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Neuroscience

Bachelor of Science

Degree Type:
B.S.
College:
College of Arts & Sciences
Department:
Interdisciplinary Studies

Explore the complexities of the human brain.

Neuroscience is one of the fastest-growing scientific fields. Blending biology, psychology, and chemistry, this interdisciplinary major provides a solid foundation for careers and advanced study alike.

At John Carroll University, neuroscience majors get real-world experience from day one — and have the flexibility to build a course of study that aligns with their academic and professional goals. Rooted in a rich liberal arts curriculum, our program explores neuroscience through a variety of perspectives, from ethics to entrepreneurship.

JCU has been a leader in neuroscience education for nearly five decades, starting with an interdisciplinary concentration — one of the first of its kind in the country. Now a major of its own, the program builds off that long legacy of expertise.

  • 98% acceptance rate for students entering medical and other health professions schools

  • 40% of neuroscience students at JCU have continued on to medical school

  • 90% of students complete 2+ high-impact experiences, such as internships or service-learning

  • 14:1 Student-to-faculty ratio at JCU

Undergraduate Research

Engage in research as early as your first year. Contribute to faculty-led projects that lead to groundbreaking discoveries in neuroscience, such as developing neurotherapies or assistive technology.

Integrated Curriculum

Interdisciplinary by nature, our major includes an array of electives led by faculty from across JCU. You’ll have an opportunity to connect neuroscience to topics like machine learning, mental health, and medicine.

  • Undergraduate Research

    Engage in research as early as your first year. Contribute to faculty-led projects that lead to groundbreaking discoveries in neuroscience, such as developing neurotherapies or assistive technology.

  • Integrated Curriculum

    Interdisciplinary by nature, our major includes an array of electives led by faculty from across JCU. You’ll have an opportunity to connect neuroscience to topics like machine learning, mental health, and medicine.

  • Cutting-Edge Learning Spaces

    Experiment, collaborate, and perform research in modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art neuroscience lab and psychology testing rooms.

Program Overview & Outcomes

Whether you want to build a scientific foundation in preparation for medical or graduate school or are looking to go directly into the workforce, your academic advisor will help you plot your course. Wherever your pathway takes you, as a neuroscience major at JCU, you will:

  • Develop a fundamental knowledge in core areas of neuroscience, considering molecular, cellular, and systems levels
  • Apply analytic and scientific thinking to solve problems in neuroscience
  • Engage in effective communication consistent with professional expectations

Curriculum: What You Will Learn

You'll develop a comprehensive understanding of the nervous system at molecular, cellular, and systems levels. The interdisciplinary program combines biology, chemistry, data science, and psychology with extensive elective options across multiple disciplines to prepare you for professional school, graduate programs, or careers in neuroscience.

View Full Program Catalog

  • Core Foundation

    Introduction to Neuroscience

    3 Credits

    NEUR1000

    Gain insights into the brain's mysteries, exploring the structure and function of the nervous system while uncovering exciting career paths in neuroscience.

    Introduction to Psychology: Perspectives in Social Justice

    3 Credits

    PS1000

    Uncover the fundamental principles of behavior while reflecting on psychology's role in social justice. Analyze how research impacts society and promotes equitable outcomes.

    Introduction to Psychology

    3 Credits

    PS1010

    Unlock the secrets of human behavior, from memory to motivation, equipping yourself with psychological insights that shape our understanding of the mind.

    Principles of Biology I

    3 Credits

    BL1500

    For science majors. BL1500 is prerequisite to BL1600 and BL1700. Three hours of lecture per week. Basic chemical principles; cell structure and organization; metabolism of plants and animals. Corequisite: BL1505.

    Principles of Biology Laboratory I

    1 Credits

    BL1505

    Three of four hours of laboratory per week. Laboratory study of the scientific method as applied to biology, focusing on development of skills through inquiry-based learning. Corequisite: BL1500. Additional fees apply to this course. Please see the section schedule for amount details.

    Principles of Biology II

    3-4 Credits

    BL1600

    For science majors. Three hours of lecture per week. Plant and animal anatomy and physiology. Prerequisite: BL155 or BL 1500. Corequisite: BL1605.

    Principles of Biology Laboratory II

    1 Credits

    BL1605

    Three hours of laboratory per week. Laboratory study of plant and animal anatomy and physiology. Prerequisite: BL157 or BL1505. Corequisite: BL1600. Additional fees apply to this course. Please see the section schedule for amount details.

