BS in Psychological & Brain Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Psychological and Brain Sciences teaches students the fundamental theories and methods of the field. Based in the Department of Psychology, the major integrates related subfields of psychology and draws on broad faculty expertise.

The BS program is STEM-based, requiring additional courses in biology and calculus compared to the BA in Psychological and Brain Sciences. The curriculum blends rigorous training in psychological and brain sciences with a practical background that prepares students for admission to medical school, law school and PhD programs as well as a variety of competitive careers.

Students also gain research experience and learn to present compelling scientific arguments in both written and oral form.

Major Outcomes

• Conceptualize Brain Sciences
  Students will be able to describe and summarize the major fields, concepts, theories and issues in psychology and cognitive neuroscience, and they will think critically about differing perspectives in the discipline.
• Analyze and Interpret Scientific Conclusions
  Courses teach students to think critically about research studies — whether encountered in academic settings, the media or elsewhere — and identify studies’ strengths and weaknesses in order to draw data-based conclusions.
• Conduct Research
  In a Research Methods course as well as one advanced research lab of their choice, students learn to design and clearly report a research study. Lab options include cognitive neuroscience, sensation and perception, clinical/community psychology, applied social psychology and developmental psychology. Students with sufficient interest and skill will have opportunities for research projects and external internships.
• Critically Evaluate Current Issues
  After completing the major, students will be able to critically review, integrate, synthesize and apply theories and research on current issues in psychological and brain sciences.

Declaring a Major

Ready to declare? Download the Declare a Major Form and contact Dr. Gabriela Rosenblau to sign off and meet as needed.

Course Requirements