The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective.
Program in Neuroscience
ipn.vetmed.wsu.edu/neuroscience/
Veterinary and Biomedical Research Bldg (VBR) 207
509-335-6624
Director, Chair, and Professor, S. Hentges; Associate Director of Graduate Program and Professor, S. Appleyard; Associate Director of Undergraduate Program and Associate Professor, S. Gizerian; Regents Professor, J. M. Krueger; Professors, M. Chandra, C. Davis (Spokane), W. Dong, M. Frank (Spokane), R. Fuchs, J. Hinson, M. Morgan (Vancouver), C. Portfors (Vancouver), M. Schmitter-Edgecombe, H. Van Dongen (Spokane), G. Wayman, P. Whitney; Associate Professors, R. L. Brown, T. Brown, R. Catena, A. Coffin (Vancouver), A. Dimitrov (Vancouver), D. Jackson (Spokane), L. Kapas (Spokane), M. Layton (Spokane), D. Lin, R. McLaughlin, S. McPherson (Spokane) P. Meighan, J. Peters, D. Rossi, J. Sun (Spokane), E. Szentirmai (Spokane), B. Tanner, M. Varnum, A. Vasavada, J. Wisor (Spokane); Assistant Professors, C. Cutter, K. Delevich, J. Gerstner (Spokane), G. Giannotti, A. Henricks, K. Honn (Spokane), Y. Lee (Spokane), L. Peixoto (Spokane), E. Qualls-Creekmore, M. Rempe (Spokane), B. Satterfield (Spokane); Additional Graduate Faculty, C. Burgoyne, S. Demirel, B. Fortune, H. Shen, B. Sorg, D. Stenkamp, L. Wang.
Neuroscience is the study of how the nervous system impacts physiology, behavior, and health. It seeks to answer questions at the molecular, cellular, systems, behavioral, cognitive, and societal levels through application of a wide array of approaches and techniques. Neuroscience research is critical not only to improving learning and performance, but also addresses some of the most vexing problems that prevent good health. It impacts the very nature on how we view ourselves as sentient beings. WSU has a neuroscience faculty engaged in numerous focuses with particular strengths in the areas of energy homeostasis, sleep, circadian biology, addiction, emotions and well-being, sensory processes, neuronal function, electrophysiology, and movement. The Program sponsors Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees, in addition to minors at the undergraduate level.
The undergraduate program for majors is designed for students interested in preparing for professional study in the health sciences (such as Medical Doctor or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine), graduate school, or for those who wish to use their training in laboratory settings in universities, government organizations, or industry.
Computational neuroscience is an option within the undergraduate neuroscience major and links the information processing features of the nervous system with information processing of computer systems. Accordingly, the computational neuroscience track supplements the neuroscience core curriculum with information technology courses. In this way students learn not only of the brain and its information processing mechanisms, but also of modern computer hardware and software technologies. Upon completion of the four-year curriculum, a BS in Neuroscience will be awarded. Furthermore, the program is designed to allow students to acquire breadth in computation subjects or, alternatively, to focus on either software or hardware aspects of computation. Students choosing to acquire breadth in computational subjects will be well prepared for graduate study in most areas of neural and biomedical science, including bioengineering. Students choosing a software or hardware focus may obtain a minor in either computer science or computer engineering.
Student Learning Outcomes for BS neuroscience majors
Knowledge:
- Demonstrate knowledge of, and recognize the relationships between, the structure and function of molecules and tissues involved in neurobiological systems at all levels: molecular, cellular, and organismal.
- Recognize the impact that science has on culture, and vice versa.
Skills:
- Perform basic laboratory techniques used in neuroscience research and understand and apply principles of laboratory safety.
- Locate and retrieve scientific information and read, understand, and critically evaluate primary literature.
- Prepare oral and written reports in a standard scientific format.
- Apply the scientific process, including designing, conducting, and evaluating experiments and testing of hypotheses.
- Use mathematics and statistics to evaluate scientific evidence and interpret graphs and tables.
