Behavioral Science
Behavioral science is an exciting and multidisciplinary field that seeks to understand why people behave the way they do. It combines elements of psychology, sociology, economics, and neuroscience to explore human behavior, thoughts, and decision-making processes. By using scientific methods and rigorous research, behavioral scientists aim to uncover the underlying factors that drive our actions and choices.
This field goes beyond just studying individual behavior; it also examines the influence of social, cultural, and environmental factors on our actions. It explores topics such as cognitive processes, emotions, social interactions, motivation, and learning. Behavioral science seeks to answer questions like why we form habits, how we make decisions, and what drives our interactions with others. The insights gained from behavioral science have practical applications in various domains. It helps us design effective interventions to promote healthy behaviors, improve organizational management, enhance public policies, and even shape marketing strategies. Understanding the complexities of human behavior can ultimately lead to positive societal change, better individual well-being, and improved outcomes in areas such as health, education, and social justice.
EXPLORE CAREERS
Research
Behavioral science researchers conduct studies, experiments, and surveys to gather data and contribute to the knowledge and understanding of human behavior. They work in academic institutions, research organizations, or private sector companies, focusing on areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, neuroscience, or behavioral economics.
- There are opportunities within this career that would not require obtaining advanced degrees, such as Research Assistant, Research Associate, and Lab Assistant.
- Advanced specialized positions within research will require a graduate degree. Some examples of job titles include Research Professor, Behavioral Scientist, and Research Consultant.
Counseling and Therapy
The counseling and therapy field is a branch of behavioral science that focuses on helping individuals, couples, families, and groups to improve their mental health, well-being, and overall functioning. Professionals in this field utilize various therapeutic approaches and interventions to address psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues.
- There are opportunities within this career that would not require obtaining advanced degrees, such as Mental Health Technician, Case Manager, Behavior Technician, Program Administrator, and Services Coordinator.
- If you would like to be a Counselor, Therapist, or Psychologist you will need to earn an advanced degree by attending graduate school.
Applied Behavioral Analysis
Behavioral analysts apply principles of behavior analysis, particularly in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), to help individuals with developmental disabilities or behavior disorders. They develop and implement behavior intervention plans, conduct assessments, and work closely with clients, families, and caregivers.
- There are opportunities within this career that would not require obtaining advanced degrees, such as Behavior Technician, Program Coordinator, Paraprofessional, Behavioral Interventionist, and Early Intervention Specialist.
- Advanced specialized positions within applied behavior analysis will require a graduate degree. Some examples of job titles include Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Behavior Consultant, University Professor, Clinical Director, and ABA Program Developer.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychologists study the relationship between brain function and behavior. They assess and diagnose cognitive and behavioral disorders resulting from brain injuries, diseases, or neurological conditions. They may work in hospitals, research institutions, or private practices.
- There are opportunities within this career that would not require obtaining advanced degrees, such as Research Assistant, Research Coordinator, and Psychiatric Technician.
- Advanced specialized positions within neuropsychology will require a graduate degree. Some examples of job titles include Neuropsychologist, Testing Psychologist, and Research Scientist.
FIND OPPORTUNITIES
To help you explore different employers within behavioral sciences you can utilize the job boards below. Please note this is not an exhaustive list of employers, just a starting point!
DEVELOP YOUR INTEREST
There are many options to get involved at Colorado College and develop your career competencies. Get involved to deepen your understanding of an industry and help you decide if a job in this field is of interest to you. Planning your experience can feel daunting, so check out some industry specific ideas both on and offf campus below. As you plan, meet with the Advising Hub to discuss your major and academic interests to ensure you’re on track for your academic plans as well.
- Colorado College Clubs: Colorado College Neuroscience Club, Community-Based Substance Use Harm Reduction at CC, IfYoureReadingThis, Gender Minorities in STEM, and National Alliance of Mental Illness on Campus.
- On-Campus Job Examples: Research Assistant, Lab Assistant, Peer Health Educator, Resident Assistant, and Sexual Assault Response and Prevention Peer Ambassador.
- Check your academic department's webpage for specific events and to join the email mailing list!
- Check out different offices on campus that could provide additional experiences. Such as the Wellness Resource Center and Butler Center.
- Research Opportunities within Colorado College: Student Research Opportunities, Psychology.
- Research Opportunities outside of Colorado College: Research Experiences for Undergraduates REU.
- Neuroscience Department Outreach Program
- Consider taking courses at CC to earn certificates, such as CPR, First Aid & AED, and EMT Basic
- If you are interested in attending graduate school, start graduate school preparation early. Such as identifying programs of interest, knowing admission requirements, and talking to faculty and the Career Center about your interest in graduate school.
- If you are interested in working in a health profession (for example a psychiatrist) please connect with the Pre-Health Advisor in the Advising Hub.
- Engage in service work through the Collaborative for Community Engagement.
- Test out specific areas of interest by engaging in micro-opportunities, such as ones offered by Paragon One, Forage, Open Avenues Foundation, and Parker Dewey.
- Continue to develop professionally by doing an Internship. You can search for experiences online or connect with your faculty to see if they know of industry-specific opportunities.
- Participate in Wellness Resource Center Programming such as Suicide Prevention QPR Training, Naloxone Workshop, and Science of Substances.
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CURIOUS TO LEARN MORE
If you are interested in learning more about certain career paths you can start with professional associations. They offer insight on what it is like working within the industry and provide tips for getting started.
- American Psychological Association, Association for Psychological Science, American Association of Psychiatric Technicians, American Counseling Association, Association for Behavior Analysis International, Society for Neuroscience and American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology.
- DEI: Association of Black Psychologists, National Association of Black Counselors, National Latinx Psychological Association, Society of Indian Psychologists, Indian Counseling Association, Asian American Psychological Association, Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, SAIGE Counseling, and Association for Women in Psychology.
Questions? Reach out!
