Introduction
Behavioral neuroscience explores the role of the nervous system in normal and abnormal behavior, thought, and emotion. This minor emphasizes an understanding of nervous system structure and function from the molecular/cellular level to the systems level. For example, behavioral neuroscientists study the neurobiological basis of normal learning and memory, psychiatric illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, and drug abuse and neurological illnesses such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and Alzheimer’s Disease.
Why Consider a Behavioral Neuroscience Minor?
Earning a minor in Behavioral neuroscience demonstrates your interest and dedication to understanding the biological substrates of behavior explored in the Psychology major. This understanding will be of benefit in a variety of career paths, especially in the allied health fields.
Student Resources
Department website: Psychology
Contact information: Undergraduate Major Coordinator, Rochelle Robinson, Academic Instruction Center 436, 360-650-6594, Rochelle.Robinson@wwu.edu
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers: Biomedical researcher, Career advisor, Counselor, Health provider, Health scientist, Marketer, Mediator, Mental health advocate, Psychiatry technician, Teacher
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Only Psychology majors can declare the Behavioral Neuroscience minor. To declare, students must complete Section I of the Academic Declaration and Change Form and forward to Rochelle.Robinson@wwu.edu.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
