Advances in the neurosciences have implications for numerous doctoral areas of study. The need for this training is also reflected in a continuing increase in positions for psychologists with training in neuropsychology. Postdoctoral positions in medical facilities often require the basic group of courses and experiences represented by this cognate. The Cognate in Clinical Neuropsychology was designed to afford students in doctoral programs at BSU the opportunity to develop basic competencies in neuropsychology/neuropsychological assessment. The objectives of the cognate are two-fold: (1) to offer an accent to the practice, research, and theory of psychology, and (2) to provide the students a basic education and necessary experiences for postdoctoral training in neuropsychology.

In addition to the five core courses in neuropsychology offered by the Department of Educational Psychology, students will select the remaining courses from a list of cross departmental elective courses. These courses allow flexibility to meet the individual student's educational goals.

The Department of Educational Psychology has a number of full time regular faculty members with advanced training in neuropsychology/neuropsychological assessment. In addition, the Department operates the Neuropsychological Laboratory with the complete Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery as well as other specialized measures. The Laboratory provides the basic facility for the instruction of neuropsychological assessment and research. Adequate library, computer, and other research facilities are available to meet the needs of the program. At present, the Department of Educational Psychology has 27 semester hours in neuropsychology and related areas.