Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment

/ Overview

The Graduate Degree Programme in Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment is a two-year Master of Science (MSc) programme taught in English, unique within the Faculty of Psychology for its strong applied and interdisciplinary focus. The programme aims to prepare psychologists specialising in the analysis and modification of behaviour, with particular attention to lifestyles, consumption and health promotion, from a specifically psychological perspective centred on cognitive, social and behavioural processes.

The programme brings together health psychology, the psychology of decision-making, consumer psychology and community psychology, with the aim of understanding and addressing risk behaviours and promoting healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. Central to the programme is the “One Health” approach, which connects mental health, physical health, nutrition and environmental sustainability, viewing human wellbeing in relation to social, food-related and environmental contexts.

The programme promotes dialogue between psychology and disciplines related to health, nutrition and the environment, providing an integrated understanding of human behaviour in relation to psychological, biological and contextual factors. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of advanced methodological skills, both qualitative and quantitative, including the analysis of complex data and big data applied to the study of consumer and health behaviours.

Its strong interdisciplinary approach brings together psychology, nutrition science, economics and public policy, preparing professional psychologists able to collaborate with doctors, nutritionists, social marketing experts and policy makers.

The programme also has a strong applied focus, centred on the design and management of behavioural change interventions and the promotion of psychological wellbeing among individuals, groups, communities and organisations.

The programme responds to current needs related to the promotion of psychological wellbeing, health, sustainability and quality of life, preparing professional psychologists sought by public and private organisations working in the fields of wellbeing, nutrition and the environment. The programme is also supported by an international teaching staff with a strong scientific profile, active in research and knowledge dissemination.

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Why choose Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment at Università Cattolica?

This graduate degree programme prepares psychologists to understand, analyse and change behaviours related to health, consumption and sustainability, combining psychological, methodological and interdisciplinary skills with a strong focus on applied intervention.

Understanding health and consumer behaviours

Study of the cognitive, social and decision-making processes underlying individual and collective behaviours, with a focus on health, wellbeing, lifestyles and consumption.

Integrated perspective on health, nutrition and the environment

Integrated analysis of psychological wellbeing in relation to dietary, environmental and social factors, from a multidimensional perspective on health.

Advanced research and data analysis skills

Development of advanced qualitative and quantitative skills, using complex data and big data to study decision-making processes and behaviours.

Interdisciplinary approach

Integration of psychology, nutrition, economics and public policy to understand and interpret complex phenomena related to human decisions and behaviours.

International dimension

English-taught programme set in a global academic context and focused on collaboration across international and multidisciplinary contexts.

Practical training

Design and application of strategies for behavioural change and the promotion of psychological wellbeing among individuals, communities and organisations.

100

%

Overall satisfaction with the degree programme

Source: Satisfaction among students who completed the degree programme, as measured in the latest survey of graduating students, calendar year 2025.

/ Study plan

Programme structure

The study plan is structured to progressively integrate theoretical foundations, methodological skills and practical applications, with particular attention to the study of human decision-making and behaviour in relation to psychological wellbeing, health, consumption and sustainability.

First year

The first year provides the theoretical and methodological foundations needed to understand the key models of human decision-making and behaviour and their applications to psychological wellbeing, lifestyles and consumer choices. Particular attention is given to fundamental psychological processes and data analysis tools.

Second year

The second year explores in greater depth the application of psychological models to behaviour change in the areas of prevention, psychological wellbeing and consumer trends, with a focus on intervention design and advanced data analysis.

The programme also integrates theoretical, methodological and applied skills, supporting the understanding and management of behaviour in complex contexts.

View the study plan

The main areas of study:

Clinical Psychology of Lifestyles

Consumer and Health Psychology

Psychology of Decision-Making and Judgement

Quantitative and qualitative research methods

Psychology of Behaviour Change and Wellbeing Promotion

Applied Social Psychology

Teaching approach

The Graduate Degree Programme in Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment adopts a teaching approach strongly focused on applied research, experimentation and engagement with professional and international contexts.

