nanoscience
neuroscience
science and society
computational science
materials science
Marian E. Koshland Biographical Memoir by Ruth Levy Guyer (National Academy of Sciences)
Interdisciplinary Programs
Research Opportunities &
Scholarships
FAQ's about the Neural and Behavioral Sciences Program
Why have a concentration in Neural and Behavioral Sciences (NBS)? The goal of the NBS curriculum is to explore how different forms of behavior (normal and pathological) are both mediated and influenced by the underlying structure and function of the brain. Psychology majors who complete the NBS requirements will gain a more physiological and biochemical perspective on behavior; Biology majors will supplement their molecular and cellular approach with the study of behavior. Both groups of students will gain an appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of the field.Can I declare the NBS concentration if I major in Biology? Yes, Biology majors at Haverford can now declare the NBS concentration. Interested students should contact Prof. Morris (armorris@haverford.edu) in the Haverford Biology department. Biology majors at Bryn Mawr should contact Prof. Hollyday (mhollyda@brynmawr.edu).
What if I major at Bryn Mawr? Both Haverford and Bryn Mawr Biology and Psychology majors can declare the concentration.
What is the difference between the NBS concentration and the Psychology minor or Biology minor at Bryn Mawr? Although there is some overlap between the minor program and the NBS concentration, there are important differences. Students who declare the Psychology minor (at Haverford or Bryn Mawr) or Biology minor (at Bryn Mawr) take coursework representing a broad range of approaches in the minor discipline. The NBS concentration focuses only on those courses in the counterpart department that deal with the interface of brain and behavior.
Can I declare the NBS concentration and a minor in Psychology or Biology? Yes. Biology majors who declare the NBS concentration may also choose to minor in Psychology at Haverford or Bryn Mawr, and Psychology majors may also choose to minor in Biology at Bryn Mawr. (There is no minor in Haverford Biology.) The minor usually requires more breadth in the curriculum than the NBS concentration; consult departmental minor requirements for more information. Generally, no more than two courses should be used to count toward both a minor and concentration.What kinds of job opportunities are available for NBS concentrators after graduation? Some NBS concentrators go on to research positions after graduation, and others continue their education. The research skills that are acquired as a part of the concentration are useful in a wide variety of academic, industrial, or clinical settings.
Will the NBS concentration prepare me for graduate school in neuroscience? Yes, for the most part. Psychology majors who wish to pursue graduate study in neuroscience are encouraged to complete additional coursework in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (beyond that which is required by the concentration) in preparation for advanced study in neuroscience. Biology majors are encouraged to take elective courses in statistical reasoning or research methods if they wish to apply for PhD programs in neuroscience.
Will the NBS concentration prepare me for medical school? An understanding of the biological bases of behavior is helpful for virtually all aspects of medicine, especially neurology and psychiatry. Many NBS concentrators also plan a pre-med curriculum. Please contact Jenette Wheeler (jwheeler@haverford.edu) for information on pre-med course planning at Haverford.
How do I get involved in NBS research? Talk to NBS faculty members about opportunities for summer or academic year research. Students can apply for summer funding through a Haverford Howard Hughes Medical Institute program or from individual faculty members.
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