Physiological Psychology/Psychobiology

Physiological psychology and psychobiology help us understand how the biological functions of the body and the psychological functions of the mind work together. Similar to the fields of neurobiology and neuroscience, the physiological psychology/psychobiology major focuses on perception. Curriculum for those majoring in physiological psychology/psychobiology is built on the science of psychological functioning. Instruction generally centers on functional neuroanatomy, biochemical neural regulatory mechanism, neural system development, neurological biophysics, physiology of cognition and perception, memory storage and retrieval, psychopharmacology, comparative psychobiology, and physiological bases of psychopathology and behavioral disorders. Classes will take place both in a typical lecture format and in the field. Those interested in becoming physiological psychologists/psychobiologists generally earn a bachelor's degree in general psychology, which provides a solid foundation for further study. To be a successful physiological psychologist/psychobiologist, students continue their studies at the graduate level, earning either a master's degree or Ph.D. Career opportunities exist in a number of areas for individuals holding a degree in physiological psychology/psychobiology. Educational institutions, health care facilities, community organizations, learning centers, and research centers offer a wealth of opportunities.