Hard science classes for Neuropsychology?

[Souzou]

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I'm currently doing a major in psychology with a concentration in neuroscience. I'm planning my schedule for second semester of sophomore year, and I was wondering if I should sign up for Organic Chemistry II? I got an A in Organic I, but I really don't want to suffer through Organic II (and then Physics) if its deemed unnecessary for neuroscience graduate programs. Unfortunately the schools that I have been researching do not have any information on the application pre-requisites, so would I be at a disadvantage if I took more neuroscience classes rather than organic and physics?

Any insight is appreciated!

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

You'll probably learn more applicable info from traditional neuroscience classes. I found orgo very helpful for pharmacology stuff, but that level of knowledge won't directly apply to what you'd do in neuropsychology. However, if you are looking at neuroscience doctoral programs (not clinical, just research), then the applicability would be dependent on your area(s) of research.

 

[VeggieDelight]

If you've already taken one semester of orgo, I assume you've had gen chem. This is plenty for neuropsychology programs and probably enough for purely research-based programs. When I was considering such a neuroscience PhD, students and advisors told me I didn't need any of those physical science classes to apply, and that I could take them in graduate school if needed. I'd recommend focusing on neuroscience electives (cognitive neuroscience, physiological psychology, a neuroscience lab, etc.) to help you start exploring areas of research.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

To be clear Neuropsychology programs =/= Neuroscience programs, as neuropsychology is a sub-speciality of clinical psychology.

 

[Souzou]

Is the difference that those with a neuropsychology doctorate see patients, while those with a neuroscience doctorate will mainly conduct research? I'm definitely more interested in seeing patients than research. While doing some research on the topic, I found that some people say there are masters degrees in neuropsychology, but do most people obtain a PhD in clinical then go onto refine their studies in neuropsych?

Also, just to clarify, so should I not sign up for organic II for now? I feel like I should keep my options open, but I'm definitely not interested in going to medical school or in doing research. I would prefer not to suffer through another semester of organic haha.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

Check out these threads:
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=869664
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=220352