IX. Graduate Programs

Psychology

Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science (MSc, PhD)

http://www.uoguelph.ca/nacs

The Masters and PhD programs in the areas of Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science provides training for students interested in the integrative functioning of the brain. This program encompasses: basic cognitive processes, behavioural neuroscience, cognitive ergonomics, cognitive neuroscience, developmental and life-span cognition, and foundations of cognitive science. Students in these disciplines have the opportunity to learn about the interdisciplinary work of other students, faculty and outside researchers in the weekly research seminar in Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science. Additionally, students take courses specific to their research. A unique feature of this area of study is the practicum that provides students with additional specific training in a research laboratory, hospital, government agency, or non-government agency. As well, the Department of Psychology (and specifically the Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science area of Psychology) participates in the Collaborative Neuroscience and Collaborative Toxicology programs. That means that students in the Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science area have 3 alternatives for their degree. They can elect to register in Psychology alone, Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience, or Psychology and Collaborative Toxicology. (Note that students cannot register in both the Collaborative Toxicology and Collaborative Neuroscience Programs.)

The program involves three components:

1. Preparatory Course Work

   Students will acquire knowledge and skills necessary to carry our Neuroscience and Cognitive Science research in academic and/or applied settings. At the Masters level, this will involve a course in Research Design and Statistics, a course in Research Ethics (Animal research ethics or Human research ethics), at least one elective in their specific field of research and the Research Seminar in Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science A. PhD students take Research Seminar in Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science B, at least three electives and must pass a qualifying exam.

2. Practicum

   One of the unique features of University of Guelph's Neuroscience and Applied Cognitive Science masters program is the practicum. Students will complete a practicum in a variety of research settings, including government agencies, hospitals, businesses, and other research laboratories. The practicum may involve learning a new technique in a laboratory other than that of the advisor. Practicum experiences will be tailored to the student's interests, and will enable student to acquire and refine skills and develop professional contacts. The research practicum is a required course for Masters students. PhD students may take one or more practicums as part of their electives.

3. Thesis research

   Students will carry out an independent research project under the supervision of a faculty supervisor. This will involve a thesis for the Masters program and a Dissertation for the PhD.