Neuro- & Cognitive Science

Uncover the mysteries of the brain.

From physiological research into neurotransmitter activity, to psychological research into language acquisition and memory, to philosophical research into the nature of consciousness and matter, questions regarding the brain are countless and pose one of the most exciting areas of academic research.
Why study Neuro- & Cognitive Science at Millsaps?

In their own words

Sunny Jagdale, Class of 2025

“Millsaps is the only Mississippi undergraduate school with a national neuroscience honors society. We have access to excellent research equipment in our own neuroscience and psychology lab and at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. There are always opportunities waiting for us.”

Rita Lacy, Class of 2024

“The faculty pushed me to apply for internships and provided connections to talented scientists, who mentored me to do what I love — research. I gained a deep fascination for how much we still don’t know about the brain and an excitement for finding ways to expand that knowledge.”

Featured Courses

Here is a sampling of a few courses that might pique your interest.

NEUR 2000 Introduction to Neuroscience
Examine Neuroscience topics ranging from cell and molecular to behavioral and psychological aspects. Topics include gross anatomy of the brain and spinal cord, biomembrane structure, and neurotransmitter systems.
NEUR 3400 Applied Research in Neuroscience
Participate in applied research in neuroscience with faculty from Millsaps or the University of Mississippi Medical School in a seminar about current neuroscience research.

Our distinctive strengths

Neuro- and cognitive science is an interdisciplinary major that incorporates psychology with several other fields. The neuroscience concentration collaborates with biology and chemistry, while the cognitive science concentration includes courses from philosophy and computer science. Neuro- and cognitive science focuses on the structure and function of the central nervous system. Much of our curriculum is devoted to understanding the development of the brain, the activity of neurons and glia, and how our central nervous system controls so many of our behaviors and cognitions.
  • Select your research, not having to piggy-back on other research that is already in process/in development.
  • Research projects that are student driven
  • Customize coursework to your individual interests and that will best prepare you for the future
  • Emphasis on critical thinking, communication and presentation skills

Gain hands-on experience

When you major in psychology or neuro- and cognitive science, you will have opportunities for research and internships with colleagues at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, professional facilities in the greater Jackson area, as well as within the department of psychology and neuroscience.

Pathways

Our curriculum emphasizes problem solving and critical thinking skills essential to any career (and therefore any Pathway), as well as scientific writing and experimentation skills that may be especially critical to students interested in any of our six Pathways tracks.

Study Abroad

Summer- and winter- term field courses are offered on a regular basis. Explore recent courses here.

More About the Degree

Recent Career Placements

  • University of Mississippi
  • Medtronic
  • Pennington Biomedical Research Center
  • Mississippi Department of Health
  • Johns Hopkins University

Postgraduate Study

  • Louisiana State University
  • Tulane University
  • University of Georgia
  • University of Mississippi Medical Center
  • University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston)
  • William Carey School of Medicine
  • Xavier University

Careers of Recent Graduates

  • Neuroscientist
  • Research Scientist
  • Physician
  • Nurse
  • Psychiatric Technician
  • Coach
  • College Professor
  • Medical Equipment Sales
  • Pharmacist
  • Physician Assistant

Related Areas of Study

  • Business Administration
  • Government and Politics
  • Health & Exercise Science
  • Neuro- and Cognitive Studies
  • Sociology and Anthropology
  • Pre-Health

Ready? Take the next step!

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