About behavioural studies

We explore human behaviour from social, cultural and psychological perspectives. We look at the theory and research to answer important questions around why humans behave the way they do and the social issues that arise as a consequence.

Why choose behavioural studies?

You’ll develop insights into your own behaviour and motivations, as well as those of others, making you a socially aware and an interpersonally effective employee. You’ll learn how to apply social psychological principles to important problems, such as domestic violence, cyberbullying, euthanasia, eating disorders, climate change and terrorism.

Breakthroughs in behavioural studies have led to a better understanding of anti-social behaviour, consumer behaviour, crime and more.

Taken alongside one of the other majors in Social Sciences (anthropology, criminology, international relations, politics or sociology), a minor in behavioural studies plays a vital part in preparing you for employment in areas that involve the understanding, management and direction of human behaviours and relations, particularly in private and public sector areas such as the human services field, management, marketing, communications and media.

What will you study?

Behavioural studies allows you to study a broad range of areas that examine who we are and why. You’ll explore topics such as:

• Human behaviour
• Social behaviour
• Personality
• Political psychology
• Social research methods
• Politics of identity.

What careers will you be ready for?

Behavioural studies can lead to careers in:

• Defence
• Education
• Behavioural research
• Psychology
• Social policy
• Human resource management
• Advertising and marketing
• Criminology and much more.

Who will be teaching you?

Our academics in behavioural studies have diverse research interests. Some look into global terrorism, sociology of disease, crime and other psychological behaviours like stigma, prejudice and discrimination. Others look into health and social policy such as gambling policy, the promotion of alcohol in sport, masculinity and substance misuse and harms. The breadth of our research reflects the endless opportunities in this fascinating field, which tries to answer some of the biggest questions about who we are and why.

Global study

With Monash’s impressive international links, you’ll have the opportunity to travel around the world on short or long term programs.

Exchange programs include:

• University of Wisconsin-Madison – USA
• University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill – USA
• National University of Singapore – Singapore
• Free University of Berlin – Germany
• University of Essex – England.

GIG: Global Immersion Guarantee

The Monash Arts Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG) is an award-winning initiative that will enable you to explore first-hand the relationships between society, technology and the environment. It’s a two-week, funded study trip for all eligible first-year Monash Arts, single or double degree students to one of six destinations – China, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia or the Pacific Islands.