The Architecture of Choice: Behavioral Economics, Cognitive Bias, and Nudge Theory
Led by Emory Economics Professor David McMillon (former Harvard Fellow and University of Chicago Ph.D.), this program challenges orthodox economic assumptions through behavioral economics, cognitive bias, and nudge theory. Students analyze empirical datasets on consumer, healthcare, and educational choices—culminating in a rigorous, publication-ready research manuscript demonstrating superior quantitative and analytical command.
Program Overview
Rigorous Methodology
Develop advanced data collection and analysis skills under strict academic standards.
Publication Output
Students author their own research manuscript. Journal submission and acceptance are separate steps, not guaranteed outcomes.
Expert Mentorship
Direct feedback and ongoing guidance from scholars active at top global institutions.
Your interests.
Your question. Your paper.
Start with what you want to investigate. Develop your own research question and write your own paper, with professor and TA guidance on methods, evidence and revision. The course theme is a starting point—not a predetermined paper to reproduce.
Applications & feesProgram at a glance
- Who it is for
- Recommended for students in Grades 9–12. University students may also participate.
- Learning format
- Online (Remote)
- Professor instruction
- 10 hours
- TA guidance
- 30 hours
See the dates and teaching schedule for this cohort.
Students work toward their own research manuscript. Journal submission and acceptance are separate steps; publication and university admission are not guaranteed.
✦ Research Overview
Challenging traditional economics’ assumption of the "rational actor" (Homo economicus), this program explores how human decisions are fundamentally shaped by cognitive biases, loss aversion, and mental heuristics. Students examine how these psychological shortcuts drive real-world market and behavioral patterns. Furthermore, the course teaches students how to design "nudges"—subtle shifts in choice architecture that steer decisions toward positive outcomes—and apply behavioral interventions to sustainability, marketing, and public policy challenges.
✦ Key Badges & Tags #BehavioralEconomics #NudgeTheory #ChoiceArchitecture #CognitiveBias #BehavioralDesign #AppliedEconometrics
Course Curriculum
Quantitative Analysis of Behavioral Economics
Led by David McMillon
Assistant Professor of Economics • Emory University
A quantitative economist trained at the University of Chicago (Ph.D.) and Harvard University (Postdoctoral Fellow), Professor David McMillon is an Assistant Professor of Economics at Emory University. His research models the dynamics of human capital formation, educational inequality, and behavioral decision-making under scarcity. Dr. McMillon applies sophisticated econometric and machine learning tools to high-stakes policy questions. Students working with Professor McMillon master rigorous empirical data analysis, learning how to test economic hypotheses against real-world datasets and construct mathematically defensible policy recommendations.
Course Description: This course style introduces core economics through incentives, trade-offs, and data. Students learn how individuals, firms, and governments make decisions under constraints, and how those choices shape markets and policy outcomes. Emphasis is placed on economic reasoning that can be defended with evidence. Students practice using simple models, interpreting real datasets, and evaluating what policies can realistically change. Projects often analyze a real issue—inequality, education, labor markets, or consumer behavior—ending in a clear write-up that links theory to data and acknowledges limitations. Assessment Methods: Recommendation Letter Opportunities, Research Papers
Professor Hours
10 hours
TA Mentoring Hours
30 hours
Schedule
tbd
Program Details
Faculty Mentor
David McMillon
Assistant Professor of Economics
Emory University
Duration
Dec 19, 2026 – Dec 30, 2026
Cohort Capacity
5 Students
Delivery Format
Online (Remote)
Program tuition
$5,000 USD
Tuition is separate from the $50 USD application fee. Ask admissions about payment timing, inclusions and cancellation terms before applying.
Online card charge: ₩68,000 KRW. Covers application review; tuition is separate.
Applications are reviewed for research readiness and fit. A place is confirmed only after an admissions decision.
Application steps and fee informationCancellation and refund policy₩68,000 KRW