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A lab assistant analyzing brain scans represents the Brain and Cognitive Sciences major at Curry College

Graphic of a brainThe study of the brain and behavior is both a momentous and rapidly growing field. The Brain and Cognitive Sciences major gives students the opportunity to integrate neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, and neuropsychology as a way to understand the brain, cognitive functioning, and behavior. Students will learn about the neurological foundations of attention, perception, memory, thinking, learning, language, social behavior, and mental disorders, and will allow them the opportunity to study and learn about the structure and function of heathy brains, as well as brain diseases and disorders. In addition, students will learn about neurodiversity and its implications.

Brain and Cognitive Sciences Major Requirements

Students who major in the Brain and Cognitive Sciences will achieve the crucial first steps along various career paths, including those involving neurological disorders research, working as lab assistants and data analysts. Additionally, students who choose this major will also acquire the necessary foundations to succeed in graduate programs in neuropsychology, biological psychology, and psychology.

Explore Our State-of-the-Art Brain and Behavior Lab

  • EEG Research
  • Invertebrate Studies
  • Neuropsychology Research
  • Faculty-Led Research
  • Advanced Research
  • Conference Presentations

Courses You'll Enjoy

  • Brain and Behavior
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Drugs and Behavior
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Psychological Testing
  • Neuropsychology of Learning Differences

And Exciting New AI Courses!

  • Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
  • AI and Human Behavior
  • Applied AI for Social Media and Behavioral Insights
  • AI Tools for Psychological Research and Productivity

Related Opportunities

Unlock the Possibilities for Your Future Career!

Artificial Intelligence - Dive into the cutting-edge world of machine learning and automation, shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Behavioral Medicine - Explore the fascinating intersection of psychology and physical health, working to improve patient outcomes through understanding behaviors and mental processes.

Data Analysis - Harness the power of data to uncover patterns and insights, transforming raw information into valuable strategies that drive decision-making.

Lab Assistant - Get hands-on experience in the laboratory, supporting groundbreaking research and experimentation that can lead to life-changing discoveries.

Neurological Disorder Research - Contribute to pioneering studies that seek to understand and treat complex neurological conditions, improving the lives of those affected.

Neuropsychology Technician - Investigate the intricate relationship between brain function and behavior, helping individuals navigate cognitive and emotional challenges.

Pharmaceutical Research/Sales - Be at the forefront of developing and promoting innovative medications that make a significant impact on healthcare and patient well-being.

Your future is bright with endless possibilities!

To qualify for Brain and Cognitive Sciences Internship, the following criteria must be met:

  1. Possess a GPA of 2.50 or greater
  2. Be a Junior or Senior in standing
  3. Meet with Internship Coordinator

Note: Only three credits of internship learning may be credited toward the 3000-level requirement

  1. Knowledge Base in Brain and Cognitive Sciences: Students should demonstrate fundamental knowledge of:
    1. Major concepts and theoretical perspectives on the brain and cognitive sciences.
    2. Historical trends in brain and cognitive research.
    3. Empirical findings of relevant studies on the brain and cognition.
    4. The molecular and cellular basis in which the brain relates to human cognition and behavior.

  2. Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking: Students should:
    1. Develop the skills for scientific reasoning and problem solving by using effective research methods
    2. Expand and strengthen their abilities to think critically about scientific data in the field of brain and cognitive sciences.
    3. Learn basic concepts in collection, analysis, and interpretation of behavioral and brain data using appropriate methods from the cognitive and brain sciences.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate problems by assembling, synthesizing, and examining information from a variety of sources.

  3. Ethical and Social Responsibility in a Diverse World: Students should:
    1. Demonstrate the development of professional, ethical, and social responsibility in a diverse world.
    2. Demonstrate how the brain and cognitive sciences can be applied to various real-world problems and provide examples of how it is impacted by individual difference variables such as health, mental health, age, gender, and ethnicity.
    3. Be able to take and defend a position on ethical issues within the discipline.

  4. Communication: Students should:
    1. Demonstrate effective communication of scientific information in writing, oral, and interpersonal formats brain and cognitive sciences.
    2. Write a logical scientific argument, present information using a scientific approach, engage in discussions regarding cognitive and brain concepts, explain the ideas of others, and express their ideas with clarity.

  5. Professional Development: Students should:
    1. Demonstrate a capability and commitment to continuous scientific learning and critical thinking, effective self-reflection, project management skills, teamwork skills, and career preparation.
Psychology Lab at Curry College

Brain and Behavior Lab

The Psychology Department offers a state-of-the-art Brain and Behavior Lab, equipped for EEG Research, Invertebrate Studies, Neuropsychology Research, Faculty-Led Research, Advanced Research, Conference Presentations, and more!

Explore Related Programs:

Curry College students receive their Psychology Honor Society certificates

Psychology Honor Society

Psi Chi is an international honor society whose purpose is to encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship of the individual members in all fields, to advance the science of psychology.

Curry College Psychology Club members at an involvement fair

Psychology Club

The Psychology Club brings together students who are interested in psychology and want to apply and increase their own knowledge and understanding of the psychology field.

A Curry College Study Abroad student pets an elephant in Thailand

Study Abroad

Go global with Curry College faculty members as part of our very popular Short-term, Faculty-led Courses, or create your own customized Study Abroad opportunity!

Curry College students laughing in science lab

First-Year Experience

Making the transition to college can be a little confusing and lot of fun. Your First-Year Experience at Curry College helps smooth out the bumps and puts you on the path to success.

A Curry College faculty member interacts with students in the classroom

Gen Ed

At the heart of Curry College's undergraduate curriculum is our General Education (Gen Ed) Program. Gen Ed is based on our belief in the power and potential of the liberal arts.

Life-Changing Opportunities Await

Start with a foundation in the liberal arts. Add attentive faculty and countless opportunities to learn by doing. That’s what you’ll get with a bachelor’s degree from Curry. Learn what’s waiting for you today.