What is Neuroscience?

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. Neuroscience seeks to understand the biological and chemical processes in the brain and the nervous system. It is at its core a field of biology that can cross both natural and social science boundaries. You will learn about how the nervous system is structured, how the nervous system works, how the nervous system develops, and even how the nervous system malfunctions. 

Neuroscience versus Psychology: Which Major Should I Choose?

The Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience specifically focuses on the biological study of the nervous system, behavior, and mental processes by understanding the function of individual cells and their properties, and how those cells communicate with each other.

Students who are interested in pursuing a biological science major to learn more about the nervous system, how the nervous system controls other organs/muscles/vessels, as well as the biological processes underpinning behavior and cognition should consider pursuing a degree in neuroscience.

​​​​​​​Information about the Neuroscience Major

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Neuroscience was established as a degree-granting program in 2012 and has since quickly become one of the most popular biological science degrees on campus.

The undergraduate major has its home in the Department of Physiology in the College of Natural Science, but there is also a coordinate major through the Lyman Briggs College.

Students pursuing the B.S. in Neuroscience students take courses required by the university and by the College of Natural Science. University requirements include Integrated Arts and Humanities (IAH), Integrative Studies in Social Science (ISS), and college-level writing courses. The College of Natural Science requirements include mathematics (calculus and statistics), general/inorganic chemistry (with laboratory), organic chemistry, physics, and biological science (with laboratory) courses.

Some university, college-level, and/or departmental course requirements can be met by approved transfer credits from other institutions, dual enrollment credits, or by Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate HL, CLEP, and/or Cambridge A-Level credits.

More information about the specific degree requirements can be found in the Neuroscience Program Requirements section.