Neuroscience

Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary field of study that employs the tools and perspectives of biology, psychology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and medicine to achieve a better understanding of brain function, behavior and the mind. The Neuroscience major is designed for students interested in how the brain works and the relationship between the brain’s operation and perception, thought, emotion, and behavior. Opportunities are available for students to use multiple approaches at many levels of analysis including molecular, cellular, systems, and behavioral levels.

The Neuroscience major is appropriate for any student with an interest in the field. It will also serve those students interested in graduate study or professional work in any area of neuroscience or in fields such as animal behavior, behavioral genetics, biopsychology, cognitive neuroscience, pharmacology, clinical psychology, biotechnology, medicine, or public health. To be well prepared for graduate or professional study in these fields, students will generally need to take additional course work over and above the minimum required to fulfill the Neuroscience major. Students should consult closely with their advisors to determine the most appropriate set of courses consistent with their interests and goals.

Advanced Placement

At this time, there is no advanced placement examination in Neuroscience. Advanced placement credit for a course within the Neuroscience major that is taught by another department will be accepted for credit toward the Neuroscience major if the relevant department accepts advanced placement credit for the course toward its major.

Entry-Level Course Sequence Suggestions

Students intending to major in Neuroscience are advised to take Biology 118 in their first semester. (Well-prepared students should consider taking Chemistry 101 or 103 in their first semester, as well.) By the end of their sophomore year, students should have completed Chemistry 102 or 103, Biology 118, a course in statistics, and either Neuroscience 201 or 204.