Program Overview
The behavioral neuroscience major at the University of Kansas provides students with an interdisciplinary, research-intensive approach to understanding the biological foundations of behavior and cognition. Offered as a neuroscience bachelor’s degree through the Department of Psychology, KU’s Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience integrates psychology, biology, chemistry, and related sciences to examine how neural systems influence behavior across the lifespan.
Students in the behavioral neuroscience major explore how brain structure and function shape perception, learning, memory, emotion, and decision-making. Coursework emphasizes both foundational scientific principles and applied laboratory techniques, giving students direct experience with experimental design, data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of findings. Through this rigorous academic pathway, students develop a strong grounding in the scientific method while building technical skills relevant to research and healthcare settings.
The curriculum for this behavioral neuroscience major includes core training in behavioral neuroscience, molecular and cellular biology, chemistry, and psychological science. Students also complete advanced coursework that may include cognitive neuroscience, clinical neuroscience, psychopharmacology, and other specialized topics. This structure ensures that graduates of the bachelor’s degree in neuroscience understand neural processes from the molecular level to complex behavior.
In addition to structured coursework, the neuroscience degree emphasizes hands-on learning. Many students participate in faculty-led research labs, where they apply laboratory techniques, analyze empirical data, and contribute to ongoing scientific investigations. These experiences strengthen preparation for graduate study, professional programs, or entry-level scientific positions. By combining classroom instruction with experiential learning, the program supports students pursuing medical school, doctoral training, or careers requiring a strong behavioral neuroscience degree foundation.
The behavioral neuroscience major also supports students interested in health-related professions. Because the curriculum incorporates biology and chemistry alongside psychological science, it aligns well with many pre-health pathways. Students preparing for medical, dental, pharmacy, or other professional schools benefit from the program’s scientific rigor and emphasis on critical thinking.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Behavioral Neuroscience, BSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s in Behavioral Neuroscience is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Bachelor’s in Behavioral Neuroscience Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the behavioral neuroscience degree will be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the biological bases of behavior, including neural structure, function, and communication.
- Explain major theories and empirical findings within behavioral neuroscience and related areas of psychological science.
- Design and evaluate scientific research, including forming hypotheses, selecting appropriate methodologies, analyzing data, and interpreting results.
- Apply laboratory techniques and quantitative reasoning skills relevant to behavioral neuroscience research.
- Critically evaluate primary research literature in neuroscience and behavioral science.
- Communicate scientific concepts and research findings effectively in written and oral formats.
- Apply ethical principles to research involving human and animal subjects.
These outcomes reflect the expectations of a rigorous bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and align with preparation for advanced study or professional training.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Neuroscience?
A bachelor’s degree in behavioral science with a focus in neuroscience prepares graduates for a wide range of professional pathways. Students completing the behavioral neuroscience major may pursue roles in healthcare, biomedical research, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, data analysis, or mental health services.
According to Lightcast, demand for professionals with neuroscience and behavioral science training remains strong across research, healthcare, and applied science sectors. Entry-level roles may include laboratory technician, research assistant, or clinical support specialist, while advanced education can lead to expanded behavioral neuroscience jobs in medicine, academia, or industry.
Potential career paths include:
- Neuroscience Researcher
- Clinical Laboratory Technician
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Mental Health Specialist
- Medical School Preparation
Many students also use the neuroscience degree as preparation for graduate programs in psychology, neuroscience, biology, public health, or related biomedical sciences.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities for students pursuing a neuroscience degree. For more details on tuition costs, scholarships, and financial assistance, visit KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the behavioral neuroscience major must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Students in the behavioral neuroscience major benefit from a collaborative academic environment that encourages research engagement and interdisciplinary exploration. Opportunities may include joining research laboratories, participating in psychology and neuroscience student organizations, and attending seminars featuring faculty and guest researchers.
Through structured neuroscience courses and experiential learning, students gain exposure to laboratory methods, data analysis tools, and scientific communication practices. This immersive academic experience supports both intellectual development and professional preparation within the broader scientific community.
Bachelor’s in Behavioral Neuroscience Sample Courses
Students completing the behavioral neuroscience major take a combination of foundational science courses and specialized upper-level coursework. Required and commonly selected courses may include:
- Behavioral Neuroscience
- Principles of Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Clinical Neuroscience
- The Psychology of Aging
These behavioral science courses and advanced neuroscience courses provide students with both theoretical knowledge and applied scientific skills. For a full list of degree requirements, visit the KU Academic Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Behavioral Neuroscience Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.