This concentration focuses the psychology major on courses relevant to the interactions of brain function, cognition, and behavior. This concentration is ideal for students interested in applying to graduate programs in psychology, neuroscience, or certain clinical programs focused on the biological basis of psychopathology. The major can be combined with further study in the natural sciences, and with careful planning it is possible to pursue a second major or a minor in one of these disciplines. Students who choose this concentration are also encouraged to do internships or independent studies in laboratories studying psychophysiology, neurobiology, or the biological basis of behavior.
- Although 13 psychology courses are required for the major, students can take up to 14 psychology courses.
- Students are encouraged to take the capstone, PSY 402 or 403, in the fourth year.
- Students may begin to explore the major by taking PSY 101, which is a prerequisite to some research courses (PSY 225, PSY 391) and to important cornerstone courses for this major (PSY 250, PSY 251, PSY 252).
- Students may also begin to explore the major by taking any cornerstone course without a prerequisite (PSY 210, PSY 290, PSY 216, PSY 240).
- Students must complete the research courses in the sequence of PSY 224, PSY 225, PSY 391. We recommend students take the courses in consecutive semesters, unless they study abroad.
- In consultation with a faculty mentor, students may take independent study (PSY 399) to gain more research experience in the field.
- To maintain the academic integrity of the major, transfer courses are approved under strict conditions. Students should consult with the department chair before registering for courses outside the day school of Assumption University.
- Students pursuing this concentration are encouraged to explore the offerings of our Center for Neuroscience and to get involved in the new student-run neuroscience club. Students may also be interested in learning more about our Collaborative Accelerated Master’s Program with WPI.
To What Careers Does a Major in Psychology with a Concentration in Neuroscience Lead?
The websites of the American Psychological Association, the Association for Psychological Science, and the Society for Neuroscience offer a wealth of information about the current state of the field and career paths.
Current topics:
Career paths:
- http://www.apa.org/careers/resources/guides/index.aspx
- https://www.sfn.org/careers
- https://www.cogneurosociety.org/newsletter/
- https://socialaffectiveneuro.org/job-board/
Join the psychology club or follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Join the neuroscience club or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Required Courses (13 Courses)
All the courses below are required. It is highly recommended that interested students declare this major by the end of their sophomore year. Students are advised to take BIO 160 as soon as possible, by the spring of the second year.Students are further recommended to take PSY 251: Introduction to Brain and Behavior (offered in the fall and spring) in their sophomore year, and to complete the Neuroscience Capstone in their senior year.