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Brain, Behavior & Cognition Psychology (BBC) delves into the intersection of neuroscience and cognitive science. This field investigates human perception, learning, memory recall, social interaction, and higher-order thinking skills like innovative problem-solving.
At Northwestern University, BBC research focuses on key areas. A primary focus involves memory systems and how experiences shape information storage. Memory manifests both through conscious recollection of personal events and subconscious influences on behavior, both rooted in the brain's neuroplasticity. BBC employs advanced techniques like behavioral analysis, neuroimaging, and physiological monitoring to study cognition. EEG technology helps researchers examine visual processing, focus, emotional responses, memory formation, meditative states, language understanding, truth detection, creative thinking, and sudden problem-solving. The department combines classic perception studies with modern molecular biology approaches to neural adaptation, while clinical research offers complementary insights into the neural and cognitive basis of mental processes.
For admitted students, the average GPA from their Junior and Senior years in college is 3.60. Undergraduate psychology courses are not required, but we do recommend that those without a psychology background take some general psychology courses.
The average Verbal GRE score of students admitted to the department of psychology is 165. The average Quantitative GRE score of students admitted to the department is 160. The psychology subject test is not required, but is strongly recommended.
The minimum TOEFL score for admission is 577 for the paper-based test and 233 for the computer-based test, 90 or higher on the internet based test.