At a Glance
I’m interested in this field of study. Can you tell me more about it?
Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary major in the Department of Natural Sciences of Pitzer and Scripps Colleges that introduces you to a breadth of knowledge spanning molecular, cellular, systems, behavioral, cognitive, and computational neuroscience.
What are some courses appropriate for first-year students interested in exploring this field of study?
We recommend that you take the following courses during your first year at Scripps:
- CHEM 14: Basic Principles of Chemistry 1
- NEUR 095: Foundations of Neuroscience (no prerequisites, offered in the spring)
- CHEM 15: Basic Principles of Chemistry 2
- BIOL 043: Introductory Biology 1
- BIOL 044: Introductory Biology 2
If I decide to major or minor in this field, are there certain courses that need to be taken in a specific sequence?
The core neuroscience courses should be taken in the following order:
- NEUR 095: Foundations of Neuroscience
- NEUR 149: Neuroscience 2 – Systems (usually taken during your sophomore year)
- NEUR 148L: Cell and Molecular Neuroscience (usually taken during your junior or senior year)
Can students who major or minor in this field complete a second major or minor (as a double major or a major/minor combination)? If so, what are some common pairings?
Yes, although it is not common because neuroscience is an interdisciplinary major.
What other useful information should I know about this field of study?
If you plan to attend medical school, you may have to take additional courses that are not part of the neuroscience major.
About Neuroscience at Scripps
The major in neuroscience is an interdisciplinary program of 16 courses (minimum) designed to provide students with an appreciation of diverse approaches to understanding the function of nervous systems, as well as the ability to conduct investigations within a particular subfield of interest. Students majoring in Neuroscience complete:
- A common core program,
- A sequence of four electives determined in consultation with an adviser in neuroscience, and
- A one- or two-semester thesis on a topic related to the four course sequence.
The major provides good preparation for graduate work in biology, neuroscience, and a variety of other programs including medical school or other graduate health professions programs. Admission to particular advanced degree programs may require additional course work.