Neuroscience Major

The University of Vermont College of Arts and Sciences offers a Bachelors of Science (B.S.) degree in neuroscience. This cross-disciplinary major is not housed within a single department but, rather, is directed and taught primarily by faculty in the Departments of Biology, Communication Sciences, and Psychology. For details on the Neuroscience Major curriculum, see the Neuroscience website.

The Line Has Blurred between Psychology and Neuroscience

Psychology traditionally has been the scientific study of the mind and behavior while neuroscience is the scientific study of the structure and functions of the nervous system. However, the line between these two disciplines becomes blurrier each year. Psychologists recognize that a complete understanding of mind and behavior will require understanding how the nervous system gives rise to both. Neuroscientists recognize that an important reason for a nervous system is to link sensory stimulation with behavior.

Choose Psychology or Neuroscience?

How do you choose between a major in psychology and a major in neuroscience? If you are primarily interested in mind and behavior, including the neuroscience of behavior, cognitive development, group interactions, and clinical conditions, we would recommend a major in psychology. If you are primarily interested in the structure and functions of the nervous system, from cells to behavior, we would recommend a major in neuroscience.

Last modified May 20 2013 02:54 PM