B.S. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, Pathway - 1 Semester

Entry requirements for Undergraduate admissions

Application Fee:  US $75

1. Academic Qualifications: The academic qualifications carry significant weight in the admission process, contributing 75% towards the evaluation of an applicant's eligibility. While specific academic requirements may vary depending on the program and degree level, applicants are generally expected to have a strong academic background with a high school diploma or equivalent. The evaluation of academic qualifications may consider factors such as GPA, class rank, coursework rigor, and academic achievements.

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS: A score of 6.5 overall, with no individual band score less than 5.5.
   • TOEFL: A score ranging from 78 on the internet-based test (iBT).
   • PTE: A score ranging from 52.
   • DET: A score ranging from 110.
      
3. Score reporting required.

Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute (LCI) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students pursuing English language programs and cultural immersion experiences. These scholarships aim to recognize academic achievement, promote diversity, and alleviate financial barriers for qualified students. Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits and cultural experiences. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to qualified students from diverse backgrounds. By investing in scholarships and financial aid, LCI aims to make quality education accessible and affordable for international students and contribute to their academic success and personal development.

LCI International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to cross-cultural understanding. Eligible candidates are selected based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. The scholarship covers partial tuition fees and may vary in amount depending on available funds and the number of recipients.

Merit-Based Scholarships: LCI offers merit-based scholarships to high-achieving international students who excel academically and exhibit exceptional language proficiency. These scholarships are awarded based on academic records, standardized test scores (such as TOEFL or IELTS), letters of recommendation, and other criteria determined by the scholarship committee. Recipients receive financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses for English language programs.

Need-Based Financial Aid: LCI provides need-based financial aid to international students who demonstrate financial need and require assistance to meet the costs of their education. Eligibility for need-based aid is determined through a comprehensive review of students' financial circumstances, including family income, assets, expenses, and other relevant factors. Financial aid packages may include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to help students afford their education at LCI.

Diversity Scholarships: LCI values diversity and seeks to foster an inclusive learning environment that celebrates cultural differences and promotes global citizenship. As part of its commitment to diversity, the institute offers scholarships to students from underrepresented regions, minority backgrounds, and marginalized communities. These scholarships aim to increase access to education and promote equity and inclusion within the student body.

Program-Specific Scholarships: Some English language programs at LCI may have specific scholarships or funding opportunities available to students enrolled in those programs. These scholarships may be sponsored by academic departments, private donors, or external organizations and may have specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines. Students are encouraged to inquire about available scholarships when applying to their desired programs.

Graduating from the B.S. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience program at Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute opens up a multitude of exciting career opportunities in various sectors. The B.S. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience program at Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute provides graduates with a strong foundation in neuroscience, psychology, and research skills, preparing them for diverse and rewarding careers in research, healthcare, education, and industry. With a focus on academic excellence, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration, graduates emerge as skilled professionals equipped to address complex questions about the brain and behavior and make meaningful contributions to improving mental health and well-being.

1. Research Assistant: Graduates can work as research assistants in academic institutions, research laboratories, or healthcare facilities. They assist senior researchers in conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results related to cognitive and behavioral neuroscience. Research assistants play a vital role in advancing scientific knowledge, contributing to research publications, and exploring new insights into brain function and behavior.

2. Neuropsychological Technician: Neuropsychological technicians work in hospitals, clinics, or research settings under the supervision of neuropsychologists. They administer neuropsychological tests to patients, assess cognitive functions, and assist in diagnosing neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury, or stroke. Neuropsychological technicians play a crucial role in patient evaluations and treatment planning, contributing to the understanding and management of neurological conditions.

3. Clinical Research Coordinator: Clinical research coordinators oversee and manage clinical research studies in healthcare settings, pharmaceutical companies, or academic research centers. They coordinate study protocols, recruit participants, collect data, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and ethical standards. Clinical research coordinators facilitate the smooth conduct of clinical trials and contribute to the development of new treatments and interventions for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

4. Healthcare Consultant: Graduates can work as healthcare consultants, providing expertise and advisory services to healthcare organizations, government agencies, or pharmaceutical companies. They analyze healthcare data, conduct market research, and provide recommendations for improving patient care, healthcare delivery, and health outcomes. Healthcare consultants may specialize in areas such as healthcare analytics, health policy, or healthcare management, applying their knowledge of cognitive and behavioral neuroscience to address healthcare challenges.

5. Behavioral Health Specialist: Behavioral health specialists work in mental health clinics, counseling centers, or community organizations, providing counseling and therapy to individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues. They assess clients' cognitive and emotional functioning, develop treatment plans, and facilitate individual or group therapy sessions. Behavioral health specialists may specialize in areas such as addiction counseling, trauma therapy, or behavioral interventions for psychiatric disorders.

6. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Graduates with strong communication and interpersonal skills may pursue careers as pharmaceutical sales representatives, promoting and selling pharmaceutical products related to neurological and psychiatric disorders. They educate healthcare providers about product features, benefits, and indications, and provide scientific and clinical evidence to support product use. Pharmaceutical sales representatives play a key role in educating healthcare professionals and raising awareness about treatment options for neurological conditions.

7. Health Educator: Health educators work in healthcare settings, schools, or community organizations, promoting awareness and understanding of cognitive and behavioral health issues. They develop educational materials, conduct workshops and presentations, and advocate for policies and programs that support mental health and well-being. Health educators may focus on topics such as stress management, mindfulness, or resilience training, empowering individuals to improve their cognitive and emotional health.

8. Data Analyst: Graduates with strong quantitative and analytical skills may pursue careers as data analysts in healthcare organizations, research institutions, or pharmaceutical companies. They analyze large datasets related to cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, identify patterns and trends, and generate insights to inform clinical practice, research initiatives, or healthcare policies. Data analysts play a crucial role in leveraging data to improve patient outcomes, optimize healthcare delivery, and advance scientific knowledge.

9. Science Writer or Communicator: Graduates with strong writing and communication skills may pursue careers as science writers, journalists, or communicators, specializing in neuroscience and mental health topics. They write articles, blog posts, or educational materials to communicate scientific discoveries and research findings to a broader audience. Science writers may work for media outlets, scientific journals, or healthcare organizations, translating complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging content for the public.

10. Graduate Studies and Advanced Degrees: Many graduates choose to pursue advanced studies or professional degrees in neuroscience, psychology, medicine, or related fields. They may enroll in graduate programs to obtain master's or doctoral degrees in cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology, or clinical psychology. Others may pursue professional degrees such as medical school, physician assistant programs, or counseling psychology programs to become licensed healthcare providers specializing in cognitive and behavioral health.