Psychological and Brain Sciences

Program Description:

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and the biological foundations of cognition. Our curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from psychology, neuroscience, and related fields to prepare students for diverse careers or graduate study. Students engaging in this program will explore core areas such as perception, learning, memory, developmental psychology, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Additionally, the program offers a strong emphasis on research methodology, data analysis, and critical thinking skills to enable students to conduct independent research and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.

Throughout their studies, students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects alongside faculty members renowned for their work in cognitive neuroscience, clinical psychology, and behavioral science. The program encourages experiential learning through lab courses, internships, and community engagement, fostering practical skills applicable in many fields including healthcare, education, research, and industry. Dartmouth’s supportive academic environment promotes close mentorship and collaborative inquiry, empowering students to pursue their academic interests and clarify their career goals.

The curriculum also emphasizes the ethical considerations involved in psychological research and application, preparing students to approach complex human issues with sensitivity and integrity. Graduates of the program leave equipped with a solid foundation in scientific principles and practical skills necessary for success in graduate programs, medical school, or professional careers in psychology, neuroscience, mental health services, and related disciplines. With a commitment to fostering curiosity, critical inquiry, and scientific rigor, Dartmouth’s Psychological and Brain Sciences program prepares students to make meaningful contributions to understanding the human mind and behavior.

The Psychology and Brain Sciences program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive exploration of the scientific study of human and animal behavior, mental processes, and the biological foundations of cognition. This program is designed for students interested in understanding how the mind works, how the brain influences behavior, and how psychological principles can be applied to diverse fields such as healthcare, education, and research. Throughout the course of the program, students engage with a variety of topics including developmental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, clinical psychology, behavioral neuroscience, and experimental methods.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on research experience. Students are encouraged to participate in laboratory work, which allows them to develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program also promotes critical thinking and inquiry, with coursework that integrates psychology with related disciplines such as biology, neuroscience, and philosophy. In addition, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated laboratories for behavioral experiments and neuroimaging studies.

Undergraduates in the program have opportunities to work closely with faculty members on research projects, often resulting in presentations at conferences and publications in scientific journals. The program's multidisciplinary approach prepares students for graduate studies in psychology, neuroscience, medicine, or related fields, or for careers in mental health services, research, or public policy. Dartmouth’s Psychology and Brain Sciences program is committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment that encourages diverse perspectives and innovative thinking. Graduates leave equipped with a solid foundation in scientific principles, research techniques, and ethical practices essential for contributing to advancements in understanding the human mind and brain.

Program Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth College include successful completion of a total of at least 35 courses over the four-year undergraduate period. Students are expected to fulfill core coursework that provides a comprehensive foundation in psychology, neuroscience, and research methods. This typically involves completing courses in General Psychology, Brain and Behavior, Statistics, and Scientific Research Methods. In addition to the core curriculum, students must choose a concentration within the field, such as Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Science, Brain and Cognitive Sciences, or Peripheral Areas, which requires completing specific courses to satisfy concentration requirements.

Undergraduate research is highly encouraged, with students participating in laboratory work, independent research projects, or supervised thesis work, which enhances practical and research skills. Students must also fulfill university-wide distribution requirements in areas such as social sciences, humanities, quantitative reasoning, and foreign language, ensuring a broad liberal arts education alongside specialized knowledge.

Furthermore, each student is required to demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language, satisfying Dartmouth’s language requirement through coursework or equivalent proficiency assessments. Many students also take advantage of interdisciplinary opportunities, participating in projects that integrate psychology with other fields such as biology, computer science, or philosophy. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research assistantships, and collaborations with faculty. As part of the graduation requirement, students must pass their comprehensive examinations, which involve oral or written assessments on core topics covered during the program.

Students are encouraged to engage in study abroad programs or other international experiences to enhance cultural literacy and global understanding. Completion of the program also involves maintaining a satisfactory academic record, with a minimum grade point average designated by the department. Overall, the program aims to develop students’ critical thinking, scientific inquiry, ethical understanding, and communication skills, preparing them for diverse careers or graduate studies in psychology, neuroscience, medicine, education, or related fields.

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

The Psychology and Brain Sciences program at Dartmouth College offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program have access to need-based financial aid, which is awarded based on the applicant’s demonstrated financial need as assessed through the college’s financial aid application process. Dartmouth College is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to education. The institution provides a comprehensive financial aid package that may include grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and low-interest loans.

In addition to need-based aid, the college offers merit-based scholarships for students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement, leadership qualities, or contributions to the college community. These scholarships are often renewable annually, contingent on maintaining specific academic standards and engagement levels. Dartmouth also encourages students to seek external scholarships and fellowships, which can be combined with institutional aid to further reduce out-of-pocket costs.

The college’s financial aid office provides resources and counseling to help students explore all available funding options, including federal and state grants for eligible students. For international students interested in the program, financial aid options are limited, but some funding opportunities may be available through external organizations or scholarships specifically designated for international students. Furthermore, the college offers a variety of part-time employment opportunities on campus, which students can utilize to help finance their studies.

Students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile to be considered for need-based aid. Dartmouth also offers a comprehensive undergraduate financial aid policy, which emphasizes affordability and access, ensuring that talented students from all socioeconomic backgrounds have the opportunity to participate in the Psychology and Brain Sciences program. Overall, Dartmouth College's financing studies aim to promote equitable access to education, supporting students financially throughout their undergraduate experience.

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the biological and psychological processes that underlie human behavior and mental functions. The program combines coursework, research opportunities, and hands-on experiences to prepare students for careers in related fields such as clinical psychology, neuroscience, research, or further graduate study. Core courses typically include topics such as introductory psychology, biological psychology, cognitive psychology, sensation and perception, and experimental methods. Advanced courses may cover areas like neuropsychology, development, cognition, social psychology, and brain imaging techniques. The department emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating psychological theories with biological and neurological perspectives to foster a holistic understanding of the mind and brain. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects alongside faculty members, gaining practical skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program often offers opportunities for independent study, summer research internships, and participation in laboratories specializing in cognitive neuroscience, behavioral genetics, or neuropsychology. Graduates of the program typically pursue careers in research, healthcare, mental health services, or continue their education through graduate or professional schools in psychology, neuroscience, or related disciplines. The department benefits from Dartmouth’s strong liberal arts tradition, state-of-the-art facilities, and close faculty-student interaction, providing a rich environment for academic and personal growth. The curriculum is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and knowledge essential for understanding complex psychological and neurological phenomena. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded, scientifically literate graduates capable of contributing to advances in mental health, education, and biomedical sciences.