edX Online

Find master's programs that teach physiological psychology

A master's degree in physiological psychology can lead toward a rewarding career. Learn more about physiological psychology courses, careers, and how to get started on your degree.

See all psychology master's programs

Why earn a master's that teaches physiological psychology?

Gain knowledge of brain-behavior relationships

Understand how the brain and nervous system influence behavior, emotions, cognition, and mental health.

Access research opportunities and advancements

Participate in hands-on research in areas like brain injury, addiction, and other mental health conditions.

Support mental health and well-being

Help improve therapeutic strategies and interventions for conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.


If you have an interest in human biology and behavior, a degree in physiological psychology might be a good fit for you. A physiological psychology degree can lead to a variety of rewarding careers as a neuropsychology researcher, professor, or clinical counselor/therapist.

Browse online psychology programs that cover physiological psychology

Prestigious
An immersive cohort-based learning experience that is designed to optimize learning outcomes and ensure global networking opportunities.
Flexible
Choose your path with a range of completion options and class times.
Equivalent to on-campus
Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

What is physiological psychology?

Physiological psychology is a subfield of behavioral neuroscience that studies the mind-body connection, particularly the nervous system, through examining the neural mechanisms related to behavior.

Additionally, physiological psychology explores the relationship of biological and physiological mechanisms to mental health conditions. Research is often conducted in laboratory settings on animal/non-human subjects.

Jobs for graduates who take physiological psychology courses

While a doctoral degree is required to be a psychologist, a master's degree in physiological psychology can offer a wide variety of career opportunities. Here are a few careers to consider:

Overview of degrees that focus on physiological psychology

A master's degree in physiological psychology provides students with a more advanced and specialized understanding of the biological aspects of behavior. These programs are particularly suited for those interested in research, clinical neuropsychology, or further academic study in psychology and neuroscience.

Most master's programs in physiological psychology require about two years of full-time study to complete. A capstone research project or thesis is usually required for graduation.

You can pursue either a master of arts (MA) or master of science (MS) in physiological psychology.

Common master's level physiological psychology courses

  • Behavioral neuroscience: This course covers the basics of the mind-body connection. Students will understand the structural and functional aspects of the nervous system and its connections to human behavior.
  • Cognitive development: This course focuses on understanding the development of cognitive processes such as memory, perception, intelligence and learning. Students may participate in a laboratory or research component to explore the clinical applications of cognitive processes.
  • Statistics: This course typically focuses on advanced statistical concepts used in psychological research. Students learn how to analyze and interpret data using psychometrics and statistical software.
  • Research methods: This course provides students with an advanced understanding of ethical psychological research. Students will explore common methods used in physiological psychology research, such as brain imaging or pharmacological manipulation.
See all psychology master's programs

Frequently asked questions