Neuroscience
Learning Goals for a B.S. in Neuroscience: Systems, Behavior, Plasticity
One of the fastest growing domains in all of science is neuroscience, making it promising as a future career path. Neuroscience is a multidisciplinary field, addressing nervous system function from the perspective of molecular genetics, cellular dynamics, brain anatomy and physiology, development and aging, relations among brain, behavior, and cognition, and diseases of the brain. Courses required for the Neuroscience: Systems, Behavior, Plasticity Major present the richness and diversity of approaches to the brain and nervous system. Requirements in several disciplines at foundational, intermediate, and advanced levels equip students with the necessary skills to graduate with a B.S. degree in neuroscience.
The Foundational Level:
- Develop critical thinking and analysis
- Understand basic chemical processes
- Comprehend fundamental biological topics necessary to further study of neuroscience
- Learn to write quality laboratory reports
- Become familiar with statistical methods and data analysis
- Appreciation and introduction of the various aspects of neuroscience
- Hone writing skills through short papers and other written assignments
Intermediate Level:
- Gain in-depth knowledge of some of the major areas of neuroscience
- Become familiar with complexities of brain development
- Understand some basic molecular and cellular aspects of neuroscience
- Learn about the neurobiological aspects of disease
- Comprehend the potential of brain plasticity and repair
- Further develop statistical methods and reasoning skills
- Apply and expand upon knowledge of biology, chemistry and psychology
- Process scientific research and writing from sources
- Comprehend how to use the library and other technologically appropriate sources for research
- Expand research understanding through laboratory demonstrations
- Learn to think independently and separate science from pseudoscience
- Demonstrate scientific writing abilities through research papers and other assignments
Advanced / Capstone Level:
- Collect and organize scientific data
- Synthesize complex scientific articles and texts in writing
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of laboratory techniques necessary for successful neuroscience research
- Show competency and apply knowledge of neuroscience research methods in an independent research lab setting
- Work well with other members of neuroscience labs and collaborate when necessary
- Refine command of library and internet research skills
- Illustrate fluency in scientific writing with a capstone paper in research grant format
- Carry out an independent research project to graduate with distinction
- Present ideas orally and in written and poster presentation form