Behavioral Neuroscience Minor
Program Overview
The behavioral neuroscience minor is an interdisciplinary program co-administered by the biology and psychology departments. The minor combines the study of the relationship between the structure and function of the nervous system, emphasizing the biological and psychological elements that affect emotions, behavior, learning and memory. Available courses include a variety of topics, from genetics and biology of behavior to neurological and psychiatric disorders and their treatments.
Program of Study
A course plan should be designed and implemented in consultation with the minor advisor.
Learning Outcomes
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Acquire a broad understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system and behavior while promoting a culture of academic excellence in neuroscience
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Develop critical and integrative thinking by criticizing and contextualizing neuroscience literature, analyzing and interpreting scientific data and experimental design
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Master oral and written scientific communication skills through presentations and writing papers using scientific conventions of format, succinctness, objectivity and accuracy
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Understand and develop arguments about the ethical issues surrounding the use of human participants and animal subjects in neuroscience research
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Prepare for graduate or professional careers in neuroscience
Career Opportunities and Paths
Graduating with a minor in behavioral neuroscience and a degree in psychology, biology, or other majors offers an excellent foundation for admission to graduate or professional programs, mainly for careers involving research, teaching, medicine, consulting and the pharmaceutical industry.
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1- How to Declare the Behavioral Neuroscience Minor?
Students may declare the neuroscience minor if they have finished the required courses:
1) PSYC 201/1000 - Introduction to Psychology (3 cr.)
OR BIOL/PSYC 000/1098 - Fundamentals of Neurosciences (3 + 1 cr.).
A course plan should be designed and implemented in consultation with the minor and academic advisor. Make an appointment with the minor advisor Neuro@aucegypt.edu
2- What courses are included in the Behavioral Neuroscience minor?
The minor includes courses from Biology and Psychology that are necessary for providing basic knowledge in the area of neuroscience.
The list of courses and the program details can be found here.
3- When should I declare the Behavioral Neuroscience minor?
It is recommended that you declare the minor in your sophomore year. A course plan is designed in consultation with the minor advisor.
4- Can the Behavioral Neuroscience minor courses count towards my Major?
Not all courses will count. For example, if a student is majoring in Biology or Psychology he/she must take a minimum of 6 credits from outside the student’s declared major.
5- Can the Behavioral Neuroscience minor courses count towards the core curriculum?
Yes, if a course in the minor is listed in the core curriculum option then it may count for both the minor and the core curriculum. Click here for more details about the core curriculum.
6- Can the Behavioral Neuroscience minor courses count towards the general electives?
Yes, minor courses may count towards the general electives.
7- What is the difference between a Psychology minor and Behavioral Neuroscience minor?
Both minors examine behavior, but from different perspectives. The psychology minor examines behavior from individuals to different contexts, such as culture, and social interactions.
On the other hand, the behavioral neuroscience minor will explore behavior from a biological, and psychological perspectives in individuals, focusing on how our brains work and change in different conditions.