Attitudes
- Recognize that all areas of science are integrated and interconnected.
- Appreciate scientific knowledge as something that is not static, but constantly expanding through the ongoing work of researchers.
- Value ethical conduct in science.
- Recognize that the best decision-making and policies are based on evidence.
Transfer Students
Transfer students must satisfy the program requirements for graduation. Science courses taken at other institutions will be evaluated and credits accepted where possible. Transfer students are strongly encouraged to enroll in math and chemistry classes at the appropriate level to meet the program requirements prior to transferring. Inquiries should be directed to the Associate Director of Undergraduate Program.
7-Year Honors Neuroscience/Veterinary Medicine Degree Program
Academically qualified undergraduate students who meet the highly selective criteria for admission to WSU’s Veterinary Medical Program may apply to the 7-year BS/DVM degree program in neuroscience after completion of one year of Honors College coursework at WSU. If accepted into the program, the student will work toward a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience in the first three years of the program and work toward the doctor of veterinary medicine degree in the following four years. The first three years are a combination of WSU Honors College courses and regular university undergraduate courses that fulfill the pre-veterinary and Neuroscience major requirements. The last four years are the traditional Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program, plus completion of an honors thesis. Prospective applicants must be admitted to the WSU Honors College and enrolled in Honors courses. See the Honors College for additional information.
Preparation for Graduate Study in Neuroscience
The graduate program prepares students for careers in academia, industry, and government service. Students work closely with faculty members who are internationally known for their research accomplishments in energy homeostasis, sleep, circadian biology, addiction, emotions and well-being, sensory processes, neuronal function, electrophysiology, and movement. Upon graduation, students with a doctoral degree are credible international experts in the area of their thesis research. They will have developed cutting edge technical research skills, be capable of independently organizing and writing publishable research manuscripts, know the fundamentals on how to write competitive research proposals, have a breadth of knowledge that enables them to critically evaluate neuroscience research, and finally, develop insights that help them identify areas ripe for future investigation. These skills are not only appropriate for basic research, but the ability to organize a set of sophisticated goals, identify a plan to accomplish those goals, and then successfully complete the plan are skills transferable to many jobs. Our graduates have gone on to excellent positions in tier-one research universities, teaching colleges, industry (e.g., biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices), as well as professional schools (e.g., medical, veterinary, optometry).
To be eligible for admission, candidates must meet general Washington State University requirements outlined at the Graduate School website: http://gradschool.wsu.edu/ in effect at the time of their admission, as well as the current graduate neuroscience program requirements.
Applicants to the Ph.D. or M.S. program are required to have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited higher education institution. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (A=4.0). Applicants will have completed courses in inorganic and organic chemistry, biochemistry, calculus, physics and a minimum of three courses in different areas of the biological sciences. It is advisable that applicants have a basic statistics course prior to entering the neuroscience program.
Application documents must include the following:
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College transcripts (unofficial acceptable for initial review–upon admittance official transcripts are required)
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Three (3) letters of reference
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Resume or curriculum vitae
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Personal statement describing why you are interested in studying neuroscience (clearly define which faculty mentor (minimum of 3) you are interested in working with and explain why). If admitted to WSU, you will have the ability to refine your choice of faculty mentors while doing lab rotations. Included in the personal statement describe an achievement that you are proud of and discuss how you reached your goal, and any obstacles you had to overcome to reach it. Conversely, tell us about a time when you didn’t achieve a goal and what you learned from the experience (maximum word length is 350 words).
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Writing Statement: Describe a major finding in neuroscience and/or biomedicine over the past five (5) years and explain why you think it was important (maximum word length is 350 words for statement). Be sure to cite references used after the writing statement. An additional maximum length of 350 words is given for the cite references.
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Turning in a document over the maximum word length may cause your application to be disqualified from consideration.
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TOEFL scores (minimum score 100). IELTS (minimum score 7), or Duolingo (minimum score 115) required for applicants whose native language is not English. See https://gradschool.wsu.edu/international-requirements/ for more information on language exemptions.
