Students electing the neuropsychology concentration are expected to complete all of the core requirements of the general clinical psychology program. In addition, faculty expectations for preparation in neuropsychology include the following six neuropsychology classes. All classes are taught either at Suffolk or through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Boston University, where Dr. Edith Kaplan is also on the faculty.

This course will present students with an introduction to the field of psychopharmacology. Topics covered will include: the art of prescribing medication; the psychopharmacology of anxiety and psychotic mental disorders (including pediatric and geriatric psychopharmacology); pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy; biopsychosocial factors in drug abuse and addiction.

Basic introduction to the specialty of neuropsychology. The scope of neuropsychology, the difference between neuropsychology and related difference and subspecialties, different historical and theoretical approaches to neuropsychology, as well as credentialing requirements for the practice of neuopsychology. Introduction to research techniques used to investigate brain-behavior relationships, ethical issues, and the role of the neuropsychologist in clinical and rehabilitation settings. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate a basic knowledge of the nervous system, the role of neurotransmitters, brain structures and associated functions, an understanding of how different instruments are used to assess those functions, and how neuropsychological interventions are formulated and implemented.

This course is designed to provide an introduction to adult neuropsychological syndromes in terms of their prevalence, etiology, hypothesized mechanisms, and neuropsychological manifestations.

Researchers from the Boston Veterans Administration Hospital lecture on various topics including: neuropsychological assessment; plasticity in development; aphasia; apraxia; attention deficit disorder; aging; memory; dementia; bilingualism; epilepsy; and pain. Held at the Boston Veterans Administration Hospital in Jamaica Plain.

Continuation of Psychology 795 at the Boston Veterans Administration Hospital in Jamaica Plain.

In addition, students are expected to take at least one semester of:

Reviews principles and techniques of a standard neuropsychological test battery for adults. Examination of neuropsychological assessment instruments for children as well as discussion of varying neuropsychological approaches (e.g., process vs. achievement) will also be included.

OR

Reviews principles and techniques of a standard neuropsychological test battery for children.

A wide variety of elective classes in neuropsychology, neurobiology, and cognitive neuroscience are also offered:

This course will examine major disorders of cognitive development in children. The disorders are characterized in terms of their distinctive profiles of neuropsychological deficits and brain abnormalities. Topics to be covered include: genetic, metabolic, and toxic disorders, as well as underlying entities such as dyslexia, ADHD, nonverbal learning disabilities, and autistic spectrum disorders. The course is taught by professionals who are actively engaged in clinical practice or research. Held through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Boston University.

This is a continuation of PSYCH 790. Held through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Boston University.

Study of the neural mechanisms underlying behavioral development. Topics include the plasticity of the human brain in response to deprivation or damage, and mechanisms underlying specific syndromes (e.g. aphasia, dyslexia, learning disabilities, hyperactivity, autism, and Tourette’s syndrome). Offered through the Brain, Behavior and Cognition program at Boston University.

This course will provide students with a comprehensive overview of functional neuroanatomy, as well as an introduction to neuropathology, neuroepidemiology, and the neurobehavioral consequences of congenital and acquired neurological diseases/disorders. Teaching strategies include lectures, and human brain laboratory dissections. Held through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Boston University.

Central neuron processes underlying emotions, learning, and consciousness in humans and animals. Theory, methods, and experimental findings; laboratory demonstrations. Effect of brain pathology on human subjects. Offered through the Brain, Behavior and Cognition program at Boston University.

This course will be taught by both neuroscientists and legal professionals, and will provide students with an introduction to the emerging role of clinical and research findings from the behavioral neurosciences in both the courtroom and judicial proceedings. Held through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Boston University.

The following elective courses are offered on a less-regular basis:

Brain Asymmetry (Functional and Structural Aspects)

Neuropsychology of Aging

Basic Neurosciences

Behavioral and Biological Aspects of Stress and Trauma

Neuropsychology of Perception and Memory