Advanced Behavioural Neuroscience (BNS4100 & BNS4200)

Course Coordinator

Dr. Dianne Sheppard

Overview of subject

Behavioural neuroscience is the exciting area of science that addresses the biological basis of behaviour and cognition. In recent years there has been a rapid expansion of knowledge concerning the biochemical, anatomical and physiological correlates of brain function and dysfunction. This knowledge has substantially enhanced our understanding of the way that the brain influences behaviour and cognition, and vice versa. A thorough understanding of these interactions will benefit students wishing to pursue careers in areas that relate to mind and behaviour. To this end, a three year undergraduate degree in Behavioural Neuroscience (BBNS) was introduced.

BBNS graduates may undertake Honours in Behavioural Neuroscience through fourth-year studies in a number of disciplines, including Advanced Behavioural Neuroscience. The aim of the Advanced Behavioural Neuroscience program is to allow BBNS students an opportunity to develop highly specialised research skills in an area of behavioural neuroscience that will ultimately increase their employment prospects and/or provide them with the opportunity to undertake further research at Masters or PhD level.

The Advanced Behavioural Neuroscience program is administered by the School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences. Students will conduct their research projects under the supervision or co-supervision of academic staff within the school.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will have:

1. Acquired scientific principles, concepts and skills in behavioural neuroscience.
2. Gained a research oriented approach to behavioural neuroscience preparing them for a research career in neuroscience and/or further studies (Masters or PhD).
3. Formulated, carried out and reported independent research.
4. Acquired experience with research design, statistical analysis, critical review of literature, report writing and oral presentation of findings.

Synopsis

Students enrolled in Advanced Behavioural Neuroscience (BNS4001 & BNS4200) will be required to undertake two major research projects in an area of behavioural neuroscience. The BNS4100 unit consists of the research project and associated literature review, and the BNS4200 unit the research design and analysis component. Since this program is intended for students not wishing to gain registration as a psychologist, it is a non-accredited APS sequence. Students will gain specialised research skills and an advanced understanding of an area of behavioural neuroscience.

Assessment

Research Projects 72.5%, Literature Review 15%, Research Design and Analysis Assessment 12.5%. Hurdle requirement: attendance of fortnightly Neuroscience and Neuropsychology colloquia in the School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, and approval from the relevant human or animal ethics committee.

Fees

Commonwealth Supported Places, or full international fee.

Eligibility

Successful completion of the Bachelor of Behavioural Neuroscience undergraduate degree, and a 70% average or better in 24 credit points of core third year behavioural neuroscience units.

Applications

Applications for the course may only be submitted via the web-based application form. It will be available in early September of each year and must be lodged by 31 October, for entry into the course in the following year.

Any additional documentation required is to be mailed to the Fourth Year Administrative Assistant at:

International students MUST also apply through the Monash International Office. Students should visit the Monash International web site for important information.

Note: There is no mid-year entry into this course.

Enquiries

4th Year Course Enquiries
School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine
Building 17
Clayton Campus
Monash University VIC 3800

Telephone: 9903 1173
Email: 4thyearpsych.enquiries@med.monash.edu.au