For example, Behavioral Neuroscience majors at Western Washington University study the biological basis of normal learning and memory as well as psychiatric illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, and drug abuse.

Western's Behavioral Neuroscience program, offered through the Department of Psychology, provides students with the specialized preparation, research opportunities and technological sophistication critical for success in entry-level research and healthcare positions and postgraduate training in neuroscience, medicine, dentistry and related disciplines.

Beyond the Classroom

Behavioral Neuroscience is more than an academic major at Western, it is a family of dedicated faculty, staff, and students who collaborate in behavioral neuroscience research and outreach. Behavioral Neuroscience majors are actively involved in original research with faculty and staff, frequently coauthoring national and international conference presentations and journal articles. Students may also be involved in the Neuroscience Research Driven Students (NeRDS) Club, hosting activities that range from purely social gatherings to increasing brain awareness through outreach to K-12 public school classrooms and community laboratory tours.??

Careers and Graduate Studies

Behavioral Neuroscience students at Western receive the specialized preparation critical for success in such graduate-training programs as neuroscience, psychology, pharmacology, mental health, neurobiology, medicine, and dentistry. Western students have continued their studies at the following schools, among many others: ?

  • Arizona State University: Neuroscience (PhD) ?
  • University of Washington: Medical School (MD and PA), Dental School ?
  • University of Tennessee Health Science Center: Neuroscience (PhD)?
  • Johns Hopkins University: Medical School (MD) and Neuroscience (PhD)?
  • Washington State University: Neuroscience (PhD) and Pharmacy (Pharm D)
  • University of Texas Southwestern: Immunology (PhD)?
  • Oregon Health Sciences University: Medical School (MD) and Neuroscience (PhD)?
  • University of British Columbia: Neuroscience (PhD)

For students who do not anticipate pursuing post-graduate education, the degree provides an excellent platform for entry-level positions in academia and industry. Western students have been employed by the following academic institutions and companies, among others:?

  • Seattle Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center?
  • Shin Nippon Biomedical Laboratories?
  • University of Washington?
  • Western Washington University?
  • Gilead Sciences?
  • Allen Institute for Brain Science
  • Fred Hutch

Sample Careers

  • Neuroscientist ?
  • Biomedical Researcher ?
  • Psychiatrist ?
  • Medical Doctor ?
  • Dentist ?
  • Pharmacist ?
  • Veterinarian ?
  • Physician Assistant ?
  • Pharmaceutical Sales