2026-2027 Academic Catalog

Mar 20, 2026

2026-2027 Academic Catalog

BIOL 143 - Neuroscience

BIOL 143 introduces the field of neuroscience, which is the scientific study of nervous systems and their relationship to behavior and disease. The course covers topics including neuronal structure and function, synaptic communication and intra- and intercellular signaling systems, development and regeneration of nervous systems, processing of sensory information, and complex functions such as learning, memory, cognition, and emotion. We will explore the following question throughout the semester. How can specialized cells called neurons work together to yield ‘emergent’ properties that we associate with being ‘human’ such as emotions, social interactions, perception of the world around us, and memories, and how does this compare with other animals - i.e., what is it about our brain/nervous system that makes us human?

Prerequisites: BIOL 111 or BIOL 118.

Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year.