Why Do We Really Spend Money When We Know We Should Save It

Podcast Transcript

HOST: Welcome to our podcast, where we're excited to dive into the fascinating world of financial decision-making. Today, we're discussing the Postgraduate Certificate in The Psychology of Saving and Spending. Joining me is Dr. Emma Taylor, the course director. Emma, thanks for being here. GUEST: Thanks for having me. I'm thrilled to share the benefits of this unique course. HOST: Let's start with the course itself. What can students expect to learn, and how does it differ from other finance or economics courses? GUEST: Our course is truly interdisciplinary, combining insights from psychology, economics, and finance. Students will explore the cognitive biases, emotional triggers, and social influences that shape consumer behavior. By understanding these psychological mechanisms, they'll be able to develop effective strategies for promoting positive financial behaviors. HOST: That sounds incredibly valuable. What are some potential career opportunities for graduates of this course? GUEST: The possibilities are vast. Our graduates can pursue careers in financial services, marketing, policy-making, and even non-profit organizations focused on financial literacy. They'll be equipped to drive positive change in the financial lives of individuals and communities. We've had graduates go on to work in government agencies, financial institutions, and even start their own consulting firms. HOST: That's fantastic. I can imagine the skills learned in this course being applicable in so many different fields. What are some practical applications of the knowledge gained in this course? GUEST: One example is in the development of financial products and services that take into account the psychological factors influencing consumer behavior. Our graduates will be able to design products that "nudge" people toward positive financial behaviors, such as saving for retirement or paying off debt. They'll also be able to advise policymakers on how to create effective financial regulations and education programs. HOST: That's really interesting. How does the course cater to professionals from diverse backgrounds? GUEST: We've designed the course to be accessible to professionals from various fields, including finance, marketing, psychology, and more. Our students come from different industries and bring their unique perspectives to the table. This diversity of thought enriches the learning experience and allows students to apply the concepts to their own areas of expertise. HOST: That's great to hear. What kind of support can students expect from the course team and alumni network? GUEST: We have a dedicated team of tutors and mentors who provide individualized support throughout the course. Our alumni network is also very active, with many graduates staying in touch and collaborating on projects. We encourage our students to connect with each other and with our alumni to build long-lasting professional relationships. HOST: That's fantastic. Emma, thanks for sharing your insights on the Postgraduate Certificate in The Psychology of Saving and Spending. If listeners are interested in learning more, where can they go? GUEST: They can visit our website for more information on the course, including the curriculum, admission requirements, and application process. We also have a