Courses & Curriculum

For full details visit the Neuroscience Catalog page.
BIOL 376 Cellular Neurophysiology
3.00 credits
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the cellular mechanisms underlying the functions of the nervous system. Topics covered include the electrical and chemical signaling properties of neurons, synaptic transmission, and neural plasticity. Students will also examine current research in the field of neurophysiology and develop an understanding of the relationship between cellular processes and behavior.
Prerequisite (for Neuroscience majors):
NEUR 201 Minimum Grade: D
HPHY 451 Systems Neurophysiology
3.00 credits
The course is an advanced examination of the cellular and physiological properties of neurons, neural communication / transmission, and the physiological manifestations of the nervous systems control. After examining neural cell function, we begin by exploring the neurophysiological systems involved in sensory pathways including proprioception and vestibular system, pain, vision, auditory, and chemical senses. Then, we apply this knowledge by examining the integration of these systems and their role in normal human physiological function, disease, and performance. Fall or Spring on need.
Prerequisite (for Neuroscience majors):
NEUR 201 Minimum Grade: D
HPHY 453 Neuroanatomy
3.00 credits
This course offers an in-depth study of the anatomical organization of the human nervous system. Through a combination of lecture and hands-on laboratory experience, students will explore the gross and microscopic structure of the brain and spinal cord, and the relationships between structure and function. Students will also gain practical experience in the handling and examination of human brain specimens.
Prerequisite (for Neuroscience majors):
NEUR 201 Minimum Grade: D
NEUR 201 Introduction to Neuroscience
3.00 credits
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of neuroscience, covering topics such as the structure and function of the nervous system, neural signaling and communication, sensory and motor systems, learning and memory, and neurological disorders. Students will also learn about research in neuroscience and the methods used to study the brain.
Prerequisite:
BIOL 105 Minimum Grade: D and BIOL 105L Minimum Grade: D and CHEM 101 Minimum Grade: D and CHEM 101L Minimum Grade: D
NEUR 399 Scientific Communications
2.00 credits
This course focuses on developing effective scientific communication skills within the field of neuroscience. Through critical analysis of primary literature, class discussions, and presentations, students will learn to communicate scientific ideas clearly and effectively. Additionally, students will develop skills in scientific writing and learn to prepare research articles, grant proposals, and other scientific documents.
Prerequisite:
NEUR 201 Minimum Grade: D
NEUR 499 Neuroscience and Society
3.00 credits
In this senior capstone course, students will critically examine the intersection of neuroscience and society. Through readings, discussions, and presentations, students will explore how scientific advances in neuroscience impact and shape our understanding of everyday life. Students will integrate knowledge from their neuroscience major and liberal arts core to develop a comprehensive understanding of the societal implications of neuroscience research.
Prerequisite:
NEUR 201 Minimum Grade: D

Curriculum Preview

Upper Division Electives

Listed below are courses that may be counted towards Upper Division elective credits

Refer to the Gonzaga University Catalog for individual course prerequisites.

Cellular and Molecular

  • BIOL 374 Immunology
  • BIOL 375 Virology
  • BIOL 337 Developmental Biology
  • BIOL 351 Advanced Cell Biology
  • BIOL 331 Parasitology
  • BIOL 370/BIOL 370L Microbiology and Lab
  • BIOL 456/BIOL 456L Molecular Biology and Lab
  • BIOL 335 Advanced Genetics
  • HPHY 479 Cell and Molecular Physiology
  • BIOL 338/BIOL 338L Histology
  • BIOL 341/BIOL 341L Human Physiology and Lab
  • BIOL 371/BIOL 371L Vertebrate Biology and Lab
  • HPHY 402 Clinical Exercise Physiology
  • HPHY 485 Biomedical Engineering
  • HPHY 376/BIOL 376L Exercise Physiology and Lab
  • HPHY 478 Physiology of Aging
  • BIOL 441 Advanced Animal Physiology
  • BIOL 451/BIOL 451L Comparative Endocrinology and Lab
  • HPHY 452 Neuromuscular Control
  • CHEM 307/CHEM 307L Biochemistry

Philosophical

  • PHIL 406 Philosophy of Mind
  • PHIL 404 Philosophy of Science
  • PHIL 437 Philosophy of Time
  • PHIL 478 Philosophy of Technology

Computational

  • BIOL 305 Biological Data Analysis
  • PSCY 450 Advanced Statistics in Psych
  • CPSC 475 Speech and Natural Language Processing
  • CPSC 436 Biomedical Informatics and Computing
  • PHYS 412 Biophysical Systems & Modeling

Behavioral

  • BIOL 313 Animal Behavior
  • PSYC 305 Sensation and Perception
  • PSYC 310 Cognition
  • PSYC 315 Learning
  • PSYC 390 Psychopathology
  • PSYC 395 Clinical Neuropsychology
  • PSYC 364 Abnormal Child Psychology
  • SOCI 354 Sociology of Mental Illness

Neuroscience

  • NEUR 304 Teaching Assistance
  • NEUR 380 Special Topics
  • NEUR 395 Research Assistantship
  • NEUR 480 Advanced Special Topics
  • NEUR 490 Directed Reading
  • NEUR 497 Neuroscience Internship
  • NEUR 498 Undergraduate Research
For full details visit the Neuroscience Catalog page.