Research projects and behaviour analysis: development of research into individual and collective behaviours in health, nutrition and sustainability using qualitative and quantitative methods.
Interdisciplinary and professional contexts: engagement with the fields of health, nutrition, public policy and communication, together with interaction with professionals from different fields.
Internships, including opportunities abroad: application of skills in professional and research contexts in Italy and internationally.
International dimension: an international learning environment with students and academic staff from different countries, as well as visiting professors.
Interactive teaching: small class sizes and direct interaction with academic staff in a personalised and collaborative learning environment.
Project work and applied activities: development of projects and challenges addressing real-world issues related to behaviour and health promotion.
Engagement with professional and organisational settings: direct experience through fieldwork and applied observation.
Final dissertation in collaboration with external organisations: opportunities to develop the final dissertation in collaboration with international organisations, companies or institutions.

The programme’s teaching approach integrates theory, research and practical application, with the aim of developing advanced skills for the analysis of and intervention in behaviours in complex contexts related to health and sustainability.

/ Admission

The admission process

Find admission information based on whether you hold an Italian or international qualification*

To apply for the Graduate Degree Programme in Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment, you must meet the academic entry requirements and follow the admission procedures and deadlines.

Here are the main steps to follow:

01

Check admission dates and procedures

Academic year 2026/27

You can still apply for this programme for the 2026/27 academic year.

View admission procedures

Academic year 2027/28

The admission procedures for 2027/28 are now available, including information on how and when to apply.

02

Prepare the required documents

Make sure you have all the documents you need to submit your application.

More information: Required documents

Passport-style photograph – Accepted formats: JPG, JPEG. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Identity document – Identity card, passport or driving licence. Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Italian fiscal code (codice fiscale) – Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Residence permit (if required) – Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Self-certification of degree and examinations taken, including SSD and CFU.
Baptism certificate – If you do not have one, you will receive further information about the alternative documentation you can submit.

03

Register or log in to the Enrolment Portal

If you don't have an account yet, register on the Enrolment Portal. If you already have one, log in using your credentials.

04

Check whether you meet the academic entry requirements

For the verification of curricular requirements, enter the details of the undergraduate degree you have completed or are currently completing in the Enrolment Portal.

Include the courses/modules in your study plan, specifying the scientific-disciplinary sector (SSD) and credits (CFU) for each one. For exams you have passed, also provide your grades and exam dates.

The outcome will indicate whether you meet the academic requirements for admission to the programme and provide information on the next steps.

05

Reserve your place

If the check confirms that you meet the academic entry requirements, you can reserve your place by paying the first instalment of tuition fees through the Enrolment Portal.

You can do this even before you have completed your undergraduate degree.

06

Complete pre-enrolment or enrolment

If you have not yet completed your undergraduate degree, you must first pre-enrol. Once you have graduated, you can complete the enrolment process.

At this stage, you will need to provide a self-certification of your degree and examinations taken, along with a certificate of baptism. If you do not have a certificate of baptism, you can submit alternative documentation as specified in the Enrolment Portal.

You must enter your income details by the end of November using the "Income statement" (Compila Redditi) application, available on your personal iCatt page.

* The information provided is subject to the approval of the competent bodies and may be subject to change

Useful information

Practical information to help you enrol and get started at Università Cattolica.

English language requirement and English Test

The Graduate Degree Programme in Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment requires English language proficiency at B2 level or above.

You can meet this requirement by submitting a recognised language certificate specified in the admission procedures or by passing the English Test organised by Università Cattolica at B2 level or above.

Applicants with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) can access learning aids and adjustments to study and assessment arrangements. Full details are available in the University's Services for Inclusion section.

Learn more about Services for Inclusion

Transfers, programme changes, second degrees and resuming studies

Applicants wishing to change programmes within Università Cattolica, transfer from another university, pursue a second degree or resume their university studies must meet the entry requirements.

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English Test

More information: English Test

Useful information

Practical information to help you enrol and get started at Università Cattolica.

English Test

An adequate level of language proficiency is required for admission to certain degree programmes or for courses taught in English to be included in the study plan. Candidates can demonstrate the requirement by presenting one of the recognised certifications indicated in the admission procedures or by taking the English Test organised by the Language Centre of Università Cattolica.

The English Test takes place online, lasts a maximum of 60 minutes and is divided into four sections: Reading, Grammar, Vocabulary and Listening. The test assesses written and oral comprehension skills, grammar and vocabulary.

