Neural, Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences
Study and research in the cognitive sciences focus on ways that the brain's physical qualities, intelligence processes, behavior and communication interconnect. Through the study of processes such as learning, language, decision making and memory, faculty and students gain new knowledge that can be used to address issues in education, health care, technologies, training and intervention.
Cognitive Science studies focus on brain function and behavior. These studies are carried out by analyzing the function of the mind in the context of several disciplines, including philosophy, psychology, computation science, linguistics and cognitive neuroscience. College of Science faculty with expertise in these and many other diverse fields help students gain a better understanding of language, learning, decision making, visual recognition and awareness.
The Neuroscience Department concentrates on the molecular and cellular physiology, development and function of the nervous system. Faculty, researchers and students create new knowledge based on theoretical and clinical research about the behavioral and cognitive functions of the brain and nerves. Research achievements provide solutions to challenges in medicine and health, science, education and industry.
The Psychology Department explores the science of mental life and behavior. Faculty, researchers and students make new discoveries about the biological, environmental and social factors that influence the mind and behavior. This new knowledge can provide answers to issues of behavior and mental function.
The School of Mind, Brain and Behavior houses the departments of Neuroscience, Psychology and Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, as well as the GIDPs in Neuroscience, and the program in Cognitive Science. These collaborations are dedicated to the teaching and discovery of principles and mechanisms underlying minds, brains and behaviors.
Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences offers degree programs in a multidisciplinary environment with diverse clinical experiences. Currently ranked 5th in Speech-Language Pathology by US News and World Report, the program, faculty and students work on a variety of research topics related to human communication and its disorders.