This major focuses on the characteristics and functions of the nervous system. Core courses ensure that students acquire a background in basic sciences, biology and brain science. Through elective courses and completion of an independent research project, supervised by one of the 45 faculty within the Center for Neurobiological Sciences, students can specialize in area(s) of particular interest to them. These areas can include neurochemistry, neurophysiology, neuroembryology, neuroplasticity, and brain/behavior relations. Concentrations are available in behavioral neurobiology, cellular and molecular neurobiology, and cognitive neuroscience.

Many graduates continue their study in neural sciences, including graduate school, professional school in health sciences, and the pharmaceutical industry.

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The interdisciplinary studies major in neurobiological sciences provides students with an understanding of and competence in the neurobiological sciences. Students will understand and use the scientific approach to gather and verify knowledge. They will be able to draw appropriate conclusions and inferences from properly conducted laboratory research. Students will be able to evaluate the significance, quality and veracity of information gathered via experiment and literature and to apply them effectively. Students will also possess the ability to articulate results clearly and effectively.

Before Graduating Students Must

• Satisfactorily complete IDS 4906 (capping 7-12 credits of thesis research), graded according to department rubric.
• Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

Students in the Major Will Learn to

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

Content

1. Identify, describe and examine neurobiological sciences.
2. Use the scientific approach to gather and verify knowledge.

Critical Thinking

3. Evaluate the significance, quality and veracity of information gathered via experiment and literature and apply them effectively.

Communication

4. Articulate research results clearly and effectively in speech and in writing in an accepted style of presentation.

Curriculum Map

I = Introduced; R = Reinforced; A = Assessed

Academic Learning Compact 4

Courses	SLO 1	SLO 2	SLO 3	SLO 4
IDS 4906, course 1 (Taken two or more times)	I, R	I, R	I, R	I, R
IDS 4906, course 2 (Taken two or more times)	I, R, A	I, R, A	I, R, A	I, R, A
IDS 4906 is the only required course for this major (or equivalent with other prefixes).

Assessment Types

• Direct assessment of research in the thesis

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