To participate, it is necessary to register through the Enrolment Portal within the deadlines. Before the test, candidates will receive by e-mail all the operational instructions for connecting and carrying out the test.

Further reading: Language certifications and validity of the English Test

Candidates in possession of one of the recognised language certifications indicated in the admission procedures can use it to certify the level of English required by the programme of interest.

In the absence of a valid certification, it is possible to take the English Test. The result obtained is not valid exclusively for the course selected at the time of registration for the test, but can be used for access to all courses that require a level of language proficiency equal to or lower than the one obtained.

In the event of absence or failure to reach the required level, it is possible to register for a subsequent session following the procedures provided by the University.

Interview to verify personal preparation

Candidates who do not fully meet the curricular requirements will be interviewed by a Faculty committee to verify their personal preparation. The interview must be booked within the deadlines and each session has a limited number of places.

The test is used to verify the possession of basic knowledge and skills in the linguistic, communicative and cultural fields consistent with the graduate degree course. The candidate is considered suitable if he/she demonstrates adequate preparation, ability to connect contents, independent judgement and appropriate language.

Interviews take place online via Microsoft Teams. Before the test, candidates will receive the invitation and the link to connect by e-mail. During the interview, it is necessary to show a valid identity document and any documentation useful for the evaluation of the course of study, such as the programs of the exams taken in the three-year degree.

In-depth analysis: Interview outcome

The outcome is communicated by e-mail at the end of the interview.

In the event of a positive evaluation, it is possible to reserve the place until all available places are exhausted, proceeding with the payment of the first instalment of university fees and contributions.
In the event of a negative result , it is not possible to enrol in the programme, while absent candidates can book a new interview.

If some educational gaps emerge from the study plan, curricular integrations can be assigned.

Candidates with disabilities or SLD

Compensatory and dispensatory measures are provided on request (at least 7 days before the test).

Students with disabilities ≥66% or recognition pursuant to Law 104/1992 are exempt from paying university fees, except for the €100 fee for place reservation

Discover the services for inclusion

Transfers, transfers, second degrees

Candidates who wish to transfer from another university, enrol in a second degree or resume their university career must meet the Admission Requirements.

Go to the dedicated section

/ Fees and funding

Tuition fees and financial support

Tuition fees and scholarships

Starting university often involves questions about fees, deadlines and the support available. Clear information about financial support and accommodation options helps students plan their studies with confidence, allowing them to focus on their academic progress and personal development.

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, through EDUCatt, offers income- and merit-based scholarships and graduation awards, providing financial support to help students continue their studies.

Visit the dedicated section for information on tuition fees and other costs, use the online fee simulator, and find out about available financial support.

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Student accommodation

Università Cattolica offers a range of housing options to support students throughout their studies.

On campus residences

Nine residences are located on or near Università Cattolica campuses. They offer an educational experience that goes beyond accommodation, with cultural activities, meetings and workshops that complement university study. Residence life also provides opportunities to be part of an active community, exchange ideas and share experiences.

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Residences in the city

Residences located across the city are well connected to Università Cattolica campuses. They offer students greater independence in their day-to-day life, while providing comfortable accommodation and the flexibility to balance study, social life and personal time.

Explore city residences

New student residence on the Cremona campus

A welcoming, student-friendly environment where you can experience campus life. The new student residence on the Cremona campus is designed to encourage interaction and a sense of community.

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/ Experiences abroad

Study, internship and volunteering abroad

During your time at Università Cattolica, you can enrich your education with international experience. Studying, doing an internship or participating in a volunteer project abroad means confronting new academic, professional and cultural contexts, improving language skills and developing an international perspective that enriches your studies and looks to your professional future.

Discover the possibilities of studying, internships and volunteering abroad:

Semester abroad

Double degrees

Language courses and certifications

Summer programmes

Internships abroad

International volunteering

Thesis abroad

Short programmes

Virtual Programs

The experience abroad can be integrated into your studies. For programmes that include exams abroad, you can check the chances of recognition in advance, following the instructions of your Faculty and discussing with the professors in charge. Cattolica International supports you in choosing a programme and preparing for your experience abroad.

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/ Internships and careers

Internships and career opportunities

The Faculty offers internship opportunities, enabling students to apply the knowledge acquired in a range of professional contexts.

