Neuroscience and Behavior

Undergraduate

Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system, which can be approached at many levels—from molecules and cells to organisms and their behavior.

A student using a microscope in a neuroscience lab

Program Overview

The interdisciplinary major in neuroscience and behavior is designed for students with integrative interests in biological and psychological science and a passion for scientific exploration.

In addition to our core introductory and intermediate courses in neuroscience, course requirements will provide you with a solid background in both the current findings and modern techniques of biology, chemistry, and psychology, while course electives allow you to explore questions about the nervous system and behavior in greater depth. In keeping with the field as a whole, you may be able to conduct independent research as early as your sophomore year.

Community Voices

Spotlight on Neuroscience and Behavior students and alums

Mao Yasueda ’24

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Shanthini Ragoonaden ’24

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Lingdang Zhang ’24

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Courses and Requirements

Introduction to Neuroscience (NSB 100) is the gateway to the Neuroscience and Behavior major and should be taken if you are considering this option. Additionally, completing Biology 200 as well as Chemistry 150/160 by the end of your second year will position you well for completing the major. The course flowchart may be helpful as you plan your course of study.

Learning Goals

1. Components of the Nervous System

Learn the underlying developmental, physiological, anatomical, and functional components of the nervous system, including an understanding of their evolutionary origins, and link the electrochemical behavior of nerve cells and synapses, sensorimotor processes, and circuit-level processes to cognitive and behavioral outcomes.

2. Biological and Chemical Foundations

Understand the fundamental molecular, chemical, genetic, and cellular components of the natural world and practice basic biology and chemistry laboratory techniques for measuring these phenomena.

3. Research Design and Data Analysis

Develop experimental design, quantitative reasoning, and technical skills to ethically design, implement, analyze, and communicate original research questions in the natural and behavioral sciences.

4. Experimentation and Evaluation of Primary Literature

Analyze and critique primary literature leading to the construction of novel hypotheses, and design relevant laboratory-based and field experiments using various neuroscience-specific techniques.

5. Becoming a Citizen Scientist

Develop communication and collaboration skills aimed at becoming an ethically responsible and inclusive member of the scientific community. This includes cultivating effective communication skills in oral, written, and visual formats, in addition to working to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in group settings.

Contact us

The Neuroscience and Behavior Department teaches the study of the nervous system, which can be approached at many levels—from molecules and cells to organisms and their behavior.

Next steps

Apply to Mount Holyoke

Mount Holyoke seeks intellectually curious applicants who understand the value of a liberal arts education and are driven by a love of learning. As a women's college that is gender diverse, we welcome applications from female, trans and non-binary students.

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