you name it.
And the behavioral science job market is buzzing
Graduates from IE University’s behavioral science program have landed roles at Red Bull, Beway, Johnson & Johnson and BCG.
Need more proof? Behavioral science jobs exist at places like Google, the UN, and even inside the sneaky-smart apps you scroll at 2 a.m.
Alumni spotlight: Paula Trigo
To see how far a behavioral science degree can take you, meet Paula Trigo Sánchez, a BBSS graduate making waves in human resources strategy.
After graduating from IE University, Paula kicked off her career with an internship at Primark’s People & Culture department, where she manages internship programs across 64 stores and corporate offices in Spain. Her job involves everything from employer branding to talent acquisition—a role where her behavioral science background shines.
One unexpected challenge? Learning how to effectively communicate with diverse teams.
“I had to adapt my communication style to different professional profiles,” Paula says. “Active listening and flexibility were key—and my BBSS degree gave me the tools to navigate it.”
She credits much of her growth to IE University’s teamwork-based, multicultural environment. Courses like Behavioral Neuroscience and Coaching, Counseling and Behavioral Intervention weren’t just academic—they built the skills she now uses daily: leadership, self-awareness, emotional intelligence.
Her advice to students?
- Believe in your potential, even when you’re doubting yourself.
- Use every resource—from job fairs to alumni networks.
- Stay open to different industries—you might find your passion where you least expect it.
For Paula, behavioral science wasn’t just a degree—it was a mindset. And it’s still shaping how she works and grows today.
UN Jobs for behavioral scientists
Yes, the United Nations is hiring behavioral scientists. (We told you this was legit.)
According to UNJobs.org, current postings include:
- Behavioral Science Advisor – UNDP
- Behavioral Insights Consultant – UNICEF
- Nudging Expert (yep, that’s a thing) – WHO
- Strategic Behavioral Designer – UN Environment Program
The UN wants behavioral pros to help solve global challenges—from climate change to vaccine hesitancy. If you want to fight the good fight with science and smarts, this is your arena. And yes, many of them are rooted in nudge theory.
Famous behavioral scientists to get inspired by
Why name-drop behavioral scientists? Because these folks are rockstars in rationality—and their work is everywhere, even if you don’t see their names in neon. (Source: Forbes)
Katy Milkman
A Wharton prof and bestselling author, Milkman blends data with habit-building magic. She co-founded Behavior Change for Good, which is pretty much the Avengers for nudging people toward healthier choices.
Dan Ariely
He’s the godfather of irrationality. Ariely’s research shows just how predictably illogical we are—and how to use that for good. Think of him as the behavioral science world’s Sherlock Holmes.
Michael Hallsworth
As Managing Director at the Behavioral Insights Team (aka the “Nudge Unit”), Hallsworth helps governments make smarter, simpler policies. Red tape? He cuts through it with science.
Cass Sunstein
This legal scholar co-wrote Nudge with Nobel winner Richard Thaler. He’s basically the reason why your organ donation form is now opt-out instead of opt-in. Subtle? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely.
These are just a few of the legends making behavioral science cooler than any lab coat ever could.
Your first step: The Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences
If this field sounds like your kind of weird, IE University’s Bachelor in Behavior and Social Sciences is a killer launchpad.
The program blends psychology, sociology, economics, and data science. It’s global, practical, and loaded with hands-on experience. You won’t just study theories—you’ll apply them to tech, health, business, and beyond.
Graduates go on to rock careers in:
- UX research (because clicking isn’t random)
- Behavioral policy (hello, government gigs)
- Marketing and business strategy (persuasion meets profit)
- Public health and sustainability (save the planet, one nudge at a time)
Sofía Martín, a current BBSS student, shares this advice for anyone seeking behavioral science jobs:
“Stay proactive. Research the companies you’re interested in interning with and check if they offer these programs. Reach out even if they don’t—you never know!”
Final Word? Behavioral science isn’t just a career. It’s a superpower.
It’s how we design smarter cities, fairer systems, healthier habits and better lives. The world needs more curious, clever minds who understand people—and know how to move them. So if you’ve got a brain for behavior and a heart for impact?
The world’s your laboratory. Go claim your spot.