In our courses, we analyse human–environment systems from the social and behavioural science perspective. Students gain knowledge of the socioeconomic and psychological determinants of environmentally relevant decisions and deepen their understanding of planning and environmental policy instruments.

Our working group offers courses and study projects for bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes. A core component is the training in empirical social science research. Across different course formats, students learn how to measure planning-relevant behaviour and empirically evaluate the impact of individual measures. Using surveys, interviews, and social science experiments, we demonstrate how stakeholders’ preferences and behaviour can be captured. Students thus acquire practical knowledge of the prerequisites for effective, human-centred, and sustainable planning.

Study projects are an essential part of our teaching activities. They connect the scientific expertise of our working group with fieldwork and practical assessments of environmental behaviour, while fostering project management skills and adherence to good scientific practice. Our study projects are affiliated with the Transfer Hub “Behavioural Design for Sustainability” . In collaboration with practice partners, we analyse real-world environmental problems and develop evidence-based solutions that draw on behavioural science insights. The transdisciplinary learning concept combines application-oriented training with the promotion of sustainability-oriented action — both at the university and in the Hanover region.

Across all courses, we place great emphasis on active participation, critical reflection, inclusion, and cooperative learning. These principles form the foundation of a shared, constructive, and purposeful learning environment.

Supervision of student theses

We post thesis topics on the e‑learning platform Stud.IP. We also supervise student‑initiated topics within our teaching and research area.
Please note that it is advisable to have attended a course offered by our working group before starting the thesis.