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Introduction to Behavioural Economics unit (BEA106)

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Unit year 2026

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Location: Hobart, Online

Introduction

Traditional economics portrays decision making as rational deliberation that computes optimal choices based on well-defined objectives and perfect information. In reality, limited information and cognition as well as certain features of the human psychology often result in decisions that deviate from this assumption. Behavioural economics attempts to explain these deviations using insights and theories from the other social sciences, in particular psychology. This unit introduces students to this intersection of economics and psychology. Its aim is not to be mathematically or theoretically thorough. Rather, it focuses on developing a better understanding of how human psychology affects economic decisions and how such knowledge can be applied to real world business and policy issues, including to nudge.

Summary

Unit name Introduction to Behavioural Economics
Unit code BEA106
Credit points 12.5
College/School Tasmanian School of Business and Economics
Discipline Economics
Coordinator Professor Swee-Hoon Chuah
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Introductory

Sustainable Development Goals

The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Semester 1 This unit is available through on-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
Online Semester 1 This unit is available through off-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
  • Key:
  • This unit is available through on-campus delivery On-campus
  • This unit is available through off-campus delivery Off-Campus
  • Available to International Students International students
  • Available to Domestic Students Domestic students
Note

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Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 1 22/2/2026 16/3/2026 19/4/2026 13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Describe key concepts and methods in behavioural economics and explain their significance in economics.
  • Apply behavioural economic concepts and theories to examine real-world problems in different contexts.
  • Explain and assess the role of behavioural economics in public, social and business policy.
  • Communicate key concepts and applications of behavioural economics clearly and cogently.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
091901 $2,174.00 $1,703.00 not applicable $2,862.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
  • HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
  • FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

XPD114

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

The below arrangements apply for both On Campus and Online students:

Introductory 2-hr workshop, Week 1 only
Pre-recorded 1-hr lecture, weekly
2-hr workshop, weekly, commencing Week 2
5-hrs independent learning, weekly
AssessmentReflection (30%)|Test (30%)|Analysis (40%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

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