Inquiries should be directed to the Program in Neuroscience, Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience; Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-7620 or email grad.neuro@wsu.edu.
Students normally begin their studies in the fall semester, which starts the latter part of August. Applicants are offered admission on a rolling basis but may be notified of acceptance as late as April 15. Students may still apply for admission after December, but graduate stipends may not be available for late applicants.
Schedules of Studies
Honors students complete the Honors College requirements which replace the UCORE requirements.
Biomedical Business Option (120 Credits)
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN] or 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 105 [BSCI] | 3 |
| PSYCH 105 [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| Communication [COMM] or Written Communication [WRTG]1 | 3 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 301 2 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 or 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 or 211 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 302 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 102 or 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 112 or 212 | 1 |
| Neuroscience Elective 3 | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY/MBIOS 301 | 4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| Behavior Course 4 | 3 |
| Statistics Course 5 | 3 or 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ENTRP 490 | 3 |
| MBIOS 303 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 404 | 4 |
| Biomedical Business Elective 6 | 3 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| ENTRP 426 | 3 |
| ENTRP 485 | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 430 [M] | 4 |
| Electives7 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ENTRP 486 | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 403 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 490 [CAPS] | 3 |
| Electives7 | 6 |
Footnotes
| 1 | NEUROSCI/MBIOS 201 is recommended. |
| 2 | PSYCH 372 may be taken in place of NEUROSCI 301 with department permission. |
| 3 | Neuroscience Electives (minimum 3 credits): Approved courses include BIOLOGY 307, 315, 321, 333, 340, 352, 353, 354, 438, 456; MATH 340; MBIOS 304, 305, 401, 404, 413; NEUROSCI 305, 333, 409, 425, 426; PHYSICS 466; PSYCH 265, 312, 333, 350, 361, 372, 384, 464, 470, 490, 491; VET PH 308. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. Courses may not be used to fulfill more than one requirement. Please see your advisor. |
| 4 | Choose one course from: NEUROSCI 305, 333, or 409. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. |
| 5 | Choose one course from: PSYCH 311, STAT 212, 360, 370, or 412. |
| 6 | Biomedical Business Electives (minimum 3 credits): Approved courses include ENTRP 489, MGMT 301, MGMT 401, MGMT 483. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. Please see your advisor. |
| 7 | Elective choices should include 300-400 level coursework to meet the University minimum requirement of 40 upper-division credits. |
General Option (120 Credits)
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN] or 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| PSYCH 105 [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| Communication [COMM] or Written Communication [WRTG]1 | 3 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 3012 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 302 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 or 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 or 211 | 1 |
| Neuroscience Electives3 | 5 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| NEUROSCI 430 [M] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 102 or 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 112 or 212 | 1 |
| Statistics Course4 | 3 or 4 |
| Electives5 | 6 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 404 | 3 |
| Neuroscience Electives3 | 6 |
| Electives 5 | 4 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Behavior Course6 | 3 |
| BIOLOGY/MBIOS 301 | 4 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| Electives 5 | 6 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| NEUROSCI 403 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 490 [CAPS] | 3 |
| Electives 5 | 9 |
Footnotes
| 1 | NEUROSCI/MBIOS 201 is recommended. |
| 2 | PSYCH 372 may be taken in place of NEUROSCI 301 with department permission. |
| 3 | Neuroscience Electives (11 credits): Approved courses include BIOLOGY 307, 315, 321, 324, 333, 340, 352, 353, 354, 438, 456; MATH 340; MBIOS 303, 304, 305, 401, 404, 405, 478; NEUROSCI 305, 325, 326, 333, 409, 480; PHYSICS 466; PSYCH 265, 312, 328, 333, 350, 361, 363, 384, 390, 464, 468, 470, 473, 490, 491; VET PH 308. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. Courses may not be used to fulfill more than one requirement. Please see your advisor. |
| 4 | Statistics Course: Choose one course from PSYCH 311, STAT 212, 360, 370, or 412. |
| 5 | Elective choices should include 300-400 level coursework to meet the University minimum requirement of 40 upper division credits. |
| 6 | Behavior Course: Choose one course from NEUROSCI 305, 333, or 409. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. |
Honors Accelerated Pre-Veterinary Option (120 Credits)
All students who qualify for admission to the WSU Honors College are eligible to apply for pre-admission to the College of Veterinary Medicine after completion of one year in the pre-veterinary neuroscience curriculum. Interested applicants should identify themselves to the Honors College as soon as they decide to enroll at the University because the number of available seats in the B.S./D.V.M. program is limited. Early admission to the D.V.M. program requires approval of the CVM Admissions Committee. Accepted students are pre-admitted directly to the D.V.M. program. To maintain pre-admission into the D.V.M. program, accepted students must achieve an overall grade point average of 3.5 or better in all undergraduate coursework.
