Program Overview
Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour is a broad field, with applications in a vast range of professions. Our graduates are well prepared for graduate studies in psychology (both clinical and experimental); for professional studies such as medicine and teaching; for research positions in government, university or industry; and for careers in the health sciences and helping professions. Our program has many electives which can be used towards a minor and/or for fulfilling specific course requirements for graduate and professional programs. Students graduating either the Honours B.A. or Honours B.Sc. degrees are equally qualified.
We also offer Mental Health and Music Cognition specializations. The Mental Health specialization focuses students’ studies on research into mood disorders and includes a practicum placement. The Music Cognition specialization is unique among North American universities, providing students with a double background in cognitive neuroscience and music. It prepares them for interdisciplinary research into the cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience of music, as well as applied careers in audiology and music therapy.
Path From High School
At McMaster University, students normally complete a gateway Level I (first year) program and then select a specific discipline program as they enter Level II (second year). Students interested in the Honours B.A./B.Sc. Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour programs usually apply to Life Sciences I or Social Sciences I as their first year gateway programs. Applications to McMaster are made through the Ontario University Application Centre (OUAC).
For detailed admission requirements for Level I programs, please refer to the University’s admission requirements pages.
Expandable List
Anticipated percentage cut-off (subject to change): 87% to 90%
I Note 1: Applicants without Calculus & Vectors U will be required to take an equivalent Calculus course in Level I.
Anticipated percentage cut-off (subject to change): 78% to 82%.
I Note: Biology U (SBI4U), Advanced Functions U (MHF4U), and Calculus & Vectors U (MCV4U) are highly recommended. Applicants without these courses will be required to take equivalent courses in Level I.
Path From Level I (Course Requirements)
To enter the Honours B.A./B.Sc. Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour programs in Level II, you will need to take specific courses in Level I. Click the links below to see these admission requirements and descriptions of the upper year courses for each program:
Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour (B.Sc.)
Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour (B.A.)
Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour – Mental Health Specialization (B.Sc.)
Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour – Mental Health Specialization (B.A.)
Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour – Music Cognition Specialization (B.Sc.)
Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour – Music Cognition Specialization (B.A.)
Combined Honours in Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour and Another Subject (B.A.)
