I am very interested in how the brain works and how people behave in certain situations, but I also LOVE Art , so how do I work that out when deciding on a major for college?

Hello Rianne,

Sometimes it is difficult for me to answer questions from students that are interested in going to an American college. This is simply because our education system works differently.

If you were to talk to a college counselor I'm sure they would be able to help you work out the fine details for the path you would like to pursue in college.

Firstly in Canada you are able to do a double major, in which you finish with 2 majors and you have certain course requirements you have to fulfill for each major. So you would be able to graduate with a double major in Psychology and Arts & Humanities. There are different variations of the type of degree you are able to receive. For example, in Canada we also have a honors specialization degree in which most of your courses are of one discipline and you must maintain a high average to continue in the program, however if you plan well ahead you can also do a minor or a major (time permitting, how heavy your course load is for the other major, how many elective courses you are allowed etc.) in addition to the honors specialization. The great thing about this is that you don't have to spend extra years completing your degree. You would do both majors concomitantly.

I also read the little blurb you have underneath your question and I wanted to mention that one option you could consider a career as a social worker, psychologist etc. and use art therapy as a form of therapy within your profession. I believe the individual who I had talked to that was in this profession had to complete an Art Therapy degree in addition to a major in Psychology. You should look more into this for sure!

You could also create your own job description! Come up with an idea that has never been done before integrating art and psychology? Don't get too hung up on this just yet, but absolutely keep an open mind. You never know where your journey will take you. Just do what you can one step at a time, but always set goals and plan ahead!

All the best!

Here in the states you can get a Masters Degree in Art Therapy. People who have this degree are trained in all the traditional talk therapy methods with the addition of being trained in using art in therapeutic ways. I know a few people who do this work and they really love it! I suggest you research this, it sounds like it might be a good fit for you. Here is a link to a general snapshot of the career for you to start with http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-1125.01

I too would recommend Art Therapy to combine your two passions. IF you are musically inclined as well, you might consider Music Therapy to combine your interest in neuroscience and music. There are a number of programs in this nation that offer Music Therapy Master's Degrees. You generally need to be proficient on at least two instruments, e.g., piano and guitar, before such programs will accept you however. Because you are still young I would recommend that you explore many options while in a university. Select a university that has a strong, liberal arts focus so that you can explore many possibilities. Find work that makes your heart sing, as I am fond of saying. Good luck.