Students may be admitted to the Neuroscience Honors Accelerated Pre-Veterinary Option upon making their intention known to the department and enrollment in, or credit for, MATH 106 (or higher). To maintain admission to the major, students who have completed a minimum of 30 credits at WSU must maintain a 3.0 minimum GPA overall, and a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA in each of the following courses: BIOLOGY 107; CHEM 105; CHEM 106 or 116; MATH 140 or 171; NEUROSCI 301, NEUROSCI 302; PHYSICS 101/111, 201/211 or 205; and PHYSICS 102/112, 202/212, 206, or CHEM 345. Students must receive a grade of C or better in these courses and may repeat a maximum of three of these courses to maintain admission to the major.
Completion of the degree requires completion of the HONORS Curriculum; a minimum of 90 undergraduate credits, including 30 upper-division credits; and one year of DVM coursework.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 105 | 4 |
| MATH 140 or 171 | 4 |
| Foreign Language (if needed)1 | 0-4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 106 or 1162 | 4 |
| ENGLISH 298 | 3 |
| HONORS 2703 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 | 1 |
| Foreign Language (if needed)1 | 0-4 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| HONORS 280 | 3 |
| HONORS 2902 | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 3014 | 3 |
| PSYCH 1053 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 302 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 102 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 112 | 1 |
| Behavior Requirement5 | 3 or 4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY/MBIOS 301 | 4 |
| HONORS 370 | 3 |
| HONORS 3986 | 0 or 1 |
| MBIOS 303 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 430 [M] | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 4507 | 2 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| HONORS 380 | 3 |
| HONORS 390 | 3 |
| HONORS 4507 | 1 |
| NEUROSCI 403 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 490 [CAPS] | 3 |
| Statistics Course8 | 4 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| VET MED 511 | 5 |
| Additional D.V.M. Coursework9 | 10 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| VET MED 520 | 5 |
| VET MED 52110 | 3 |
| Additional D.V.M. Coursework9 | 7 |
Footnotes
| 1 | Students must meet the Honors College Foreign Language requirement. |
| 2 | Students who complete CHEM 116 fulfill the Honors College HONORS 290 requirement and another 3-credit course can be substituted. |
| 3 | If HONORS 270 is taught by a member of the Psychology faculty, students may waive PSYCH 105. If PSYCH 105 is waived, students may need to take additional coursework to meet the 90-credit undergraduate minimum. |
| 4 | PSYCH 372 may be taken in place of NEUROSCI 301 with department permission. |
| 5 | Behavior Course: Choose one course from NEUROSCI 305, 333, or 409. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. |
| 6 | HONORS 398 is an optional thesis-preparation course. |
| 7 | NEUROSCI 450 is applied to the 3 credit HONORS 450 requirement. |
| 8 | Statistics Course: Choose one course from PSYCH 311, STAT 212, 360, 370, or 412. |
| 9 | Additional D.V.M. courses required in the first year of the D.V.M. program to satisfy the Neuroscience elective requirement for the B.S. in Neuroscience. |
| 10 | VET MED 521 satisfies the Neuroanatomy (NEUROSCI 404) requirement for the B.S. in Neuroscience. |
Pre-Professional Option (120 Credits)
Students are encouraged to take the appropriate entrance exam for their professional program after completion of the third year and apply by the end of the first term of the fourth year.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN] or 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| PSYCH 105 [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| Communication [COMM] or Written Communication [WRTG]1 | 3 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 3012 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 or 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 or 211 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY/MBIOS 301 | 4 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 302 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 102 or 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 112 or 212 | 1 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| MBIOS 303 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 430 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 431 | 1 |
| Statistics Course3 | 3 or 4 |
