Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system. Students in this program develop a robust theoretical foundation through coursework in biology, chemistry, psychology, and statistics. Research is integrated into the curriculum, where students will collaborate with faculty members in novel scientific projects and develop practical skills in experimental design, advanced neuroscience techniques, and statistical analyses. As part of SPU’s liberal arts tradition, the Neuroscience program emphasizes knowledge across multiple disciplines, critical inquiry, and problem-solving in service of both individual and societal health.

Graduates of the BS Neuroscience program will be well equipped to pursue careers in diverse sectors, including academic research, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, theology, data analytics, and education. 

In order to earn a degree, you must complete at least one academic major. SPU encourages students to explore various academic paths, so if you change your mind about a major, or want to include an additional program, you are able to do so, as outlined below.

Note that the University encourages you to enter your chosen major(s) as soon as you have determined it and are eligible to join it, especially by the start of your junior year. Students who transfer as juniors and seniors should enter a major within their first two quarters at SPU.

• If this is your first quarter at SPU and you identified a major in this department as your first choice on your application for admission to the University, you have gained entry to the major. To change or add a major, follow these instructions.
• If you are an SPU student with an SPU cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better, follow these instructions to enter a major in this department.
• The University requires a grade of C- or better in all classes that apply to a major; however, programs may require higher minimum grades in specific courses. You may repeat an SPU course only once for a higher grade.
• To advance in this program, meet with your faculty advisor regularly to discuss your grades, course progression, and other indicators of satisfactory academic progress. If your grades or other factors indicate that you may not be able to successfully complete the major or minor, your faculty advisor can work with you to explore options, which may include choosing a different major.
• You must complete the major requirements that are in effect in the SPU Undergraduate Catalog for the year you enter the major.

Neuroscience (BS)

86 Credits Minimum, Including 33 Upper Division (UD)

Suggested Course Sequence

This suggested course sequence is a potential plan for how to complete the major within four years. Please consult with your faculty advisor for guidance and regularly review your degree status check in Banner to make sure you are on track with all of your degree requirements.

First Year

• If you are interested in pursuing a health sciences graduate degree, you should talk to your academic advisors at the earliest convienence and take PPHS 1200 in the Winter Quarter.

Second Year

• Begin taking electives in fulfillment of the requirements for the major.

Third Year

• Continue taking electives in fulfillment of the requirements for the major.

Fourth Year

• Create a final-year plan and meet with your faculty advisor for review.