Behavioral and Brain Sciences

The Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral and Brain Sciences at the University of Georgia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the biological and psychological foundations of human behavior. This interdisciplinary program integrates coursework from psychology, neuroscience, biology, and related fields, providing students with a broad perspective on how the brain influences behavior and cognition. The curriculum is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for diverse careers in research, healthcare, education, and professional fields that require an understanding of human behavior and brain functioning. Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on research, gaining valuable laboratory experience and enhancing their analytical andCritical thinking abilities. The program emphasizes the development of scientific literacy, ethical considerations in research, and effective communication of complex scientific concepts. Core courses include introductory and advanced classes in psychology, neuroscience, biology, and research methods, as well as specialized electives allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships and collaborative projects, fostering real-world experience and professional networking. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for graduate studies or employment in areas such as clinical psychology, neuroscience research, cognitive science, health sciences, and education. The university's strong commitment to research excellence and its state-of-the-art facilities provide an optimal environment for aspiring behavioral and brain scientists to thrive. The program also promotes an inclusive academic community, supporting diversity of perspectives and ideas, and fostering a stimulating environment in which students can develop into well-rounded, knowledgeable professionals committed to understanding the complexities of human behavior and brain function.

Entering students are assigned an initial sponsor based upon what seems to be a "best match" between the student's expressed interests and the specialty area of individual faculty. Because most new students are not familiar with specific areas of faculty interests and their research, and because it is not uncommon for students' academic research interests to undergo significant change (especially in their first year or two), the assignment of the initial advisor should be regarded as entirely provisional. Students should attempt to acquaint themselves with all faculty members in the Behavioral and Brain Sciences Program in order to secure a Major Professor who best matches their interests and ambitions. Applicants are encouraged to identify one or more potential Major Professor(s) in their applications.

M.S. Degree

Although the Psychology department does not offer the M.S. as a terminal degree, it does require that each student complete the M.S. as preparation for the Ph.D. Exceptions to this requirement may be granted, for example if the student has elsewhere obtained a M.S. degree in Psychology based, in part, upon a written thesis.

The M.S. Program of Study must contain at least 30 hours of course work.  Six of those hours must be research (PSYC 7000 or 7300) and Quantitative Psychology I (PSYC 6410 or an approved equivalent) is required. At least 9 hours must come from the following list:

• PSYC 6100 - Cognitive Psychology
• PSYC 6110 - Basic Learning Processes
• PSYC 6130 - Biological Foundations of Behavior
• PSYC 6160 - Sensory Psychology
• PSYC 6180 - History of Psychology
• PSYC 6200 - Advanced Social Psychology
• PSYC 6210 - Individual Differences
• PSYC 6220 - Developmental Psychology

Students who have taken graduate course work elsewhere, or who have had an especially good undergraduate preparation, may be able to exempt some of the specific course requirements. See your Major Professor for procedures to petition for such exemptions. Some of the requirements (e.g., PSYC6410, informally known as Quant I) may also be satisfied by analogous courses in other departments.

Ph.D. Degree

Award of the terminal doctoral degree is contingent upon (a) a minimum of 30 credit hours in a Ph.D. Program of Study, (b) satisfactory performance on both written and oral Comprehensive Examinations, (c) submission and successful defense of a dissertation prospectus, and (d) completion of a written doctoral dissertation and satisfactory defense thereof in a final oral examination.  The Ph.D. Program of Study and other Ph.D. requirements are additional requisites to those needed for the M.S. degree. 

The Ph.D. program of study must include:

• PSYC 6420 - Quantitative Psychology II
• Either PSYC 6430 (Quant. III) or PSYC 6440 (Quant. IV)

At east one additional course on research methods and/or instrumentation (such as PSYC 8330) must be chosen with the advice and consent of the DAC.  Additional courses from outside of the Psychology Department can also be chosen with the advice and consent of the DAC.

Specialty Area 

Current specializations include social psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology; behavioral neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, and visual science. Students can form a different area of specialization if it is represented by and consistent with the research of their Major Professor and other DAC members (e.g., Social Neuroscience). The concentrations provided by the department tend to be defined broadly since the foci themselves are fluid and tend to evolve according to the progression of the field.

• Application for admission
• Application-processing fee
• Transcripts. Documents must be submitted in both Russian and English. Russian documents must bear the original institution stamp. The English translations must bear the original institution stamp or the original stamp/signature of the certified translator.
• 4-5 year Diplom from a recognized institution.. An official copy of the Diplom, which bears the original stamp of the issuing institution. The English translation is required and must bear the original stamp of the issuing institution or the original stamp/signature of the certified translator.
• Entrance test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Certification of finances forms (international applicants)
• Minimum TOEFL score requirement: overall score of 80 with at least 20 on speaking and writing
• Minimum IELTS score requirement: overall band-width of 6.5, with no single band (score) below 6.0.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

Upon admission to the program, students are typically considered for various forms of financial support. These include teaching assistantships - students with masters degrees may teach their own courses; those with the bachelor's degree assist an instructor - and research assistantships. A limited number of research assistantships are available through the Graduate School through competitive University-Wide Fellowships, or students may be funded through a faculty member's grant. Applications for University-wide assistantships are routed through the chairperson of the Behavioral and Brain Sciences program

The Bachelor of Science in Behavioral and Brain Sciences at the University of Georgia offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education focused on understanding the biological and psychological mechanisms underlying human behavior. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in neuroscience, psychology, and related disciplines, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, or further graduate study. Students have opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects, develop critical thinking skills, and gain practical experience through laboratory work and internships. The curriculum typically includes coursework in cognitive neuroscience, behavioral analysis, neuroanatomy, experimental psychology, and data analysis, among others. The program emphasizes the integration of biological and behavioral sciences, encouraging students to explore the complex interactions between the brain and behavior. Graduates of this program are equipped with a thorough understanding of scientific principles and research methodologies, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to advancements in mental health, neurological disorders, and human behavior understanding. The program also fosters skills in communication, problem-solving, and ethical considerations related to scientific research. Students may have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborate with faculty who are active researchers in their fields. The university supports students in preparing for professional pathways in clinical settings, academia, or industry, with dedicated advising and career services. Overall, the Behavioral and Brain Sciences program at UGA aims to cultivate knowledgeable, skilled, and ethical scientists who can make significant contributions to understanding the complexities of behavior and brain function.