Behavioral neuroscience is a very popular specialty field in the wider field of psychology. For students who want to pursue a career in this field, a degree from of the nations leading programs is a great way to open doors to excellent employment opportunities.
What is Behavioral Neuroscience?
While many people are familiar with the general field of psychology, what they may not know is how many specialty fields comprise this larger field. One of the most popular sub-fields is behavioral neuroscience. This field is also referred to as biological psychology, biopsychology, or psychobiology. What is involves is the application of biological principles (specifically neurobiology), to the study of psychology, genetics, and the developmental modes of behavior.
What are the Best Behavioral Neuroscience Degree Programs?
According to the US News and World Report list of the best Behavioral Neuroscience Graduate Programs, there are five educational leaders in this field.
#1 – University of California – San Diego – The program offered by UC San Diego is listed as the best in the country. The school is also listed as the 52nd best overall psychology program in the country.
#2 – Massachusetts Institute of Technology – MIT offers interested students an excellent program in behavioral neuroscience. This nationally known school is also ranked as the 9th best graduate psychology program in the country overall.
#3 – University of Michigan – The university, located in the beautiful college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan is ranked as the 3rd best program in this specialty field as well as the 4th best psychology generalist program.
Tie #4 – Harvard University – Tied for the #4 spot in both behavioral neuroscience and general psychology, Harvard is one of the top universities in the country.
Tie #4 – University of California – Los Angeles – UCLA is another top ranked university with a wide variety of academic programs. In addition to being tied for the 4th best behavioral neuroscience program, they are ranked as the 2nd best program in general psychology.
How Much Will a Graduate Degree in Behavioral Neuroscience Cost?
The cost of a graduate degree in behavioral neuroscience will depend upon a number of factors. These include what school you attend, what specialty area you are working toward and what region of the country your degree is from. One of the most important factors is what level of degree you choose to pursue. A master’s degree in this field will cost considerably less than a doctoral degree. According to the American Psychological Association (APA) the median annual tuition for state residents enrolled in a public master’s degree program was $5,343 in 2008-2009, which was an increase from tuition data reported in 2007-2008 ($4,590). The annual tuition rates for nonresidents were approximately three times the resident amount, at $13,088. For students enrolled in doctoral programs the APA stated that the median annual tuition for state residents enrolled in a public doctoral departments was $7,104 in 2008-2009, which was an increase from tuition data reported in 2007-2008 ($6,819). Annual tuition rates for nonresidents were $16,966.
By choosing a program that is nationally recognized for excellence, students pursuing a graduate degree in behavioral neuroscience significantly increase their chances of landing their dream job. These are five of the best programs in the country. For more information on the best behavioral neuroscience graduate programs check out the US News and World Report list of top programs.