Campuses:
Twin Cities campus
This is archival data. This system was retired as of August 21, 2023 and the information on this page has not been updated since then. For current information, visit catalogs.umn.edu.
Twin Cities Campus Neuroscience College of Biological Sciences
The neuroscience minor provides an in-depth contemporary understanding of how the nervous system functions in both health and disease. The goal of the minor is to provide instruction that will enrich the curriculum through an array of academic majors. As we will all experience the impact of nervous system disease ourselves or through family members and/or friends, instruction in this minor will offer insights into the nervous system that students can utilize throughout their lifetimes.Note: Students pursuing an individualized degree program (IDP) may be ineligible to pursue the neuroscience minor if IDP and minor coursework overlap more than 3 credits. These requests will be reviewed on an individual basis. Program Delivery This program is available:
Admission Requirements A GPA above 2.0 is preferred for the following:
The Integrative Neuroscience minor is open to all non-CBS students and all CBS students (with the exception of Biology majors). Students minoring in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience are not eligible for the Integrative Neuroscience minor. For information about University of Minnesota admission requirements, visit the Office of Admissions website. Required prerequisites Neuroscience Minor Prerequisite NSCI1001-Fundamental Neuroscience: Understanding Ourselves [TS] (3.0 cr) Minor Requirements Integrative Neuroscience Minor Requirements Take 2 or more course(s) from the following: · NSCI1002-Social Neuroscience: Understanding Others (3.0 cr) · NSCI3001W-Neuroscience and Society [CIV, WI] (4.0 cr) · NSCI3505W-Mind and Brain [WI] (4.0 cr) · NSCI2001-Human Neuroanatomy (without a lab) (3.0 cr) or NSCI2101-Human Neuroanatomy [BIOL] (4.0 cr) Additional Elective Courses listed as neuroscience minor requirement options (NSCI 1002, 2001, 2100, 3001W, and 3505) that are also elective options may count for one requirement or the other, but not both. Take 1 or more course(s) from the following: · BMEN5411-Neural Engineering (3.0 cr) · CPSY4329-Biological Foundations of Development (3.0 cr) · KIN4133-Perceptual-Motor Control and Learning (3.0 cr) · NSCI1002-Social Neuroscience: Understanding Others (3.0 cr) · NSCI3001W-Neuroscience and Society [CIV, WI] (4.0 cr) · NSCI3505W-Mind and Brain [WI] (4.0 cr) · NSCI4150-Advanced Topics in Neuroscience (3.0 cr) · PHCL4343-Pharmacology of the Synapse (3.0 cr) · PHSL5444-Muscle (3.0 cr) · PSY3061-Introduction to Biological Psychology (3.0 cr) · PSY5064-Brain and Emotion (3.0 cr) · SLHS3302-Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms (3.0 cr) · SLHS4301-Introduction to the Neuroscience of Human Communication (3.0 cr) · NSCI2101-Human Neuroanatomy [BIOL] (4.0 cr) or NSCI2001-Human Neuroanatomy (without a lab) (3.0 cr) |
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Twin Cities Campus:
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Information current as of June 19, 2024
NSCI1001 - Fundamental Neuroscience: Understanding Ourselves (TS)
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Fall & Spring |
Assessing objectively the neuroscience information presented to public at-large across various media outlets. Explaining the potential importance of these discoveries.
NSCI1002 - Social Neuroscience: Understanding Others
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Prerequisites: | None |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
The field of neuroscience makes a special contribution to our understanding of the human condition, as it can both help us understand ourselves and also how we interact in a world of other individuals. Historically, there has been a dichotomy between disciplines that identify the abstract principles of the social world we live in and the biology of the organ (i.e., the central nervous system) we use to identify and coordinate those abstract principles as we function in our daily lives. By merging these disciplines and studying our interactions with the world on many layers of analysis, from genes to social dynamics, we can develop a richer understanding of who we are as people.prereq: None
NSCI3001W - Neuroscience and Society (CIV, WI)
Credits: | 4.0 [max 4.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
Ethical implications. Readings, personal reflections, class discussions, debates, and formal writing. Development of logical arguments, writing skills, oral presentation skills, and teamwork. Students present/argue both their own personal views and those of others. What it is like to have altered mentation, i.e. a brain disease or disability. Readings/multimedia reports from primary neuroscience literature as well as philosophy, policy, and law literature and popular media.