    General Chemistry I

    4 Credits

    CH1410

    Four hours of lecture per week. Stoichiometry, thermochemistry, states of matter, atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular structure, oxidation-reduction, acid-base, solutions. Corequisite: CH 1430. Offered: Fall.

    General Chemistry II

    4 Credits

    CH1420

    Four hours of lecture per week. Homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, kinetics, chemistry of metals and non-metals, and other relevant topics. Offered: Spring. Prerequisites: (CH 1410 or CH 141) and (CH 1430 or CH 143). Corequisite: CH 1440.

    General Chemistry Lab I

    1 Credits

    CH1430

    Three hours of laboratory per week. Laboratory experiments illustrating principles developed in the corequisite lecture courses. Offered: Fall. Corequisite: CH 1410. Additional fees apply to this course. Please see the section schedule for amount details.

    General Chemistry Lab II

    1 Credits

    CH1440

    Three hours of laboratory per week. Laboratory experiments illustrating principles developed in the corequisite lecture courses. Offered: Spring, Prerequisites: (CH 1410 or CH 141) and (CH 1430 or CH 143). Corequisites: CH 1420. Additional fees apply to this course. Please see the section schedule for amount details.

    Elementary Statistics

    3 Credits

    DATA1220

    Transform raw data into compelling insights using R, mastering statistics to inform decisions in fields from sports to social sciences.

    Statistics for Biological Sciences

    3 Credits

    DATA2280

    Apply statistical analysis in biological contexts, mastering R software for data exploration, hypothesis testing, and understanding variance to drive informed scientific conclusions.

    Intermediate Statistics with Spss

    3 Credits

    DATA2600

    Master intermediate statistical methods using SPSS, covering everything from power analysis to linear regression, to enhance your data skills.

    Experimental Design and Analysis in Psychology

    3 Credits

    PS3011

    Introduction to the scientific method as it is used to design, conduct, and analyze experiments in psychology. Prerequisites: PS1000 (or PS 100) or PS1010 (or PS 101) and DATA 2600 (or DATA 260), with min grade of C- in DATA 2600/260, and EN1250 or equivalent. Corequisite: PS3010.

    Experimental Design and Analysis Lab

    0 Credits

    PS3010

    Two hours of laboratory per week. Students work in groups to design and conduct an experiment investigating some aspects of human behavior, then analyze the data. Corequisite: PS 3011.

  • Biology and Neurobiology

    Genetics

    4 Credits

    BL2130

    Four hours of lecture per week. Principles of molecular, transmission, quantitative, and population genetics; social and ethical implications of genetics. Prerequisite: BL155 or BL1500, BL157 or BL1505, BL156 or BL1600, and BL158 or BL1605.

    Medical Physiology

    4 Credits

    BL3600

    Integrate biological functions of the human body to maintain homeostasis, emphasizing key systems and their regulation in health and disease.

    Medical Physiology Laboratory

    0 Credits

    BL3605

    Three hours of laboratory per week. Corequisite: BL3600. Additional fees apply to this course. Please see the section schedule for amount details.

    Cell Biology

    3 Credits

    BL3010

    Three hours of lecture per week. Structure and function of plant and animal cells and their organelles. Emphasis on modern cell biology techniques. Prerequisite: BL155 or BL1500 and BL157 or BL1505, BL156 or BL1600, and BL158 or BL1605.

    Developmental Biology

    3 Credits

    BL3020

    Three hours of lecture per week. Molecular, genetic, and cellular mechanisms of animal development. Emphasis on experimental techniques. Prerequisites: BL155 or BL1500, BL156 or BL1600, and BL213 or BL2130.

    Cellular Neuroscience

    3 Credits

    BL4010

    Design experiments in cellular neuroscience, studying ion channels, synaptic transmission, and neural plasticity to uncover life’s biological mysteries.

    Neurogenetics and Disease

    3 Credits

    BL4130

    Investigate neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders through case studies, exploring genetic impacts on brain function and potential treatment avenues.

    Endocrinology

    3 Credits

    BL4750

    Three hours of lecture per week. The endocrine glands, hormones, and their mechanisms of action in mammals. Prerequisite: BL155 or BL1500, BL157 or BL1505, BL156 or BL1600, and BL158 or BL1605.

    Link: the Biology of Sleep and Consciousness

    3 Credits

    BL1190

    Examines normal consciousness and perception, alterations of consciousness and perception, and the physical state of sleep and dreams. Prerequisite: EN125 or EN1250 or equivalent. Corequisite: EN 2810.

    Link: the Biology of Language

    3 Credits

    BL1360

    Emphasis on critical analysis, problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and written communication within the context of the biological basis of language within the settings of normal and impaired language. Prerequisite: EN125 or EN1250 or equivalent. Corequisite: EN2640.

