Courses

Official catalog information and degree guides will be available Fall of 2024.
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.
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.
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.
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

Official catalog information and degree guides will be available Fall of 2024.

Listed below is a preview of the expected curriculum. This is a preview only and not intended to replace definitive degree requirements listed in the Gonzaga University Catalog.

Total Credits (62 credits)

Lower Division Requirements (39 Credits)

All of these:
BIOL 105 Information Flow in Biological systems
BIOL 105L Information Flow in Biological systems
BIOL 106 Energy Flow in Biological systems
BIOL207 Genetics and Lab
NEUR 201 Introduction to Neuroscience
CHEM 101 and 101L General Chemistry
CHEM 230 and 230L Organic Chemistry and Lab
PSYC 101 General Psychology

Choose one of the following sets of Physics courses:
PHYS 111 and 111L, 112 and 112L General Physics I and II and Labs
Or
PHYS 121 and 121L, 122 and 122L Scientific Physics I and II and Labs

Choose one of these Statistics courses:
PSYC 202 Statistics for Psychology
Or
MATH 121 Introduction to Statistics
Or
MATH 221 Applied Statistics
Or
HPHY 205 Experimental Design and Stats

Upper Division Requirements (14 credits):

All of these:
NEUR 399 Scientific Communication
BIOL 376 Cellular Neurophysiology
HPHY 453 Neuroanatomy
HPHY 451 Systems Neurophysiology
NEUR 499 Neuroscience and Society

Upper Division Electives (9 Credits):

Students will be able to select from courses in 5 areas of study (Cellular and Molecular, Physiological and Anatomical, Philosophical, Computational, Behavioral) with upper division electives out of the Biology, Biochemistry and Chemistry, Human Physiology, Psychology, Sociology, Computer Science, and Philosophy departments. A full list of possible electives will be published in the Fall 2024.