Neuroscience and the Law
Welcome!
Neuroscience is playing a greater role in society broadly and also in the legal system in the United States. Neuroscience and the Law is becoming increasingly important as more information becomes available about brain development, sociopathy/psychopathy, predisposition to criminal behavior, and mental illness. Advanced techniques in neuroimaging allow for more precise detection of brain injuries or disorders that could lead to cognitive impairment and influence behavior along with improving the detection of witness veracity.
As neuroscience research continues to advance knowledge about the brain and behavior, legal and social work professionals need to understand the promise and limitations of neuroscientific evidence and how best to interpret findings to make informed decisions in and out of the courtroom. From criminal cases to personal injury, trusts and estates, contract law, guardianship and more, moral and ethical considerations need to be made regarding neuroscientific findings. The Graduate Certificate in Neuroscience and the Law will provide individuals working or studying in law or social science fields with the scientific knowledge necessary to effectively, accurately, and ethically use neuroscientific evidence in a professional setting.