Behavioral Neuroscience

Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Kansas offers an interdisciplinary program that explores the complex interactions between the brain and behavior. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the neural mechanisms underlying perception, cognition, emotion, and action. Through a comprehensive curriculum that integrates psychology, biology, and neuroscience, students gain a solid foundation in the biological basis of behavior while developing critical thinking and research skills. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, enabling students to engage in experimental design, data collection, and analysis techniques essential for neuroscience research. Students also have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects alongside faculty experts, fostering an environment of discovery and innovation. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, molecular neuroscience, behavioral pharmacology, and cognitive neuroscience. In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to pursue internships, fieldwork, and independent research to enhance their practical understanding and professional preparedness. Graduates of the Behavioral Neuroscience program are well-equipped for careers in academia, clinical research, healthcare, biotechnology, and related fields. They may also pursue advanced degrees such as master's and doctoral programs to further specialize in neuroscience, psychology, medicine, or related disciplines. The University of Kansas provides a supportive academic environment with state-of-the-art facilities and access to extensive research resources, ensuring students are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the scientific understanding of brain and behavior relationships. Whether aiming for a research career, healthcare professions, or graduate study, students in this program develop a deep appreciation of the biological foundations of behavior, critical analytical skills, and the ability to apply scientific principles to solve real-world challenges in neuroscience and mental health.

This interdisciplinary program gives students exceptional experience with research and writing, as well as technological sophistication that will prepare you will for a variety of neuroscience-related graduate programs (neuroscience, psychology, pharmacology, mental health fields, neurobiology, medicine, dentistry, nursing). It also provides an excellent background for entry-level positions in research (e.g., biomedical, pharmaceutical, biotech).

Freshmen must:
 
1. Provide evidence of high school graduation with a curriculum that would prepare you for university studies in your home country

Credentials and Requirements by Country for Freshman Addition to the College of LIberal Arts and Sciences

2. Have a GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale;

3. Submit English proficiency test scores (used to estimate students' placement in appropriate level of ESL course, as needed. All international students are screened after arrival on campus and prior to enrollment by the KU Applied English Center).

The University of Kansas will accept both the new SAT and the old SAT. We will use concordance tables to compare your scores and determine your highest scores on either the new SAT or the old SAT. At this time, any SAT scores listed are based on the new SAT (after March 2016).  

In addition to transcripts or marksheets, you must present an official diploma or graduation certificate, official examination results, or other proof of graduation particular to your country.  We use equivalent admission criteria for applicants from all countries.  Meeting the minimum grade point average does not guarantee admission.

KU offers a few partial scholarships for qualified, new international freshmen and transfer students admitted for fall semester. To be considered for a scholarship, you must complete an online fall semester application by Jan. 15.

The Office of International Recruitment and Undergraduate Admissions (IRUA) screens candidates for a limited number of admissions scholarships. Awards are only offered to degree-seeking undergraduates whose first KU semester is the fall semester. KU does not offer international student scholarships based on financial need. International undergraduate scholarships do not cover all expenses. Prior to issuance of the SEVIS document, students requesting F-1 or J-1 status must submit proof of financial support for the first year of study.

The Behavioral Neuroscience program at the University of Kansas offers students an in-depth understanding of the biological bases of behavior, combining coursework and research in neuroscience, psychology, biology, and related fields. The program aims to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, education, and related areas by providing comprehensive training in the mechanisms underlying behavior, cognition, and emotion. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, research projects, and internships, fostering skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The curriculum includes courses such as neurobiology, physiology, psychology, and pharmacology, structured to build foundational knowledge and specialized expertise. The program emphasizes the integration of molecular, cellular, systems, and behavioral approaches to understanding brain function. Facilities at the university support advanced research methods, including neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and molecular techniques. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees, medical careers, or work in research institutions and industry. The faculty involved are recognized experts in their fields, actively engaged in cutting-edge research that often focuses on topics such as neuroplasticity, addiction, neurological disorders, sensory processing, and cognitive functions. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to work across neuroscience, psychology, and biology departments. Overall, the Behavioral Neuroscience program at the University of Kansas prepares students to contribute meaningfully to scientific understanding of the brain and behavior, setting a strong foundation for further study or professional achievement in the biomedical sciences.