    Biology of Addiction

    3 Credits

    BL1420

    Discover how addiction affects the brain and body while examining the science of predisposition and recovery.

  • Advanced Neuroscience

    Research Experience in Neuroscience

    0 Credits

    NEUR2095

    Partner with neuroscience faculty to engage in hands-on research, gaining real-world insights into experimental design and the scientific method.

    Research Experience in Neuroscience

    1 Credits

    NEUR2195

    Collaborate on neuroscience research with faculty, building your skills in experimental techniques and the intricacies of scientific inquiry.

    Research Experience in Neuroscience

    2 Credits

    NEUR2295

    Work alongside neuroscience experts on cutting-edge research, honing your understanding of experimental processes and data interpretation.

    Research Experience in Neuroscience

    3 Credits

    NEUR2395

    Join faculty-led neuroscience projects to deepen your research skills and understand the complexities of brain science in action.

    Advanced Research Experience in Neuroscience

    0 Credits

    NEUR4095

    Lead your own neuroscience research project with guidance from faculty, gaining invaluable independent research experience.

    Advanced Research Experience in Neuroscience

    1 Credits

    NEUR4195

    Take charge of your neuroscience research project, working independently under expert faculty supervision to push boundaries.

    Advanced Research Experience in Neuroscience

    2 Credits

    NEUR4295

    Craft your own neuroscience research initiative with faculty mentorship, showcasing your ability to innovate and solve complex problems.

    Advanced Research Experience in Neuroscience

    3 Credits

    NEUR4395

    Conduct independent neuroscience research under faculty mentorship, honing your critical thinking and project management skills for real-world scientific challenges.

    Neural Engineering

    3 Credits

    NEUR3990

    Study the science and ethics of neural engineering, from brain stimulation to implants, while exploring how devices interface with the nervous system. Includes a final project.

  • Interdisciplinary Studies

    Organic Chemistry I

    3 Credits

    CH2210

    Write organic reactions like a pro, from alkanes to alkynes, while mastering stereochemistry and nucleophilic substitutions—perfect for future chemists!

    Organic Chemistry I

    1 Credits

    CH2230

    Perform hands-on organic chemistry labs to synthesize, isolate, and analyze compounds while honing your lab techniques for real-world applications.

    Organic Chemistry Ii

    3 Credits

    CH2220

    Engineer complex organic compounds with advanced studies in reactions, mechanisms, and spectroscopic analysis to elevate your chemistry expertise.

    Organic Chemistry Ii

    1 Credits

    CH2240

    Conduct hands-on organic chemistry experiments to master essential lab techniques and gain insight into the properties and reactions of organic compounds.

    Biochemistry I

    3 Credits

    CH4350

    Construct a solid foundation in biochemistry by studying protein structure, enzyme function, and molecular genetics, with hands-on lab experiences.

    Biochemistry II

    3 Credits

    CH4360

    Gain hands-on insights into bioenergetics, metabolism, and physiological processes while mastering the links between hormones, genes, and nutrition.

    General Biochemistry

    4 Credits

    CH4310

    Dive into the molecular world! Study proteins, enzymes, and metabolism, equipping yourself with biochemistry knowledge vital for advanced science careers.

    Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

    3 Credits

    CS2440

    Build intelligent systems from the ground up! Grasp the theory behind learning algorithms and unlock the secrets of artificial intelligence.

    Machine Learning

    3 Credits

    CS3440

    Build intelligent systems with machine learning! Develop, implement, and refine algorithms that power smart robots, enhance computer vision, and revolutionize data mining.

    Machine Learning

    CS3440

    Machine Learning

    CS3440

    Alcohol in American Literature

    3 Credits

    EN2750

    Analyze how alcohol shapes narratives across diverse voices in American literature, revealing its effects on society through a rich variety of genres.

    Writing in the Health Sciences

    3 Credits

    EN4052

    Rhetorical context and conventions of three major types of writing in the health sciences (research articles, online health content, health science news articles) with special attention to the role that this writing plays in advancing or hindering health equity and information access. Prerequisite: EN 1250 or equivalent.

    Motor Learning

    3 Credits

    ESC4320

    Study of human motor behavior as influenced by cognitive and physiological development, maturation, motivation, and learning. Emphasis on normal development as well as regressive development as a function of aging and/or disability. Prerequisite: EPA 208 or PS 175 or PS 261 or ESC 2080 or PS 2680 or PS 2610; acceptance into Exercise Science major, senior standing.

