Curriculum

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 neuropsychology classes. All classes are taught either at Suffolk or through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at Boston University. In order to complete the recommended neuropsychology coursework in addition to the general program requirements, students may need to take courses beyond their third year in the program. Students must take all Suffolk University courses listed below and either of the two Boston University neuropsychology courses.

PSYCH 747 - Adult Neuropsychological Assessment

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.

PSYCH 751 - Psychopharmacology

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.

PSYCH 792 - Introduction to Neuropsychology

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 credential requirements for the practice of neuropsychology. 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.

PSYCH 793 - Adult Neuropsychological Syndromes

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

PSYCH 795 - Human Neuropsychology I

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.

PSYCH 796 - Human Neuropsychology II

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

Electives

Students may also have the opportunity to take elective classes in neuropsychology, neurobiology, and cognitive neuroscience. However, it is important to note that these classes may not be offered on a regular basis. Further, students may need to take these courses beyond their third year of graduate study (thus they may not be covered under the 50% tuition reduction program). A listing of the courses that may be available to Suffolk students through the Behavioral Neuroscience program at BU can be found here: http://www.bumc.bu.edu/busm-bns/courses/. Each semester a listing of the courses available for the following semester are made available to Suffolk students via email.