The neuroscience interdisciplinary major is designed for students who wish to focus their coursework and research at the intersection of biology and psychology to understand the brain and behavior. Application for admission to the major requires signature of the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Committee chair on the declaration of major form submitted to the registrar. Except in unusual cases, this application should be made no later than the end of the sophomore year. Before registering for thesis, neuroscience majors must pass the neuroscience junior qualifying examination.
Requirements for the Major (18 Reed units)
1. Biology coursework (5 units)
- Biology 101 and 102.
- Biology 381.
- One biology unit with lab from among Biology 372, 356, or 363.
- One full unit from among Biology 342, 351, or 431.
2. Psychology coursework (5 units)
- Psychology 101 and one unit of psychology lab courses (Psychology 200–210).
- Psychology 333.
- One “core” psychology course (Psychology 322, 351, 361, 366, 373, 381, or 393).
- One psychology unit in neuroscience from among Psychology 330, 334, 336, 417, or 433.
3. Chemistry (2 units)
- Chemistry 101 and 102.
4. Additional science (2 units)
- Either Chemistry 201 and 202 or Physics 101 and 102.
5. Mathematics (2 units)
- Any two courses in mathematics or computer science. (Biology 131 or Psychology 348 may be substituted for one course, but not for both courses.)
6. Neuroscience 470 (thesis) (2 units)
- Candidates must submit three brief proposals to the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Committee. At least one proposal must name a faculty adviser and project to be completed in biology and one in psychology.