| Neuroscience Electives4 | 5 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 325 | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 404 | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 405 | 1 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Behavior Course5 | 3 |
| Electives6 | 12 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| NEUROSCI 403 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 490 [CAPS] | 3 |
| Electives6 | 10 |
Footnotes
| 1 | NEUROSCI/MBIOS 201 is recommended. |
| 2 | PSYCH 372 may be taken in place of NEUROSCI 301 with department permission. |
| 3 | Statistics Course: Choose one course from PSYCH 311, STAT 212, 360, 370, or 412. |
| 4 | Neuroscience Electives (5 credits): Approved courses include BIOLOGY 307, 315, 321, 324, 333, 340, 352, 353, 354, 438, 456; MATH 340; MBIOS 304, 305, 401, 404, 405, 478; NEUROSCI 305, 326, 333, 395, 409, 480; PHYSICS 466; PSYCH 265, 312, 328, 333, 350, 361, 363, 384, 390, 464, 468, 470, 473, 490, 491; VET PH 308. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. Courses may not be used to fulfill more than one requirement. Please consult your advisor. |
| 5 | Behavior Course: Choose one course from NEUROSCI 305, 333, or 409. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. |
| 6 | Elective choices should include 300-400 level coursework to meet the University minimum requirement of 40 upper division credits. Consult your advisor regarding elective courses that may be required or recommended for admission to a professional program. |
Research Option (120 Credits)
Students are encouraged to take the GRE, if required, after completion of the third year and apply to graduate schools by the end of the first term of the fourth year.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN] or 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| PSYCH 105 [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| Communication [COMM] or Written Communication [WRTG]1 | 3 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 3012 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 302 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 or 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 or 211 | 1 |
| Neuroscience Electives3 | 5 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| NEUROSCI 333 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 430 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 431 | 1 |
| NEUROSCI 495 or 4994 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 102 or 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 112 or 212 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY/MBIOS 301 | 4 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 395 | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 404 | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 405 | 1 |
| NEUROSCI 495 or 4994 | 2 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| MBIOS 303 | 4 |
| NEUROSCI 495 or 4994 | 2 |
| Statistics Course5 | 4 |
| Electives6 | 5 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| NEUROSCI 403 [M] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 490 [CAPS] | 3 |
| NEUROSCI 495 or 4994 | 2 |
| Electives6 | 7 |
Footnotes
| 1 | NEUROSCI/MBIOS 201 is recommended. |
| 2 | PSYCH 372 may be taken in place of NEUROSCI 301 with department permission. |
| 3 | Neuroscience Electives (5 credits): Approved courses include BIOLOGY 307, 315, 321, 324, 333, 340, 352, 353, 354, 438, 456; MATH 340; MBIOS 304, 305, 401, 404, 405, 478; NEUROSCI 305, 326, 333, 395, 409, 480; PHYSICS 466; PSYCH 265, 312, 328, 333, 350, 361, 363, 384, 390, 464, 468, 470, 473, 490, 491; VET PH 308. Other courses may be allowed by department consent. Courses may not be used to fulfill more than one requirement. Please consult your advisor. |
| 4 | Up to 2 credits of NEUROSCI 450 and/or HONORS 450 may be substituted for NEUROSCI 495 or 499. |
| 5 | Statistics Course: Choose one course from PSYCH 311, STAT 212, 360, 370, or 412. |
| 6 | Elective choices should include 300-400 level coursework to meet the University minimum requirement of 40 upper division credits. Consult your advisor regarding elective courses that may be required or recommended for admission to a graduate program. |
Minors
Neuroscience
Students may apply for the minor in Neuroscience once they have completed 60 credits and have a 2.5 GPA. However, they may take minor coursework at any time as long as they meet the prerequisites. The minor in Neuroscience requires 16 credits with at least 13 credits at or above the 300-level. Credits for the minor must include a minimum of 9 credits of upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses.