NSCI3505W - Mind and Brain (WI)
Credits: | 4.0 [max 4.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
This course is intended as an introduction to the new views on the relationship between mind and brain. Over the last several decades, a new view of cognition and neural processing has been developed based on the concepts of al¬gorithm, representation, computation, and information processing. Within this theoretical frame¬work, psychological constructs are computational processes occur¬ring across physical neural systems. We will take a neuroscience and psychological perspective in which the physical neuroscience instantiates but does not diminish the psychological constructs. Although our conceptual framework will be computational, this course will not require or expect any mathematical or computer background. At the completion of this class, you will understand the implications of the physical nature of the brain ? how mentation is explicable from physical processes, and how decision-making arises from those same physical processes. Importantly, you will also understand the limitations of current knowledge and the methodologies being used to push those limitations. This class is not intended as a final step in this understanding, but as a first step into these issues. At the conclusion of the class, you should have sufficient understanding to continue more in-depth reading and study in these issues. There are no official prerequisites. However, I have found that students who have EITHER a strong computational background (computer science, mathematics, economics, physics) OR have taken an introductory neuroscience course (e.g. Nsci 2100) have done better in the class than students with no background. However, I have seen students come in with very little background and do well in the class if they engage with the class and work hard.
NSCI2001 - Human Neuroanatomy (without a lab)
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Course Equivalencies: | NSci 2001/NSci 2100 |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
This course will provide a broad introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on the human nervous system. The course will introduce the structure and function of neurons, the major anatomical parts of the nervous system and the main functional systems. Functional systems will be approached through an understanding of the anatomical circuitry. The fundamental concepts of neurochemical communication studied in general terms in the first part of the course will be re-examined relative to specific functional systems later in the course. Although the major focus of the course will be on the normal nervous system, common diseases will be introduced for each main topic. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of many neurological diseases, which will provide further insight into how the normal nervous system functions. The neuronal substrates of learning/memory, addiction and drug actions will be examined. Through the lectures, discussions and other resources, students will be expected to gain an understanding of the neural circuitry and information processing responsible for the diverse range of human behaviors.The material covered in Nsci 2001 and 2100 is very similar. N2100 is taught only fall semester. It is a traditional lecture course that includes a weekly laboratory. The faculty believe that the laboratory is a valuable part of the course. N2001 is taught only spring semester for those who cannot take the fall course. It does not have a lab, but has the advantage of a flipped format. In N2001, students will be expected to watch the assigned lectures prior to coming to class. Class time will be spent on exercises and discussions that use the material presented in the online lectures. Students who take one of these two courses will not be allowed to take the other course.For more information, see http://mcloonlab.neuroscience.umn.edu/2001/index.htm
NSCI2101 - Human Neuroanatomy (BIOL)
Credits: | 4.0 [max 4.0] |
Course Equivalencies: | NSci 2001/NSci 2100 |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Fall |
This course will provide a broad introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on the human nervous system. The course will introduce the structure and function of neurons, the major anatomical parts of the nervous system and the main functional systems. Functional systems will be approached through an understanding of the anatomical circuitry. The fundamental concepts of neurochemical communication studied in general terms in the first part of the course will be re-examined relative to specific functional systems later in the course. Although the major focus of the course will be on the normal nervous system, common diseases will be introduced for each main topic. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of many neurological diseases, which will provide further insight into how the normal nervous system functions. The neuronal substrates of learning/memory, addiction and drug actions will be examined. Through the lectures, laboratory exercises and other resources, students will be expected to gain an understanding of the neural circuitry and information processing responsible for the diverse range of human behaviors. The material covered in Nsci 2001 and 2100 is very similar. N2100 is taught only fall semester. It is a traditional lecture course that includes a weekly laboratory. The faculty believe that the laboratory is a valuable part of the course. N2001 is taught only spring semester for those who cannot take the fall course. It does not have a lab, but has the advantage of a flipped format. In N2001, students will be expected to watch the assigned lectures prior to coming to class. Class time will be spent on exercises and discussions that use the material presented in the online lectures. Students who take one of these two courses will not be allowed to take the other course. For more information, see http://mcloonlab.neuroscience.umn.edu/2100/index.htm
