Neuroscience Program
Interdisciplinary by Nature
The Neuroscience major at Washington College reflects the interdisciplinary nature of the field of neuroscience by integrating the fields of biology, chemistry and psychology to promote a deeper understanding of the brain and its emergent properties.
Students will explore the brain at the level of molecules and electrical signals and will extend that knowledge to the networks that create behaviors, memories, and consciousness. They will also apply their knowledge through hand-on laboratory activities in most courses for the major.
Neuroscience Pathways
Because of the field's interdisciplinary nature, a degree in neuroscience can take a graduate in many directions. Two broad career possibilities are in biomedical research and healthcare professions, but there are many other possibilities as well.
Biomedical Research
Many students who choose neuroscience as a major are interested in a research career.
TOLL RESEARCH PROGRAM
Healthcare Professions
Our neuroscience major is designed to provide a broad view of the brain and its emergent properties, but students graduating with a major in neuroscience will also take the courses in biology, chemistry, and psychology that are required as pre-requisites for many health professional programs. This includes programs in allopathic and osteopathic medicine, veterinary medicine, physician assistant, occupational therapy, dentistry, physical therapy, genetic counseling, and many others.
Many Other Paths!
Whether you are interested in cognitive neuroscience, marketing, patent law, science policy, technology transfer, or many other careers, a degree in neuroscience can help get you there. Visit our career center for help connecting with alumni, identifying internships, and preparing resumes and application materials.
Suggested Course Schedule for Neuroscience Major
The following is a guide for students planning for a B.S. in Neuroscience. The schedule is flexible, but at least 1-2 of the introductory courses (BIO111, CHE120, PSY111) should be taken during the first semester if possible.
First Year
Fall
BIO 111 & BIO 113 General Biology I w/Lab
PSY 111 General Psychology I
CHE 120 & CHE 122 Chemical Principles of Organic Molecules w/Lab
FYS 101 First-Year Seminar
Spring
BIO 112 & BIO 114 General Biology II w/Lab
PSY 111 General Psychology II
CHE 140 & CHE 142 Reactivity of Organic Molecules w/Lab
Distribution Course
Second Year
Fall
BIO 311 or CHE 210 Neurobiology or Biopsychology w/Lab
MAT 109 or PSY 209 Statistics or Statistics & Research Design w/Lab
Biology Elective
Language Course 1
Spring
Psychology Elective
Language Course 2
2 Distribution Courses
Third Year
Fall & Spring
Chemistry Elective
Biology Elective
Distribution Course
NEU Neuroscience Junior Seminar
Fourth Year
Fall & Spring
Psychology Elective
Chemistry Elective
NEU SCE Senior Capstone Experience