    Motor Learning

    ESC4320

    Motor Learning

    ESC4320

    Motor Learning

    ESC4320

    Philosophy of Science

    3 Credits

    PL2041

    Major philosophical problems raised by science: the nature of scientific inference, the structure of scientific theories, causality, explanation, scientific change, and the role of values in science.

    Human, Nonhuman, and Artificial Intelligence

    3 Credits

    PL2042

    The nature of mind and its role in our understanding of persons and their actions. Topics include the mind-body problem, artificial intelligence, consciousness, animal minds, personal identity, and free will.

    Bioethics

    3 Credits

    PL2088

    Navigate the ethical landscape of bioethics, tackling pressing issues like organ transplantation and patient rights while exploring the future of healthcare.

    Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

    3 Credits

    PL2089

    Ethical questions and issues raised by artificial intelligence, its rapid growth, its applications, and its future.

    Seminar

    3 Credits

    PL4000

    Specific questions on important topics or philosophers. Prerequisites: EN 1250 (or equivalent) and PL 3000 (or equivalent). Offered: Fall.

    Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence

    3 Credits

    PL2096

    Debate whether machines can think and navigate the ethics of AI, from self-driving cars to companion robots, shaping the future of technology and morality.

    Bioethics

    3 Credits

    TRS3563

    Debate pressing bioethical issues in healthcare, integrating diverse moral perspectives, including Catholic teachings, on topics like genetic manipulation and euthanasia.

    Health Care Ethics

    3 Credits

    TRS3583

    Navigate the ethical landscape of healthcare delivery, exploring how moral considerations shape practices and policies.

  • Psychology and Behavior

    Introduction to Cognitive Science

    3 Credits

    PS2800

    Transform your understanding of the mind by studying cognitive processes through diverse lenses like psychology and neuroscience, revealing how we think.

    Neuropsychology

    3 Credits

    PS3081

    Connect psychological processes like emotion and memory to brain function through real-world case studies on brain damage and its societal implications.

    Sensation and Perception

    3 Credits

    PS3181

    Participate in experiments that reveal how our sensory systems interpret the world, unveiling the mysteries of perception and perceptual illusions.

    Psychobiology

    3 Credits

    PS3260

    Study of the anatomical, physiological, and biochemical mechanisms underlying behavior. Prerequisite: (PS 100 or PS 1000) or (PS 101 or 1010) or (BL 155 or BL 1500) or (CH 141 or CH 1410).

    Learning and Behavior

    3 Credits

    PS3321

    Implement behavioral strategies that enhance lives across all ages, applying interventions that promote positive behavior and address challenges effectively.

    Human Memory and Cognition

    3 Credits

    PS3801

    Theoretical study of how people acquire and use knowledge. Topics include attention, the representation of meaning, memory, language, reasoning, and problem-solving. Students participate in experiments investigating human cognition.

    Mind, Brain, and Behavior

    3 Credits

    PS3860

    Connect brain science to human experience, revealing how cellular structures influence consciousness, memory, and emotions through modern imaging techniques.

    Cognitive Neuroscience

    3 Credits

    PS4080

    Explore the brain behind your thoughts! Study cognitive processes from perception to memory and discover how neurological disorders shape our understanding of the mind.

    Social & Affective Neuroscience

    3 Credits

    PS4090

    Study the neuroscience of emotion, social behavior, relationships, and mental health through contemporary theory and methods such as neuroimaging and psychophysiology.

    Psychopharmacology

    3 Credits

    PS4260

    Discover how psychotropic drugs influence behavior and emotions, focusing on treatments for various psychological conditions.

    Neuropathology and Neurobehavioral Assessment

    3 Credits

    PS4290

    Examine brain disorders across the lifespan while learning neuropsychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention through hands-on practice with testing methods and clinical tools.

    Human and Artificial Intelligence

    3 Credits

    PS2310

    Compare human cognition with artificial intelligence, exploring memory, learning, and the pursuit of flourishing lives in the age of technology.

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JCU's Distinct Promise

Pathways are just the beginning.
Onward makes them happen.

From your first semester forward, Onward connects your goals with the people, experiences, and support that help you build momentum with purpose.

Watch the Story

Quincy's Story

Starting in his first semester at John Carroll, Quincy Unger '26 found a team who helped him shape his ideas, find the right opportunities, and launch his own business.

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Where Our Alumni Go

In such a broad and rapidly growing field, neuroscience alumni can flourish in careers of all kinds. Many pursue advanced degrees to embark on a career in medicine, counseling, or research. Others go right into the field working in biotechnology, human services, and healthcare.

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