Neuroscience (BS)

Degree Type
Degree/Major
Area of Interest
STEM
Degree Level
Undergraduate
College
College of Engineering, Letters, and Sciences
Sample Plan

Neuroscience majors develop the knowledge and skills necessary to systematically evaluate relationships between the brain and human/animal behavior. Students learn and test foundational and contemporary theories through scientific reasoning, laboratory experiences, and independent research. Graduates pursue professional degrees in health-related fields, advanced degrees in neuroscience or related disciplines, and entry-level careers in mental health services or biomedical research.

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Policy
  • Students majoring in neuroscience must maintain a biology grade point average (GPA) of 2.25 to continue in and graduate from this program. The neuroscience GPA is based on all grades earned in the required and elective courses taken in neuroscience and required support courses. Any student whose neuroscience GPA falls below 2.25 will be placed on probation for one semester. If the neuroscience GPA is not raised during that semester, the student may not enroll in further neuroscience courses. An earned grade of a D or lower in any neuroscience or support course will not be credited toward the neuroscience major.
  • Directed research must be faculty-approved, but may be conducted at an institution other than Viterbo University with prior approval. Special topics are offered periodically. Credit for these courses may substitute for one or more of the listed courses with faculty approval.
Learning Outcomes
  • Understand and explain fundamental concepts in neuroscience, biology, and psychology.
  •  Read and analyze primary scientific literature in neuroscience, biology, and psychology.
  • Integrate research findings across disciplines and levels of analysis.
  • Develop hypotheses and design experiments.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret quantitative data.

    Complete one Franciscan Values and Traditions course (VUSM-100 level course). Transfer or re-entry students may have one or two mission seminars waived based on the number of transfer or completed credits.
    Complete one Living in a Diverse World course. Transfer or re-entry students may have one or two mission seminars waived based on the number of transfer or completed credits.
    Complete one Social Justice and Equity course.
    Complete one The Ethical Life course (VUSM-400 level).

    Complete three credits of historical analysis.
    Complete three credits of literary analysis.
    Complete four credits of scientific reasoning in the natural sciences.
    Complete three credits of scientific reasoning in the social sciences.
    Complete three credits of artistic engagement.
    Complete three credits of theological inquiry.
    Complete three credits of integrating faith and practice.
    Complete three credits of philosophical and moral inquiry.

    Complete 11 credits of natural science and/or mathematics. (Courses that qualify for Scientific Reasoning in the Natural Sciences or Quantitative Literacy credit within the LIVE program may also count toward the total.)

    Complete a minimum of 40 upper division credits (300/400).
    Complete a minimum of 120 college-level credits.
Undergraduate Student Enrollment in Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling

Exceptional undergraduate students seeking a bachelor degree in neuroscience can apply to the Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling (MSMHC) program for provisional admittance. Students must meet the following requirements:
• 2nd semester of junior year
• GPA of 3.25 or higher
• Prerequisites of PSYC 171, 340 and a research methods course

Students would complete all admission requirements for the MSMHC program with the exception of the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) and submission of their final undergraduate transcript; these will be required upon completion of their bachelor degree program. Provisionally admitted students could enroll in a maximum of nine graduate credits (provided availability of seats). Refer to the Undergraduate Student Enrollment in Graduate Course policy in this catalog. Students interested in this opportunity should contact the MSMHC Program Director.