The ‘Your Brain, Your Mind, Your Future’ summer program is a new collaborative program offered by the Department of Psychology and the Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience, at the University of British Columbia (UBC). Enter the world of brain sciences in this engaging program composed of lectures, workshops, and social events. Learn about human behaviour and apply neuroscience in your own life—all while exploring beautiful Vancouver, Canada. Designed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, this program will provide you with a deeper appreciation for the workings of your brain.
What you might expect/course format
This immersive course blends lectures with hands-on experiences, exploring fundamental and applied concepts in psychology and neuroscience. We will explore a wide range of topics, from the intricate mechanisms of neuronal communication to the latest advancements in therapies for psychological disorders. Throughout the course, students will develop a deeper understanding of their own minds and mental processes (learning, memory, motivation, etc.), and the complexities of human behaviour. Students will engage with non-traditional materials (podcasts, videos, on-campus field trips), conduct/participate in experiments, and directly experience psychological phenomena through group discussions and activities.
July 2026 Course Packages
The Neuroscience of Human Experience (Neuroscience)
Get to know the brain from the inside out. This foundational course unpacks the inner workings of the brain at the cellular, molecular, network, and functional levels. Spanning many sub-fields of neuroscience, this course will introduce students to the neural basis of our daily human experiences, positioning the brain as an adaptive organ that is in constant interaction with our broader environment and society. Key topics include signal transmission and basic neuroanatomy, learning and memory, neurodiversity, stress and emotion, decision-making and reward, and the social brain. This course will emphasize real-world examples, connections to personal experience, and engagement with local Indigenous and global cultural perspectives. No prior neuroscience background required— just a curiosity for the nervous system and its role in human experience.
Mind, Emotions, and Well-Being (Psychology)
Ever wonder why we perceive, think, and feel the way we do? This introductory psychology course examines core concepts such as sensation and perception, consciousness, learning, and abnormal psychology. Students will delve into the science of emotion and motivation, as well as investigate clinical applications in areas like addiction, movement disorders, and stress management. Through case studies, group discussions, and interactive activities, learners will gain practical insights into how psychological processes shape everyday life and inform mental health treatment. Perfect for anyone looking to understand the mind’s inner workings—and how to support well-being in diverse contexts.
Prerequisite: This course package is open to all, but it is designed for students who are starting or are in the early stages of their higher education journey.
For more information
Department of Psychology: psych.ubc.ca
Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience: neuro.ubc.ca
Centre for Brain Health: https://www.centreforbrainhealth.ca
For VSP NRPC specific questions, email Joyce Lai at jlai@psych.ubc.ca.