Internships and professional training

The internship takes place during the second year and involves students in professional activities as part of the External Practical Internship with Evaluation, at companies and institutions and, more generally, in settings relevant to the psychology profession.

The experience is designed to develop core transferable skills, particularly critical and independent judgement, communication skills and the ability to engage in continuous, independent learning.

The internship is also a qualifying component of the programme and forms the basis for obtaining the qualification required for registration with the Register of Psychologists.

The Career Service supports students and graduates as they prepare to enter the job market, providing career guidance and resources to help them navigate different professional and organisational contexts. It supports the development of transversal skills, creates opportunities to meet employers and helps students develop an informed and coherent career path.

Every year, more than 20,000 students take part in events organised with over 100 partner companies, and more than 9,500 undertake an internship with support from the Career Service and internship tutors.

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Learning outcomes

By the end of the programme, graduates of the Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment programme acquire advanced skills in analysing and modifying behaviour, with a focus on promoting psychological wellbeing, health, lifestyles and consumption.

Professional communication

Effective interaction with people from different professional and disciplinary backgrounds.

Interdisciplinary work

Collaboration with professionals in psychology, health, economics and the environment.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of interventions

Monitoring and evaluation of the outcomes of behaviour change initiatives and psychological interventions.

Analysis of factors influencing mental health and psychological wellbeing

Integrated assessment of mental health, physical health, nutrition and the environment.

Designing behaviour change interventions

Development of initiatives to promote healthy and sustainable behaviours in different contexts and support psychological wellbeing.

Research design

Design and management of studies on individual and collective decision-making and behaviour, with a focus on promoting psychological wellbeing and behaviour change to improve lifestyles.

Data analysis and interpretation

Use of qualitative and quantitative methods to analyse and manage complex data and big data.

Analysis of individual and collective behaviour

Understanding of psychological, social and decision-making processes related to psychological wellbeing, health, consumption and lifestyles.

Development of strategies to promote health and psychological wellbeing

Design of initiatives and campaigns to promote healthy and sustainable behaviours.

Graduates acquire an integrated set of psychological, methodological and applied skills that prepare them to work in complex contexts related to health, consumption and sustainability.

Career opportunities

The Graduate Degree Programme in Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment prepares psychologists specialising in the analysis and modification of behaviour, with applications in health, sustainability and communication contexts.

Professional contexts

Graduates can work in public and private settings where understanding decisions and behaviours is central to health, prevention and sustainability..

Prevention, health and wellbeing services in the public and private sectors

Health and social care organisations involved in health promotion

Public institutions and local authorities working on health and sustainability policies

Social and health communication for behaviour change campaigns

Research and consulting firms specialising in behaviour analysis and decision support

Companies in the wellbeing, nutrition and sustainability sectors

Professional profiles

The programme prepares professionals specialising in the analysis and management of human behaviour in complex contexts.

Health and wellbeing psychologist

Community psychologist

Consumer psychologist

Health promotion and behaviour change specialist

Prevention and lifestyle consultant

Communication specialist for health, sustainability and consumption

Researcher and behaviour analyst

Social and business consultant in communication, consumer behaviour and marketing

One Health and sustainability project professional

The programme prepares professionals to work in contexts where understanding and changing behaviour play a central role in health, sustainability and public policy.

Continuing your studies

The Graduate Degree Programme in Consumer Behaviour: Psychology Applied to Food, Health and Environment provides advanced, interdisciplinary preparation, enabling students to continue their studies both in academia and through highly specialised professional pathways.

Doctoral Programmes: further study in areas related to health psychology, consumer psychology and social behaviour, as well as interdisciplinary studies on health and sustainability.
Specialising Master Programmes and advanced training: specialisation in areas related to health promotion, nutrition, public policy, communication and behaviour analysis.
International research: participation in research programmes and projects in national and international academic contexts focusing on behaviour, health and sustainability.
Interdisciplinary pathways: further study of topics combining psychology, life sciences, data and policies for health and the environment.

By combining psychological, methodological and applied skills, the programme provides a solid foundation for students to further develop their profile in academic, scientific and professional contexts.

/ Advising and support

Choosing your programme

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