COURSE CURRICULUM

The Cognitive and Brain Sciences specialization offers a diverse and interdisciplinary curriculum that allows students to explore the complexities of the mind and brain across development, behavior, and society. Beginning with foundational courses like BIOL 1841U (Essentials of Biology), PSYC 1000U (Introductory Psychology), and SSCI 1910U (Writing for the Social Sciences), students are introduced to key concepts in psychology, neuroscience, and social science research. Core courses such as PSYC 2050U (Brain and Behaviour), PSYC 2060U (Cognitive Psychology), PSYC 2900U (Research Methods), and PSYC 2910U (Data Analysis) build essential skills in scientific reasoning and data interpretation. Students deepen their understanding through advanced topics like PSYC 3090U (Social Affective Neuroscience), PSYC 3520U (Cognitive Neuroscience), and BIOL 3060U (Fundamentals of Neuroscience), and explore specialized areas including sleep, decision-making, emotion, development, and psychopathology. Electives from related fields such as criminology, health sciences, law, and education broaden perspectives and support career goals in areas like healthcare, mental health, education, or forensic psychology. Practical experience is offered through thesis work (PSYC 4110U/4120U), practicum (SSCI 4098U), and advanced labs. The program prepares graduates for graduate study or careers in neuroscience, psychology, healthcare, or research-intensive roles across academic and professional sectors.