BMEN5411 - Neural Engineering
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Typically offered: | Every Fall |
Theoretical basis. Signal processing techniques. Modeling of nervous system, its response to stimulation. Electrode design, neural modeling, cochlear implants, deep brain stimulation. Prosthetic limbs, micturition control, prosthetic vision. Brain machine interface, seizure prediction, optical imaging of nervous system, place cell recordings in hippocampus.prereq: 3401 recommended
CPSY4329 - Biological Foundations of Development
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F or Aud |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
Evolutionary theory and behavioral genetics applied to understanding of development of human behavior; formation of species-typical adaptive behavior and individual differences in infancy, childhood, and adolescence. prereq: CPSY 2301 / 3301 or equiv
KIN4133 - Perceptual-Motor Control and Learning
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F or Aud |
Typically offered: | Every Fall & Spring |
Concepts/principles of coordination/control of perceptually guided movement. Constraints imposed by properties of environment, body (including the nervous system), and goals of behavior. Why we move the way that we do.prereq: [3112, 3132, 3135, KIN major] or instr consent
NSCI1002 - Social Neuroscience: Understanding Others
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Prerequisites: | None |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
The field of neuroscience makes a special contribution to our understanding of the human condition, as it can both help us understand ourselves and also how we interact in a world of other individuals. Historically, there has been a dichotomy between disciplines that identify the abstract principles of the social world we live in and the biology of the organ (i.e., the central nervous system) we use to identify and coordinate those abstract principles as we function in our daily lives. By merging these disciplines and studying our interactions with the world on many layers of analysis, from genes to social dynamics, we can develop a richer understanding of who we are as people.prereq: None
NSCI3001W - Neuroscience and Society (CIV, WI)
Credits: | 4.0 [max 4.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
Ethical implications. Readings, personal reflections, class discussions, debates, and formal writing. Development of logical arguments, writing skills, oral presentation skills, and teamwork. Students present/argue both their own personal views and those of others. What it is like to have altered mentation, i.e. a brain disease or disability. Readings/multimedia reports from primary neuroscience literature as well as philosophy, policy, and law literature and popular media.
NSCI3505W - Mind and Brain (WI)
Credits: | 4.0 [max 4.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
This course is intended as an introduction to the new views on the relationship between mind and brain. Over the last several decades, a new view of cognition and neural processing has been developed based on the concepts of al¬gorithm, representation, computation, and information processing. Within this theoretical frame¬work, psychological constructs are computational processes occur¬ring across physical neural systems. We will take a neuroscience and psychological perspective in which the physical neuroscience instantiates but does not diminish the psychological constructs. Although our conceptual framework will be computational, this course will not require or expect any mathematical or computer background. At the completion of this class, you will understand the implications of the physical nature of the brain ? how mentation is explicable from physical processes, and how decision-making arises from those same physical processes. Importantly, you will also understand the limitations of current knowledge and the methodologies being used to push those limitations. This class is not intended as a final step in this understanding, but as a first step into these issues. At the conclusion of the class, you should have sufficient understanding to continue more in-depth reading and study in these issues. There are no official prerequisites. However, I have found that students who have EITHER a strong computational background (computer science, mathematics, economics, physics) OR have taken an introductory neuroscience course (e.g. Nsci 2100) have done better in the class than students with no background. However, I have seen students come in with very little background and do well in the class if they engage with the class and work hard.
NSCI4150 - Advanced Topics in Neuroscience
Credits: | 3.0 [max 9.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F or Aud |
Typically offered: | Periodic Spring |
In-depth study of aspects of neurodevelopment, neurochemistry/molecular neuroscience, sensory systems, motor control, and behavioral neuroscience. Primarily for undergraduates majoring in neuroscience or related areas.