Courses needed to satisfy the minor must include NEUROSCI 301; three credits selected from NEUROSCI 305, 333, or 409; at least six credits selected from the following: NEUROSCI 403, 404, and 430; and a minimum of three credits of neuroscience related elective coursework. Approved Neuroscience electives include: BIOLOGY 301, 315, 321, 340, 352, 353, 354, 438, 456; MATH 340; MBIOS 304, 305, 401, 404, 413; NEUROSCI 305, 325, 326, 333, 409; PSYCH 265, 312, 333, 350, 361, 384, 464, 470, 490, 491; PHYSICS 466; VET PH 308. Upon the approval of the student's advisor, a student with a minor in neuroscience may include 500-level courses in the minor program, provided the student meets the graduate study requirements and, prior to registration, obtains the consent of the faculty Neuroscience minor. Courses may not be used to fulfill more than one requirement for the minor.
Certificates
Business of Biomedicine
Courses
The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective. Courses showing two entries of the same number indicate that the course information is changing. The most recently approved version is shown first, followed by the older version, in gray, with its last-effective term preceding the course title. Courses shown in gray with only one entry of the course number are being discontinued. Course offerings by term can be accessed by clicking on the term links when viewing a specific campus catalog.
Neuroscience (NEUROSCI)
105 [BSCI] Meet Your Brain 3 Introduction to the brain and nervous system and how they are affected by your environment and everyday activities.
138 Neuroscience Seminar 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 2 credits. Introduces new students to individual faculty research interests and helps students link personal interests to academic majors. S, F grading.
150 Art and the Brain 3 Explore networks involved in sensory perception; learn how art integrates perceptual experiences into works that affect our understanding of ourselves.
150 (Effective through Summer 2024) [BSCI] Art and the Brain 3 Explore networks involved in sensory perception; learn how art integrates perceptual experiences into works that affect our understanding of ourselves.
201 [COMM] Introduction to Communication in the Molecular Life Sciences 3 (1-4) Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106 with a C or better or BIOLOGY 107 with a C or better. Analysis of primary literature and an introduction to scientific communication skills in the molecular life sciences. Recommended preparation: Pre-admitted or admitted major in Biochemistry, Genetics & Cell Biology, Microbiology, or Neuroscience. (Crosslisted course offered as NEUROSCI 201, MBIOS 201.)
275 Special Topics: Study Abroad V 1-15 May be repeated for credit. S, F grading.
301 Foundations of Neuroscience I 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 107. Enrollment in NEUROSCI 301 not allowed if credit already earned for PSYCH 372. Structure and function of the nervous system from single neurons to behavior. Recommended preparation: CHEM 105, NEUROSCI 105.
301 (Effective through Summer 2024) Foundations of Neuroscience I 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 107, CHEM 105, or NEUROSCI 138. Enrollment in NEUROSCI 301 not allowed if credit already earned for PSYCH 372. Structure and function of the nervous system from single neurons to behavior.
302 Foundations of Neuroscience II 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301 or PSYCH 372. In-depth concepts, analysis, and discussion of the experimental foundations for understanding nervous system function. Recommended preparation: CHEM 105, CHEM 106.
302 (Effective through Summer 2024) Foundations of Neuroscience II 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 106; BIOLOGY 107; NEUROSCI 301 or PSYCH 372. In-depth concepts, analysis, and discussion of the experimental foundations for understanding nervous system function.
