Overview
PSYC 450 introduces the field of behavioural pharmacology, with an emphasis on the characteristics of psychoactive drugs, their mechanisms of action in the nervous system, and their effects on the brain and on behaviour. This course will help you to understand the current research into the pharmacology of drugs, from recreational uses to clinical applications, including insights into their abuse potential.
Note that this course is an intensive neuroscience-based course, and it is recommended that students have a basic understanding of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neurotransmission. PSYC 402 - Biological Psychology, or equivalent, is strongly suggested before taking PSYC 450.
Evaluation
To receive credit for the course, you must complete all of these evaluation assignments. You must receive a grade of 50 percent or better on the final exam and a composite course grade of at least D (50 percent). The weighting of assignments is as follows:
| Activity | Weight |
| Five Quizzes (3% each) | 15% |
| Midterm Quiz | 15% |
| Term Paper | 30% |
| Final Exam | 40% |
| Total | 100% |
The final examination for this course must be requested in advance and written under the supervision of an AU-approved exam invigilator. Invigilators include either ProctorU or an approved in-person invigilation centre that can accommodate online exams. Students are responsible for payment of any invigilation fees. Information on exam request deadlines, invigilators, and other exam-related questions, can be found at the Exams and grades section of the Calendar.
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University’s online Calendar.
Materials
Digital course materials
Links to the following course materials will be made available in the course:
Meyer, J. S., Farrar, A. M, Bieszonski, D., Yates, J. R. (2023). Psychopharmacology: Drugs, the brain, and behavior (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.
Other Materials
All other course materials are available online, including a study guide covering the entire course.