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The Department of Psychological Sciences at UMSL provides students with extensive research possibilities across multiple human experimental labs equipped with state-of-the-art psychophysiological technology. The department also manages three key facilities—Community Psychological Services, the Center for Trauma Recovery, and Children's Advocacy Services of Greater St. Louis—offering diverse training experiences for psychology students while delivering assessment services to the local community.
While the degree title might suggest limited career paths, a Master of Arts in Psychology with a Behavioral Neuroscience focus actually unlocks opportunities across various professional sectors. Professionals with this specialized skill set are currently in strong demand.
The program delivers rigorous instruction in critical thinking, research methodology, scientific writing, teaching techniques, psychological principles, effective communication, ethical standards, social neuroscience, clinical neuropsychology, cognitive and affective processes, statistical methods, human learning and memory systems, neuropsychological evaluation, emotional neuroscience, neuroanatomy, and psychopharmacology.
Graduates will achieve the following competencies:
Synthesize psychological theories, research findings, and historical developments in behavioral neuroscience, applying this knowledge effectively in both academic and research settings.
Utilize scientific methodologies to address behavioral neuroscience challenges, demonstrating how solutions emerge from systematic inquiry.
Select and implement appropriate research strategies in behavioral neuroscience, encompassing study design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation.
Apply ethical guidelines to behavioral neuroscience research and instruction following international standards, while fostering social responsibility at community, national, and global scales.