Psychology and Neuroscience

Department Chairperson: Dr. Mary Jean Lynch
Psychology and Neuroscience Faculty

Mission Statement

The mission of the Psychology and Neuroscience Department is to prepare students to function as competent, ethical individuals in their personal and professional lives. In order to accomplish this goal, we expect their study of psychology and neuroscience to enhance their ability to think critically, to communicate effectively and to appreciate the scientific approach to understanding behavior and mental processes.

Psychology

As a member of the social sciences, psychology seeks to understand the causes and consequences of human and animal behavior by employing the methods of scientific inquiry. Given this general orientation, the psychology program at North Central College provides students with a sound background in the methods used to understand behavior. Students receive an overview of several key areas within the discipline: Social, Biological, Cognitive/Learning and Developmental. In addition, students explore at least one topic in depth through a senior seminar, an independent study or an internship.

Neuroscience

Neuroscience takes an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the structure, function, evolution, development and pathology of the nervous system in relation to behavior and mental processes. Individuals working in this area examine issues from the micro (including molecular and cellular bases of neuronal function, nervous system structure, how systems of neurons process information) to the macro (how these functions are linked to behavior and give rise to conscious experience) level. The neuroscience program at North Central College prepares students to appreciate the fundamental workings of the nervous system and how it applies to human health and behavior.

Degrees offered: B.A. and B.S.

Programs

Major

Minor

Courses

Neuroscience