Contemplative Studies (CNST) is a highly efficient double major that combines scientific study of the mind and brain with humanistic exploration of meaning, ethics, well-being, and human flourishing.
The CNST major is especially attractive for students majoring in Neuroscience (NSCI) or Psychology (PSYC). Because the major requires only 30 credits and permits up to two NSCI or PSYC courses to count toward both majors, many students can complete CNST with as few as 24 additional credits.
Required CNST coursework also fulfills several COLL Curriculum requirements, including COLL 200 ALV, COLL 300, and COLL 400, enabling students to satisfy multiple degree requirements while pursuing this interdisciplinary field of study.
Students completing the Contemplative Studies Major will be able to:
Understand and Explain the psychological and neurological mechanisms underpinning awareness, emotion, mental health, and self-regulation
Evaluate the scientific study of contemplative practices, its cutting-edge technologies, and evidence-based models documenting effects on the nervous system and mind
Examine and Compare contemplative traditions and practices across cultures and time periods
Analyze applications of contemplation in different dimensions of human life, including in health, business, leadership, philosophy, religion, art, and performance
Engage in mind-body practices and meditative techniques that support wellness and enhance empathy, focus, regulation, & resilience—key predictors of academic & life success
Careers and Graduate Study
Contemplative Studies prepares students to integrate scientific and humanistic perspectives on the mind, well-being, ethics, and human experience. Because many CNST students pair the major with fields such as Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, Religious Studies, Philosophy, or Education, graduates pursue a wide range of professional and academic pathways.
Graduate and Professional Programs
CNST provides strong preparation for graduate study in areas such as:
Psychology / Neuroscience / Cognitive Science
Medicine and other Health Professions
Public Health
Counseling and Clinical Mental Health / Social Work
Religious Studies / Philosophy
Education
Public Policy / Law
Career Pathways
Students have applied their interdisciplinary training in fields including:
Healthcare and Medicine
Mental Health and Counseling
Research and Academic Careers
Education and Higher Education
Nonprofit and Community Organizations
Public Health
Human Resources and Organizational Development
Wellness and Well-Being Programs
Public Service and Government
Law and Legal Services
Why Employers and Graduate Schools Value Contemplative Studies
Through coursework spanning neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, religious studies, and related disciplines, students develop:
Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
Interdisciplinary problem-solving skills
Scientific literacy and research evaluation
Ethical reasoning and reflection
Effective written and oral communication
Cross-cultural understanding
The ability to engage complex questions from multiple perspectives
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