The Western New England University Neuroscience major integrates knowledge from psychology, biology, engineering, and chemistry. Neuroscientists work toward a common goal: to understand the structure, development, and function of the nervous system. In this research-rich environment that supports a curriculum steeped in scientific investigation, students work with faculty in all stages of research, including project design, data collection, and results reporting. Neuroscientists use an ever-increasing range of tools to examine the molecular, structural, physiological, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of the brain and nervous system. Through their research, neuroscientists are able to describe the normal function of electrical tissues, including the human brain, which then allows them to understand and find ways to prevent or cure many devastating neurological and psychiatric disorders.
As a neuroscience major at Western New England University, you can choose a research-intensive track of study that incorporates hands-on laboratory training. Research students have access to a range of tools, including behavioral testing, electrophysiology, immuno- and fluorescent histology, genetics, and molecular biology. Participating firsthand in basic exploratory research affords you the opportunity to gain valuable research skills, present your findings, and attend the annual international meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. The neuroscience course-intensive track, allows you to take courses offered by the Department of Neuroscience and other science departments that study the nervous system, behavior, and cognitive processes from a variety of perspectives. The Neuroscience curriculum is patterned to follow the recommendations of the advisory committee of the Faculty for Undergraduate Neuroscience.