Bachelor of Science—Psychological & Brain Sciences (Requirements - PDF)
Psychological science is an empirically-based research science that serves as an important bridge between the natural sciences on the one hand and the social sciences and humanities on the other. This is reflected in the research interests of our faculty, which span from the behavior of social groups to the behavior of neurons in the brain.
Students who complete the PBS major enter a variety of careers and graduate programs including experimental psychology, neuroscience, social neuroscience, social work, applied psychology, education, business administration, and law. It is important to keep in mind that many of these professional careers require training beyond the undergraduate level and students with such interests should discuss their plans with an advisor as early as possible.
Transfer Students - It is strongly recommended that all transfer students wishing to pursue a Bachelor Science in our department complete as many of the pre-major and preparation for the major courses listed on the requirements sheet as possible. At minimum, it is typically recommended that transfer students complete a year of general chemistry and biology (covering molecular, cellular, evolution, and animal physiology) prior to transferring to UCSB to progress smoothly through the major in the allotted two years for transfer students.
Once students have successfully completed all pre-major requirements, they may petition for full major status in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences Undergraduate Affairs Office. Students must attain full major standing prior to the completion of 144 units. Admission to the pre-major does not guarantee admission to the full major.
Bachelor of Arts—Psychology
THIS DEGREE PROGRAM IS NOW CLOSED TO ALL STUDENTS. PLEASE REFER TO PREVIOUS GENERAL CATALOGS FOR INFORMATION ON PAST REQUIREMENTS.
Bachelor of Science—Biopsychology (Requirements - PDF)
The biopsychology major is designed for students interested in an intensive study of the relationship between biological and behavioral function. The required courses involve a study of neurophysiology and neuroanatomy; biochemical, endocrine, and pharmacological regulations in the central nervous system; and the behavioral and psychological data related to these topics. Students who do not enter the university as pre-biopsychology majors may declare the pre-biopsychology major after completing Psychology 1 with a grade of C or better, and a cumulative 2.0 grade-point average for all courses completed toward preparation for the major.
Students must attain full major standing prior to completion of 144 units. Once students have successfully completed the pre-major requirements, they may petition for full major status in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences Undergraduate Affairs Office. Admission to the pre-major does not guarantee admission to the full major.
Careful planning is required for biopsychology majors to graduate in a timely fashion. Students in the major should consult with the undergraduate advisor regarding
the frequency and timing of upper-division course offerings.
Passed/Not Passed Option Within the Major
Psychology and biopsychology majors are permitted to take a maximum of 8 units from the following courses on a passed/not passed basis to fulfill the major requirements for either of the psychology majors: Psychology 143P, 198, 199P. Students who wish to take more than 8 units of the above courses or any other psychology courses on a passed/not passed basis may do so. However, such courses will not apply to the major requirements.
Bachelor of Science—Pre-Psychological & Brain Sciences (Requirements - PDF)
Bachelor of Science—Pre-Biopsychology (Requirements - PDF)