The Major
The neuroscience major is highly interdisciplinary, with students taking courses in biology, chemistry, psychology, mathematics, physics and more.
Learn MoreHow does the mind work? How can we explain animal and human behavior? What is different when someone is not neurotypical? Neuroscience is the modern attempt to answer these and other questions through the study of the brain.
Program Highlights
Seminars
In the Neuroscience Seminars & Comprehensives, students and faculty discuss current research and guest neuroscientists lecture on their work.
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Student Research
Our majors perform lab research at Amherst and around the country. Seniors have the option to complete an honors research project.
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History
Amherst was the first institution to offer an undergraduate major in neuroscience.
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Summer Programs
Our majors take great advantage of neuroscience research opportunities around the country and internationally.
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After Amherst
Amherst neuroscience majors conduct research at the National Institutes of Health, teach high school in Boston, practice medicine around the country and work in business.
Learn MoreNeuroscience Courses
Current Courses
NEUR 214
Neurobiology
Description
Introduction to the structure and function of the nervous system, this course explores the basic functions of neurons and synapses as well as neural mechanisms of sensation at molecular, cellular, circuit and system levels.
NEUR 245
Systems Neuroscience
NEUR 301
Molecular Neurobiology
Description
This course will be an analysis of the molecules and molecular mechanisms underlying nervous system function, development, and disease, exploring the proteins that contribute to the unique structure and function of neurons.
Featured Article
New Grant Bolsters Trapani Lab’s Student-Driven Mission
Prof. Josef Trapani receives close to $440k from the National Institutes of Health to continue his good work—and that of the undergraduate students he mentors—in understanding auditory systems.
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