305 Neurons, Genes, and Behavior 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301, 302, MBIOS 301, or PSYCH 372. In-depth exploration of the organization of the brain, and how this organization underlies behavior.
325 Foundations of Medical Physiology 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106; BIOLOGY 107. Integrated functioning of organ systems, focusing on mechanisms of disease, organ dysfunction, and disturbances to whole-animal homeostasis and health. (Crosslisted course offered as NEUROSCI 325, VET PH 325.)
325 (Effective through Summer 2024) Foundations of Medical Physiology 3 Course Prerequisite: BIO ENG 210, MBIOS 301, MBIOS 303, NEUROSCI 301, NEUROSCI 302, or PSYCH 372. Integrated functioning of organ systems, focusing on mechanisms of disease, organ dysfunction, and disturbances to whole-animal homeostasis and health. (Crosslisted course offered as NEUROSCI 325, VET PH 325. Formerly NEUROSCI 425, VET PH 425).
326 Foundations of Medical Physiology Lab 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in NEUROSCI 325 or VET PH 325. Optional laboratory component of NEUROSCI/VET PH 325. Practical analysis of organ function and health using medical diagnostic equipment and clinical cases. (Crosslisted course offered as NEUROSCI 326, VET PH 326. Formerly NEUROSCI 426, VET PH 426.)
326 (Effective through Spring 2024) Foundations of Medical Physiology Lab 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in NEUROSCI 325 or VET PH 325. Optional laboratory component of NEUROSCI/VET PH 325. Practical analysis of organ function and health using medical diagnostic equipment and clinical cases. (Crosslisted course offered as NEUROSCI 326, VET PH 326.)
333 Techniques and Experimental Design in Neuroscience Research 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301 or PSYCH 372; MATH 140, 171, PSYCH 311, STAT 212, 360, 370, or 412. Representative modern neuroscience experiments are explored from a conceptual, technical, and design perspective.
395 Brain Matters: Critical Analysis in Neuroscience 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Discussion and analysis of current trends in neuroscience and cutting-edge approaches to research.
403 [M] Cellular Neurobiology 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 302; MBIOS 301. Cellular and molecular interactions occurring within the nervous system. Recommended preparation: NEUROSCI 430.
403 (Effective through Summer 2024) [M] Cellular Neurobiology 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 302; MBIOS 301; admitted to the major or minor in Neuroscience. Cellular and molecular interactions occurring within the nervous system. Recommended preparation: NEUROSCI 430.
404 Neuroanatomy 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301 or PSYCH 372. Fundamental principles of the organization and plans of circuitry of the nervous system.
404 (Effective through Summer 2025) Neuroanatomy 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301. Fundamental principles of the organization and plans of circuitry of the nervous system.
404 (Effective through Summer 2024) Neuroanatomy 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 302. Fundamental principles of the organization and plans of circuitry of the nervous system.
405 Neuroanatomy Laboratory 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301; NEUROSCI 404 or concurrent enrollment or instructor permission. Laboratory investigation of fundamental principles of the organization and plans of circuitry of the nervous system.
409 Affective Neuroscience 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 302 or PSYCH 372. Brain mechanisms of human and animal emotions. Credit not granted for both NEUROSCI 409 and NEUROSCI 509. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
430 [M] Principles of Neurophysiology 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301 or PSYCH 372. Advanced exploration of the principles underlying cellular, sensory, motor and integrative functions of the nervous system. Recommended preparation: previous or concurrent enrollment in PHYSICS 102 and 112, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206.
430 (Effective through Summer 2025) [M] Principles of Neurophysiology 3 Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301. Advanced exploration of the principles underlying cellular, sensory, motor and integrative functions of the nervous system. Recommended preparation: previous or concurrent enrollment in PHYSICS 102 and 112, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206.
430 (Effective through Summer 2024) [M] Principles of Neurophysiology 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 302; 4 credits of PHYSICS 102 or 202, or PHYSICS 102 and 112, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206. Advanced exploration of the principles underlying cellular, sensory, motor and integrative functions of the nervous system. Recommended preparation: MBIOS 303.
