With the fall semester in full swing, the psychology department has unveiled a new major in the form of Behavioral Neuroscience.

The college’s newest major studies the functioning of the brain through investigating human behavior. By examining the physiology of the brain, students will achieve an in-depth understanding of neurons and the nervous system and their roles in cognition and behavior.

“Our hope is that the major will attract students who have an interest in understanding behavior from the focus of the brain and its supporting biochemical systems,” says Elizabeth Ossoff Ph.D., professor and chair of the psychology department. “The major provides career opportunities in laboratory research, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physical therapy as well as other academic positions.”

Courses in the program include hands-on laboratory and directed research experiences for students to gain competency and skills within behavioral neuroscience, culminating in a senior capstone course. Course requirements include a wide array of psychology and biology courses as well as requirements in chemistry and mathematics.

“Neuroscience is only going to grow and continue to evolve,” explains psychology professor Adam Wenzel Ph.D., who specializes in sensation and the perception. “Neuroscience is really breaking down those walls and boundaries between the sciences of psychology and biology, and I believe students are can really benefit from this complete study of what makes us who we are.”

Junior Ashley Grillo ’20 has already declared her major as behavioral neuroscience. “The brain is such a complex machine that is responsible for how we perceive the world,” says Grillo. “Going into the new major, I hope to learn in-depth about various topics such as perception, neurological diseases, and what causes the mind to act the way it does.”

The college also offers a minor in neuroscience.