Bachelor of Arts in Study of the Mind
Program Overview & Goals
The Study of the Mind major at Hendrix College is an interdisciplinary exploration of the mind, brain, behavior, and cognition through the integrated study of neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, biology, and computer science. The program examines foundational questions about consciousness, perception, learning, intelligence, and human behavior while emphasizing both empirical investigation and philosophical inquiry.
Via Hendrix
We have transformed the traditional college experience into a launchpad for personal and professional growth.
Through integrated career preparation, experiential learning, and close mentorship, students build practical experience alongside the critical thinking and communication skills of a liberal arts education. From your first day on campus, every experience is designed to help you grow into the person and professional you aspire to become.
Careers & Outcomes
A Hendrix Study of the Mind education empowers you to explore the complexities of human behavior while building the research, critical thinking, and communication skills that prepare you to contribute meaningfully in any professional setting.
Salary Projections
The median salary for a psychologist is $94,310, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Top Industries
- Healthcare
- Mental and Behavioral Health
- Research
- Higher Education
- Biotechnology
- Pharmaceuticals
- Government
- Human Services
- Technology
- Nonprofit Organizations
Career Options
The Study of the Mind major prepares students with an interdisciplinary foundation for work in a variety of fields, including:
- Clinical Psychology
- Counseling
- Psychiatry
- Neurology
- Neuroscience Research
- Cognitive Science
Co-op Opportunities
Experience transforms understanding into impact. At Hendrix, Study of the Mind students gain hands-on experience through research, internships, and community-based learning. Working alongside faculty mentors and community partners, students apply their knowledge of human behavior while building the skills needed for success in graduate school and diverse career paths.
- Research & Behavioral Science
- Community Outreach & Advocacy
- Marketing & Consumer Behavior Research
- Youth Development Programs
- Government & Public Service Agencies
Roadmap to the Bachelor of Arts in Study of the Mind
Every Study of the Mind major takes classes in psychology, neuroscience, biology, and cognitive science to explore how the brain, behavior, and cognition shape the human experience. Through experiential learning opportunities, you also get to think critically, solve complex problems, conduct research, and communicate evidence-based insights across disciplines.
Year One
Our First-Year Experience gives you the freedom to discover what you care about most and find a path to get there. Your coursework this year allows you to master the foundations of psychology, biology, neuroscience, and cognitive science. You also begin to learn how researchers investigate the brain, behavior, and the processes that shape how we think, learn, and interact with the world.
Year Two
In your second year, you will have a stronger vision of what your academic experience and career planning look like. Your integrated advising team of faculty, career counselors, and mentors will ensure that the things you study align with your future goals while still providing room to explore.
Year Three
Your third year includes a required full-time co-op. For one semester, you earn credit while applying knowledge from your coursework in a professional setting.
Year Four
Your last year is not the finish line. It is where everything starts. Complete the Study of the Mind Capstone, conduct original research, and graduate prepared to pursue advanced study or launch a career exploring the mind, brain, and behavior.
Meet the Faculty
Our Study of the Mind faculty are accomplished scholars, dedicated teachers, and invested mentors. With expertise spanning psychology, neuroscience, cognition, and human development, they bring current research and real-world insight into every classroom. More importantly, they work closely with students as advisors and collaborators, providing personalized support as they explore their interests and prepare for meaningful careers and graduate study.
Andres Caro
Cynthia Cook Sandefur Odyssey Professor of Chemistry
Chair, Biochemistry / Molecular Biology Program
Carmen Merrick
James and Emily Bost Odyssey Professor of Psychology
Christian K. Campolo
Professor of Philosophy
Gabriel Ferrer
Professor of Computer Science
Chair, Natural Sciences Area
Chair, Study of the Mind / Neuroscience Program
James Dow
Professor of Philosophy
Director of the Steel Center
Chair, Philosophy and Religious Studies Department
Jennifer J. Peszka
Virginia A. McCormick Pittman Distinguished Professor of Psychology
Jennifer Penner
James and Emily Bost Odyssey Professor of Psychology
Mark Goadrich
Professor of Computer Science
Related Programs
Via Hendrix, you can explore how people think, learn, and behave, investigate the science behind cognition and development, or shape your own academic path through interdisciplinary study tailored to your interests and career goals.
Your Next Steps Via Hendrix
Every field is driven by understanding human behavior. Learn how much insight, flexibility, and real-world value a Study of the Mind major at Hendrix College can deliver for you.