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Link to neuroscience research labs

Link to Neuroscience Graduate Program

Link to Cognitive Science Major

What type of student is the Neuroscience major designed for?
The major is designed for students with a specific interest in the biology of the nervous system, ranging from molecular neurobiology through cognitive neuroscience. It is truly inter-departmental in instruction, involving the Biology and Psychology Departments, and it is inter-college in that faculty from the School of Medicine can direct neuroscience research projects and Distinguished Majors theses.

How is it different from other majors that have Neuroscience components?
There are other, excellent majors in the College that have a Neuroscience component. They include majors in Biology, Psychology and Cognitive Science. The Neuroscience major differs from the others as it focuses on the biology of the nervous system; the other majors include a broader range of training.

What type of student will be chosen for the major?
Only students that meet the requirements to declare the major (see application and declaration requirements) will be allowed to apply for declaration. Since this is a new major, the College and organizers of the major have decided to initially admit only 25 students. We anticipate that competition for the 25 openings will be keen. Therefore, class performance and a desire to focus on neuroscience research will be examined closely by the executive committee.

Is there an emphasis on laboratory research in the major?
Yes!! Majors will be strongly encouraged to join a laboratory no later than their third year and continue through graduation. The available laboratories are limited to those that comprise the Neuroscience Graduate Program (see faculty). The student will need to select and secure training in a laboratory in consultation with a member(s) of the executive committee and the faculty member with whom the student wishes to work.

Who makes up the executive committee, the committee that makes decisions about admission into the major and other organizational decisions regarding the major?
The executive committee consists of 4 faculty members. They are (1) the Director of the Undergraduate Neuroscience Program, (2) a faculty member appointed by the chair of the Biology department, (4) a faculty member appointed by the chair of the Psychology department, and (5) a faculty member appointed by the chair of the Department of Neuroscience in the School of Medicine.

What is the Distinguished Majors Program and is it available to Neuroscience majors?
The Distinguished Majors Program ( DMP) in Neuroscience is designed for Neuroscience majors who show exceptional promise. The DMP is a two-semester program completed during a student's fourth year. Upon successful completion of this program, most students receive a departmental recommendation for a baccalaureate award of Distinction, High distinction, or Highest Distinction.

What is the required course for third year majors?

NESC 3980 and 3985- Current Topics in Neuroscience
These courses are specifically designed to present and discuss important and modern topics in Neuroscience, and gain professional skills in interpreting and presenting neuroscience research. It will range from a discussion of important, current publications to topics related to choosing and gaining admission to Graduate and Health Professional schools.
IMPORTANT: As part of the course requirement, all students enrolled in this class will be required to attend the weekly seminar series of the Neuroscience Graduate Program, traditionally scheduled for 4 p.m. on Tuesdays in Jordan Hall.

Does research credit count towards the 30 credit requirement of the major?
No. Getting research experience is very important to your education; therefore, we expect students to do as much research as possible. The coursework required for the major provides you with a firm foundation in Neurosciences, and it is felt that research credit should enhance that experience rather than replacing it.

Can I have Neuroscience as a minor?
No . Since we are an interdisciplinary program, a minor concentration would be too academically unfocused and superficial.

Will my transfer or advanced placement credit apply towards the major?
Transfer and AP credit for Biology 201 and 202 can be used to fulfill the prerequisite requirements. Transfer credits (such as those obtained during Semester Abroad) do not satisfy 30 credit requirement, unless prior permission is obtained.

What type of career can a graduate with a Neuroscience major expect?
Although this is a relatively new program and, therefore, there are no data that answer this question now, there are clear pathways that we anticipate Neuroscience graduates to take. We anticipate most majors will earn a higher degree by attending Graduate school and/or a Health Professional school. Thus, most students will likely pursue a career in research, either in academia or in industry (e.g., pharmaceuticals), and/or pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary, or other health-related professions.