With 100,000 miles of blood vessels, 1.1 trillion cells and 100 billion neurons – and some 70,000 thoughts a day – the human brain is one of the most complex structures in the universe.
Neuroscience focuses on the relationships among brain function, cognitive processing and behavior. This truly interdisciplinary field is designed for students with interests that intersect the fields of biology and psychology. As a Union College Neuroscience major, you will begin your studies with a variety of core courses, including biology, psychology, computer science and philosophy. Then you will select one of three tracks for specialization:
Bioscience: Focuses on the biological basis of
neural development, function and plasticity
Cognitive: Addresses how neural networks and brain mechanisms give rise to
specific mental processes and behavior; or
Computational: Emphasizes issues
related to developing computational models of neuronal and mental processes.
Our undergraduates work closely with faculty members who are distinguished in their fields, and they also enjoy opportunities for summer research fellowships and participation in symposia. A majority of students present at Union’s Steinmetz Research Symposium each spring.
Neuroscience students pursue a wide range of research and clinical internships, and they go on to jobs in research centers and labs in university, government and health-care settings. They are also well prepared to attend graduate and medical schools.
