Dalhousie University

Overview

Dalhousie University offers a Master of Science (MSc) in Psychology and Neuroscience, designed for students interested in research within these dynamic fields. This program features a close collaboration with faculty supervisors and provides the opportunity to specialize in either Experimental Psychology or Neuroscience. Students will engage in original research, culminating in a thesis that showcases their findings.

What you'll study

The MSc program is thesis-based, requiring students to complete graduate coursework alongside their research. This structure aims to enhance skills in research methodologies and critical analysis.

Streams

• Experimental Stream (Experimental Psychology): This stream delves into the intricacies of human and animal behavior, exploring the neural mechanisms that underlie these actions.
• Neuroscience Stream: This stream merges psychology with biological sciences, examining brain structure and function through various lenses such as cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and physiology.

Core graduate courses (examples from the curriculum)

• Principles of Neuroscience: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
• Principles of Neuroscience: Systems and Behavioural Neuroscience
• Proseminar: Methods of Psychological Inquiry
• Psychology & Neuroscience Colloquium (Masters)
• Fundamentals of Statistics and Experimental Design

Thesis requirement

• Thesis: Students will conduct original research under faculty supervision and must successfully defend their thesis.

Curriculum note: Course selection may differ based on the chosen stream and supervisor requirements. Prospective students should consult the official program page for the most accurate course offerings and sequencing.

Entry requirements

Academic background

• A four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
• A minimum GPA of 3.3/4.3 (B+ average) in the last 60 credit hours of study.

English language proficiency (if applicable)

• TOEFL iBT: minimum 92
• IELTS (Academic): minimum 7.0
• PTE Academic: minimum 65

Applicants whose first language is not English may qualify for a waiver if they completed a recognized degree where English was the primary language of instruction.

Application materials (typical)

• Online graduate application
• Official transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency (if required)
• Any additional documents requested by the program (e.g., research interests and supporting materials)

Career prospects

Graduates from the MSc in Psychology and Neuroscience program at Dalhousie University are well-equipped for various career paths. They may pursue opportunities in academia, research institutions, healthcare settings, or industries focusing on mental health, cognitive science, or neuroscience. The comprehensive training received during the program prepares students for roles that require critical thinking, research expertise, and a deep understanding of psychological and neurological principles.