431 Principles of Neurophysiology Laboratory 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301 or PSYCH 372; NEUROSCI 430 or concurrent enrollment or instructor permission. Advanced laboratory exploration of the principles underlying cellular, sensory, motor, and integrative functions of the nervous system. Recommended preparation: MBIOS 303.
431 (Effective through Summer 2025) Principles of Neurophysiology Laboratory 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 301; NEUROSCI 430 or concurrent enrollment or instructor permission. Advanced laboratory exploration of the principles underlying cellular, sensory, motor, and integrative functions of the nervous system. Recommended preparation: MBIOS 303.
450 (Effective through Summer 2025) Honors Thesis Research V 1-3 Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the major in Neuroscience; admitted to Honors College. Laboratory research with emphasis on honors thesis or project directed by faculty.
480 Special Topics: Study Abroad V 1-15 May be repeated for credit.
480 (Effective through Summer 2024) Special Topics: Study Abroad V 1-15 May be repeated for credit. S, F grading.
490 [CAPS] Senior Project 3 Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the major in Neuroscience; senior standing. Senior capstone course for students majoring in Neuroscience.
491 Senior Project-Poster 1 Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the major in Neuroscience; senior standing. Research project poster or oral presentation. S, F grading.
495 Directed Research V 1-3 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the major or minor in Neuroscience. Introduction to neuroscience research literature.
496 Special Topics V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Course Prerequisite: NEUROSCI 302 with a C or better or junior standing. Reading, discussion, and exploration of contemporary topics in Neuroscience.
499 Special Problems V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Course Prerequisite: By department permission only; admitted to the major or minor in Neuroscience. Independent study conducted under the jurisdiction of an approving faculty member; may include independent research studies in technical or specialized problems; selection and analysis of specified readings; development of a creative project; or field experiences. S, F grading.
509 Affective Neuroscience 3 Brain mechanisms of human and animal emotions. Credit not granted for both NEUROSCI 409 and NEUROSCI 509. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
520 Fundamentals of Neuroscience 4 (3-3) Functional aspects of the brain from cell membrane to higher integrative processes. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
529 Integrative Neuroscience 3 Basic biochemical processes in the nervous system and their significance for normal and abnormal function.
531 Neuroscience Laboratory Rotation 1 (0-3) May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 2 credits. Fourteen-week rotation through each of two research laboratories; learning procedures and techniques in neuroscience. S, F grading.
540 Special Topics in Integrative Neuroscience V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Concepts and controversies in neuroscience involving integrative properties of cell systems. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
541 Special Topics in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Concepts and controversies in neuroscience that involve nerve cell function and regulation. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
542 Special Topics in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Concepts and controversies in neuroscience that revolve around traditional approaches to nervous system study. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
543 Special Topics in Behavioral/Clinical Neuroscience V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Concepts and controversies in neuroscience that involve normal and pathological aspects of behavior. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
590 Seminar 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 7 credits. Presented by advanced graduate students and faculty (both in INP and around WSU) on their research areas. (Crosslisted course offered as NEUROSCI 590, VET PH 590.) S, F grading.
592 Research Writing and Seminar 2 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Course Prerequisite: Graduate student in Neuroscience program. Essentials of oral and written scientific communication.
600 Special Projects or Independent Study V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent study, special projects, and/or internships. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor before enrolling in 600 credit, which cannot be used toward the core graded credits required for a graduate degree. S, F grading.
700 Master's Research, Thesis, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their master's research, thesis and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 700 credit. S, U grading.
800 Doctoral Research, Dissertation, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the Neuroscience PhD program. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their doctoral research, dissertation and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 800 credit. S, U grading.
- Neuroscience
Courses
- Neuroscience
Schedules of Studies
- Biomedical Business Option
- General Option
- Honors Accelerated Pre-Veterinary Option
- Pre-Professional Option
- Research Option
Minors
- Neuroscience
Certificates
- Business of Biomedicine