Wyatt Smith
Features Editor
The neuroscience department is altering the structure of its major, according to Neuroscience Chair and Associate Professor of Psychology, Amy Jo Stavnezer. The major will be divided into three specialized tracks, each focusing on a specific branch in the field of neuroscience.
The changes will be fully implemented for the current first-year class. Sophomores are encouraged to adhere to the new structure as well. Though the transition is optional for juniors, some are choosing to switch to the new system.
Stavnezer compared the new tracks to the home departments of the international relations major. The tracks are divided as follows:
• Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience, which contains a larger proportion of psychology classes as well as incorporates some philosophy courses.
• Neurobiology, which centers on biology, especially macrobiology, such as physiology.
• Cellular Neurophysiology, which includes organic chemistry and is the only track that requires courses from the biochemistry and molecular biology department.
Regardless of their track, all neuroscience majors must take seven core classes that provide a foundation in neuroscience, biology and chemistry.
Another addition to the major is an “integrative capstone seminar,” required for all second-semester seniors. According to Stavnezer, this class will focus on one specific topic, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and approach it from all angles.
“These changes strengthen the major in very real ways,” said Stavnezer, “for both the students and the faculty.”