Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience Major

Neuroscience is a field of study that integrates psychology, biology, physics, and chemistry for the common goal of understanding the structure, development and function of the brain and nervous system. Through research, neuroscientists are able to describe the normal function of electrical tissue. For example, improving our understanding of the brain allows us to understand and find ways to prevent or treat many devastating neurological and psychiatric disorders. Students majoring in neuroscience will have access to a range of tools including behavioral testing, electrophysiology, histology, and molecular biology, as they participate first-hand in basic exploratory research. Students are involved in all stages of research including project design, data collection and results reporting. This major is housed in a research-rich environment that supports a curriculum steeped in scientific investigation, where students and faculty work as partners in research and education. Career Opportunities: Students who receive an undergraduate degree in Neuroscience typically continue their studies at the masters or doctoral level or pursue advanced degrees in a variety of medical professions (e.g. MD, DDO, DDS, VDM, or OD). Career options include positions within neuroscience, psychiatry, medicine, academia, pharmaceuticals, forensic science, health and allied health professionals, science writing and communications, and state and federal governmental science agencies (e.g. CIA, FBI, NIH, CDC, or FDA). Student Competencies: As an undergraduate neuroscience major, students will study the nervous system, behavior and cognitive processes from a variety of perspectives. The Neuroscience major has been patterned to follow the recommendations of the advisory committee of the Faculty for Undergraduate Neuroscience. Students, at the point of graduation, should be able to demonstrate the following core competencies: An understanding of natural science and three major divisions within neuroscience (behavioral, cellular and molecular, and systems physiology) An understanding of experimental methodology, design and data analysis An understanding of historical trends and theoretical perspectives that inform the field An advanced understanding of a particular area or areas of study within neuroscience Critical thinking and independent thought The ability to communicate effectively The ability to discern and articulate a rationale for ethical conduct in research