Neuroscience

Steering Committee: Lin Aanonsen (Biology), Darcy Burgund (Psychology, Director), Devavani Chatterjea (Biology), Randy Daughters (Biology), Elizabeth Jansen (Biology), Eric Wiertelak (Psychology)

Affiliated Faculty: Kristi Curry Rogers (Biology/Geology), Pete Ferderer (Economics), Susan Fox (Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science), Joy Laine (Philosophy), Brooke Lea (Psychology), Mary Montgomery (Biology), Jaine Strauss (Psychology)

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the structure and function of the brain and nervous system. The Neuroscience major at Macalester draws on courses from biology and psychology, in addition to courses from related fields such as chemistry and math, to provide students with a strong foundation for understanding the neural basis of mind and behavior. Neuroscience majors are well prepared to pursue a variety of career paths, including graduate study in neuroscience, biomedicine, and other related areas.

General Distribution Requirement

Many required courses in the Neuroscience major meet various general distribution requirements. Please refer to the department in which they are offered for specific information. 

General Education Requirements

Courses that meet the general education requirements in writing, quantitative thinking, internationalism and U.S. identities and differences will be posted on the Registrar’s web page in advance of registration for each semester.

Additional information regarding the general distribution requirement and the general education requirements can be found in the graduation requirements  section of this catalog.

Independent Study

The department offers independent study options in the form of independent projects and internships. For more information contact the department and review the Curriculum  section of the catalog.

Programs

• Neuroscience Major