Department of Psychology and Neuroscience

Introduction

In the undergraduate study of psychology, the emphasis is on a broad acquaintance with the behavioral sciences, not specialization. The subject matter is preparatory to a career in psychology either in basic research and teaching, or in any number of professional applications to various human problems. A psychology major may prove valuable to those planning other professional careers such as medicine, law, education, or business, as well as to those who seek a broad cultural background in the behavioral sciences.

The undergraduate study of neuroscience embodies the liberal arts experience as it draws on techniques and findings from several academic disciplines including biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, physics, and psychology. The neuroscience major provides students with the fundamental knowledge and exposure needed to pursue careers and post-graduate studies in fields related to neuroscience, human development and aging, health and disease, rehabilitation, biomedical research, human-machine interactions, and other emerging disciplines.

Advising

All psychology and neuroscience majors have a primary university academic advisor assigned in ConnectCarolina. Students are strongly encouraged to meet regularly with their university academic advisor and review their Tar Heel Tracker each semester. It is also strongly advised that students prioritize enrolling in one or more core major requirements every semester. Department advisors are also available and students can see who department academic advisors are, how to contact and/or make appointments with them, and see what types of advising are offered here. Especially note that there are different departmental advisors for psychology and neuroscience majors. Students who are considering graduate studies in psychology or neuroscience are particularly encouraged to contact departmental advisors. Students interested in medical and/or health careers are strongly encouraged to connect with Pre-professional and Pre-graduate Advising and Health Professions Advising. Particularly note that medical and/or health professional schools may recommend, though not require, psychology courses. Additional information about courses, undergraduate research opportunities, the honors program, and various clubs and organizations may be obtained from the department’s website. (Please see all options under the "Undergraduate Studies" tab.)

Graduate School and Career Opportunities

The psychology B.A. and B.S. degree programs, and the neuroscience B.S. degree program, prepare students for entry into graduate programs in psychology, neuroscience, and a large number of related areas. All degrees, augmented by courses dictated by various graduate and professional schools, also provide training that has proved beneficial for those applying to business, law, and medical schools.

Undergraduate psychology and neuroscience majors seek and find employment in a wide range of occupations, and many continue their education and training in graduate school. Students should understand that many of the occupations traditionally associated with psychology (e.g., clinical psychologist) are licensed specialties that require graduate training.

Majors

Minors

Neuroscience Minor

Graduate Programs

Courses

Professors

Jonathan S. Abramowitz, Sara B. Algoe, Jennifer Arnold, Anna Bardone-Cone, Daniel J. Bauer, Charlotte A. Boettiger, Kenneth A. Bollen, Regina M. Carelli, Shauna Cooper, Patrick Curran, Stacey B. Daughters, Barbara L. Fredrickson, Kathleen M. Gates, Karen M. Gil, Kelly Giovanello, Peter C. Gordon, Joseph Hopfinger, Andrea M. Hussong, Deborah J. Jones, Donald T. Lysle, Neil Mulligan, Abigail T. Panter, B. Keith Payne, Mitchell J. Prinstein, Kathryn J. Reissner, Paschal J. Sheeran, Eva Telzer, Todd Thiele, Eric A. Youngstrom.