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Neuroscience

College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences


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.

Why Choose Neuroscience?

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.

What Will You Study?

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.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates have gone on to continue their studies at master's or doctoral level in a variety of science related professions (e.g. Ph.D., MD, DDO, DDS, VDM, or OD). Career options include positions within neuroscience, psychiatry, medicine, academia, pharmaceuticals, forensic science, health and allied health professionals, science writing and communications, and state and federal governmental science agencies such as CIA, FBI, NIH, CDC, or FDA.

Clubs & Organizations

Neuroscience students may have interests in: Alpha Lambda Delta (First-year honor society), Neuroscience Club, Biology Club, and Chemistry Club. Many of our students also participate in varsity and intramural sports, special interest groups, and student government.

Clubs and Organizations

Faculty

Working in the labs of the Neuroscience Suite, the Neuroscience faculty develops collaborative and mentoring relationships with students. Their areas of research inquiry include neuromuscular transduction and plasticity, neurodevelopment of the olfactory system; and the neurobiology of emotional learning, pain modulation, and addiction.

Faculty

Unique Learning Opportunities

  • Internships and Field Work

    The National Science Foundation funds research opportunities for undergraduate students at various academic institutions. In recent years, Neuroscience majors (Caitlyn Barrows, Presephanie Dones, and Stephanie Polukort) have received summer REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) fellowships to work in neuroscience research labs across the United States.

  • Study Abroad: Become a Global Citizen

    Today’s workforce needs professionals who see the big picture. The College of Arts and Sciences will help you to become a student of world cultures and histories as they relate to your studies while making valuable contributions in your explorations. Whether you participate in a faculty-led summer seminar course or spend a semester at an international university, the experience will broaden your horizons and help you compete in the global landscape.

    Study Abroad