Behavioral science is the study of interactions and behaviors of living organisms, and it can prepare you for a career in a variety of fields, from life sciences to social work. In order to get into the field of behavioral science, it is very likely that you will need to work toward completion of an undergraduate degree. Many students even continue on to complete a master's degree or PhD in the field. Of course, before you can enroll in a college program, you will need to complete a high school education and get good grades, particularly in math, science, and languages.
While it may seem early to start preparing for a career in behavioral science while in high school, this is an important time for building foundational skills and knowledge relevant to the field. If you are in high school, getting good grades can help ensure you are accepted to a good quality behavioral science program, which will in turn help you get a good job in the field once you graduate. A keen interest in life sciences and the social sciences will also be important.
Try to find a college degree program that is most suitable to your overall interests and career goals. A degree in behavioral science can prepare you for a multitude of jobs, so it helps to develop a sense of what you want to do with the degree once you graduate. Some degree programs will be tailored toward specific careers rather than a broader understanding of behavioral sciences, so if you are certain what field you want to enter upon graduation, look for programs that will specialize in that field. Research the various instructors within the program and choose the college with professors whom you will be interested in working with.
After you graduate, you can apply for entry-level positions in a variety of fields, or you can choose to continue your education with a master's degree or PhD. Continuing your education will take more time and money, but you may be able to get a job that pays better and grants more responsibility. Entering the work force after completing a bachelor's degree will allow you to get valuable experience in the field, tough you may start with a position with less responsibility and pay. To improve your chances of getting a good job, it's a good idea to seek out internships while you are still attending school. This will allow you to get valuable experience and establish important contacts within the field of behavioral science.