PHCL4343 - Pharmacology of the Synapse
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Fall |
Study synapse as pharmacological gateway to nervous system. Explore physiology of/cellular signalling at synapse, how signalling influences conditions such as Parkinson's disease, depression, anxiety, pain, addiction. How various drugs modify signalling at synapse.recommend: [PHCL 2001, PHCL 3100]
PHSL5444 - Muscle
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Course Equivalencies: | BioC 5444/ Phsl 5444 |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
Muscle molecular structure/function and disease. Muscle regulation, ion transport, and force generation. Muscular dystrophy and heart disease. prereq: PHSL 3061 or PHSL 5061 or BioC 3021, BIOL 3021 or BIOL 4331 or instr consent
PSY3061 - Introduction to Biological Psychology
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Course Equivalencies: | Psy 3061/5061/Madr 3018 |
Typically offered: | Every Fall, Spring & Summer |
Neurophysiology/neuroanatomy, neural mechanisms of motivation, emotion, sleep-wakefulness cycle, learning/memory in animals/humans. Neural basis of abnormal behavior, drug abuse.prereq: 1001 or BIOL 1009 or NSci 1100
PSY5064 - Brain and Emotion
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Grading Basis: | A-F or Aud |
Typically offered: | Spring Odd Year |
Introduction to affective neuroscience. How brain promotes emotional/motivated behavior in animals/humans. Biological theories of emotion in historical/current theoretical contexts. Fundamental brain motivational systems, including fear, pleasure, attachment, stress, and regulation of motivated behavior. Implications for emotional development, vulnerability to psychiatric disorders.prereq: 3061 or 5061 or instr consent
SLHS3302 - Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Typically offered: | Every Fall |
Survey of anatomy and physiology of the auditory and speech production systems, including the nervous, respiratory, laryngeal, velopharyngeal and orofacial subsystems. Emphasis on normal processes and functions.
SLHS4301 - Introduction to the Neuroscience of Human Communication
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Typically offered: | Periodic Fall |
Basic neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, especially as they relate to normal speech, language, and hearing processes.
NSCI2101 - Human Neuroanatomy (BIOL)
Credits: | 4.0 [max 4.0] |
Course Equivalencies: | NSci 2001/NSci 2100 |
Grading Basis: | A-F only |
Typically offered: | Every Fall |
This course will provide a broad introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on the human nervous system. The course will introduce the structure and function of neurons, the major anatomical parts of the nervous system and the main functional systems. Functional systems will be approached through an understanding of the anatomical circuitry. The fundamental concepts of neurochemical communication studied in general terms in the first part of the course will be re-examined relative to specific functional systems later in the course. Although the major focus of the course will be on the normal nervous system, common diseases will be introduced for each main topic. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of many neurological diseases, which will provide further insight into how the normal nervous system functions. The neuronal substrates of learning/memory, addiction and drug actions will be examined. Through the lectures, laboratory exercises and other resources, students will be expected to gain an understanding of the neural circuitry and information processing responsible for the diverse range of human behaviors. The material covered in Nsci 2001 and 2100 is very similar. N2100 is taught only fall semester. It is a traditional lecture course that includes a weekly laboratory. The faculty believe that the laboratory is a valuable part of the course. N2001 is taught only spring semester for those who cannot take the fall course. It does not have a lab, but has the advantage of a flipped format. In N2001, students will be expected to watch the assigned lectures prior to coming to class. Class time will be spent on exercises and discussions that use the material presented in the online lectures. Students who take one of these two courses will not be allowed to take the other course. For more information, see http://mcloonlab.neuroscience.umn.edu/2100/index.htm
NSCI2001 - Human Neuroanatomy (without a lab)
Credits: | 3.0 [max 3.0] |
Course Equivalencies: | NSci 2001/NSci 2100 |
Typically offered: | Every Spring |
This course will provide a broad introduction to the nervous system with an emphasis on the human nervous system. The course will introduce the structure and function of neurons, the major anatomical parts of the nervous system and the main functional systems. Functional systems will be approached through an understanding of the anatomical circuitry. The fundamental concepts of neurochemical communication studied in general terms in the first part of the course will be re-examined relative to specific functional systems later in the course. Although the major focus of the course will be on the normal nervous system, common diseases will be introduced for each main topic. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of many neurological diseases, which will provide further insight into how the normal nervous system functions. The neuronal substrates of learning/memory, addiction and drug actions will be examined. Through the lectures, discussions and other resources, students will be expected to gain an understanding of the neural circuitry and information processing responsible for the diverse range of human behaviors.The material covered in Nsci 2001 and 2100 is very similar. N2100 is taught only fall semester. It is a traditional lecture course that includes a weekly laboratory. The faculty believe that the laboratory is a valuable part of the course. N2001 is taught only spring semester for those who cannot take the fall course. It does not have a lab, but has the advantage of a flipped format. In N2001, students will be expected to watch the assigned lectures prior to coming to class. Class time will be spent on exercises and discussions that use the material presented in the online lectures. Students who take one of these two courses will not be allowed to take the other course.For more information, see http://mcloonlab.neuroscience.umn.edu/2001/index.htm